New Industry Products

IRC Develops the SC3 Series of Surface-Mount Resistors

June 21, 2001 by Jeff Shepard

IRC Inc. (Corpus Christi, TX) has developed a new series of surface-mount resistors, designated the SC3 Series, which are available in standard and non-standard values capable of dissipating up to 3W at 70 degrees C. The company claims that these thick-film resistors are less inductive than typical wire-wound devices and require 75 percent less board space. The SC3 Series is ceramic-based and features a proprietary copper ink thick-film system with a polymer overcoat. The resistors are ideal for use in a variety of applications, including power supplies, programmable controls and computers.

The SC3 Series is rated for operation from -55 to 150 degrees C. The rectangular chips are terminated on the long side, allowing the use of wider board traces. The wider board traces reduce solder joint resistance and thus enable the resistor to carry higher current at a lower overall temperature.

“We created these surface-mount resistors in response to the growing need to incorporate high-power resistive devices within a limited footprint,” explained Steve Wade, director of marketing at IRC’s advanced film division. “Combining high-power dissipation capabilities and a wide value range in a surface-mount flat chip, the SC3 Series maintains maximum efficiency while saving valuable real estate.”

Typical pricing for the SC3 Series resistors is approximately $0.40 in quantities of 10,000, with lead times from five to six weeks.