Understanding Resistors
Resistors are fundamental passive components that limit current flow and create voltage drops in circuits. The Blocktrix Resistor Block makes these concepts tangible through visual representation and hands-on manipulation.
Key Features
- Standard schematic symbol (zigzag) clearly displayed
- Resistance value prominently marked
- Color code reference on side panels
- Magnetic connection points for easy assembly
Educational Value
Students learn Ohm's Law, voltage division, and current limiting through direct manipulation. The visual connection between schematic symbols and physical behavior accelerates understanding.
Schematic Symbol
Blocktrix Representation
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resistance Range | 1 - 10,000,000 | Ω | E12 series standard values |
| Tolerance | ±5, ±1 | % | Color coded |
| Power Rating | 0.25 - 2 | W | Depends on resistance value |
| Temperature Coefficient | ±100 | ppm/°C | Carbon film type |
| Operating Temperature | -55 to +155 | °C | Standard range |
| Block Dimensions | 80 × 80 × 25 | mm | Standard Blocktrix size |
Common Applications
Current Limiting
Protect LEDs and other components by limiting current flow to safe levels.
Voltage Division
Create specific voltage levels using resistor divider networks.
Pull-up/Pull-down
Ensure digital inputs have defined logic levels when not actively driven.
RC Filters
Combined with capacitors to create low-pass and high-pass filters.
Learning Objectives
Basic Concepts
Understand resistance, current, and voltage relationships
- Ohm's Law (V = IR)
- Power dissipation (P = I²R)
- Resistance units and prefixes
Circuit Analysis
Learn to analyze resistor networks and combinations
- Series resistance (Rtotal = R1 + R2 + ...)
- Parallel resistance (1/Rtotal = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + ...)
- Voltage and current division
Practical Applications
Apply resistor knowledge in real circuit designs
- LED current limiting circuits
- Voltage divider networks
- Pull-up and pull-down resistors
Hands-on Exercises
Exercise 1: Basic Ohm's Law
Use different resistor blocks to verify Ohm's Law with various voltage sources.
Exercise 2: Series vs Parallel
Compare total resistance in series and parallel configurations.
Exercise 3: Voltage Divider
Create voltage dividers and measure output voltages.