How long do resistors last?

The shelf life of resistors is determined by the integrity of their termination finish, which is dependent on their storage conditions. They will generally exhibit very little degradation for 2 years if stored under the following conditions: Parts are not exposed to direct sunlight or sulfur containing materials.

How do you store a resistor?

Storing resistors in envelopes or small plastic bags is an obvious way of storing them in a way that makes them easily retrievable. I followed the same route, but in a way I think has some extra benefits: It's very easy to find a specific resistor and retrieve it without getting bags/envelopes mixed up or lost.

What is a good resistor?

The Right Resistors Inexpensive carbon resistors are 5% tolerance and have 4 color bands. I also use metal film for lower noise in audio circuits. They are 1% tolerance (5 bands). I wanted to keep them in the same bags but the common values for 5% are not the same as 1%. (For example, a typical 560 Ω 1% resistor is actually 562 Ω.)

Does TT Electronics specify a resistor shelf life?

TT Electronics does not specify a resistor shelf life as such. There are two factors to consider relating to long term storage of resistors. 1. Stability This is really only an issue with precision resistors. Maximum drift in ohmic value after 12 months storage may be stated under Performance Data on the datasheet.

How do you store SMT resistors?

Ideal storage conditions are +10 to +30°C, avoiding temperature changes greater than ±10°C in a 24-hour period, and 30 to 60% RH. Chemical fumes, sulphur-bearing gases and particulate air pollution should not be present. Original packaging should remain intact until first use. Most SMT resistors have an MSL of 1, but some are 2.

When should a resistor be stored in a sealed bag?

It is strongly recommended that the product be stored in the sealed bags until just before use. Most resistors are not particularly sensitive to electrostatic discharges, so special ESD packaging is generally not required. As such they are not generally packaged in anti-static bags or protected from ESD in any other way.