C3-R39-10
AI

The part number **C3-R39-10** typically refers to a specific type of **Current Sense Resistor** (Shunt Resistor) often manufactured by brands like *Caddock* or similar high-precision component specialists. It is designed to measure current by providing a low, stable resistance path.
### 1. Component Breakdown
The alphanumeric code generally defines the series, resistance value, and tolerance:
| Part Segment | Meaning | Description |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **C3** | Series/Package | Refers to the physical size and power rating (often a 3-Watt rating). |
| **R39** | Resistance Value | "R" acts as a decimal point. **0.39 Ohms** ($\Omega$). |
| **10** | Tolerance | Indicates a **10%** tolerance range (or sometimes refers to a specific voltage/temp coefficient). |
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### 2. Technical Specifications
While exact specs can vary by manufacturer, a standard "C3" series resistor typically follows these parameters:
* **Resistance:** 0.39 $\Omega$
* **Power Rating:** 3 Watts (at standard ambient temperatures).
* **Type:** Metal film or wirewound (non-inductive designs are common for this series).
* **Mounting:** Through-hole (Axial leads).
* **Function:** Used primarily for current sensing or current limiting in power supplies.
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### 3. Typical Applications
These components are found in circuits where monitoring electrical flow is critical:
1. **Motor Control:** Measuring the current drawn by a motor to prevent stalls or over-torque conditions.
2. **Power Supplies:** Used in feedback loops to regulate output current.
3. **Battery Management (BMS):** Monitoring charge and discharge cycles in battery packs.
4. **Audio Amplifiers:** Acting as emitter resistors in output stages to stabilize the circuit.
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### 4. Why use 0.39 Ohms?
A value like $0.39\Omega$ is a "low-ohm" value. It is chosen to minimize power loss ($P = I^2 \times R$) while still generating a measurable voltage drop ($V = I \times R$) that can be read by an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) or an Operational Amplifier.
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- ⤷
What is the maximum current this resistor can handle before failing?
- ⤷ Can this resistor be replaced with a 0.40 Ohm version in a circuit?
- ⤷ How do I calculate the voltage drop across this resistor if 2 Amps are flowing through it?