Which type of resistance offers a wider tolerance range and better stability?

Metal-film resistors provide a wider tolerance range and better stability compared to other types of resistors. The production process for metal-film resistors allows for a very consistent and uniform layer of metal to be deposited on a ceramic substrate. This results in lower noise levels, excellent temperature coefficients, and a tighter tolerance rating, commonly ranging from 1% to 0.1%, which is much better than carbon-composition resistors.

In addition, metal-film resistors have improved thermal stability, meaning their resistance value changes less significantly with temperature fluctuations. This stability is crucial in precision applications where circuit performance must remain reliable under varying conditions.

While other resistances, such as wire-wound resistors, may offer robustness and stability in specific scenarios, they typically do not provide the same level of precision in terms of tolerance and temperature response. Carbon-composition resistors are also less stable and are more susceptible to changes in environmental factors, which is not ideal for applications requiring high stability. Fixed resistors, as a category, can include various types and therefore do not offer the same advantages that dedicated metal-film resistors provide in terms of tolerance and stability.