The chip resistor, also known as a surface mount resistor, is a small, cost-effective component used in electrical circuits. It is usually made from a metal oxide film or ceramic substrate. Chip resistors have various advantages such as low cost, small size, and flexibility for design. They can be used in various applications such as sensing, timing, and linear applications.

Chip resistors can provide a consistent and reliable resistance for current flow and voltage regulation. They offer a wide range of resistance values with some having tolerance up to 0.1%. Chip resistors are usually smaller than 1/10th of an inch in size, allowing them to be space-efficient and flexible in their design. They are often favored over other resistors due to their relative low cost.

Due to their small size and lightweight, chip resistors are quite durable and can withstand significant environmental factors such as temperature, moisture, and dust. This makes them ideal for use in harsh environments and situations that require high accuracy and repeatability, such as those found in automotive electronics and medical instruments