NONLINEAR THERMAL EFFECTS IN METAL-NONMETAL SYSTEMS

This paper presents observations on some electronic components where n on linear thermal effects play a dominant role. Our interpretation has been assisted by the use of novel numerical modelling techniques whic h can either solve for a single field variable, or can be used in coup led form to investigate systems where different field variables may in teract. Non linear thermal effects appear to be responsible for premat ure failure in metal film resistors when operated under pulsed conditi ons. This is thought to be due to the effects of competing thermal pat hs which involve the metal and non-metal parts of the device. There is also a discussion on some relatively novel ideas concerning the opera tion of the electric fuse.