CFS Series MELF Carbon Film Resistors (SMD Cylindrical)
SMD cylindrical MELF carbon film construction on ceramic rod
Three body sizes: CFS0204 (1/4W), CFS0207 (1/2W or 1W), CFS0309 (1W or 2W)
Resistance range 1Ω to 1MΩ
Tolerance options ±2% and ±5%
Operating temperature range −55°C to +155°C
Free mounting direction due to cylindrical symmetry
Lower current noise than flat thick film chip resistors
Specially plated electrodes for high solderability
Higher electrode strength than flat chip resistors
Compatible with reflow, flow and iron soldering processes
Automotive, telecommunications, medical and consumer applications
What are CFS Series MELF Carbon Film Resistors (SMD Cylindrical)?
The CFS series are MELF (Metal Electrode Leadless Face) carbon film resistors in a cylindrical SMD format, constructed on a ceramic rod substrate with a carbon resistive film and insulation coating over the body. The cylindrical geometry distinguishes these devices from conventional flat chip resistors: the round cross-section means the component can be placed in either orientation without affecting performance, simplifying automated assembly and eliminating the polarity concerns associated with flat-bodied SMD parts. The ceramic rod core provides a stable, thermally robust base for the resistive film, and the specially plated end-cap electrodes deliver high solderability and greater mechanical strength than the terminations found on flat chip equivalents.
Three body sizes cover a power range from 1/4W to 2W. The CFS0204 (3.5mm × 1.4mm) is rated at 1/4W at 70°C with a maximum operating voltage of 250V and overload voltage of 500V. The CFS0207 (5.9mm × 2.2mm) is rated at 1/2W in standard form and 1W in the higher-rated variant, with corresponding voltage ratings of 300V and 350V operating and 600V and 700V overload. The CFS0309 (8.5mm × 3.2mm) is rated at 1W or 2W with a maximum operating voltage of 350V and overload voltage of 700V. All three models share the same resistance range of 1Ω to 1MΩ and are available in ±2% and ±5% tolerances, with an operating temperature range of −55°C to +155°C throughout.
A key advantage of the carbon film MELF construction is lower current noise compared to flat thick film chip resistors. This makes the CFS series preferable in low-level signal and measurement circuits where resistor noise would otherwise degrade signal integrity. Short-time overload capability is 2.5 times the rated continuous working voltage (RCWV) or the maximum overload voltage for 5 seconds, with a resistance change limit of ±1%. Endurance stability is ±3% after 1000 hours at 70°C under maximum working voltage. Damp heat with load stability is ±5% after 1000 hours at 40°C, 90–95% RH, and dry heat stability is ±2% after 1000 hours at +155°C.
The CFS series is fully compatible with reflow, flow and iron soldering processes. Solderability is guaranteed at 95% minimum coverage at 245°C for 3 seconds, and resistance to soldering heat is ±1% at 260°C for 10 seconds. Storage conditions are 25°C ±3°C and humidity below 80% RH. Packaging is supplied on 180mm (7") reels for the CFS0204 and CFS0207, with the CFS0309 additionally available on 330mm (13") reels, at quantities of 2000 to 3000 pieces per reel depending on body size. Performance is referenced to JIS-C 5201-1.
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CFS Series MELF Carbon Film Resistors (SMD Cylindrical) Specifications
A practical overview for engineers and procurement teams evaluating resistive solutions.
Model: CFS
Resistor type: Power film
Description: Carbon film, MELF
Power Rating: 1/4W~2W
Resistance (Ω): 1~1M
Tolerance (%): ±2, ±5
TCR (ppm/C): 350~1000
Applications of the CFS Series MELF Carbon Film Resistors (SMD Cylindrical)
Where RARA metal clad resistors are deployed in the field.
Automotive electronics — ECU signal conditioning, sensor interfaces and power management circuits
Telecommunications equipment — low-noise signal path and filter network resistors
Medical equipment — precision low-noise resistors in diagnostic and monitoring instrumentation
Consumer electronics — compact SMD resistors in space-constrained PCB assemblies
Audio and low-noise amplifier circuits — exploiting lower current noise versus flat chip alternatives
Industrial control and measurement systems — stable, reliable SMD resistors in automated assemblies
Power supply and DC-DC converter feedback networks — compact high-reliability resistors
Sensor and transducer interface circuits — low-noise signal conditioning resistors
High-density PCB assemblies — cylindrical form factor allowing free placement orientation
Switching and protection circuits — SMD resistors tolerant of short-duration overload conditions
Related Products of the CFS Series MELF Carbon Film Resistors (SMD Cylindrical)
Model: TNP25, TNP45
Resistor type: Power film
Description: SMD surge protection
Power Rating: 25W, 45W
Resistance (Ω): 0.1~51k
Tolerance (%): ±1
TCR (ppm/C): 100
Model: SMF
Resistor type: Power film
Description: Chip
Power Rating: 2W, 3W, 5W
Resistance (Ω): 10~20M
Tolerance (%): ±1, ±5
TCR (ppm/C): 100

Model: ARN
Resistor type: Aluminum nitride
Description: Chip
Power Rating: 1/2W, 1W, 2W, 6W
Resistance (Ω): 50~30.1k
Tolerance (%): ±0.1
TCR (ppm/C): 25, 50

Model: CRP
Resistor type: Aluminum nitride
Description: Chip
Power Rating: 2.4W, 3.5W
Resistance (Ω): 10~2k
Tolerance (%): ±1, ±5
TCR (ppm/C): 150

Why Choose RARA Metal Clad Resistors
What sets RARA apart for engineers and procurement managers in industrial and automotive markets.
01
Automotive Qualified
AEC-Q200 tested models and IATF 16949 certification for EV and automotive powertrain applications. Trusted by GM Korea, Tesla, and Proterra.
02
STEP Files Included
3D STEP files available for core models, supporting ECAD/MCAD integration and thermal management simulation in your design workflow.
03
Wide Power Range
A single product family spanning 10W to 8.5kW means you can source across a project from one qualified, certified supplier.
04
Global Track Record
Deployed by Siemens, Rockwell, Toshiba, Schneider Electric, LG, and Hanwha — a customer list built on decades of consistent performance.