EPCOS NTCs are designed to limit inrush-currents at a small and effective size. They feature an extremely low resistance in their conducting state. Their power loss is correspondingly low - at least for equipment of the lower and middle power classes - and their effect on the overall efficiency of the equipment is negligible. NTC-based ceramic ICLs possess the typical characteristic of an NTC thermistor, i.e. a temperature-dependent resistor. As the temperature rises, their resistance drops. They exhibit a relatively high resistance (1 Ω to 120 Ω, depending on the type) at start-up at 25°C, allowing only a low current to flow through the load. This current flow then gradually heats them up so that the current increases further until it reaches its rated value as defined by the load. Applications can range from switch-mode power supplies to soft-start motors, for example in vacuum cleaners.