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Potentiometer, Variable Resistor Categories Description

Potentiometers and variable resistors are passive components used in electronic circuits to adjust the resistance value. As a electronic components distributor, we provide the following types of potentiometers, variable resistors and accessories: adjustable power resistors, rotary potentiometers & rheostats, dials, slide potentiometers, thumbwheel potentiometers, fine-tuning potentiometers, numerical display potentiometers, etc.

Potentiometer definition

A potentiometer is a three-terminal variable resistor that is usually used to adjust voltage distribution or as an adjustable voltage divider. The main function of a potentiometer is to adjust the position of its sliding end (i.e., the "middle end" or "wiper") by rotating or sliding, thereby changing its output voltage.

Common potentiometer applications

Volume control: Potentiometers are often used in audio equipment to change the amplitude of the input signal and control the volume by adjusting the potentiometer.

Voltage adjustment: In power circuits, potentiometers are used to adjust the output voltage to suit different load requirements.

Sensor adjustment: In sensor circuits, potentiometers are used to calibrate or fine-tune the output signal of the sensor.

Variable Resistor Definition

A variable resistor is a component used to adjust the resistance value in a circuit. Its structure and function are similar to those of a potentiometer, but it is usually used to adjust only the resistance value rather than the voltage distribution.

Structure of a variable resistor

A variable resistor also has two fixed terminals and a movable sliding terminal, but in many applications, the sliding terminal is connected to a fixed terminal, making it a two-terminal device that acts like an adjustable version of a normal resistor.

Common variable resistor applications

Regulating current: In current control circuits, the current through the circuit can be adjusted by changing the resistance value of the variable resistor.

Adjusting bias voltage: In amplifier circuits, variable resistors are used to adjust the bias voltage of transistors or operational amplifiers.

Calibration circuits: In sensors and measuring devices, they are used to calibrate output signals to ensure accuracy.

Potentiometers and variable resistors are both important adjustable components. Potentiometers are mainly used to adjust voltage (as a voltage divider), while variable resistors are used to adjust resistance values ​​(control current or voltage). They play a role in regulation and control in various electronic circuits and are widely used in audio equipment, power supply circuits, sensors, and measuring instruments.