Potentiometers

Variable resistors with a sliding wiper — used as adjustable voltage dividers.

Beginner

A potentiometer has three terminals: two ends of a resistive track and a wiper. Connected as a divider, the wiper voltage varies from 0 to $V_{in}$ .

Linear taper (B) — resistance changes evenly; for sensors and settings.
Logarithmic taper (A) — for audio volume, matching how we hear loudness.
Trimmers — small pots adjusted once with a screwdriver for calibration.

Using only two terminals (one end and the wiper) makes a rheostat (variable resistor).

Spotted a mistake or want to add detail? Suggest an improvement — Content Contributors' edits are reviewed by editors before they go live.

Discussion (0)