Definition: What is a Potentiometer (Pot)?
A potentiometer is a type of resistor with variable and adjustable resistance that is controlled via a sliding or rotating contact (example images are shown below). In order to regulate resistance, the potentiometer acts as a voltage divider, lowering or increasing the voltage output by controlling the resistance value. They are often found in electronic devices like the volume knob on audio/video equipment or the temperature knob on a stove.
Explaining a Potentiometer (Pot)
A potentiometer is a manually adjustable resistor that has three terminals, referenced to the ground (GND), input (VIN), and output (VOUT) voltages. Potentiometers are also electro-mechanical circuits since they have both moving mechanical parts and electronic components. The slider inside a potentiometer determines the resistance of the device, which, through principles of electricity, varies the resultant voltage output from the device.
As the slider rotates around (or moves up and down) the resistance element, the resistance increases and decreases proportionately with it. Considering the simple formula of voltage = current × resistance, it can be surmised that, with a constant current flow, changing the resistance in the potentiometer also changes the voltage output.
There are many kinds of potentiometers, the most common of which is the rotary potentiometer. This format is also available in a variety of flavors, depending on the precision or accuracy of the required voltage and/or resistance for the application. In addition to rotary potentiometers, there are also slide-type potentiometers, which are commonly used in audio equipment as slide controls.
Potentiometer Types Used in Tech-Box.io Kits:
Type 1 - Breadboard Potentiometer:
This type functions the same as the rotary potentiometers described above, but is meant to be mounted onto a breadboard to function properly.
Type 2 - Dial Potentiometer:
This type also functions the same as the rotary potentiometers described above, but is meant to be panel mounted instead to hold it securely.