| Image | Part Number | Description / PDF | Quantity | Rfq |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 5M OHM 1/2W CARBON LINEAR |
0 |
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Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 10K OHM 2W CARBON R-LOG |
0 |
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Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 25K OHM 2W CARBON R-LOG |
0 |
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Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 50K OHM 2W CARBON LINEAR |
0 |
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Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 50 OHM 2W CARBON LINEAR |
0 |
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Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 100K OHM 2W WIREWOUND LINEAR |
0 |
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Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 100K OHM 2W CARBON LINEAR |
0 |
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Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 5K OHM 2W CARBON LINEAR |
0 |
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Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 25K OHM 2W CARBON LOG |
0 |
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Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 10K OHM 2W CARBON LOG |
0 |
|
|
Precision Electronics Corporation |
POT 20K OHM 1/2W CARBON LINEAR |
0 |
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Rotary potentiometers and rheostats are variable resistors used to control electrical resistance in circuits. Potentiometers function as voltage dividers, while rheostats regulate current flow. These components enable precise manual control in electronics, making them critical in applications ranging from audio equipment to industrial machinery. Their ability to provide analog signal adjustment remains indispensable despite the rise of digital controls.
| Type | Functional Features | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Composition Potentiometers | Low-cost, medium precision, durable | Consumer electronics volume controls |
| Cermet Potentiometers | High temperature stability, long lifespan | Industrial measurement devices |
| Conductive Plastic Potentiometers | Smooth rotation, high resolution | Medical imaging equipment |
| Wirewound Rheostats | High power handling, coarse adjustment | Motor speed controllers |
| Digital Potentiometers | Programmable resistance, non-volatile memory | Automotive sensor calibration |
Typical rotary potentiometer construction includes: 1) A resistive element (circular track of carbon film, cermet, or wirewound material), 2) A wiper contact assembly with spring-loaded arm, 3) Rotational shaft with detent mechanisms, 4) Insulated housing (usually plastic or ceramic), 5) Terminal connections (solder lugs or PCB pins). Rheostats often use thicker wirewound elements for higher current capacity.
| Parameter | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance Range | Typical: 10 - 10M | Determines control resolution |
| Tolerance | 1% to 20% | Signal accuracy indicator |
| Power Rating | 0.1W - 50W | Thermal performance limit |
| Mechanical Lifespan | 5,000-1,000,000 rotations | Product durability metric |
| Taper Type | Linear, logarithmic, or custom | Response curve matching |
Main industries include: - Consumer electronics (smartphones, audio equipment) - Industrial automation (process control systems) - Automotive (HVAC controls, pedal position sensors) - Medical devices (diagnostic equipment calibration) - Aerospace (flight control systems) - Audio engineering (mixing console faders)
| Manufacturer | Key Products | Specializations |
|---|---|---|
| Bourns Inc. | 3352/3386 series | High-precision trimmers |
| Vishay Precision Group | 3006/3008 series | Military-grade ruggedization |
| TT Electronics | PO15 series | Custom industrial sensors |
| Alps Alpine | RK09 series | Compact audio controls |
| Curtis Industries | 835 series | Heavy-duty vehicle controls |
Key considerations: 1. Match resistance range to circuit requirements 2. Choose taper type (linear for voltage measurement, logarithmic for audio) 3. Consider environmental factors (temperature, vibration) 4. Evaluate electrical noise specifications 5. Determine required mechanical durability Example: Audio mixing boards typically use 100k logarithmic potentiometers with conductive plastic elements for smooth fading performance.
Current developments include: - Miniaturization for portable devices (sub-10mm rotary controls) - Integration with digital interfaces (smart potentiometers) - Increased use of conductive polymer materials for smoother operation - Rising demand in EV applications (regenerative braking control) - Environmental regulations driving halogen-free materials adoption - Military/aerospace demand for radiation-hardened components