A rotary potentiometer typically has three terminals. These terminals are usually labeled as the input terminal (often called the wiper or slider), and two output terminals (one at each end of the resistive track). The wiper moves along the resistive track when the shaft of the potentiometer is rotated, allowing the resistance between the wiper and the two ends of the track to vary. This variation in resistance is used to adjust voltage levels or control parameters in electronic circuits.
A potentiometer, depending on its type and configuration, can have varying numbers of terminals.
However, the most common type is the three-terminal potentiometer. This type includes the aforementioned wiper terminal and two fixed terminals at the ends of the resistive track.
The wiper terminal forms a variable resistor or voltage divider with the other two terminals, allowing it to adjust or control the output voltage or signal depending on the position of the wiper.
Yes, a potentiometer is commonly known as a three-terminal device.
These terminals are crucial for its functionality in electronic circuits where it is used to adjust resistance or voltage levels. The three terminals allow the potentiometer to provide a variable output depending on the position of the wiper along its resistive track. This versatility makes potentiometers widely used in applications such as volume controls, dimmer switches, and tuning circuits where precise adjustment is required.
The parts of a rotary potentiometer include the shaft, which is turned to adjust the position of the wiper along the resistive track.
The resistive element itself is usually a coil or strip of resistive material that provides the variable resistance. There are also internal connections that link the resistive track to the terminals, ensuring proper electrical contact and functionality.
Additionally, there may be mechanical components such as bearings or supports that allow smooth rotation of the shaft and wiper.
The terminals of a potentiometer typically consist of the following:
- The wiper terminal: This terminal connects to the movable wiper that slides along the resistive track.
It provides the variable output or signal depending on the position of the wiper relative to the fixed terminals.
- The fixed terminals: There are two fixed terminals located at opposite ends of the resistive track. These terminals connect to the resistive element and provide the maximum and minimum resistance values when the wiper is positioned at either end.
They establish the range of resistance that can be adjusted by the potentiometer.