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Potentiometer Principle Overview, Potentiometer Symbol List

Potentiometer Principle Overview, Potentiometer Symbol List

October 20 , 2023 0

Symbol For A Potentiometer

Since the potentiometer is essentially a resistor, but a variable resistor, the symbol of the potentiometer is also close to the symbol of the resistor, and the following figure shows the symbol of the potentiometer.

This symbol represents resistors with terminals 1 and 3 and sliding contact terminals 2. This should be better understood by looking at the structure of a typical potentiometer. In a rotating contact type potentiometer, there is a resistance track connected between terminals 1 and 3. A sliding contact, also known as a Wiper, will move end-to-end along the resistance track to change the resistance.

The pins of the Trimpot potentiometer above include Pin1 (Fixed End), Pin2 (Variable End), and Pin3 (Fixed End), where Pin1 (Fixed End) : The connection of the Fixed End 1 can be connected to one End of the resistance path Pin2 (Variable End): The connection of the variable end 2 can be done by connecting it to the wiper blade Pin3 (Fixed End): The connection of the fixed end 3 can be done by connecting it to the other end of the resistance path

Potentiometers Act In Several Ways

Potentiometer As A Rheostat

A potentiometer can be used as a rheostat by using only two of its terminals: one is the wiper and the other is one of the two external terminals. In this case, the potentiometer acts as a variable resistor at both ends, increasing or decreasing the resistance value by turning the wiper.

Potentiometer As Voltage Divider

Another useful application of the potentiometer is that it can be used as a dividing instrument, as we all know that the dividing circuit consists of two resistors in series. The electric music is applied to the end of the electric baby and the output voltage is obtained at both ends of the resistor
This simple circuit is used to convert high voltage to low voltage. With the help of a potentiometer, a similar voltage divider can be built using all three terminals.

The input voltage is applied between the two external terminals of the potentiometer, and the output voltage is obtained between the tap and the external terminal connected to the GND of the input power supply. As potentiometer allows change
Variable resistance, so you can basically change the output voltage of the divider. Therefore, it is a voltage divider with variable output voltage.

Understanding The Potentiometer

At its core, a potentiometer is a three-terminal resistor with a sliding contact, also known as a wiper, that can move along a resistive element. The resistive element is typically a long, narrow strip of material with a uniform resistance per unit length. The potentiometer's wiper can be manually adjusted to create a variable resistance, which alters the electrical characteristics of the circuit it is connected to.

Working Principle

The working principle of a potentiometer relies on the concept of voltage division. When a voltage source is connected across the two end terminals of the potentiometer's resistive element, a potential difference (voltage) is established along its length. The magnitude of this potential difference is directly proportional to the distance of the wiper from the reference end.

As the wiper moves along the resistive strip, it taps into different points along its length, effectively changing the length of the resistive path between the wiper and the reference end. This alteration of the resistive path results in a variation of the resistance experienced by the current flowing through the potentiometer.

The potentiometer's sliding contact acts as an adjustable voltage divider, allowing precise control over the output voltage. By connecting the wiper to a circuit element or another component, such as a load or an amplifier, the potentiometer can regulate the voltage or current supplied to that component.

Construction OF A Potentiometer

Potentiometers come in various forms and sizes, but they all share a common construction principle. They consist of a resistive element, a wiper, and three terminals: the two end terminals and the wiper terminal.

The resistive element is typically made of a material with high resistivity, such as carbon composition, conductive plastic, or wire-wound materials. The resistive strip is often coiled or wound to maximize its length within a compact space.

The wiper, usually a metallic contact, is connected to a small arm or slider mechanism that allows it to move along the resistive strip. The wiper's movement is often facilitated by a knob or dial located outside the potentiometer casing.

Applications of Potentiometers

Potentiometers have a wide range of applications across various fields, some of which include:

Volume and Tone Control: Potentiometers are commonly used in audio equipment, such as amplifiers and sound systems, to adjust volume levels or control tone settings. They enable users to fine-tune the audio output to their preferences.
Variable Voltage and Current Regulation: Potentiometers serve as adjustable voltage dividers, allowing precise control over the voltage or current supplied to different components or circuits.
Calibration and Measurement: Potentiometers are used in calibration procedures and measuring instruments to obtain accurate readings. They provide a variable reference voltage or resistance that can be adjusted to match the desired value.
Transducer Positioning: Potentiometers are employed in devices that require position sensing, such as joysticks, robotic arms, and servo motors. The position of the potentiometer's wiper corresponds to the object's displacement or movement.

Conclusion

The potentiometer, with its principle of variable resistance, plays a vital role in controlling electrical currents and voltage levels. By adjusting the wiper position along a resistive strip, it enables precise regulation of voltage and current in circuits. The potentiometer's versatility and ease of use make it an essential component in various applications, including audio equipment, measurement instruments, and position sensing devices.