DZD 95.00
Power Potentiometers
25 results
Rotary and precision potentiometers for setting a voltage, a volume or a setpoint: WH148 270°, horizontal models for PCB mounting, wirewound multiturn units and dual potentiometers.
Related categories
25 results
238 available
DZD 1,200.00
DZD 1,200.00
DZD 1,200.00
DZD 100.00
DZD 100.00
DZD 135.00
DZD 95.00
DZD 95.00
DZD 95.00
DZD 95.00
DZD 95.00
DZD 85.00
WJ6AT31023-02
WXD3 Precision Potentiometer - 4K7
DZD 550.00
DZD 1,200.00
4PRVX12798-02
WH148-1A-2 Potentiometer - 5K
DZD 70.00
Choosing the right potentiometer
A potentiometer is a variable resistor with three pins: the end terminals receive the signal or supply, and the wiper provides the output voltage. Wired this way, it behaves as an adjustable voltage divider, which is the most common arrangement for a board's analog input or a control setpoint.
Three points determine the right model:
- The value (from a few hundred ohms to several hundred kΩ): low values such as 1K or 5K for an ADC input and reduced noise, 10K to 100K for audio and high-impedance stages.
- The taper: the B in WH148-1A-2 B10K indicates a linear taper, suited to measurement and adjustment; a logarithmic taper is mainly used for volume.
- The housing and precision: WH148 units with a 6 mm shaft mount on a front panel, while horizontal models such as the Alps Alpine RK097N or PTV09A solder directly onto the board. For fine, repeatable adjustment, wirewound multiturn units such as the Bourns 3590S (10 turns) or the WXD3 offer much higher resolution.
Also check the power rating: a 0.25 W model suits a signal level, while a 2 W wirewound unit can handle more current. Other formats are grouped under Potentiometers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a linear and a logarithmic potentiometer?
A linear one (marked B) varies resistance proportionally to rotation, which is what's needed for a setpoint, a measurement or an analog input. A logarithmic one follows the sensitivity of the human ear and is used for audio volume control.
Which value should I choose for an Arduino or ESP32 analog input?
Between 1K and 10K, for example a WH148-1A-2 B10K. A value that is too high (100K and above) makes the ADC reading more sensitive to noise and leakage current.
What is a multiturn potentiometer like the Bourns 3590S used for?
Its 10 turns spread the travel over a much longer range, giving a fine, repeatable adjustment, useful for a threshold, a voltage reference or a calibration. The price depends on tolerance, wirewound technology and brand.
Can a potentiometer directly control a motor's speed?
No, not in series: it would dissipate all the power and overheat. It should instead drive the setpoint input of a driver, a PWM module or a controller, which in turn controls the motor.
What does "independent controls" mean on a dual potentiometer?
The two tracks are stacked within the same housing, but each shaft turns independently, allowing two separate adjustments in a single panel location. A model with a common shaft would vary both together.