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Adjustable Resistors and Potentiometers

Updated: May 18, 2022

Description:

Learn different kinds of adjustable resistors. There are adjustable, ordinary, variable, and axial type of resistors.

Adjustable resistors are components that vary the voltage in electrical circuits. They are widely used in appliances, machinery, and audio equipment. In other words, you can find adjustable resistors in just about any electronic device. Allied Electronics, an electronic component supplier, offers a wide selection of these parts manufactured by leading manufacturers. You can choose between different sizes, resistances, and terminations. These items are a must-have for any electronics project, and our online store offers the best selection available.

Disadvantages of adjustable resistors:

One of the main disadvantages of adjustable resistors is their low reliability and short service life. The average audio equipment owner has experienced roots coming out of their loudspeaker when they turn their volume control. These roots are caused by the depreciation of the resistive element, which is the main source of the variable resistance. Hence, the resistance value increases and decreases as the volume control is turned. Fortunately, this problem can be avoided by choosing a potentiometer with a low lifespan.

Adjustable resistors are a good choice:

Adjustable resistors are a good choice for many electronic projects, and they are also useful in adjusting the volume or light output of an appliance. They have two fixed and movable pins, and their values are described on their labels. The fixed pin is connected to the other, while the movable pin short-circuits part of the resistor's body. The resistance value of an adjustable resistor depends on its resistance between the two pins.

Ordinary resistors Circuit:

The concept scheme of an adjustable resistor is based on an ordinary resistor circuit. The latter is usually represented by an arrow, which indicates that it is variable, and the two fixed pins are left open. Unlike the former, the newer national standards indicate that a variable resistor is indicated by letters RP. You should know that a resistor has an arrow in the middle.

Variable Resistors:

Compared to a general resistor, a variable-resistor has a much smaller volume. They are typically located on the circuit board and can be easily replaced. The two-way variable resistor has three pins, one of which is movable, and the other is fixed. This means that you can change the resistance value of an adjustable resistor by using a screwdriver. So, you don't need a complex electrical skill to use an adjustable resistor.

Structure of variable resistor:

The smallest signal variable resistor has a carbon film body and two fixed pins. The moving plate can be rotated left and right to increase or decrease the resistance, and the other two plates are held in place by the moving pin. These resistors are a must-have in any electrical circuit, and the right one will fit your project perfectly. A small-signal variable resistor can be used in any application, and it can be used to measure a voltage.

What makes a resistor different?

Variable resistors are made in different values. For example, the E12 series has ten values from 10 to 100, and the E24 and E48 series have ten values for a 5% tolerance. The difference between the two is the amount of resistance that each band is rated to resist. The E12 series is the most common type of variable resistor and is made by various companies. A standard resistance range is the same as the 0.5-ohm range.

Axial resistors:

Generally, axial resistors are characterized by a white and blue top cap. Among the two, the blue and white type is a common one, with a black base and a white top cap. Despite the similarities, the two types of resistors are quite different. A potentiometer can be used in a wide range of applications, while an adjustable-resistor can be used in a variety of settings.

Adjustable resistors:

In most applications, adjustable resistors are used to control the voltage and current in a circuit. They are commonly used in electronic equipment and appliances. They are widely used in automotive and industrial applications. They are used for a wide variety of applications, such as power supply and RF/microwave antennas. The range of resistances is very high. In fact, it is possible to measure the current and voltage in real-time.

History of resistors:

Early resistors were uninsulated and were color-coded. They had a single-digit and were marked with numbers. Generally, a film-type adjustable resistor has three pins, one at the ends of the element and a third in the center. The movable contact is connected to the body of the unit. The rotary-type adjustable resistor uses a dot in the middle.


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