- 1). Select the appropriate configuration and size, such as a rotary knob, dial, or slide switch. Be aware that some configurations are so small that you need a screwdriver to operate them, but that may be necessary if you have space constraints trying to fit your potentiometer into your circuit. If you need to order your potentiometer by phone or online and can't inspect it in hand, review its data sheets for dimensions and photographs.
- 2). Find a potentiometer that covers the appropriate range of resistance. Finding the right range is a balance between the ability to make fine adjustments, which is inherent in a small-resistance range, and making sure the total range of a potentiometer's control includes enough resistance. If you need both a wide range and fine adjustments, use two potentiometers: one with a large range and one with a small range, in series.
- 3). Verify that your potentiometer can handle the current and voltage (and total power) of your circuit under maximum operating conditions.
- 4). Choose a potentiometer with the right tolerance. Real-world potentiometers are like real-world resistors in that they come off the assembly line with slight variations in resistance. By design, that variation will have a limit, such as 10 percent, 5 percent, 1 percent or better. The more refined control you need of your signal, the tighter the tolerance you will need.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -