Why Are Potentiometers Used in Circuits?
Potentiometer Basics A potentiometer is a type of variable resistor, made so that it can be easily adjusted. A resistor is an electronic component whose function is to resist the flow of electricity. The more resistance, the slower the electric current flows. Because a potentiometer allows a user to adjust the resistance, it can be used to adjust a circuit while it is running. Potentiometer Structure A potentiometer has three contacts – two fixed contacts on either end and a movable one called a wiper. As the wiper moves closer to one fixed contact, it moves further away from the other, decreasing the resistance with the closer one and increasing it with the further one. Some potentiometers, called rheostats only have two contacts – a fixed one and a wiper. In both cases, the position of the wiper is usually adjusted by turning a knob or moving a slider. Potentiometer Use Rheostats are the most common type of potentiometer. They are often used to control light dimmers, triggering an el
