A potentiometer is a resistance element with three leads and a resistance value that can be adjusted according to a certain change rule. A potentiometer usually consists of a resistor body and a removable brush. When the brush moves along the resistance body, the resistance value or voltage which is related to the displacement is obtained at the output end.

Potentiometer function:

1. Used as voltage divider

The potentiometer is a continuously adjustable resistor, and when the potentiometer's swivel or slider is adjusted, the moving contact slides over the resistor body. At this time, the output voltage which is related to the applied voltage of the potentiometer and the rotation Angle or stroke of the movable arm can be obtained at the output end of the potentiometer.

2. Used as rheostat

When a potentiometer is used as a rheostat, it should be connected to a two-terminal device so that a smooth, continuously varying resistance value can be obtained within the travel range of the potentiometer.

3. Used as current controller

When the potentiometer is used as a current controller, one of the selected current outputs must be the sliding contact outlet.