Introduction - Basic Potentiometer TheoryResistorsBuilding Potentiometers • Modern Variable Resistive Devices • Applications ModesThe Parts of a PotentiometerResistive ElementsCermetConductive PlasticHybrid ElementsTerminationsContactsElectrical ParametersTotal ResistanceMinimum ResistanceEnd ResistanceContact ResistanceContact Resistance VariationEquivalent Noise ResistanceOutput SmoothnessAdjustabilityTemperature CoefficientResolutionConformityLinearityPower RatingSummary of Electrical ParametersUseful Terms

Modern Variable Resistive Devices

Today there are three basic types of variable resistive devices:

  • trimming potentiometers (trimmers)
  • panel controls
  • precision potentiometers
All three are unique in their construction and are designed and manufactured to meet different applications. In later modules we will examine each type in detail.