Potentiomters ( POT)

Potentiometers

·         A potentiometer is generally used to measure linear or angular displacement.

·         A resistive potentiometer consists of a wire wound resistive element along with a sliding contact which is called wiper. The diameter of the wire is about 0.01 mm and the resistive element is made up of cement, hot moulded carbon or carbon flim. The wire is wound on insulating former.

·         Using resistive potentiometer mechanical displacement is converted into an electrical voltage or current. Linear or angular displacement is applied to sliding contact and the corresponding change in resistance is converted into voltage or current.

·         To measure combination of linear and angular displacement helipots used.

Advantages:

·         Simple construction and operation

·         Inexpensive

·         Useful for displacement measurements of large amplitudes

·         High electrical efficiency

Disadvantages:

·         A huge force may be required for the slider movement.

·         Can produce unwanted noise due to alignment problems, wear and tear of the sliding contact. This may also affect the total life of the device.