Potensiaalmõõtur

Potensiaalmõõtur, also known as a potential meter or potentiometer, is an electronic component that allows for the manual control of voltage. It is essentially a variable resistor with three terminals. Two of the terminals are connected to the ends of a resistive element, and the third terminal, called the wiper, slides along this element. By moving the wiper, the resistance between the wiper and either of the end terminals can be changed, thereby altering the voltage output.

The primary function of a potensiaalmõõtur is to act as a voltage divider. When a voltage is applied across the two end terminals, the wiper terminal will output a voltage that is a fraction of the input voltage, determined by the position of the wiper. This makes it ideal for applications where a variable voltage is required, such as volume control in audio systems, dimming lights, or adjusting sensor readings.

Potensiaalmõõturid come in various forms, including rotary and linear types, each suited for different control mechanisms. Rotary potentiometers are commonly used for knobs and dials, while linear potentiometers are often used for sliders. The resistive element can be made from different materials, such as carbon, cermet, or wire-wound, which affects the potentiometer's resistance range, power rating, and linearity. Despite their simple design, potensiaalmõõturid are fundamental components in many electronic circuits, offering a straightforward method for manual voltage adjustment.