A Potentiometer is a popularly used electronic component to vary or control the amount of current flowing through an electronic circuit. The instrument is a three-terminal resistor having a sliding contact. In case all three terminals are used, the equipment can also act as a variable voltage divider. It was earlier used to measure the voltage or potential in an electric circuit.

It is also considered to be a potential divider, where the sliding connection is made user friendly and adjustable with the help of a knob or slider.

Types of Potentiometer

• Linear Potentiometers
• Logarithmic Potentiometers
• Digital Control Potentiometers

Use of Potentiometers

• Transducers
• Audio Systems
• Electronic Equipment