What is a potentiometer used for?

 A potentiometer: what is it? You can manually adjust a potentiometer, which is a three-terminal variable resistor. The third terminal connects to a sliding contact, commonly referred to as a wiper, that moves along the resistive element, while the other two terminals are connected to the opposite ends of the resistive element.

Often called a "pot," a potentiometer is a three-terminal variable resistor that finds extensive application in electronics. Here are some typical applications for potentiometers:

Voltage Divider: One of the most basic uses of a potentiometer is as a variable voltage divider. By connecting one end of the potentiometer to a voltage source and the other end to the ground, the voltage output from the wiper (the movable contact) can be varied by adjusting the position of the wiper along the resistive track.

Potentiometers serve as volume controls in audio equipment, such as amplifiers, radios, and speakers. By adjusting the position of the potentiometer, the amount of signal sent to the amplifier or speaker can be controlled, thereby adjusting the volume level.

Brightness Control: In lighting circuits, potentiometers can be used to adjust the brightness of lamps or LEDs. By varying the resistance of the potentiometer, the amount of current flowing through the light source can be adjusted, thereby controlling its brightness.

Speed Control: Potentiometers are used in motor speed control circuits to adjust the speed of DC motors. By varying the resistance of the potentiometer, the voltage supplied to the motor can be adjusted, thereby controlling its speed.

Setting Bias and Gain: Potentiometers are used in electronic circuits to set bias levels and gain levels in amplifiers and other electronic circuits. By adjusting the resistance of the potentiometer, the operating conditions of the circuit can be fine-tuned to achieve the desired performance.

Calibration: Potentiometers are used in calibration procedures for various instruments and devices. By adjusting the potentiometer, the output of the device can be calibrated to match a known standard or reference.

Potentiometers are adaptable parts that can be used to change voltage, current, brightness, volume, and speed in a variety of electronic circuits.