STOCK CHECK Menu HOME POSITION SENSORS & ENCODERS POTENTIOMETERS Potentiometers Potentiometers consist of a resistance element and a wiper that travels along the resistance element, picking off voltages in the range from 0Vdc up to the supplied voltage. Resistance elements can be made of resistance wire, a resistive ink or a combination of the two - depending on the characteristics needed. Rotary and linear potentiometers use contacting technology (a wiper against a resistive substrate) in a rugged, compact, low weight package. Additional features include high resistance to electromagnetic interference (EMI), excellent temperature stability and the ability to work at very high and low operating temperatures. Potentiometer solutions are available in a wide variety of standard and custom/adapted solutions for demanding motion control applications. Rotary potentiometers are often specified for high reliability, low cycle applications such as throttle control, seat position, and position control for aerodynamic control surfaces. Whereas Linear potentiometers can be applied in hydraulic cylinder control, control levers, and audio mixers. Rotary Potentiometers Shafted, enclosed resistance and wiper assembly. Typically ratiometric output. Used for feedback. Rotary Panel Mount Potentiometers Shafted with through-panel mount. Manually operated for setting control values. Linear Potentiometers Various lengths and types. Often used in-cylinder for hydraulic applications. Additional Resources Position Sensor Selection Guide VIEW MORE Application Note: Sensata Solutions for Access Control Applications VIEW MORE POLICIES DISCLAIMER TERMS & CONDITIONS Join the conversation © 2021 Sensata Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved. We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. By clicking the Accept button, you agree to us doing so. More info Accept