Potentiometers, Rheostats and Trimmers

Potentiometers, rheostats and trimmers are three-terminal resistors that are used to measure or divide voltages, and to protect or control circuits. Potentiometers are variable resistors that are adjusted with a knob or dial. Rheostats and trimmers are types of potentiometers. With a rheostat, a third “wiper” terminal is shorted to one of two fixed terminals. The wiper terminal has a resistance which varies with its position, and the two fixed terminals are connected by a fixed resistance. Trimmers are factory-set devices that require infrequent adjustments. They feature a slotted, actuator-type style and can be adjusted with a special tool or screwdriver. Other types of potentiometers, rheostats and trimmers are also available. These include standard potentiometers, mechanical devices in which the output resistance is set by a shaft; and digital potentiometers, which set an output resistance by sending a digital signal through an electrical interface.