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How to identify a potentiometer?
Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2022 1:11 am
by Markkim
I'm looking for the specifications of an unlabeled
potentiometer. I'm looking for a pot that fits the specifications of the one I have. I'd like to add a second pot to the circuit so that I may control it from two different locations. I've recognized the wires and voltages, but I'm not sure how to test the pot's resistance. RED wiring diagram 5 volt power source, BROWN ground, and WHITE signal
Re: How to identify a potentiometer?
Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2022 2:53 am
by dyarker
With the pot out of the circuit. measure end terminal to end terminal with an ohm meter. A digital multi-meter will auto-range. On an analog pointer meter, you will need to set the range switch so pointer in not at zero or infinity.
You will probably need a toggle switch on WHITE so both pot wipers are not connected at the same time.
Cheers,
added - No numbers at all? Maybe molded in, instead of inked on? For example, "501" as part of a part number could stand for 500 Ohms (50 and 1 more zero).
Re: How to identify a potentiometer?
Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2022 10:22 am
by CeaSaR
^^Also, check to see if you have linear or logarithmic (audio) taper by marking off the 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4 rotation points (travel is usually 270 degrees in single turn pots), and then measure between your "0" lug and the center lug. If you get approximately the correct percentage, then it is linear. If it is pretty far off, then it will be log/audio. Refer back to your initial link to verify if it is normal or inverse log.