Potentiometers and variable resistors are fundamental electronic components used to control and regulate electrical resistance within a circuit, allowing for the adjustment of current flow and voltage levels. These components are typically utilized to manipulate or calibrate the performance of a system, such as adjusting the volume on a radio or the brightness of a light. The main characteristics of potentiometers and variable resistors include their ability to provide a variable resistance, which can be manually adjusted through a dial or a slider, their resilience to a certain voltage or power rating, and their physical form factor, which can be suited to various types of electronic equipment.
Regarding the main uses, potentiometers and variable resistors are widely applied in consumer electronics, industrial control systems, and instrumentation, due to their precision and versatility. They come in a variety of designs and specifications, catering to a broad spectrum of applications, from fine-tuned studio audio equipment to heavy-duty machinery controls. Renowned manufacturers of potentiometers, variable resistors, and their accessories include Bourns, Inc., Vishay Intertechnology, and Honeywell.