wirewound potentiometer

Potentiometer and Rheostat Differences

We sometimes receive enquiries for potentiometers and rheostats that indicate there is some confusion between terminology surrounding potentiometers and rheostats. fundamentally there is little difference between the two. They both have the following characteristics:

Allow for variable and continuous adjustment of a specified resistance value
Allow for adjustment via a rotary shaft
Are mounted (generally) via a bush mounting system
Have similar temperature derating curves
Both offer solder or quick connect termination options
Both have a specified angle of rotation
Both have a wiper in totational contact with a resistance element

As we can see from the photographs below, there are physical similarities between the two (potentiometers and […]

September 11th, 2015|potentiometer, Rheostat, wirewound potentiometer|

Wirewound Potentiometer Applications

Wirewound Potentiometer – Power Rated Variable Resistor
The requirement for variable resistance in electrical and electronic circuits has existed ever since electrical engineering has been around. From the early days of valve based radio and television, there has been a requirement for a variable resistance that has a power rating of several watts.

The AW 3 watt wirewound potentiometer manufactured by Australian Resistors has been the ‘standard’ for wirewound potentiometers in Australia for over 50 years. It has also been extensively exported around the world due to its reputation for long term reliability and economic pricing. There is a strong distributor network for […]