3540S-1-104L

Rotary Potentiometers and Rheostats are both widely used in electronics circuits for measuring resistance or controlling current in closed circuits. Their application fields and working principles are similar. The 3540S-1-104L is a potentiometer, rheostat, and switch combination manufactured by the Gillette Company.

Rotary Potentiometers

Rotary Potentiometers, also known as variable resistors or “pots,” are circular electronic components with two metal contacts on the rotating shaft and three terminals for connecting to the circuit. When the shaft is rotated, the resistance between the contacts increases and decreases in a linear fashion. This resistance can then be used to regulate the voltage in a circuit, or change the volume in an audio system.

The 3540S-1-104L is a single-turn, single-gang rotary potentiometer with a continuous resistance range from 10K Ohms to 100K Ohms. It is precision-manufactured to ensure high accuracy and provides reliable, long-term performance when used in a digital or analog application. Its standard shaft length is 7/8” and it has a rated voltage of 40VAC.

Rheostats

Like potentiometers, rheostats are also used to control the resistance in a circuit. However, they are usually used to control the current as opposed to the voltage, and they are designed for high-power applications. A rheostat is a three-terminal resistor, with two of the terminals connected to a resistive element and one terminal connected to a wiper. By turning the knob, the wiper is moved along the resistive element to change the resistance.

The 3540S-1-104L is a 10-amp, 5-turn, single hole panel mountable rheostat. It has a resistance range from 90 ohms to 10K ohms, and it is capable of handling up to 10 amps of current. It has an operating temperature range from -55°C to +125°C and is constructed with a phenolic housing. The standard shaft length is 9/16”, and it has a rated voltage of 30VAC.

Conclusion

The 3540S-1-104L is a versatile device which combines the functions of a potentiometer, rheostat, and switch, making it suitable for a wide variety of applications in both analog and digital electronics. Its high accuracy and reliable performance make it the ideal choice for both residential and commercial applications.