7486R2KL.3

Rotary Potentiometers, Rheostats

The 7486R2KL.3 is a rotary potentiometer, or rheostat, which provides a variable voltage or resistance between fixed terminals across a linear range. This device is available in various package styles and sizes, with a range of resistance values and linearity levels depending on the device type. The 7486R2KL.3 is commonly used as an adjustable current or voltage control in automotive, audio, and other electronic applications.

Application Field

Rotary potentiometers are used widely in automotive, consumer electronics, and specialized industrial products. In automotive applications, the 7486R2KL.3 is used to control the speed and position of car stereo volume buttons, as well as the accelerator and brake pedals. In consumer electronics, this device is popular for adjustable brightness and contrast in LCD screens. Industrial applications may include electronic test and measurement equipment, robotics, signal control systems, and military and aerospace applications.

Working Principle

To understand how a rotary potentiometer works, we first need to understand what a potentiometer is. In its simplest form, a potentiometer is a three-terminal device that varies the amount of resistance on a circuit when a control knob is turned. This resistance is measured by connecting a voltmeter across two of the terminals. The 7486R2KL.3 contains a multi-turn potentiometer with internal resistance and load cells. When the control knob is turned, the resistance between the wiper (center) and one end terminal changes. This change in resistance is used to regulate current or voltage on the desired device.

The resistance of a potentiometer varies linearly from one end terminal to the other. This linearity is determined by the device’s tolerance and resolution. The device’s power dissipation rating and maximum voltage rating are also important factors when selecting a 7486R2KL.3.

Conclusion

The 7486R2KL.3 is a potentiometer (or rheostat) designed for many different applications. This device is used mainly for adjusting the current and voltage control on automotive, audio and other electronic devices. It is important to understand how potentiometers work, including the relationship between resistance, linearity, power dissipation, and maximum voltage ratings. Once these principles are understood, it becomes easier to select the suitable 7486R2KL.3 and use it for the desired application.