Slide Potentiometers

Category Introduction

Slide potentiometers (Pots) employ a resistive element and a sliding contact to form an adjustable voltage divider. If only two terminals are used, one end of the element and the adjustable contact, it acts as a variable resistor or rheostat. Slide potentiometers are selected by the resistance value of the element, travel range, mounting type, power dissipation, adjustment type and dual, motor or standard fader type.

Product List

934 Items
PDF Mfr Part # Quantity
Available
UnitPrice RFQ Series Packaging Product StatusResistancePower (Watts)ToleranceAdjustment TypeFader TypeTravel RangeSize / DimensionMounting Type
PTA2043-2010CIB104
PTA2043-2010CIB104
SLIDE POT 100K OHM 0.1W TOP 20MM
Bourns Inc.
84 $1.53
Pro Audio PTA Tray Active100 kOhms0.1W, 1/10W±20%TopStandard20mmRectangular - 1.378" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (35.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PTA2043-2015CPB103
PTA2043-2015CPB103
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.1W TOP 20MM
Bourns Inc.
85 $1.57
Pro Audio PTA Tray Active10 kOhms0.1W, 1/10W±20%TopStandard20mmRectangular - 1.378" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (35.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PTA1543-2010CIB103
PTA1543-2010CIB103
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.05W TOP 15MM
Bourns Inc.
212 $1.55
Pro Audio PTA Tray Active10 kOhms0.05W, 1/20W±20%TopStandard15mmRectangular - 1.181" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (30.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PTA2043-2010CIB254
PTA2043-2010CIB254
SLIDE POT 250K OHM 0.1W TOP 20MM
Bourns Inc.
61 $1.54
Pro Audio PTA Tray Active250 kOhms0.1W, 1/10W±20%TopStandard20mmRectangular - 1.378" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (35.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PTA2043-2015DPB103
PTA2043-2015DPB103
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.1W TOP 20MM
Bourns Inc.
507 $1.54
Pro Audio PTA Bulk Active10 kOhms0.1W, 1/10W±20%TopStandard20mmRectangular - 1.378" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (35.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PTA4543-2015CPB102
PTA4543-2015CPB102
SLIDE POT 1K OHM 0.25W TOP 45MM
Bourns Inc.
132 $1.90
Pro Audio PTA Tray Active1 kOhms0.25W, 1/4W±20%TopStandard45mmRectangular - 2.362" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (60.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PTA4543-2015DPA103
PTA4543-2015DPA103
SLIDE POT 10KOHM 0.125W TOP 45MM
Bourns Inc.
317 $1.86
Pro Audio PTA Tray Active10 kOhms0.125W, 1/8W±20%TopStandard45mmRectangular - 2.362" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (60.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PTA6043-2010CIB103
PTA6043-2010CIB103
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.25W TOP 60MM
Bourns Inc.
103 $2.05
Pro Audio PTA Tray Active10 kOhms0.25W, 1/4W±20%TopStandard60mmRectangular - 2.953" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (75.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PTA6043-2015CPB103
PTA6043-2015CPB103
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.25W TOP 60MM
Bourns Inc.
275 $2.03
Pro Audio PTA Tray Active10 kOhms0.25W, 1/4W±20%TopStandard60mmRectangular - 2.953" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (75.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PTA6043-2015DPB103
PTA6043-2015DPB103
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.25W TOP 60MM
Bourns Inc.
450 $2.06
Pro Audio PTA Tray Active10 kOhms0.25W, 1/4W±20%TopStandard60mmRectangular - 2.953" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (75.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PS30-10PB1BR10K
PS30-10PB1BR10K
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.2W TOP 30MM
TT Electronics/BI
254 $2.32
PSxx Tray Active10 kOhms0.2W, 1/5W±20%TopStandard30mmRectangular - 1.772" L x 0.354" W x 0.256" H (45.00mm x 9.00mm x 6.50mm)Through Hole
PTL45-19A1-502B1
PTL45-19A1-502B1
SLIDE POT 5K OHM 0.125W TOP 45MM
Bourns Inc.
337 $2.87
Pro Audio PTL Tray Active5 kOhms0.125W, 1/8W±20%TopStandard, LED45mmRectangular - 2.362" L x 0.354" W x 0.276" H (60.00mm x 9.00mm x 7.00mm)Through Hole
PS45M-0MC2BR10K
PS45M-0MC2BR10K
SLIDE POT 10KOHM 0.125W TOP 45MM
TT Electronics/BI
131 $2.99
PSxxM Tray Active10 kOhms0.125W, 1/8W±20%TopDual45mmRectangular - 2.362" L x 0.354" W x 0.276" H (60.00mm x 9.00mm x 7.00mm)Through Hole
PTB6043-2010BPB103
PTB6043-2010BPB103
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.25W TOP 60MM
Bourns Inc.
86 $5.38
Pro Audio PTB Tray Active10 kOhms0.25W, 1/4W±20%TopStandard60mmRectangular - 3.465" L x 0.630" W x 0.315" H (88.00mm x 16.00mm x 8.00mm)Through Hole
PTB6044-2010BPA103
PTB6044-2010BPA103
SLIDE POT 10KOHM 0.125W TOP 60MM
Bourns Inc.
67 $5.91
Pro Audio PTB Bulk Active10 kOhms0.125W, 1/8W±20%TopDual60mmRectangular - 3.465" L x 0.630" W x 0.315" H (88.00mm x 16.00mm x 8.00mm)Through Hole
PTB0143-2010BPB103
PTB0143-2010BPB103
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.5W TOP 100MM
Bourns Inc.
37 $5.92
Pro Audio PTB Tray Active10 kOhms0.5W, 1/2W±20%TopStandard100mmRectangular - 5.039" L x 0.630" W x 0.315" H (128.00mm x 16.00mm x 8.00mm)Through Hole
PS100-1B1BR10K
PS100-1B1BR10K
SLIDE POT 10KOHM 0.25W TOP 100MM
TT Electronics/BI
79 $7.04
PS100 Tray Active10 kOhms0.25W, 1/4W±20%TopDual100mmRectangular - 5.031" L x 0.331" W x 0.315" H (127.80mm x 8.40mm x 8.00mm)Through Hole
PTB0144-2010BPA103
PTB0144-2010BPA103
SLIDE POT 10KOHM 0.25W TOP 100MM
Bourns Inc.
89 $7.18
Pro Audio PTB Tray Active10 kOhms0.25W, 1/4W±20%TopDual100mmRectangular - 5.039" L x 0.630" W x 0.315" H (128.00mm x 16.00mm x 8.00mm)Through Hole
PS45G-C1LBR10KN
PS45G-C1LBR10KN
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.25W TOP 45MM
TT Electronics/BI
43 $7.37
PSxxG Tray Active10 kOhms0.25W, 1/4W±20%TopDual45mmRectangular - 2.835" L x 0.630" W x 0.433" H (72.00mm x 16.00mm x 11.00mm)Through Hole
PTF01-152A-103B2
PTF01-152A-103B2
SLIDE POT 10K OHM 0.5W TOP 100MM
Bourns Inc.
9 $8.82
Pro Audio PTF Tray Last Time Buy10 kOhms0.5W, 1/2W±20%TopDual100mmRectangular - 5.039" L x 0.787" W x 0.551" H (128.00mm x 20.00mm x 14.00mm)Through Hole

About Slide Potentiometers

What are Slide Potentiometers?

Slide Potentiometers

Slide potentiometers, often referred to as "sliders," are a type of variable resistor that allows users to adjust resistance by sliding a control lever along a linear path. They function by moving a wiper across a resistive element, altering the resistance and thus controlling the flow of electrical current. This mechanism enables precise control over electronic signals, making slide potentiometers ideal for applications requiring smooth and continuous adjustments. Their linear design provides a visual representation of the resistance level, which is particularly useful in applications where quick and intuitive adjustments are necessary.

Types of Slide Potentiometers

1. Linear Slide Potentiometers

Linear slide potentiometers are the most common type, characterized by a straight-line movement of the slider. They are used in applications where a direct correlation between the slider position and the resistance value is required. These potentiometers are ideal for audio mixing consoles and lighting control systems, where precise adjustments are crucial.

2. Motorized Slide Potentiometers

Motorized slide potentiometers incorporate a small motor that can automatically adjust the slider position. This feature is particularly useful in automated systems where remote control or preset adjustments are needed. They are commonly found in high-end audio equipment and automated mixing boards.

3. Dual Slide Potentiometers

Dual slide potentiometers consist of two sliders that operate independently or in tandem. They are used in applications requiring simultaneous control of two parameters, such as balance and volume in stereo audio systems. Their dual functionality makes them versatile for complex control tasks.

How to choose Slide Potentiometers?

When selecting slide potentiometers, several key parameters should be considered:

  • Resistance Value: Choose a resistance value that matches the requirements of your application, typically ranging from a few ohms to several megaohms.
  • Taper: Decide between linear or logarithmic taper based on the desired response curve.
  • Travel Length: Consider the physical space available and the precision needed, as longer travel lengths offer finer control.
  • Power Rating: Ensure the potentiometer can handle the power levels in your circuit to prevent overheating.
  • Durability: Evaluate the build quality and materials used, especially for applications involving frequent adjustments.

To assess product quality and reliability, review supplier certifications, customer reviews, and warranty offerings. Consider environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, which can affect performance, and ensure proper installation to maintain functionality and longevity.

Applications of Slide Potentiometers

1. Audio Engineering

In the audio industry, slide potentiometers are essential components of mixing consoles, allowing sound engineers to adjust volume levels, balance, and equalization settings with precision. Their intuitive design facilitates quick changes during live performances and studio recordings.

2. Lighting Control

Slide potentiometers are widely used in lighting control systems, enabling users to adjust the intensity and color of lights in theaters, studios, and architectural lighting installations. Their linear movement provides an easy way to visualize and control lighting effects.

3. Industrial Automation

In industrial settings, slide potentiometers are employed in control panels for machinery and equipment, allowing operators to fine-tune parameters such as speed, pressure, and temperature. Their reliability and ease of use make them suitable for demanding environments.

4. Medical Equipment

Medical devices often incorporate slide potentiometers for adjusting parameters like dosage rates in infusion pumps or settings in diagnostic equipment. Their precision and reliability are critical in ensuring patient safety and treatment efficacy.

5. Consumer Electronics

Slide potentiometers are found in various consumer electronics, such as home audio systems and gaming consoles, where they provide users with a tactile and intuitive interface for adjusting settings like volume, balance, and tone.