Variable resistor drawing When it comes to electronic components, precision in terminology is crucial. For a resistor positioned within a single electrical slot, understanding its correct designation often depends on its functionality.Resistor While the term "resistor" itself is a broad categorization for any passive two-terminal electronic component that implements electrical resistance as a circuit element, specific names arise when this component is designed for adjustability.
The primary category that encompasses resistors used in an adjustable or "slotted" configuration is variable resistors. These components are designed to allow for the manual alteration of their resistance value within a circuit. This adjustability is key, differentiating them from fixed resistors which maintain a constant resistance.
Within the umbrella of variable resistors, two specific terms frequently appear:
* Rheostat: A true rheostat is characterized as a two-terminal device. Its primary function is to vary resistance, often by mechanical control. When only two terminals are used, it effectively functions as a variable resistance. Some electronics tutorials refer to rheostats as tapped resistors or variable wire wound resistors, utilizing a sliding contact to regulate voltage or current. In some contexts, a linear slide rheostat might be used for adjustments that move in a line rather than a circle.
* Potentiometer: While often grouped with rheostats, a potentiometer typically has three terminals. Although it also provides variable resistance, its design often allows it to function as a voltage divider.Shunt Resistor | Resistor Applications | Resistor Guide - EEPower The term "potentiometers are variable resistors" is a common and accurate description. Sometimes, these are referred to as "pot for short" and feature a dial or a slide for adjustable resistance. Variable resistors, also known as potentiometers, allow the user to adjust the resistance manually.
The idea of a resistor in "one slot" can sometimes refer to how these components are integrated into a larger system or module. For example, in certain electronic puzzles or modules, a specific component might be designed to fit into a single designated space or slot.Different Types of Resistors and Uses If this component possesses adjustable resistance, it would fall under the definition of a variable resistor. The "Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes Wiki" mentions a "Resistors module" containing two resistors, and two input and output pins, suggesting that distinct components can occupy specific locations within a circuit.
Beyond the core terms, several other concepts are relevant:
* Resistance decade box or resistor substitution box: This is a unit containing resistors of many values, allowing for the selection of a specific resistance, often for testing or experimental purposes.2024年12月10日—For example, potentiometers, which areatype of variableresistor, have three terminals, allowing for adjustment of theresistancebetween two ...
* Shunt Resistor: A shunt resistor is typically used in parallel with another component to bypass current, and is an example of a resistor in a specific application.
* Trimmer resistors, thermistors, and photoresistors are other specific types of resistors, though not directly named for a "slot" designation, they highlight the diversity within resistor types.
* Surface-mount resistors (SMT) and through-hole resistors (PTH) refer to the physical mounting method of the component on a circuit board, rather than its functional name.
* The E12 series is a common standard for resistor values, offering choices within a 10% tolerance, which is often sufficient for many applications.When only two terminals are used, it functions as a variable resistance and is called arheostat. Electronically controlled variable resistors exist, which can ...
In summary, while "resistor" is the overarching term, a resistor in "one slot" designed for adjustability is most accurately identified as a rheostat (if primarily for varying resistance and two-terminal) or a potentiometer (if often three-terminal and used for voltage division).Resistors in Parallel - Electronics Tutorials Understanding these distinctions is fundamental for anyone working with electronic circuits.
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