Analog Slide Linear Potentiometer - Gravity Series

In the world of Hobbyist Electronics, one of the most common components that are used in a wide range of different applications is the humble but relatively versatile potentiometer, as this can take in positional or rotational data and convert it into electrical signals for us to utilise in various ways. However, while the most commonly known Potentiometers are round, there are some that offer different styles of positional sensing, with these handy Analog Slide Linear Potentiometers offering linear straight-slip positional sensing. This is very much like the sliders on sound desks, which control volume, gain and other audio-related variables, with a very easy mode of operation that anyone can understand.

Although these are somewhat standard components in regards to potentiometers as a whole, what we think is a little odd for Hobbyist Components, but certainly does add some value to the unit, is that this linear slide potentiometer actually features dual analogue interfaces, and while some potentiometers use this to offer both standard and inverted signals, this unit actually incorporates them so that users can utilise both Gravity Series interfaces and average them out. This results in more precise measurements that are less affected by noise and other hobbyist sensor variables that could alter the output signal. However, whether you actually choose to use both interfaces or not, these potentiometers are more than capable of handling almost any hobbyist linear position sensing applications that you throw at it.

Additional Resources:

• For some extra resources and a brief writeup on this handy unit, check out the DFRobot Linear Potentiometer Wiki, which also contains some handy sample code to get you started.

As self-proclaimed “Robo-holics”, DFRobot is a company comprised of over 100 staff members, of which 30% are engineers who love to build robots. It was started in 2008 with the goal of embracing and promoting open-source hardware, with a core focus on Arduino, Raspberry Pi and their very own LattePanda development boards. Since then, DFRobot have manufactured over 1300 unique modules, sensors and components that all work together and complement each other, allowing users like us to enjoy a full spectrum of cutting edge robotics and electronics without having to pay premium prices.

With the primary goal of developing and manufacturing great quality products, while making them accessible to as many people as possible, DFRobot are rapidly becoming one of the most common-place brands in the world of open-source robotics and electronics. With more than 1300 products developed in-house, and an impressive range of different categories and specialisations, there are few brands in the world who can compete in terms of quality, accessibility and genuine innovation.