Spring loaded linear potentiometer is a sensor that converts a linear displacement into a variable resistance. These sensors have a long mechanical life and are ideal for applications that require an extended amount of linear travel. They are made from industrial-grade materials for durability and can resist harsh environments such as dust, temperature, shock, and vibration.
This type of linear actuator sensor can be used to provide feedback in an automated system. Using a potentiometer with feedback allows you to have more accurate position control and improves the stability of your system. This can be beneficial when dealing with unexpected disturbances that cause your actuator to move out of position, or if you need to have a stable average of your desired output length.
Linear potentiometers produce a ratiometric output that is proportional to displacement, and the full-scale output voltage of a linear potentiometer is equal to its excitation voltage (the amount of DC power required to operate it). The output is produced by a conductive plastic wiper that moves over a linear resistance element.
Single-turn linear potentiometers have a sliding contact that can be moved along the shaft by a single turn, while multiturn potentiometers have a helix or spiral resistance element with a wiper that turns through multiple turns such as 10, 20, or even a hundred or more for increased resolution and precision.
Dual-gang linear potentiometers have two controls on a single shaft that can vary the resistance of two different settings. They are commonly used in stereo volume control in professional audio and other applications that require the adjustment of two parallel channels.