Signals and controls
10 kΩ potentiometer
A knob that turns position into a measurable voltage.
What it does
The moving wiper divides the resistance between the outer terminals. Connecting the ends to the supply and ground makes the wiper voltage follow the knob.
Connections and compatibility
Connect the two outside terminals to 5 V and GND on an Uno, and the center wiper to an analog input. Use 3.3 V when feeding a 3.3 V-only ADC.
Choosing one
A 10 kΩ linear potentiometer is a useful general choice. Its shaft and mounting style matter more than brand for this exercise.
Common mistakes
Do not use a small potentiometer to directly control motor power. A wiper disconnected from the input leaves it floating.
Use it in a tutorial
- Analog and PWM signals — Use a potentiometer to control an indicator, and learn how analog measurements differ from PWM outputs.