Potentiometer Calculator

R1(amps)
R2(amps)
rl(amps)
vs(volts)
VL=

What is a Potentiometer Calculator?

A Potentiometer Calculator helps determine the resistance, voltage, or current in a circuit using a potentiometer. A potentiometer (or "pot") is a three-terminal variable resistor used for adjusting voltage levels, tuning circuits, and controlling electrical devices like volume knobs and dimmer switches.

Why Use a Potentiometer Calculator?

  • Quickly find output voltage for different resistance settings.
  • Design circuits efficiently by selecting the right potentiometer values.
  • Optimize signal control in audio, lighting, and motor speed applications.

How to Calculate Potentiometer Output?

The output voltage (Vout) is calculated using the voltage divider formula:

Where:

  • Vout​ = Output voltage
  • Vin​ = Input voltage
  • R1​ = Resistance between the input and wiper
  • R2​ = Resistance between the wiper and ground

If the potentiometer is used as a rheostat (variable resistor), the resistance is calculated as:

Where:

  • Rpot​ = Total resistance of the potentiometer
  • θ = Position of the wiper (percentage)

When to Use It?

  • Electronics design: Calculating voltage control for sensors, amplifiers, and power supplies.
  • Audio equipment: Adjusting volume or tone in sound systems.
  • Lighting control: Dimmer switches for LED and filament bulbs.
  • Motor speed control: Adjusting DC motor speeds in automation projects.