Help Identifying Component Please

Thread Starter

jamesmcuk

Joined Oct 20, 2012
5
I need some detail on the component in the picture. I have tried searching for the numbers but nothing matches its appearance so I am unable to know what power handling it is capable of or anything. Any help appreciated.

Thanks
 

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wayneh

Joined Sep 9, 2010
17,496
Its power rating will relate somewhat to its physical size. So a 2K pot with similar configuration and size will be close.

Another approach is to understand its function in the circuit. What is it doing?
 

Thread Starter

jamesmcuk

Joined Oct 20, 2012
5
Thanks for the replies guys


Its supposed to regulate a heater output. zero k is heater off and 2 k is heater max.

Mike are you fairly confident it will be 1/4 watt?

The size is about that of a thumb nail
 

wayneh

Joined Sep 9, 2010
17,496
I'm with Mike. In that application, it is almost certainly only changing a setpoint voltage which is compared to a thermistor or other probe. In other words, very little current is passing through it and therefore a 1/4W rating should be fine. If you can get a higher rating in a similar package, you have little to lose by doing that.
 

#12

Joined Nov 30, 2010
18,224
In case you need another confirmation, yes. It's a 2k linear trimpot. The only problem you can cause is getting one that doesn't quite fit the legs to the holes.
 

Thread Starter

jamesmcuk

Joined Oct 20, 2012
5
OK great. The component has 3 terminals wiper and 2 over 2k the wiper is strapped down to one of the terminals. Is this thing a rheostat potential resistor or what and does it make any difference anyway.

Thanks again
 

#12

Joined Nov 30, 2010
18,224
When you connect the wiper to an end, that makes it a rheostat, but it makes no difference to you.

It's like, "If somebody pays me for a ride, does that make my car a Taxi?"
Technically, yes, but it's still a car. The only thing that changed is how you used it.
 

Thread Starter

jamesmcuk

Joined Oct 20, 2012
5
thanks for this - i guess you can tell I a new to this but understand a little. I hope to start understanding more soon. if anyone has any pointers - no matter how basic, like educational sites etc - they would be most helpful.

All the best guys and many thanks for your help #12
 
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