Hi everyone,

I'm trying to design a compact MIDI controller and I'm still struggling to choose the right component due to my limited knowledge of electronic components. Actually, I'm trying to find a part that functions like an encoder but with a limited range of rotation.

Here’s what I am looking for:

• I want the control to turn clockwise from a minimum value at about 7 o'clock to a maximum value at about 5 o'clock ,as the encoder used in Dj equipment
• The encoder should not rotate infinitely; it should have a defined start and stop point (like a volume or Eq/filter knob on some audio equipment).

I’m confused about whether I should be looking for a rotary encoder or a rotary potentiometer to achieve this effect. If anyone can clarify what component I should be using, or if there's something else entirely that fits this description, I would really grateful for that.

Thank you.

 

It is called a rotary potentiometer or variable resistor in English, potentiomètres rotatifs en français.

Note that it is available in different values, sizes and different response, i.e. linear, log, etc.

Here is an example.



https://fr.farnell.com/tt-electroni...10k/potentiometre-rotatif-10k-20mm/dp/2771755

 

It is called a rotary potentiometer or variable resistor in English, potentiomètres rotatifs en français.

Note that it is available in different values, sizes and different response, i.e. linear, log, etc.

Here is an example.

View attachment 329243

https://fr.farnell.com/tt-electroni...10k/potentiometre-rotatif-10k-20mm/dp/2771755

Perfect. Thank you for the clarrification .

 

A pot handles analog signals, while an encoder handles digital.
Which type of signal are you controlling?

 

Likely need to be linear taper potentiometers. The pot varies a signal that is an input to an ADC.

 

A pot handles analog signals, while an encoder handles digital.
Which type of signal are you controlling?

Hi, and thank you for your answer, Sir. I’m aiming to control MIDI CC messages with the encoders. These encoders will send MIDI CC values ranging from 1 to 127, which I plan to use for various controls such as filters, EQs, and other parameters.

What I’m looking for is an encoder that allows me to achieve these values within a 270-degree rotation (from 7 o'clock to 5 o'clock), rather than requiring multiple turns. The goal is to have the minimum value at the 7 o'clock position and the maximum at the 5 o'clock position. I’m trying to replicate the behavior of some encoders in MIDI controller I have, by creating a new : The reason I need to chose the rigth electronic components.

 

Since a potentiometer for your application is likely to get quite a hammering, be sure to get a good quality one.