Quick question about pots

[Rezman5]

ummm...what are they??? what do they do??? can you show me a pic and tell me how to ajust them? My +5V line is at 4.68 and my +12V line is at 12.71. My -12V line is at -12.60 and my -5V line is at -5.29. How can I adjust these so they are closer to what they are supposed to be?


Thanks!

[Hoot]

Pot is short for potentiometer, meaning a variable resistor. Rheostats are also variable resistors, but generally of greater wattage than a Pot. For controlling fan voltage, you are better off using a Rheostat. Most pots would burn up the first time you use them as a voltage controller. Here is a picture of the two. You can get Rheostats a lot cheaper than new at your local Electronics Surplus store or Electronics Recycle/Reclamation Center. Most metropolitan areas have one. If you can't find one yourself, ask a local Ham Radio Operator (preferably an older one).

73, Hoot

[KFB]

i cannot remember for certain if the container said rheostat or potentiometer (i bot micropots at the same time). it was in between the size of the 2 in the pic and contains a thin wire wrapped around an insulator w/ wiper touching it. rheo or pot? you be the judge

[Yodums]

Got a digital camera or webcam?

If I recall right you bought it at radio shack check on their webby they always have pictures that come with it.

[Hoot]

Originally posted by Kentucky Fried Bird
i cannot remember for certain if the container said rheostat or potentiometer (i bot micropots at the same time). it was in between the size of the 2 in the pic and contains a thin wire wrapped around an insulator w/ wiper touching it. rheo or pot? you be the judge

That sounds like a rheostat, but obviously one of inadequate wattage for the job you wanted it to do. I see in my RS catalong, they sell a 1.2 watt Rheostat. It looks like the only one they sell. 1.2W is not much power though. Small wonder it burned up.

73, Hoot