trim pots question

[Paul Winters]

Hi all,
I haven't been able to find a clear explanation for the intended
use of trim pots. I have a schematic that calls for a 47k trim pot
and I want to know whether I could substitute it with a normal
resistor of the same value. What is the range from one end of the
trim pot to the other if it is intended to permanently be set at a
certain position. If you're wondering what the project is, I am
modifying one of those blinking christmas tree led projects.

thanks in advance,
paul

 

[D from BC]

Hi all,
I haven't been able to find a clear explanation for the intended
use of trim pots. I have a schematic that calls for a 47k trim pot
and I want to know whether I could substitute it with a normal
resistor of the same value. What is the range from one end of the
trim pot to the other if it is intended to permanently be set at a
certain position. If you're wondering what the project is, I am
modifying one of those blinking christmas tree led projects.

thanks in advance,
paul

If your trimpot is like this
47k
A____/\/\/\/\/\_______B
^ |
|--------+

The above config can range from ~0ohms to ~47kohms.
Tweek until you get correct circuit operation.
Best to pull A (trimmer out of circuit) and then measure the trimmer
resistance.
Find the nearest standard value.
Substitute the trimmer.


D from BC

 

[www.interfacebus.com]

Hi all,
   I haven't been able to find a clear explanation for the intended
use of trim pots.  I have a schematic that calls for a 47k trim pot
and I want to know whether I could substitute it with a normal
resistor of the same value.  What is the range from one end of the
trim pot to the other if it is intended to permanently be set at a
certain position.  

A Trim Pot is Designed for less then frequent changes [occasional]~
use a trim pot on a PCB to finalize a circuit resistance. Sure, just
measure the set value of the trim pot and use a resistor of that
value, you lose the adjustment in the circuit~ The range would be 0
ohms to 47K, or you could measure the full value of the pot.

However if you only have a schematic: if you remove the trim pot you
will no longer be able to adjust the brightness or blink rate ~ or
what ever function the trim pot is being used for......

http://www.interfacebus.com/resistors_pots.html
www.interfacebus.com

 

[neon]

the use for trim pots is to adjust parameters without taking in-out resistors for xmas kights this trimmer can only be used to reduce current is this what you want?.