Understanding Rheostat vs. Potentiometer: A Friendly Guide to These Important Components

Understanding Rheostat vs. Potentiometer

If you’ve ever adjusted the volume on a radio or controlled the brightness of a lamp, you’ve likely encountered two essential components: potentiometers and rheostats. Though they may seem similar at first glance, these devices serve unique purposes and operate in distinct ways. At Hill Technical Sales, we specialize in providing high-quality components, making it worthwhile to dive deeper into these fascinating devices: let’s explore rheostat vs. potentiometer.

What Are Potentiometers and Rheostats?

A potentiometer is a three-terminal device used primarily for voltage control, while a rheostat is a two-terminal device designed to control current. The name “potentiometer” combines the concepts of “potential difference” and “metering,” reflecting its purpose as a voltage divider. In contrast, the term “rheostat” comes from Greek, meaning “current controlling device.” Both components play essential roles in various applications, from laboratories to industrial settings.

Key Differences Explained

  1. Operating Principle: A potentiometer operates as a voltage divider, allowing you to adjust the voltage output based on the position of a moving wiper along a resistive track. In contrast, a rheostat controls current by changing its resistance by modifying the wiper’s position along a resistive element.
  2. Terminal Count: Potentiometers have three terminals (two ends and one middle wiper), while rheostats utilize just two terminals. This fundamental difference impacts how these devices are wired in a circuit.
  3. Connection Types: Potentiometers are typically connected in parallel with a voltage source, allowing for simultaneous control. Rheostats, on the other hand, are connected in series with the load and source, controlling the current that passes through them.
  4. Functionality: A potentiometer’s primary role is voltage division, making it ideal for applications like volume control in audio devices or adjusting settings in televisions. Rheostats are most often used in applications where current control is necessary, such as in fans or motors.
  5. Applications: Potentiometers are utilized in low power situations (typically under one watt), such as in audio devices, while rheostats excel in high power environments (over one watt) like industrial machinery or large appliance controls.
  6. Materials and Construction: Both components come in various types and materials. Potentiometers may use graphite, carbon particles, or cermet for their resistive elements, while rheostats are often made from heavy-duty wire or metal ribbons to handle larger currents.

Types of Potentiometers

Potentiometers come in various forms, including:

  • Linear and Rotary: Linear potentiometers vary resistance directly with the slide, whereas rotary potentiometers involve turning a knob to adjust.
  • Slider Potentiometers: Often found in audio equipment, these allow for quick adjustments along a linear path.
  • Digital Potentiometers: These modern variations provide precise control in digital circuits, enhancing usability in complex applications.

Why Choose Hill Technical Sales?

At Hill Technical Sales, we recognize the importance of high-quality components in your electronic projects. Whether you’re in need of potentiometers, rheostats, or other electronic components, we have a wide selection to fit your needs. Our commitment to quality ensures that you receive reliable products that perform smoothly in any application.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the differences between rheostat vs. potentiometer opens new possibilities for your projects. From controlling voltage to regulating current, these components are crucial to the functionality of countless devices. If you’re considering integrating these components into your work, look no further than Hill Technical Sales as your trusted source.

Contact Us!

If you would like to inquire about our safe, reliable, and efficient contactors and relays, or check out a variety of other products that we handle that could suit your needs, please visit our website and submit a quote at https://hill-tech.com/, or contact us at 847-255-4400, fax us at (847) 255-0192, or email us at sales@hilltech.com. And be sure to look at our social media pages, linked below!

Hill Technical Sales provides expert design and implementation of quality components for Electrical Power Conversion & Distribution, Thermal Management, UV Curing, and High-Speed Industrial Imaging for more information:

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ACTExpo 2025

The Advanced Clean Transportation Expo (ACTExpo) 2025 is in a few weeks, and Hill Technical Sales will be attending! Join us at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA from April 28-30. We will be at Durakool’s Booth 5290.

Looking for reliable, high-performance components for your automotive projects? Durakool offers a comprehensive range of cutting-edge products designed to meet the demands of modern vehicles, including (EV) electric and emergency service applications.

Explore their impressive lineup:

  • High Voltage DC Contactors & Safe Switching DC Relays
  • Low Voltage DC Contactors and Relays (LVDC)
  • Automotive Mini & Maxi ISO Relay Sockets, Mounting Brackets, and Silicone Gaskets
  • Solid State Relays (SSR) and Contactors
  • Heatsinks specifically designed for SSRs
  • Relays for Emergency Vehicle Flashing Lights, including spotlights and sidelights—featuring continuous current PCB and subminiature relays with AgSnOInO contacts, optimized for motor and lamp loads. These are available in both open-frame and sealed versions.

What sets Durakool apart? Their experienced team provides tailored technical support and offers custom solutions to ensure the components perfectly match your application needs.

Stop by our booth at the ACTExpo 2025 to learn more and chat with us about how Durakool’s innovative and dependable products can elevate your next project!

If you would like to check out a variety of products that we handle that will suit your needs, please visit our website and submit a quote at https://hill-tech.com/, contact us at 847-255-4400, fax us at (847) 255-0192, or email us at sales@hilltech.com. And be sure to look at our social media pages, linked below!

Hill Technical Sales provides expert design and implementation of quality components for Electrical Power Conversion & Distribution, Thermal Management, UV Curing, and High-Speed Industrial Imaging for more information:

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Introducing the New Dual-Voltage MedBox Medical Isolation Transformers

We’re excited to announce an expansion of our MedBox product line, offering even greater flexibility for medical applications!

Expanding Our MedBox Line

Our existing MedBox Medical Isolation Transformers are trusted for their 120VAC input and come in a variety of power ratings:

  • MedBox 300 – 300VA enclosed medical-grade isolation transformer
  • MedBox 600 – 600VA enclosed medical-grade isolation transformer
  • MedBox 900 – 900VA enclosed medical-grade isolation transformer
  • MedBox 1200 – 1200VA enclosed medical-grade isolation transformer
  • MedBox 1800 – 1800VA enclosed medical-grade isolation transformer

Now, we’re introducing new models with dual-voltage input capability! These transformers will support both 120V and 240V operation, providing more flexibility while maintaining the same high-quality performance as our current MedBox products.

Dual-Voltage Medbox Transformers

UL Certification & Availability

Our new dual-voltage MedBox transformers are currently undergoing UL certification, with UL-certified units expected to ship by the end of March.

However, we do have pre-certification units available now:

120/240V input models (without UL certification)
120V input models (with UL certification)

If you need a solution right away or want more details on availability, contact us today!

We’re thrilled to bring this enhanced flexibility to the MedBox line and look forward to supporting your medical power needs. Stay tuned for more updates!

If you would like to check out a variety of products that we handle that will suit your needs, please visit our website and submit a quote at https://hill-tech.com/, or contact us at 847-255-4400, fax us at (847) 255-0192, or email us at sales@hilltech.com. And be sure to look at our social media pages, linked below!

Hill Technical Sales provides expert design and implementation of quality components for Electrical Power Conversion & Distribution, Thermal Management, UV Curing, and High-Speed Industrial Imaging for more information:

Connect with us:              

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Introducing 150A Compact, PCB-Mountable Contactor

Introducing 150 A Compact, PCB Mountable Contactor header image

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news about a brand-new product from Durakool—the DEVR15-PCB! This innovative contactor prototype is designed to meet the needs of compact applications, addressing key feedback from our customers.

A Solution to Size Constraints

In previous discussions, we heard that the DHVC150 contactor was too large for certain applications. We took that feedback seriously, and the DEVR15-PCB is our response! This new design is approximately half the size of the DHVC150 while still delivering similar performance.

Compact and PCB Mountable

One of the standout features of the DEVR15-PCB is its PCB-mountable design, making integration into your system easier than ever. The pins on the top allow for direct mounting, reducing wiring complexity and saving valuable space.

DEVR12-PCB
DEVR15-PCB

What’s Next?

Contact us directly regarding the datasheets as these are confidential at this time. We expect prototypes to be available in the next week or so, and we can’t wait to get your feedback! We’re confident this new product will be a game-changer for compact, high-performance applications.

Let us know what you think—we’d love to hear your thoughts!

Stay tuned for more updates, and feel free to reach out with any questions!

If you would like to check out a variety of products that we handle that will suit your needs, please visit our website and submit a quote at https://hill-tech.com/, or contact us at 847-255-4400, fax us at (847) 255-0192, or email us at sales@hilltech.com. And be sure to look at our social media pages, linked below!

Hill Technical Sales provides expert design and implementation of quality components for Electrical Power Conversion & Distribution, Thermal Management, UV Curing, and High-Speed Industrial Imaging for more information:

Connect with us:              

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Your Trusted Source for UV Components: Hill Technical Sales

Your Trusted Source for UV Components: Hill Technical Sales

The UV curing industry has been thrown into uncertainty with the ongoing confusion and lack of public statements surrounding UV Process Supply, a company once renowned for its extensive catalog of UV components and accessories. Customers report unreturned calls, conflicting responses regarding their status, and other rumors. With little clarity on what’s happening behind the scenes, businesses relying on these components are left scrambling to find alternative sources. If you’re among those affected, Hill Technical Sales is here to offer a solution.

We specialize in high-quality, reliable UV components, including lamps, reflectors, power supplies, and irradiator assemblies. Whether you’re maintaining existing equipment or developing new UV curing systems, Hill Technical Sales provides the products and expertise you need to keep your operations running smoothly.

Why Choose Hill Technical Sales?

At Hill Technical Sales, we pride ourselves on being a trusted partner for companies in need of UV curing components. We’ve built a reputation for quality, reliability, and customer-focused service. With the challenges facing the market, it’s more important than ever to have a dependable supplier.

Here’s what we offer:

  • UV Reflectors: Our highly polished aluminum extrusions are engineered to deliver exceptional UV energy transfer
  • UV Lamps: We provide an extensive range of mercury vapor and metal halide lamps, including extended-life options that last 2–3 times longer than standard lamps.
  • Accessories: From irradiator assemblies to power supplies, we carry a wide range of UV curing accessories.
  • Expertise: With years of experience, we understand the nuances of UV curing systems and can guide you toward the best solutions.

UV Reflector Extrusions: Cost-Effective and Durable

Our aluminum UV reflector extrusions are a standout solution for engineers designing their own UV curing systems. Manufactured from specially processed 6061-grade aluminum, these reflectors feature a highly polished surface, delivering up to 90% UV reflectance. Unlike other materials that tarnish or corrode over time, our extrusions resist wear, ensuring consistent performance.

UV Reflector

Key benefits of our UV reflectors:

  • Efficient Design: Time-tested profiles focus UV light from medium-pressure mercury and metal additive lamps directly onto the curing substrate.
  • Heat Dissipation: The aluminum construction efficiently absorbs heat and dissipates it through the fin structure.
  • Versatility: Designed for lamps with power ratings between 100 and 600 watts per inch.
  • Low Maintenance: In most environments, there’s no need for expensive UV reflector liners. For messy applications, liners are optional but not mandatory, making our extrusions a cost-effective choice.

For higher-power applications, we recommend enclosing the reflector in a housing with forced air cooling. This can be configured as an end-cooled or center-cooled assembly, ensuring optimal performance and extended durability.

Comprehensive Selection of UV Lamps

We also provide a full range of medium-pressure mercury vapor and metal halide lamps, all designed to meet the demands of modern UV curing systems. Crafted from high-purity amorphous silica with tungsten electrodes, these lamps are engineered for maximum reliability and performance.

Our UV lamps offer:

  • Versatility: Arc lengths from 1 inch to 180 inches and power levels ranging from 200 to 1,000 watts per inch.
  • Extended Life: Versions that last 2–3 times longer than standard lamps, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
  • Custom Options: We provide xenon arc lamps, short arc lamps, and various spectra tailored to specific curing needs.

For advanced curing applications, our metal halide lamps are a perfect choice. These lamps incorporate metal halogens to produce specific UV wavelengths, allowing you to match the sensitivity of your photopolymer precisely.

Specialized Metal Halide Lamps

Metal halide lamps are mercury vapor lamps enhanced with metal halogens to create specific UV outputs. These lamps are essential for applications requiring precise wavelength control, such as photo-polymerization processes.

UV Lamps

We offer two main types:

  1. Iron-Cobalt Spectrum: Broad spectral output, ideal for applications needing UV radiation in the 380–390 nm range.
  2. Gallium-Indium Spectrum: Enhanced output in the 403–420 nm range, suitable for photopolymers requiring higher UV wavelengths.

Our lamps are designed to maintain consistent performance under varying temperatures and voltages, extending their lifespan and ensuring reliable operation.

Accessories and Irradiator Assemblies

In addition to lamps and reflectors, we supply complete irradiator assemblies for fully configured UV curing systems. These assemblies include everything you need to upgrade or maintain your equipment, from power supplies to cooling systems.

Why Act Now?

With the uncertain status of UV Process Supply, it’s crucial to secure a reliable source for your UV curing components. Hill Technical Sales is ready to step in and meet your needs. Our extensive inventory and commitment to customer satisfaction make us the ideal partner in these challenging times.

Don’t let supply chain disruptions slow you down. Explore our selection of UV reflectors, lamps, and accessories today, and let us help you keep your UV curing systems running at their best.

Contact Us!

Visit our website to learn more about our products or reach out to our team directly to discuss your needs. At Hill Technical Sales, we’re here to provide the reliable support and high-quality components you need to succeed. Explore our UV curing solutions and discover why so many companies trust Hill Technical Sales as their go-to supplier.

Check out our website and submit a quote at https://hill-tech.com/, or contact us at 847-255-4400, fax us at (847) 255-0192, or email us at sales@hilltech.com. And be sure to look at our social media pages, linked below!

Hill Technical Sales provides expert design and implementation of quality components for Electrical Power Conversion & Distribution, Thermal Management, UV Curing, and High-Speed Industrial Imaging for more information:

Connect with us:              

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