The 103 (10K Ohm) Variable Resistor Potentiometer is a fundamental component for any electronics designer. At Electrapac, we provide these high-precision "trimpots" (trimmer potentiometers) to help you fine-tune your circuits, calibrate sensors, or adjust the output voltage of power modules with ease.

Product Overview

The "103" code signifies a resistance of 10,000 Ohms ($10\text{k}\Omega$). This 3-pin component acts as a variable voltage divider. By turning the top screw or knob, you change the internal resistance, allowing you to control signals precisely. These are "horizontal" or "vertical" through-hole style, designed to fit perfectly into standard breadboards or permanent PCB layouts.

Key Features for Electrapac Customers

• Breadboard Compatible: The 2.54mm pin spacing allows you to plug it directly into any standard prototyping board without soldering.

• Compact Footprint: Its small square or round body is ideal for tight spaces where a full-sized volume knob would be too large.

• Linear Taper: Provides a smooth, linear change in resistance as you turn the dial, making it predictable and easy to calibrate.

• Durable Carbon Element: Constructed with a high-quality carbon film to ensure long-term stability and minimal electrical noise.

• Top-Adjustment Slot: Features a cross-head or flat-head slot on top, allowing for easy adjustment with a small screwdriver.

How to Connect (Pinout)

To get the best results from your www.electrapac.com components, follow this standard wiring:

1. Pin 1 (Left): Connect to your input voltage (e.g., 5V).

2. Pin 2 (Center/Wiper): This is the output. As you turn the dial, the voltage here fluctuates between the values of Pin 1 and Pin 3.

3. Pin 3 (Right): Connect to Ground ($GND$).

Primary Applications

• LCD Contrast Adjustment: The most common use for a 10k pot is adjusting the visibility of 16x2 and 20x4 character LCD displays.

• Volume Control: Adjusting the gain of small audio amplifier modules (like the PAM8403).

• Sensor Calibration: Setting the "threshold" for DIY light sensors (LDR) or moisture sensors.

• Voltage Regulation: Fine-tuning the output of adjustable buck/boost converters.

• Timer Frequency: Changing the blink rate in 555 timer circuits.

Why Shop at Electrapac?

We source our 103 Potentiometers with reinforced pins to prevent snapping during repeated breadboard insertions. At www.electrapac.com, we provide the precision parts that give you total control over your electronic signals.