A linear potentiometer is a type of position sensor. They are used to measure displacement along a single axis, either up and down or left and right. 

Linear potentiometers are often rod actuated and connected to an internal slider or wiper carrier. The rod will be connected to a device or object which requires measurement. The linear potentiometer proportionally divides an applied regulated voltage over its operational range and provides a proportional voltage output relevant to the position of the wiper.

Linear potentiometers are a contacting type of sensor which means that the moving parts make contact with each other during use. This makes them sufficiently robust to be used within a variety of applications whilst remaining relatively inexpensive. They can function in wide temperature ranges and offer long life, high accuracy and repeatability. 

At Variohm, our range of linear potentiometers uses a conductive plastic technology which is the most widely used. We use elastomer damped wipers which means they have a cat claw configuration that ensures the best wiper contact for applications even in the most severe of environments. 

What is a Linear Potentiometer used for?
Linear potentiometers can be used in many applications which require a robust device for measuring linear movements. Some examples of these applications are;

Mobile Vehicle
Medical applications
Industrial process
Test and lab applications 
Agricultural machinery
Robotics
Industrial machinery 
Motorsport applications 
Why use a Linear Potentiometer?
There are many advantages to using a linear potentiometer for applications, these include;

Long life
Wide operating temperature range 
Improved linearity
Laser trimming of the track 
Typically lower cost (than non-contacting alternatives)
Features of our Linear Potentiometers
Our linear potentiometers have;

Outstanding repeatability and linearity
Dual seal design for extended reliability and longer life
Self-aligning pivot bearing mountings
Elastomer damped wipers
Potentiometric output
IP ratings; IP65/ IP67