There were some who believed the digital age would make the potentiometer obsolete. But this simple piece of tech has proved them very wrong.

Originally invented by Thomas Edison - the inventor of the lightbulb - potentiometers can now be found performing tasks which are both mundane (dimming a lightswitch) and out-of-this-world (exploring the surface of Mars).

Potentiometers are variable resistors, where resistance can be changed using a slider or knob. They’re excellent in audio applications, such as volume controls on televisions and radios.
 
Capable of surviving extreme conditions when sealed to a high standard, current developments in potentiometer technology are keeping the humble pot relevant to yet another century of engineers.

They don’t require hefty amounts of software support, or hardware to track their position because of the simple way they read output voltage. And to top it off, they’re very cost-effective.
 
Creating components at a low cost that take up little space is a key concern of today’s designers, and potentiometers are very light on space, weight and power consumption.
 
So these simple electromechnical devices continue to earn their place at the heart of control, position and measurement systems.
 
Ruffy’s MR series - a multi-axis potentiometer joystick - makes perfect use of this technology.

Ideal for tasks in robotic systems, wheelchair control, CCTV and environments where high magnetic field strengths are present, this compact joystick is has excellent resistence to electro-magnetic interference, as well as being small and robust.

The range features a two-axis or three-axis option, with a variety of drop-in, rear mount or riser box bases.

As with all Nexus products, the joysticks have an impressive range of custom options meaning that your design can be catered for in a bespoke way. Another advantage of potentiometer technology is that pots can be tailored to design specifications without sacrificing resolution.

A variety of handle options means the MR series can integrate easily into any environment.

Sealed to IP54 above the flange, this guarantees that though the joystick is not completely dust-tight, dust cannot enter enough to interfere with operation. It is also protected against water splashes.

With a 50° angle of movement and a spring return, the MR series are very durable joysticks. With an operating temperature of -180°C to TO 60°C, they can be stored at temperatures from -40°C to 70°C.

For information about Ruffy potentiometer joysticks available from Nexus, visit the product page http://nexuscomponents.co.uk/Products/Joysticks/Potentiometer-Joysticks or email or call us to discuss your particular needs.


Photo by Ajeet Mestry on Unsplash