How do I choose the proper potentiometer for each build and why?

[Belanger]

Just starting out and this is one area I'm confused. Mind you I have spent far less time reading up on this then everything else like components and ohms law and what not. If someone doesn't mind taking the time out of there day to help me me learn the most important details and I'll study up on all the rest as well. Thanks guys

[Kipper4]

I guess that would depend on the circuit.
If you take a look at some of the circuits type you would like to build and take note of the pots tapers, resistances used. This will give you more of a clue.

Just to add to your reading though mate you could go over the GeoFx and peruse this


http://www.geofex.com/article_folders/potsecrets/potscret.htm

[smallbearelec]

I see two issues here: One is the electrical properties--resistance and taper--and the other (which I think might be what is confusing you) is mechanical construction: size, mounting, terminal and bushing style, etc.

Total resistance of the pot is fixed simply by what the circuit needs to set a voltage drop at a particular point. Taper is the ratio of change in % rotation to change in resistance. The right taper will be determined by the audible and tactile response that the designer wants. The article that Kipper goes into much more detail.

Then there's the mechanical stuff. This gets into How you want to build: Are you building One pedal and want to wire from solder lugs to other points? Or do you want to experiment with commercial construction techniques that support a circuit board on the pins of a pot. Take a look at some of the construction examples on this Forum and elsewhere, and I think you'll begin to see some of the thought processes that go into choosing pots.

[Belanger]

Thanks you very much, I find its just finding the right article that's worded In a way the clicks with me.  I appreciate you guys taking the time to point me in the right direction. I'm make a pot of coffee now and I'm going to re read it a few times