PC mount pots

[MmmPedals]

I have seen 16mm pots as cheap as $0.40. Problem is they are vertical pcb mount. is there any way to use these like you would with solder terminals? how about those holes that i am not really sure why they are there?

[jacobyjd]

Don't solder in the holes. You'll ruin 'em

If I can't PCB-mount them, I bend the pins into little loops, then treat 'em like solder lugs--works great

[Ronsonic]

Just solder to the pin. Tin the wire, tin the pin, hold wire to pin, heat, done.

[Pakaloabob]

...So where does one find these $0.40 pots?

[jacobyjd]

futurlec.com

cheapest I've seen is .55 there

Be aware that they won't contact you quickly if something is backordered, and shipping takes 3 weeks. Have those expectations and you'll most likely be happy with their service.

[ppatchmods]

http://www.taydaelectronics.com/servlet/the-Potentiometers--fdsh--Variable-Resistors-cln-Rotary-Potentiometer-cln-Linear/Categories

here is one place

[MikeH]

You can solder them to a small piece of vero and solder wires onto that.

I've soldered to the holes before, you can definitely do it, but it's a bit like soldering trannys or ICs, you have to make sure to be quick.  Also be careful not to use too much solder, if it drips into the casing the pot will be undoubtedly ruined.  It's not the preferred way, but it can be done.

[a soBer Newt]

Don't solder in the holes. You'll ruin 'em

If I can't PCB-mount them, I bend the pins into little loops, then treat 'em like solder lugs--works great

why will it ruin the pot?

[gtudoran]

Hell that is expensive... i buy thoes pots in romania for 0.10$ per pc. including VAT...i could make a business with that and they are ok (3 years of continous usage and no fail till now)
http://www.tehnoelectric.ro/home.html?page=shop.browse&category_id=52 ( pls. remark that the price in in RON (romanian lei) and 1 USD = 3.1 RON)

Best regards,
Gabriel Tudoran
Analog Sound