262UR503C
AI

The **262UR503C** is a specific electronic component belonging to the potentiometer family, manufactured primarily by **CTS Electronic Components**. It is a commercial-grade rotary potentiometer often used for board-level adjustments.
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### 1. Component Specifications
Below is a breakdown of the technical characteristics defined by the part number:
| Specification | Details |
| :--- | :--- |
| **Component Type** | Rotary Potentiometer / Trimmer |
| **Resistance Value** | 50 kΩ (indicated by "503") |
| **Series** | 262 Series |
| **Mounting Type** | Through-hole / PC Pins |
| **Adjustment Type** | Top Adjustment (knurled/slotted shaft) |
| **Tolerance** | ±20% (Standard for this series) |
| **Power Rating** | 0.15 Watts @ 40°C |
---
### 2. Part Number Deciphering
The alphanumeric code follows a specific naming convention used by CTS:
* **262**: Identifies the Series (12mm diameter carbon composition potentiometer).
* **U**: Refers to the terminal style (usually PC pins, vertical mount).
* **R**: Represents the shaft or adjustment style (typically a knurled and slotted shaft).
* **503**: The resistance code.
* **50** = The first two digits of the value.
* **3** = The number of zeros following.
* *Result: 50,000 Ohms (50 kΩ).*
* **C**: Often denotes the resistance taper (Linear Taper).
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### 3. Physical Features & Applications
The 262 series is known for its compact size and reliability in consumer electronics.
#### Key Features:
* **Carbon Composition:** Uses a carbon element to provide a wide range of resistance values at a low cost.
* **Small Footprint:** The 12mm size is ideal for space-constrained PCB designs.
* **Mechanical Rotation:** Typically offers a 295° rotation angle.
#### Common Uses:
* **Volume Controls:** In small radios or audio equipment.
* **Calibration:** Used as a semi-fixed resistor to calibrate sensors or timing circuits.
* **User Interface:** Dimmer controls for LED backlighting or speed controllers for small DC motors.
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### 4. Circuit Symbol and Operation
In a schematic, the 262UR503C acts as a **Voltage Divider**. It has three terminals:
1. **Terminal 1:** Input (High)
2. **Terminal 2 (Wiper):** The output signal that varies as the knob is turned.
3. **Terminal 3:** Input (Low/Ground)
```text
(1)----[ 50k Ohm ]----(3)
^
|
(2) Wiper
```
- ⤷
What is the difference between linear and audio tapers for this part?
- ⤷ Are there surface-mount (SMD) equivalents for the 262UR503C?
- ⤷ How do I test if this potentiometer is functioning correctly using a multimeter?