[sdiy] Resolution of analogue potentiometers?

[Magnus Danielson]

On 02/12/2013 03:06 AM, Michael Zacherl wrote:
> Hi, I thought this already has been discussed but couldn't find the thread:
> How's the actual resolution of the resistive track of an analogue potentiometer
> specified? On some data sheets I read "<  0.1°" for a rotative pot.
>
> for instance,
> in terms of pitch control over a very wide range, using a multiturn pot or trimmer,
> where are the limits for the resistive tracks and pots at all?
> Technically speaking, leaving practical aspects aside for a moment.
>
> Thanks, Michael.

There are many answers to this. I once spent a night with a PA speaker, 
measurement rig and equalizer. I ended up making fine-adjustment by 
gently putting more force onto the knob until it almost moved and had it 
very very gently shift very small amounts. That way it was hand-tuned to 
be within a 1 dB span from base to top in a non-repeatable way.

There is a practical limit to how much resolution you do have, but 
fraction of a degree or so should be possible.

Cheers,
Magnus