Design with SoftPot Membrane Potentiometer - 50mm in Cirkit DesignerThe SoftPot Membrane Potentiometer - 50mm is a versatile and flexible sensor that functions as a variable resistor or potentiometer. Unlike traditional potentiometers, which rely on a rotary or slide mechanism, the SoftPot is a touch-sensitive linear model that can detect position along its 50mm length. This component is ideal for applications requiring a thin and flexible form factor, such as audio mixers, MIDI controllers, robotic interfaces, and custom user interfaces.
This circuit is designed to read multiple analog inputs from rotary and membrane potentiometers through a 16-channel analog multiplexer, controlled by a SparkFun Pro Micro microcontroller. It also includes an 8-channel multiplexer for additional input expansion, interfaced with pushbuttons and pull-down resistors for digital control signals.
Open Project in Cirkit Designer
This circuit is a multi-functional device controlled by an ESP32E microcontroller, featuring audio input via an electret microphone amplifier, audio output through a speaker driven by an amplifier, and user interaction through pushbuttons and LEDs. It also includes a SoftPot potentiometer for analog input and a Micro SD Card Module for data storage.
Open Project in Cirkit Designer
This circuit is a regulated power supply with a 12V battery input, a 7805 voltage regulator providing a 5V output, and a potentiometer for adjustable voltage control. It includes transistors and resistors for current regulation and an LED indicator to show the operational status.
Open Project in Cirkit Designer
This circuit features a Teensy 4.1 microcontroller interfaced with a SparkFun 74HC4051 8-channel multiplexer to read multiple rotary potentiometers. The AMS1117 3.3V voltage regulator provides a stable 3.3V supply to the multiplexer and potentiometers, while electrolytic and ceramic capacitors are used for power supply filtering and stabilization.
Open Project in Cirkit Designer| Pin Number | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Voltage Supply (V+) | Connect to positive voltage |
| 2 | Wiper (Signal) | Output varies with touch point |
| 3 | Ground (V-) | Connect to system ground |
To use the SoftPot Membrane Potentiometer in a circuit, connect pin 1 to a positive voltage source (up to the maximum voltage rating), pin 2 to an analog input on a microcontroller (such as an Arduino UNO), and pin 3 to the ground. The voltage at the wiper (pin 2) will vary linearly with the position of the touch along the active length of the SoftPot.
// Define the pin connected to the SoftPot
const int softPotPin = A0;
void setup() {
// Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud rate
Serial.begin(9600);
}
void loop() {
// Read the analog value from the SoftPot
int softPotValue = analogRead(softPotPin);
// Map the analog value to a range of 0-100 (percentage of position)
int position = map(softPotValue, 0, 1023, 0, 100);
// Print the position value to the serial monitor
Serial.print("Position: ");
Serial.print(position);
Serial.println("%");
// Small delay to prevent flooding the serial monitor
delay(100);
}
map function in the code.Q: Can the SoftPot be cut to a shorter length? A: No, cutting the SoftPot will damage the conductive tracks and render it inoperative.
Q: Is the SoftPot waterproof? A: The SoftPot is not waterproof and should be protected from moisture and liquids.
Q: How can I clean the SoftPot? A: Gently wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents.
Q: Can I use the SoftPot with a microcontroller other than an Arduino UNO? A: Yes, the SoftPot can be used with any microcontroller that has an analog input. Adjust the code accordingly for the specific platform and programming environment.