Potentiometer feedback tells you where the actuator is by changing voltage as the actuator moves. That voltage only helps if you know the stroke, the feedback voltage range, and the controller input. Read it wrong and the actuator position will look precise while the math lies to you.
What is potentiometer feedback?
Potentiometer feedback uses a variable resistor connected to the actuator motion. As the actuator extends or retracts, the feedback voltage changes.
What is the simple explanation?
Think of it like a fuel gauge for actuator position. Low voltage means one end of travel. Higher voltage means farther along the stroke.
Use the formula below to estimate position.
Position = ((feedback voltage - minimum voltage) ÷ (maximum voltage - minimum voltage)) × stroke
What should the calculator inputs be?
Use this as a first-pass sizing tool. Then confirm the final choice against the actual FIRGELLI product page, the wiring diagram, and your real mounting geometry.
How do you use this calculator?
- Enter the real project values, not guesses from a different mechanism.
- Use measured current, load, stroke, voltage, or signal values where you can.
- Add margin for real brackets, wiring, friction, and installation conditions.
- Click Calculate to see your result.
What should you check before wiring feedback?
Check the actuator feedback type first. Potentiometer, Hall effect, and optical feedback do not behave the same way. A controller that expects pulses will not read an analog potentiometer like a voltage divider.
Run signal wires away from high-current motor wiring where you can. Noise in the feedback line makes the controller chase false position readings.
What is a simple example?
A 12-inch actuator reads 0.5V retracted and 4.5V extended. At 2.5V, the ratio is (2.5 - 0.5) ÷ (4.5 - 0.5) = 0.5.
Position = 0.5 × 12 = 6 inches extended.
Recommended FIRGELLI setup
Which FIRGELLI products fit this job?
Choose feedback hardware from the signal your controller can actually read.
Feedback Rod Linear Actuator
Use this when the project needs actuator position feedback built into the actuator body.
View Feedback Rod Actuators
Linear Potentiometer
Use this when you need an external linear position reference for a mechanism or test setup.
View Linear Potentiometers
FCB-2 Actuator Controller
Use the FCB-2 when you need controller features around feedback-based motion, presets, or synchronized actuator control.
View the FCB-2For actuator basics, start with the linear actuators guide.
