What is the wiring method for XB4BD912R* and XB5AD912R* potentiometers?
1. What you need to know
The Harmony XB4BD912R* (metal) and XB5AD912R* (plastic) potentiometers have three terminals: A and C are the two ends of the resistive track, B is the wiper. Wire all three for a voltage divider, typically to supply a speed reference to a variable speed drive. Wire the wiper plus one end only for a variable resistor. The terminals are marked on the potentiometer body.
2. Understanding the three terminals
Both ranges share the same electrical layout — only the bezel material differs. The wiring depends on the function you need, not on the range.
- Terminals A and C carry the full resistance value; terminal B is the wiper, whose resistance varies with knob position.
- A potentiometer has no polarity: swapping terminals A and C reverses the direction of adjustment but causes no damage.
- Rating is 1 W, linear law, with values from 1 kΩ to 470 kΩ.
3. Voltage divider and variable resistor
| Criterion | Voltage divider | Variable resistor (rheostat) |
|---|---|---|
| Wiring example | ||
| Output delivered | A voltage proportional to knob position | A resistance varying with knob position |
| Typical application | Speed reference on VFD analog input | Resistive setpoint, lamp dimming |
| Typical value | 10 kΩ for a 0…10 V drive input | Matched to circuit impedance |
| Supply needed | Yes, across terminals A and C | No |
4. Schneider Electric references
| Function | Reference | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Complete potentiometer, metal | XB4BD912R10K | Harmony XB4, Ø22, 10 kΩ, 1 W, linear — most common value for drive control |
| Complete potentiometer, metal | XB4BD912R1K | Harmony XB4, Ø22, 1 kΩ, 1 W, linear |
| Complete potentiometer, plastic | XB5AD912R10K | Harmony XB5, Ø22, 10 kΩ, 1 W, linear |
| Complete potentiometer, plastic | XB5AD912R1K | Harmony XB5, Ø22, 1 kΩ, 1 W, linear |
Launch Product Selector on se.com to configure a Harmony potentiometer according to your requirements or contact Schneider Electric Technical Support to check a configuration against your control scheme.