Symbols · R VAR

Variable resistor

A variable resistor provides a documented adjustable resistance in a circuit path.

SLD / Schematic · R VARVariable resistor: original educational illustration
Original educational illustrationNot to scale · See source and graphic notes

What it represents

A variable resistor provides a documented adjustable resistance in a circuit path. Its range, terminal usage and adjustment method must be stated when they affect the control function.

How to read it

  • Check whether the device is used as a two-terminal resistance or a three-terminal divider.
  • The preview is an original explanation of this function. Match the actual drawing convention to its legend and the selected equipment documentation.

Information to show or reference

  • State resistance range
  • Show connected terminals
  • Reference adjustment method

A distinction that matters

A variable resistor is a broader function than a three-terminal potentiometer connection.

Sources you can follow

These public references support the explanation and provide further detail. Their graphics and downloadable files remain with their publishers.

Resistors and heater-element symbols

Public documentation of this equipment function or named vendor variant; the illustration is independently authored and is not the source graphic.

Autodesk · Public reference checked 13 October 2026 · Link only

About this graphic

This illustration was authored independently by Elora Grid to explain the concept. It is not reproduced from a customer drawing, an official standard graphic or a manufacturer CAD file. Its correspondence to an exact IEC or IEEE symbol identifier has not been certified.

SVG and DXF downloads contain this original artwork. DXF uses unscaled drawing units; a GA envelope supplies no product dimensions, clearances or fabrication information. Original artwork is available under CC BY 4.0. Third-party references retain their own terms.

Entry JSON · Entry Markdown · Last editorial update: 13 October 2026

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