Control Knobs

Control knobs are used for the control or adjustment of electronic or electrical devices.  Control knobs are referred to as instrument knobs, electronic knobs, or electrical knobs.  These knobs are used for fine adjustment of a variety of electronic devices including potentiometers, pushbutton switches, and rotary switches.  Control knobs are available in a variety of materials, colors, and finishes.  Some electronic knobs may be customized with printed logos or raised type.

The most important specification to consider when searching for control knobs is the bore diameter.  The bore diameter is the bore diameter or outside diameter of the insert, stud, or hole.  Mounting types available for control knobs include bushings, collets, molded threads, push-on or plain hole, stud, threaded hole or insert, and thru hole with counter bore.  A bushing is inserted in the bore to limit the size of the opening, resist abrasion, or serve as a guide.  A collet is a knob that is made up of an outer body and internal hardware; the hardware grips the shaft 360º to insure a secure fit.  This type of knob must be installed with a nut driver and requires a separate cap on top.  A molded thread mounting knob has a thread molded into the bore opening.  A push-on or plain hole knob simply has a hole as the bore.  A projecting stud can be used for mounting.  The stud is usually threaded.  A threaded hole insert knob has a bore opening that is threaded, or a threaded insert inserted into a plain hole.  In a thru hole with counter bore type mounting the mounting hole extends through the height of the knob or handle and is accompanied by a counter bore on top.  Materials of construction include metal, plastic, or rubber.

Common features for control knobs include choice of colors and/or finishes, MIL-SPEC, angle mounting, grips, illuminated, indicator or pointer, knurled, latching, locking, numerical scale, fold away handle, revolving handle, and skirted. Consult with the manufacturer for availability of colors and finishes.  MIL-SPEC knobs are manufactured to military specification.  Angle mounting allows for mounting on an angle, typically a fixed angle between 0 and 90º.  Textured grips allow for positive handling.  The grips are typically constructed from a rubber material. Illumination allows for easy visibility.  An integral indicator may include a top indicator line, a side indicator line, a dot, an arrow, or a pointer. Knurling on a knob allows for a better grip.  A knob with latching capabilities may also be capable of locking.  Latching simply holds the knob or handle in position.  A locking knob will typically require a key for unlocking.  Locking will prevent the knob or handle from being moved without a key.  A numerical scale may be provided for position indication.  Cranks are often supplied with revolving handles.  A skirted knob has an integral skirt.  The skirt may also have a numerical scale or indicator line or pointer.

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Part Numbers for Control Knobs