Generic POT-W10L333 Force Sensitive Resistor (20g-200g) - 33mm Long, 10mm Sensing Area

The POT-W10L333 is a piezoresistive force-sensitive resistor (FSR). It contains a polymer film whose electrical resistance decreases non-linearly as mechanical force is applied to its 10mm x 10mm active area. This change in resistance is measured by connecting it in a simple voltage divider circuit, with the output voltage fed to a microcontroller's analog-to-digital converter (ADC) pin.

Connect one sensor pin to the Arduino's 5V (or 3.3V) supply. Connect the other pin to an analog input (e.g., A0) and also to ground through a fixed-value resistor (a 10kΩ resistor is a common choice) to form a voltage divider. The Arduino reads the voltage at the junction between the sensor and the fixed resistor via its ADC. As force increases, the sensor's resistance drops, causing this voltage to rise.

No, this FSR is best suited for detecting the presence of force, measuring relative changes in pressure, or acting as a threshold switch. Its response is non-linear and can vary between units. For precise, calibrated force measurement, a load cell or strain gauge with a dedicated instrumentation amplifier is recommended.

While the specified sensing range is 20g to 200g, the sensor can typically withstand higher instantaneous forces. However, consistently applying force significantly beyond the 200g upper range may degrade the polymer film over time, affecting sensitivity and longevity. For applications involving higher forces, select an FSR with a correspondingly higher force range rating.