Are dual output sliding pots compatible?

[rustic nacelle]

I'm relatively new to arduinos, and I've been looking around at various sliding potentiometers and noticed that some were labelled as dual output. What exactly does this mean and do I need to use both outputs, or should I just use 1.

I assume the dual output is something like output b is the inverse of output a. e.g. if it gives a value of 0-1, when a=0.2, b=0.8

Here's an example that I saw: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32666364989.html?

[heavy swift]

Dual output means there is 2 set of pins which makes the slider suitable for some stereo applications. This doesn't apply to deej though, and you only need 1 of the sets of pins.

But to answer your question - yes, you can totally use those and most people do

[rustic nacelle]

Thanks for the response. Random question, I saw this: https://www.auselectronicsdirect.com.au/slide-potentiometer-module-for-arduino-projects, but it didn't list whether it was linear or logarithmic. It looks identical to other linear ones I've seen, but I'm not sure. Are you able to tell?

[heavy swift]

It's pretty weird for them to not include an exact part number in the style of other similar pots. BTW, this looks fairly overpriced - I'm pretty sure you'd be able to get them for cheaper than that even on local websites

But it's likely linear, and even if not it'll still feel fine, just not perfect

[rustic nacelle]

Thanks for the help. How reliable would you say ali express is for this kind of project. I can see some much more reasonably priced stuff there but I've always preferred local providers due to its reputation

[wind cobalt]

Theyre great (minus the month long shipping time)

[heavy swift]

You might also want to look if there are electronics/hobbyist stores in your area, but those aren't super common

[rustic nacelle]

I used to work at one that sold most of the components I needed, but they discontinued the sliders a couple years ago

[gleaming topaz]

you can probably find sliders in big music stores/audio repair shops if you can't find them in electronic stores

tho they would probably be logarithmic, if you can find linear ones that would be better

[chilly flicker]

Depends on the type. Some are "inverted", so if one poti is at zero, the other is at 100%. So comparing both positions, its kind of "failsafe" as long as you do the safe thing if these mismatch (Gas pedal for a car as an example). So there are at least two types of dual sliders.