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Limitations of the method

Since the measuring cable may sag or be deflected by wind or gravity, the overall precision of a string potentiometer measurement is limited. The cable mechanism limits the speed at which the measured object can move. Changing temperatures affect both the length of the cable and the resistance value of the potentiometer. Where multiple objects, such as articles on an assembly line, or objects that are hot or coated with wet paint are to be measured, a non-contacting method is required.