subject: What Are Analog Meters Used For? [print this page] Analog meters are the simplest of the power testing instruments; they can be used for crack detection, corrosion inspection or conductivity testing. These instruments compare the balancing load to that measured on the test specimen. This electronic instrument uses a continuous variable signal, unlike digital electronics, which use two different levels. Analogue describes that relationship between a signal and a voltage or current that represents the signal. These meters are common in today's workplace however, they are not as accurate as a digital instruments. This is due to the meter measuring accuracy within three percent, while digital meters have an accuracy of 0.5 percent. Accuracy figures need to be used with care, as the accuracy of analog instruments normally refers to a full-scale deflection. While digital meters are quickly overtaking, there are still some elements that are better measured through an analog meter. Machines that gauge temperature, including those that are filled with gas, are best measured through an analog meter. The analog panel meter can be used to measure the speed of a moving object. When used in combination with a universal serial port (USP) an analog meter can be used to measure the voltage that is passing through the USP into the computer.
Using these meters is simple.
1. First select a resister from the assortment listed.
2. Select the appropriate range. For example if the resistor's value is 560 ohms. Then select the range of R x 1,000 ohms.
3. Touch the points together and zero the meter by turning the resistance zero adjustment knob until it reaches zero, which will be at the furthest point on the right. If the needle will not go all the way to zero, the user may need to replace the batteries.
4. Touch the probe leads to the resistor so the black probe lead is on one side and the red is on the other. Ensure that the probes are not touching both surfaces of the body, as it will lead to interference.
5. Read the value. This is most easily done if the resistor reads on the right side of the scale.
6. Interpret the reading by multiplying it by the resistance scale switch setting. If the user sees a meter reading of 18 and the R factor is set to 100, the actual measurement is 1,800 ohms.
Tips to remember
1. Read the instrument directly facing it. If it is read from an angle, the user may get an incorrect reading.
2. If the scale on the left is to hard to read, adjust it to a larger resistance scale.
3. If the scales change at any time, the user will have to zero it again.
