Electrical power meters are important to a variety of industries, but also for personal use. You might use electronic powermeter for the simple task of measuring the quality of Energy Star appliances in the home. Or, the application may be as complicated as measuring different watts and voltages of power coming from each point in a factory.

Electrical power meters let you know how much power your equipment is using, and they give you the data necessary to make decisions about your power needs. Electronic power meter made for almost any specific use are easy to obtain from the right supplier. Before you choose a model for your company, consider the following:

1. The different types of power supplies you need to measure.

2. How you intend to use data from the electronic powermeter.

3. Whether the power meter will help you save energy costs.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose digital electronic power meters for a clear readout

Digital electronic power meters are perfect for any situation. Hard to read gauges and speedometer-like numbers are a thing of the past. Although these old fashioned models are still available, your company will benefit from using power meters with digital readouts so there's no mistaking the results.

I recommend: Brand Electronics and Chroma System Solutions are two companies that offer a variety of electronic powermeter options with digital readouts.

Find electronic powermeter providers that offer specialized models

Electronic power meters measure a variety of power sources, so it is essential that you choose the right power meter for your industry. There are many specialized models of power meters available, including those that can measure the energy output of Energy Star products, or those that are more portable for outdoor uses.

I recommend: Electronic Product Design offers a range of electric power meters that measure Energy Star computers and appliances, as well as other specialized power sources. Specialized Products offers hand-held power meter models for better mobility.

Choose electric power meters that are programmable

Simple electronic power meters can give you the readout you desire. But when you need to control what you are measuring and when, choose a power meter that is programmable. Programs on power meters include features like timers, as well as switches that can measure more than one type of power at the same time.

I recommend: Panasonic has an electronic powermeter list of products that are fully programmable to customize your experience. Hotek Technologies also offers a wide selection of electronic power meters that can be set to different programs in order to give you a range of information on power usage.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Powermeters are widely available; but before choosing a supplier, gather electronic powermeter information about a variety of products. Get an idea of the types of features you need from a powermeter before you begin discussing options.