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There are advantages to having a voltmeter with an analog display as opposed to a digital display. You can get a quicker reading with an analog display and you can use them to track unstable voltage fluctuations, which is virtually impossible with a digital display. Consider the different types of voltmeters before you shop for one:
1. Use an analog AC voltmeter to test high-powered AC currents. This is the standard type of current that is wired into a building for use by its occupants.
2. Keep a portable analog DC volt meter on hand for measuring DC voltage. Batteries use DC voltage; this type of current is low-power.
3. Buy a voltmeter that offers the best of both worlds: A versatile meter that can measure AC as well as DC voltage.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Test high-voltage currents with an analog AC voltmeter
AC voltmeters are used to measure the voltage of high-power currents. High-power currents come from power companies and are turned into usable household energy currents by transformers, located on power poles on the street.
I recommend: Purchase a refurbished voltmeter from Valuetronics International. The voltmeter from JMSOnline.net reads from zero to 150 volts.
Check the voltage of battery-powered items with an analog DC voltmeter
DC voltmeters measure the voltage of a current coming from a battery. These batteries offer low-power currents and start to lose their 'juice' over time. A good example is a car battery; it only offers one strength of power, depending on the voltage of the battery.
I recommend: Take a look at the selection of portable DC voltmeters at Fotronic. Check out the analog voltmeter manufactured by Martel Electronics and offered by Digi-Key.
Try out analog voltmeters that can measure both AC and DC currents
You may have a need to frequently check the voltage of both AC and DC currents. Instead of buying two separate meters, just buy one that can handle both.
I recommend: The HP voltmeter from Alliance Test Equipment has a detachable probe to measure AC currents. The meter at TheFind.com is very versatile and has good safety features.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- • Make sure you know how to read an analog voltmeter before using it while doing a job for customers; you may wish to test it against known voltage sources. Also, determine what safety precautions need to be taken while using one of these meters.
