Voltmeter

Voltmeter is a device used to measure the potential or voltage in an electrical circuit. It is used in electrical circuits. Digital and analog models are available. There are some differences between the working principle, display, efficiency and durability of these models.

Voltmeter is used in many fields. These include repair and maintenance services where voltage and potential difference need to be measured, almost every area of the automotive industry, energy production and distribution works. Basically, these devices are frequently used to measure the voltage or potential difference of any location.

What Does a Voltmeter Measure?

The answer to the question of what a voltmeter measures is important for studies in this field. A voltmeter is a device used to measure the electric potential difference in volts. This device measures the electrical potential difference, or simply the voltage, between two points in a circuit. The measurement is related to the energy gained by electrons as they move from one point to another. It measures in units of “volts” (V). To do this, the voltmeter is connected in parallel between the two points being measured. This connection is necessary for the instrument not to interfere with the circuit and to make an accurate measurement.

What is a voltmeter and what does it do? Accurate voltage measurement is critical for many electrical and electronic applications. Accurate voltage measurements help determine whether circuits are functioning correctly, whether components are damaged and whether power supplies are suitable. Some of the uses of these devices are as follows;

Electrical and electronic laboratories,
Industrial plants,
Educational institutions,
Automotive sector,
Energy production and distribution centers,
In homes, DIY projects and basic electrical work.

Voltmeter Working Principle

These devices are manufactured in two main types with various differences in terms of use. Basically, there are two main operating principles, electromagnetic and electrostatic.

Analog Voltmeter

Shows the measured value through a mechanical pointer.

Digital Voltmeter

Shows the measured value directly on a digital display.

Electromagnetic Principle

The current generated by the measured voltage drives a coil moving in a magnetic field.

The movement of the coil is indicated by a pointer.

The position of the needle is directly proportional to the measured voltage.

Electrostatic Principle

A force is generated between two plates due to the voltage being measured.

These plates usually consist of two metal plates, one fixed and one moving.

The measured voltage causes the plate to move.

How to Connect a Voltmeter to a Circuit?

If the voltmeters are connected correctly, it is possible to measure the voltage correctly. The following steps are followed for this process;

At this stage, one end of the voltmeter will be connected to the positive (+) pole and the other end to the negative (-) pole.

After the connection is made, the circuit must be closed. Otherwise the voltmeter cannot measure.

Analog devices will give incorrect results if the correct measurement range is not selected. Manual selection can also be made when using a digital voltmeter.

In analog voltmeters, the voltage measurement result is indicated by the movement of the needle, while in digital voltmeters, the voltage measurement result is indicated by a numerical value.

Before using these devices, the technical specifications and the maximum measurement limit must be determined. Otherwise, accurate measurement is not possible. In addition, ignoring these technical specifications may cause damage to the voltmeter.

Voltmeter Ampermeter

What do ammeter and voltmeter measure? These are devices designed to measure both voltage (voltage) and amperage (current). They are also known as multimeters or volt-ammeters. When measuring voltage, the device measures the potential difference between two points. The volt-ammeter is connected in parallel to the circuit when measuring voltage. During current measurement (ampere measurement), it is used to measure the current flowing through the circuit. The volt-ammeter is connected in series with the circuit when measuring current.

Selectable scale: Many volt-ammeters have selectable scales for different voltage and current ranges.

Digital and analog display options: Analog volt-ammeters have a display panel with a pointer, while digital volt-ammeters display results with an LCD or LED display.

Advanced features: Professional volt-ammeters have additional features such as automatic scale selection, voltage drop detection and temperature measurement.

Analog and digital voltmeters and ammeters are a versatile measurement tool in the electrical and electronics field. When used correctly, it provides valuable information about circuits. However, it is essential to understand the features and limitations of the instrument and to be careful.

Voltmeter Prices

Voltmeter price determination varies depending on many factors. These devices can be sold at different prices depending on their usage area and technical specifications. However, the company, brand, etc. from which the device is purchased can also cause price differences.

Digital models can be more expensive than analog or digital voltmeters. Those with basic measurement features will be more affordable than those with more features. These features can be scale selection, voltage peak measurement, data logging, etc.

Well-known devices that have been on the market for a long time may be more expensive than newer brands. This is not a determining factor for the quality of the product, but in the process of establishing trust, new brands may prefer to keep prices more affordable. Other factors affecting these prices can be listed as follows;

Measurement range

Sensitivity level

Power supply

Battery life

Warranty period