Panel Meters

Panel meters are instruments that display either analog or digital signals. They are used for taking measurements and monitoring industrial control machinery. Panel meters are prevalent in industrial settings and provide information across a range of applications.

At RS, we stock hundreds of panel meters that are ready to be shipped the same day. We offer digital and analog options, as well as accessories and replacement displays, all designed by leading manufacturers including Carlo Gavazzi, Dwyer Instruments, Lascar Electronics, and RS Pro by RS.

Whether you are looking for information on the applications for a digital panel meter or you want to know more about what an analog panel meter can do, read on.

What are panel meters?

Analog and digital panel meters are instruments that receive information from an input signal. From there, the panel meter will measure the information and display it either in analog or digital form, depending on the meter type.

The purpose of the panel meter is to measure details such as temperature, pressure, speed, or current. How these measurements are displayed depends on whether it is an analog or digital panel meter, however both types largely perform the same functions.

Modern meters have additional capabilities that see these devices incorporating alarms and transferring the data that is captured to computers and other equipment.

Most commonly, panel meters are mounted inside instruments or equipment. As they are mounted inside the space, the panel must be cut to the right size to accommodate the panel meter. To allow for interchangeability between panel meters, most meters are designed to fit standard DIN measurements.

How do panel meters work?

Panel meters take a sample of the voltage or current and then create a visual representation of the value that is measured. To read a voltage measurement, this is displayed across the line.

Current measurements are taken in series and the load sometimes utilizes shunts or current transformers when the current exceeds 10 amps. When used in applications such as these, they are known as motor circuit protectors (MCPs).

Although their function is effectively the same, there are differences between how an analog and digital panel meter operate.

• Analog panel meters

  Analog meters have an interface that is specific to the application. This means that they can display any unit of measurement with most input signals that represent the application’s process. These input signals are voltage or current in either AC or DC.

  An analog panel meter will display a reading in one of two ways. There will either be a taut band with a needle suspended between two strips of metal, or a pivot and jewel. The first is suited to settings where there are high shocks, while the second analog industrial control panel works well in environments where there are higher vibrations.

• Digital panel meters

  Digital meters work in a similar way to their analog counterpart, however they tend to also digitally scale the display in a way that is relative to the input signal. The signal comes from a sensor and the input is converted via the panel meter to digital form and displayed o the screen.

  While it is common to confuse the enhanced legibility that a digital panel meter offers with greater accuracy, analog meters can be just as accurate. But it is true that an LED digital panel meter can be easier to read, especially if used in areas of low light. In addition, digital meters may display numbers or a combination of numbers and letters – the latter being useful for reading complicated signals.

  Analog meters may be preferable in instances where the input signal changes. Fluctuations are easier to monitor when following the needle, whereas a digital meter may take some time to catch up and make it difficult to follow the alternating measurements.

What are panel meters used for?

There are different uses for panel meters. They are used in industrial, office, and laboratory settings. Here are some of their most common applications:

• Motor current running

  Fans or pumps used in an industrial setting that are run by a motor will need to be monitored. A panel meter is used in this instance to monitor the motor current. Where there are deviations from the typical measurements, there may be a need to check the fan or pump for blockages or issues.

• Automobiles

  Panel meters are used in vehicles. Where fuel, speed, and revolutions per minute are displayed on the dashboard, the data captured travels through its own panel meter and will be displayed in either digital or analog format.

• Airplanes

  Like motor vehicles, the altitude and speed of an airplane are displayed via a panel meter.

• Oven temperature monitoring

  Industrial ovens are used for a variety of applications, for example curing rubber items. To precisely measure the temperatures, a digital panel meter can be connected to the temperature sensor and readings will be displayed on the screen.

• Pressure monitoring

  In industries where pressure monitoring is required, a pressure sensor can be used to send a current signal to a digital panel meter. If the meter is connected to an alarm, any unusual fluctuations can be easily identified when dangerous levels are reached as the alarm will be triggered.

Why choose RS for panel meters?

At RS, we stock a full range of panel meters and accessories. From analog meters to digital options, there is a full selection available. You can use the search function to narrow your search by key features such as manufacturer and category.

We are a leading authorized distributor of panel meters in North America. We stock different meters that are designed to suit a full suite of applications, and each product meets the highest industry standards.

If you have any questions, contact us today and out team will be happy to help. You can also find advice and tips in our expert content hub.