What is a Digital Vernier Caliper?
A caliper is a well-known and relatively commonplace instrument. But what is a Digital Vernier Caliper? This article explains what these instruments are, how they work and provides some excellent product examples.
What is a Digital Vernier Caliper?
A caliper is a device with a measuring scale and a “jaw” that measures an object's dimensions. A vernier caliper is a specific type of caliper with two scales, including a vernier scale. A vernier scale is an auxiliary scale that appears alongside the instrument’s principal scale that gives you the option of a higher resolution. You’ll find vernier scale markings between the graduation markings on the main scale. Some vernier scales allow for a measurement resolution as precise as 0.01mm.
Digital vernier calipers take linear measurements similarly to analogue-style vernier calipers (discussed above). The only difference is an addition of an LCD screen that displays measurements automatically – no user interpretation is required.
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Scientists Note: A common argument arises about the correctness of the term “digital vernier caliper”. On digital calipers, users no longer need to interpret the vernier scale manually. So should digital calipers be still be called vernier? The answer is - not really. In practice, the term “vernier caliper” is so familiar that the name remains in common use. Here is why the argument arises: Digital calipers read to the same resolution as their analogue vernier counterparts. However, as users do not interpret the vernier scale manually, it isn’t accurate to refer to them as vernier scales. Technically, it is more appropriate to refer to them as “vernier-type” or “vernier-style” calipers. |
See figure 1 (below) for an example of a digital vernier-type caliper.
Figure 1 Example of a digital vernier style caliper (Product Code: LCD-V-1)
The labelled parts are:
- Small Jaws: The small jaws can measure an object’s internal diameter - for example, a pipe or hollow object
- Imperial Scale: A scale marked in inches and fractions
- Depth Rod: The depth rod measures objects’ depths (like a cup) or a hole
- Metric Scale: A scale marked in millimetres
- LCD: Measured readings appear on the LCD screen; and
- Large Jaws: The large jaws measure the width or diameter of an object.
Who Uses Digital Vernier Calipers
Due to the tremendous range of digital vernier caliper applications, you will find an equally impressive variety of products available. The variety of devices available extends from basic budget-friendly calipers to professional, high precision devices.
Common applications include:
- Home and general use
- Mechanic and machine shops
- Education
- Engineering; and
- Research, laboratory and medical applications.
The Very Best Digital Vernier Calipers
Instrument Choice Scientists have selected four outstanding digital vernier style calipers to illustrate available models.
1. Budget 150mm Digital Vernier Calipers
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2. LCD-V-1 - LCD Vernier Type Digital Calipers
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3. Starrett Electronic Digital Caliper 12in 300mm
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4. Starrett IP67 Electronic Digital Caliper 300mm
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Conclusion
Digital Vernier-type calipers enable high-resolution measurements for the width or diameter of objects. Final measurements display on easy-to-read LCD screens - so there’s no room for interpretation.
Want more information on any of the products mentioned above? Need a hand finding the best digital vernier type caliper for your needs? Speak with an Instrument Choice Scientist! We’re here to help!
Call 1300 737 871 or email [email protected].
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