Voltmeters and Ammeters

Accurate and sensitive meters enable the best use and understanding of a system.

Analogue (moving needle type) meters are cheapest and for some applications with fluctuating current, eg. wind turbine output, preferred.

Digital voltmeters allow much greater resolution and so provide more information about state of charge etc..

Voltmeters are connected between positive and negative. If connected directly to a battery a small (eg. 100mA) fuse should be fitted in the wire to positive.

Ammeters are usually connected in a break in the positive wire of the circuit being measured.

For currents above 25A ammeters making use of an external shunt are used. The shunt is usually placed in the negative wire to the load or charge source being measured, and the meter mounted remotely using smaller signal wires.

Note - To accurately measure modified sine wave inverter AC outputs, meters which record true RMS values are required. POA

To measure energy generated or consumed kilowatt hour (kWh) meters are needed. OFGEM approved kWh meters are available to enable credits to be obtained for renewable generation - See Grid Connect Accessories.

Dimensions: 72 x 72mm; Accuracy +/- 1.5%

Dimensions: 100 x 80 x 48mm; Accuracy +/- 4%

Bench meters ideally suited for educational use. Connection is via captive 4mm screw terminals.

Model Number Description EMCA-5 0-5 A educational ammeter EMCA-15 0-15 V educational voltmeter

Dimensions: 34 x 21 mm;

LCD meter uses 3mA, Accuracy +/- 0.01V;

LED meter uses 13mA, Accuracy +/- 0.1V.

Self powered.

Model Number Description DVM-1 LCD panel mounting digital voltmeter 6.5 to 18 VDC (for 12V systems) DVM-2 LCD Panel mounting digital voltmeter 8 to 60  VDC (for 12, 24 or 48V systems)

Clips onto cables (without a break) and shows approximate current and direction of flow. Useful in checking operation of inverters and chargers.

Essential for all work on electrical systems. Inexpensive hand held meter with sensing probes. Measures voltage (DC or AC); DC current (up to 10A); resistance (useful for checking wiring continuity)

Model Number Description MM-1 Digital Multimeter

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