What’s The Difference between dial indicator and digital indicator, With the continuous development of technology, changes were made on different measuring devices including the Dial Indicator, also known as the ‘Clock Face.’ It didn’t take long for digital displays (usually LCDs) to come into the picture. The clockwork was replaced by linear encoders- thus, the birth of the Digital Indicator.

This Is The Different Between Dial Indicator And Digital Indicator

Dial Indicators Known as one of the first measuring tools used in precision engine building, Dial Indicators are commonly used to get the measurement of anything that involves the distance between two surfaces or small amounts of component travel. This includes crankshaft thrust and straightness, deck clearances, lifter travel and many more.

When using the Dial Indicator, fixed mounting and complete stability is required to get accurate results. Any movement made by the dial indicator while the measurement is being taken could result in the measurement being totally compromised. This explains why Dial Indicators are mostly used with an adjustable magnetic base that can be clamped securely to a close by surface. The Dial Indicator can read and travel in both directions depending on how the operator positions them.

It is highly advisable to zero the indicator prior to every measurement by rotating the outer dial to position the zero mark directly opposite to the needle- regardless of where it is pointing. Once it is zeroed, the operator can take the measurement and the dial indicator will show either positive or negative movement. The operator then interprets the pointer’s position to read the measurement. He then records the measurement generally by hand, before typing it into a computer. 

It has been proven by time that Dial Indicators indeed take precision measurements, however, some builders just toss them in the tool box with all the other tools but builders who have been in the industry for a long time would know how important they are, they might even own more than one dial indicator. It is also important  that dial indicators be kept clean and properly stored in their own cabinets or a separate tool box with other precision devices.

Digital Indicators It is no secret that with the invention of the Digital Indicator, the work of an operator became so much easier. The operator simply has to position the workpiece and press a button-  no need to even read the measurement. Digital Indicators can record measurements, usually as an actual value, such as 20.00 mm, and transmit the data directly to a computer or printer or SPC programs with no operator errors in recording or reading. With an SPC program installed, the operator receives a record of the measurement results in a database table or spreadsheet format and interprets them through performing statistical analysis. This feature of the Digital Indicator eliminates manual recording of endless columns of numbers, reduces errors made by the operator, and improves work productivity with less time spent on recording data and copying tasks.  A Digital Indicator also provides switching between units with an easy press of a button-  no need to type into a calculator or search into a browser just to get the separate unit conversion.

Both Dial Indicator and Digital Indicators are precise measuring devices, although the Digital Indicator is proven to be more reliable when it comes to the shop floor environment. Digital Indicators only have a single moving part which demands less frequent cleaning compared to other mechanical devices. With Digital Indicators now offering IP Ratings, you can never worry about using them in wet, dusty or other harsh environments making them such a great investment for your business. If you want to know more about Digital Indicators and the weighing industry in general, the dedicated engineers from Gedge Systems will be pleased to help you out.

GEDGE SYSTEMS

27 Rhur Street,

Dandenong South VIC 3175 

Australian Contact (03) 9791 8944

International Contact +61 3 9791 8944