Electronic DC Voltmeter: Definition, Types and Applications

Electrical4u
03/27/2024

What Is An Electronic Dc Voltmeter

An electronic DC voltmeter  is a device that measures the direct current (DC) voltage across any two points of an electric circuit . It is an essential tool for testing, troubleshooting, and designing electronic circuits and devices. Unlike mechanical voltmeters, electronic voltmeters use semiconductor components such as diodes , transistors, and amplifiers to increase their sensitivity and accuracy.

What is a DC Voltage?

A DC voltage is a constant voltage that does not change its polarity or magnitude over time. It is produced by sources such as batteries, solar cells, and DC generators. A DC voltage can be positive or negative depending on the direction of the current flow. A DC voltage can also be converted to an alternating current (AC) voltage by using devices such as inverters and transformers.

How does an Electronic DC Voltmeter Work?

An electronic DC voltmeter works by converting the DC voltage to be measured into a proportional current that can be displayed by a meter movement. The meter movement can be either a permanent magnet moving coil (PMMC) galvanometer or a digital display. The conversion of voltage to current is done by using various electronic components such as resistors, capacitors, diodes, transistors, and amplifiers.

The main components of an electronic DC voltmeter are:

  • Voltage divider: This is a series of resistors that divides the input voltage into smaller voltage that can be applied to the meter movement. The value of the resistors determines the range and sensitivity of the voltmeter. The voltage divider also provides isolation and protection for the meter movement from high voltages.

voltage divider circuit


diode


transistor circuit


amplifier Circuit


Types of Electronic DC Voltmeters

There are different types of electronic DC voltmeters based on their design and functionality. Some of the common types are:

  • Average reading diode vacuum tube voltmeter: This type of voltmeter uses a vacuum tube diode to rectify the AC voltage into a pulsating DC voltage. The average value of this voltage is measured by a PMMC galvanometer. This type of voltmeter has a simple construction, high input resistance, and low power consumption. However, it has low bandwidth, non-linear operation, and poor accuracy when measuring low voltages.

average reading diode vacuum tube voltmeter


difference amplifier


Applications of Electronic DC Voltmeters

Electronic DC voltmeters are widely used in various fields of science, engineering, and technology for measuring DC voltages. Some of the applications are:

  • Testing and troubleshooting electronic circuits and devices

  • Measuring battery voltages and charging levels

  • Measuring solar panel voltages and power outputs

  • Measuring sensor outputs and signal levels

  • Measuring electrostatic potentials and fields

  • Measuring bioelectric potentials and signals

Conclusion

An electronic DC voltmeter is a device that measures the direct current (DC) voltage across any two points of an electric circuit. It uses semiconductor components such as diodes, transistors, and amplifiers to increase its sensitivity and accuracy. There are different types of electronic DC voltmeters based on their design and functionality, such as average reading diode vacuum tube voltmeter, peak reading diode vacuum tube voltmeter, difference amplifier type electronic voltmeter, and digital multimeter. Electronic DC voltmeters have various applications in testing, troubleshooting, and designing electronic circuits and devices. They can measure DC voltages from microvolts to kilovolts with high precision and speed. They are essential tools for electrical and electronic engineers, technicians, and hobbyists.

Statement: Respect the original, good articles worth sharing, if there is infringement please contact delete.

Electrical4u

Electrical4U is dedicated to the teaching and sharing of all things related to electrical and electronics engineering.

Classification of Electric Power Distribution Network Systems
Classification of Electric Power Distribution Network Systems
The typical electric power system network is categorized into three main components: generation, transmission, and distribution. Electric power is produced in power plants, which are often located far from load centers. As a result, transmission lines are employed to deliver power over long distances.To minimize transmission losses, high-voltage power is used in transmission lines, and the voltage is reduced at the load center. The distribution system then delivers this power to end-users.Types
Edwiin
06/05/2025
Why is the Ground Wire Always Positioned Above the Overhead Power Lines?
Why is the Ground Wire Always Positioned Above the Overhead Power Lines?
Ground Wire in Overhead Transmission LinesThe ground wire (also called earth wire or OPGW) installed above phase lines in overhead transmission lines acts as a key protective and safety component. It provides lightning protection, ground fault defense, and helps prevent electrical system disruptions.In overhead transmission lines, positioning the ground wire above phase lines serves specific safety and performance purposes. Referred to as a "shield wire" or "static wire," this configuration has
Edwiin
06/04/2025
What is the Power Angle in a Power Transmission Line?
What is the Power Angle in a Power Transmission Line?
The power angle, denoted by δ, is the phase angle difference between two voltage levels in a power transmission line. Specifically, it represents the angular discrepancy between the sending-end voltage phasor and the receiving-end voltage (or between voltages at two bus points). In simpler terms, it quantifies the phase shift between voltage and current waveforms in the transmission line.Also referred to as the torque angle or load angle, this parameter is critical for two key reasons: it
Edwiin
06/04/2025
Permanent Magnet Moving Coil or PMMC Instrument
Permanent Magnet Moving Coil or PMMC Instrument
DefinitionInstruments that utilize a permanent magnet to generate a stationary magnetic field within which a coil moves are known as Permanent Magnet Moving Coil (PMMC) instruments. They operate on the principle that torque is exerted on a moving coil situated in the magnetic field of a permanent magnet. PMMC instruments provide accurate results for direct current (DC) measurements.Construction of PMMC InstrumentThe moving coil and the permanent magnet are the key components of a PMMC instrument
Edwiin
05/30/2025
Inquiry
Download
Experts Electrical is dedicated to serving the personnel in the global power industry.
Join Experts Electrical, not only can you discover power equipment and power knowledge, but also canhnd like - minded friends!