Lecture 8

Classification of Instruments

The whole field of instruments can be divided into four groups (figure 1).
Depending on the type of elements an instrument can be classified as:
(a) Mechanical
(b) Optical
(c) Electrical
(d) Electronic

(e) Hydraulic
(f) Pneumatic

Examples
Mechanical

Optical

Micrometer and dial gauge are mechanical

instruments (with only mechanical elements and
signals)
Microscope, surveying instruments, and telescope

Continued
Electrical
Electronic

Voltmeter and ammeter

Calculators, computers, and fax machines

Also there are load cells working with hydraulic and pneumatic principles.

Depending upon the type of the display of the output signal, instruments are
called digital, analog or hybrid instruments.

Digital display has become common, but its disadvantage is that the
numbers must be read each time. When the interest is just to note whether
the output signal is lower or higher than a given value, then analog display
is better suited for the purpose. The main advantage of digital display is that
accuracy of the reading can be obtained to any desired decimal place.

Continued

In hybrid displays, as in some wrist watches, there are both analog and
digital displays, thus combining the advantages of both.

Depending upon the position of the pointer, the instruments are classified as
null type or deflection type instruments.

In null type instruments the pointer is brought to zero reading while making
measurements. For example, in a simple balance the quantity of commodity
is adjusted against a standard weight until the needle is vertical. Similarly, in
a potentiometer type of voltage measurement, the resistance is adjusted
until the galvanometer reads zero.

In deflection type instruments, the pointer moves from zero when

measurement is made, and the amount of movement of the pointer is the
output signal. Conventional voltmeters, ammeters, and spring balance
belong to deflection type instruments.

Continued

The last classification of instruments is based upon the working principle of

the instrument.

When the signal flows straight from the transducer to the output unit, then
the instrument is said to work in open loop condition.

If in the instrument, the signal is brought back at some stage for comparison
purposes, then the instrument is said to work in closed loop condition.

Figure 1 Classification of Instruments.

Reference/Further Reading

R. Raman, Principles of Mechanical Measurements, Oxford and IBH

Publishing Company, New Delhi, 1997.