What are the advantages and disadvantages

of digital calipers?

Advantages

Easy reading of measurements

The LCD read out screen makes measurements easy to read.

Whilst vernier and dial calipers require the user to combine readings from two different scales to get the complete measurement, this is not necessary with digital calipers as the LCD display presents whole readings directly.

High accuracy

Both reliability and accuracy are improved with an electronic caliper.

Some calipers can measure distances as accurately as micrometers, to 0.001mm/ 0.00004 inches.

Can be zeroed at any point

Electronic calipers can be zeroed at any point without the need for recalibration.

The zero function allows the user to automatically calculate the difference between measurements. This saves them from having to work out the difference mentally or with a calculator.

Measurements can easily be converted

The units in which distances are measured can be instantly changed by pressing the mm/ inch button.

Readings can also be converted after they have been taken. This improves the reliability of the measurements taken, as converting measurements mentally can sometimes lead to inaccuracies.

Quadri feature

Digital calipers can take up to four different types of measurement: outside measurements, inside measurements, depth measurements and step measurements.

Long battery life

Although some digital calipers require batteries, the battery life is very long.

Some power-conserving calipers can operate for 3-5 years (20,000 hours) continuously before the battery needs to be replaced.

Shock-proof

The digital caliper is more shock proof than other types of caliper as it does not have any moving parts (unlike the dial caliper which has a rack and pinion mechanism). This means that it is unlikely to get broken if dropped.

Disadvantages

Not water-resistant

Digital calipers can be sensitive to water or coolant. However some calipers, designed for use in extreme environments, are water-resistant.

Unreliable in very hot or cold conditions

The electronics of a digital caliper can be affected by very hot or cold conditions. This decreases the reliability of its measurements.

Batteries are required

Most digital calipers require batteries, although these need to be replaced very rarely.

There are solar digital calipers which have an internal backup battery, however these tend to be more expensive than standard battery-powered calipers.