Features
- ±0.2, ±2, ±20, ±200, ±300V & ±600V DC voltage ranges
- ±2, ±20, ±200 mA and ±5A DC current ranges
- Accuracy of 0.01% of reading ± 2 counts
Certificates of Compliance
Laureate™ 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters for DC voltage and DC current meters
are programmable DC digital panel meters with a DC signal conditioner board. They combine high accuracy with high read rate and a wide range of (isolated) Plug-and-Play output option boards for computer interface and control. DC meter Accuracy of 0.01% of reading ± 2 counts.- DC voltmeter operation (selected by jumpers) provides and six full-scale DC voltage ranges from ±200.00 mV with 10 mV resolution to ±600.0V with 100 mV resolution. The 200.00 mV and 2.0000V ranges provide a high input impedance of 1 Gohm to minimize the load on the voltage signal.
- DC ammeter operation (selected by jumpers) provides four full-scale DC current ranges from ±2.0000 mA with 0.1 mA resolution to ±5.000 A with 1 mA resolution. The 5.000 A range measures the IR drop across a built-in 10 milliohm current shunt.
All signal conditioner board ranges are factory-calibrated, with calibration factors for each range securely stored in an onboard EEPROM. These factors can be scaled via software to accommodate external shunts, enabling field replacement of signal conditioner boards without necessitating recalibration of the associated digital panel meters. For optimal accuracy, factory recalibration is recommended annually. All Laurel Electronics instruments undergo factory calibration using the industry-leading Fluke calibrators, which are recalibrated yearly and certified traceable to national standards, ensuring the highest level of precision and reliability.
The Optional Extended Laureate computer board enhances Laureate Digital Panel Meters by displaying rates derived from successive readings and enabling highly accurate custom curve linearization. For example, it can calculate liquid volume or flow rate in a horizontal cylindrical tank using levels from a 4-20 mA transmitter. Setup is straightforward: users input up to 180 data points into a spreadsheet or text file, and the computer calculates spline-fit segments, which are then downloaded to the meter for precise operation.
Laureate Digital Panel Meters are easily programmed with Laurel’s free Instrument Setup Software, downloadable from our website and compatible with Windows PCs, requiring a data interface board for setup.
Scaling is from -99,999 to +99,999 (five full digits) with any decimal point to display readings in engineering units, such as PSI. Three scaling methods are user selectable: scale and offset, two-point method, and system-level calibration using actual transducer signals.
High read rate of up to 50 or 60 conversions per second, the Laureate™ Digital Panel Meters use a Concurrent Slope (US Pat. 5,262,780) analog-to-digital conversion to integrate signals over a full power line cycle (50 Hz or 60 Hz). This read rate enables peak and valley capture, real-time computer interfacing, and control applications. Peak and valley values are automatically captured and can be viewed using Laurel’s free Instrument Setup Software (compatible with Windows PCs) or transmitted as serial data.
Digital signal filtering modes can be selected to ensure stable readings in electrically noisy environments.
- An unfiltered selection provides true peak and valley readings and aids in control applications.
- A batch average filter selection averages each 16 conversions.
- An adaptive moving average filter selection provides a choice of 8 time constants from 80 ms to 9.6 seconds. When a significant change in signal level occurs, the filter adapts by briefly switching to the shortest time to follow the change, then reverts back to its selected time constant. An Auto setting selects the time constant selection based on signal noise.
Two tare functions: auto-tare and manual tare. In auto-tare, an input line is grounded by an external pushbutton. This causes the current weight, which is normally the empty weight of the container to be stored in memory as an offset. In manual tare, the tare value can be entered manually via the front panel or a computer using Laurel's free Instrument Setup Software. For instance, the tare value may be the stated empty weight of a truck or rail car. Pressing the Reset button on the front panel toggles the display between gross weight (total weight on the scale) and net weight (gross weight with tare subtracted).
Peak and valley values are automatically captured. These may be displayed via a front panel pushbutton command or control signal at the rear connector, or be transmitted as serial data.
Two rear panel control Inputs (CMOS/TTL levels, logic 0 = tied to digital ground, logic 1 = open) or dry contacts that can be set to control / activate 14 meter commands.
An (isolated) 5, 10, 12, or 24 Vdc excitation output is standard to power transducers or two-wire transmitters. Ratiometric operation, which automatically compensates for changes in the applied excitation, is jumper selectable for applications, such as bridges, where the signal to be measured is proportional to the excitation level.
Modular Design for Maximum Flexibility at Minimum Cost
All boards are isolated from meter and power grounds. Optional Plug-in-Play boards for communications and control include Ethernet, WiFi, serial communication boards, dual or quad relay boards, and an analog output board. Laureates may be powered from 85-264 Vac or optionally from 12-32 Vac or 10-48 Vdc. The display is available with bright red or green 0.56" (14.2mm) high LED digits. The 1/8 DIN case meets NEMA 4X (IP65) specifications from the front when panel mounted. Any setup functions and front panel keys can be locked out for simplified usage and security. A built-in 5, 10, 12, or 24 Vdc excitation supply can power transducers, eliminating the need for an external power supply. All power and signal connections are via UL / VDE / CSA rated screw clamp plugs.
The Laureate™ Series features modular design with up to 7 isolated plug-in boards, applicable to all Laureate 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters.
Modular Hardware
The design of the Laureate™ Series is modular for maximum flexibility at minimum cost. All boards are isolated from meter and power grounds. The base configuration for a panel meter or counter consists of a main module (with computer and plug-in display boards), a power supply board, and a signal conditioner board. Optional plug-in-play boards include an isolated setpoint controller board, an isolated analog output board, and an isolated digital interface board. Modular design and a choice of plug-in options allow the Laureate to be customized for a broad range of applications from simple monitoring to control and computer interface. There can be up to five plug-in boards in a 1/8 DIN Laureate.
Connecting Laureate Digital Panel Meters to a Local Area Network (LAN)
Up to 30 Laureate Digital Panel Meters and/or LT Transmitters can be configured for RS485 and daisy-chained to an LT Transmitter using Laurel’s High Speed Ethernet-to-RS485 converter board for seamless LAN integration. Alternatively, Laurel LTE series Ethernet transmitters can connect directly to a LAN via an Ethernet cable. Setup for both configurations is streamlined using Laurel’s free Instrument Setup Software, which simplifies node discovery and transmitter configuration.
Flexible Communication Options for Digital Panel Meters
Laureate Digital Panel Meters can be equipped with Laurel communication boards to support various interfaces and protocols. These include serial interfaces with ASCII or Modbus RTU protocols, and Ethernet interfaces with web access, ASCII, or Modbus TCP/IP protocols, ensuring versatile connectivity for your commercial applications.
DC Voltage
| DC Voltage Range | Resolution | Input Resistance | Error at 25°C |
|---|---|---|---|
| ±200.00 mV | 10 µV | 1 GΩ | 0.01% FS ± 2 cts |
| ±2.0000 V | 100 µV | 1 GΩ | 0.01% FS ± 2 cts |
| ±20.000 V | 1 mV | 10 MΩ | 0.01% FS ± 2 cts |
| ±200.00 V | 10 mV | 10 MΩ | 0.01% FS ± 2 cts |
| ±300.0 V | 0.1 V | 10 MΩ | ± 0.4 V |
| ±600.0 V* | 0.1 V | 10 MΩ | ± 0.4 V |
| * Range not ETL certified. | |||
| * For purposes of accuracy calculation, the 600V range is 2000V (20,000 counts). | |||
| Recalibration: All ranges are calibrated at the factory. Recalibration is recommended every 12 months. | |||
DC Current
| DC Current Range | Resolution | Input Resistance | Error at 25°C |
|---|---|---|---|
| ±2.0000 mA | 0.1 µA | 100 Ω | 0.01% FS ± 2 cts |
| ±20.000 mA | 1.0 µA | 10 Ω | 0.01% FS ± 2 cts |
| ±200.00 mA | 10 µA | 1 Ω | 0.01% FS ± 2 cts |
| ±5.000 A | 1 mA | 0.01Ω | ± 10 mA |
| * For purposes of accuracy calculation, the 5A range is 20A (20,000 counts). | |||
| Recalibration: All ranges are calibrated at the factory. Recalibration is recommended every 12 months. | |||
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Readout | 5 LED digits, 7-segment, 14.2 mm (.56"), red or green. |
| Range | -99999 to 99999 or -99990 to 99990 (count by 10) |
| Indicators | Minus sign, 2 red LED lamps |
| A-to-D Conversion | |
| Technique | Concurrent Slope™ (Pat 5,262,780) |
| A-to-D rate | 60/s at 60 Hz, 50/s at 50 Hz |
| Output update rate | 56/s at 60 Hz, 47/s at 50 Hz |
| Display update rate | 3.5/s at 60 Hz, 3/s at 50 Hz |
| Accuracy | |
| Error at 25°C | 0.01% FS ± 2 counts (except 5A range) |
| Span tempco | 0.003% of reading/°C |
| Zero tempco | 0.1 count/°C |
| Noise Rejection | |
| CMR, DC to 60 Hz | 130 dB |
| NMR at 50/60 Hz | 90 dB with min filtering |
| Maximum Signal | |
| Max applied voltage | 600 Vac for 20, 200 and 300 V ranges, 125 Vac for other ranges |
| Overcurrent protection | 25x for 2 mA, 8x for 20 mA, 2.5x for 200 mA, 1x for 5 A |
| Power Supply Boards (one required) | |
| Voltage, standard | 85-264 Vac or 90-300 Vdc |
| Voltage, optional | 12-32 Vac or 10-48 Vdc |
| Frequency | DC or 47-63 Hz |
| Power consumption (typical, base meter) | 1.2W @ 120 Vac, 1.5W @ 240 Vac, 1.3W @ 10 Vdc, 1.4W @ 20 Vdc, 1.55W @ 30 Vdc, 1.8W @ 40 Vdc, 2.15W @ 48 Vdc |
| Power Isolation | 250V rms working, 2.3 kV rms per 1 min test |
| Excitation Output (standard) | |
| 5 Vdc | 5 Vdc ± 5%, 100 mA (jumper selectable) |
| 10 Vdc | 10 Vdc ± 5%, 120 mA (jumper selectable) |
| 12 Vdc | 12 Vdc ± 5%, 100 mA (jumper selectable) |
| 24 Vdc | 24 Vdc ± 5%, 50 mA (jumper selectable) |
| Output Isolation | 50 Vdc from signal ground |
| Analog Output Board (one optional) | |
| Output levels | 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-10V, -10 to +10V (jumper selectable) |
| Current compliance | 2 mA at 10V (> 5 kΩ load) |
| Voltage compliance | 12V at 20 mA (< 600 Ω load) |
| Scaling | Zero and full scale adjustable from -99999 to +99999 |
| Resolution | 16 bits (0.0015% of full scale) |
| Step function response | 80 ms to 99% of final value (typ) |
| Isolation | 250V rms working, 2.3 kV rms per 1 min test |
| Relay Output Boards (one optional) | |
| Dual magnetic relays | 2 Form C, 10A max, 440Vac or 125Vdc max, 2500VA or 300W |
| Quad magnetic relays | 4 Form A (NO), 10A max, 440Vac or 125Vdc max, 2500VA or 300W |
| Dual solid state relays | 2 Form A (NO), AC or DC, 0V - 400V, 120Ma, 35Ohms (max at On-State) |
| Quad solid state relays | 4 Form A (NO), AC or DC, 0V - 400V, 120Ma, 35Ohms (max at On-State) |
| Relay commons | Isolated commons for dual relays or each pair of quad relays |
| Relay isolation | 250V rms working, 2.3 kV rms per 1 minute test |
| Step function response | 30 ms (typ) for contact relays, 25 ms (typ) for solid state relays |
| Relay latching modes | Latching or non-latching |
| Relay active modes | Active on or off, active high or low |
| Hysteresis modes | QA passband mode, split hysteresis, span hysteresis |
| Communication Boards (one optional) | |
| Board selections | RS232, RS485 with dual RJ11 connectors, RS485 with dual RJ45 connectors, USB, Ethernet, USB-to-RS485 gateway, Ethernet-to-RS485 gateway, WiFi with built-in antenna plus USB & RS485, WiFi with external antenna plus USB & RS485 |
| Protocols | Laurel Custom ASCII (serial), Modbus RTU (serial), Modbus TCP (Ethernet or WiFi) |
| Digital addresses | 247 (Modbus), 31 (Laurel Custom ASCII), |
| Isolation | 250V rms working, 2.3 kV rms per 1 min test |
| Signal Connections | |
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| Environmental | |
| Operating temperature | -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F) |
| Storage temperature | -40°C to 85°C (-40°F to 185°F) |
| Relative humidity | 95% at 40°C, non-condensing |
| Protection | NEMA-4X (IP-65) when panel mounted |
| Mechanical | |
| Enclosure | 1/8 DIN, high impact plastic, UL 94V-0, color: black |
| Mounting | 1/8 DIN panel cutout required: 3.622" x 1.772" (92 mm x 45 mm). |
| Dimensions | 4.68" x 2.45" x 5.64" (119 mm x 62 mm x 143 mm) (W x H x D) |
| Maximum panel thickness | 4.5 mm (0.18") |
| Tightening Torque - Connectors | Screw terminal connectors: 5 lb-in (0.56 Nm) |
| Tightening Torque - Pawls | Digital Panel Meter Case Pawls: 5 lb-in (0.56 Nm) |
| Weight of base meter | 210 g (7.4 oz) typical (DPM, counter, timer, 6-digit remote display) |
| Weight of option boards | 30 g (1.0 oz) typical per board (analog output, relay output, communications) |
| General | |
| Programming Methods | Four front panel buttons or via Laurel's free Instrument Setup Software, which runs on a PC under MS Windows. |
| Security | Lockout options include using the front panel buttons, the free Instrument Setup Software, or a hardware jumper. |
| Warranty | 3 years parts & labor |
| Recalibration: All ranges are calibrated at the factory. Recalibration is recommended every 12 months. | |
Free Instrument Setup Software for Series 2 Laureates
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| 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters | DIN Rail Transmitters |
Free Downloadable Windows-based Instrument Setup (IS) software (Data Interface Board Required) for use with our programmable Digital Panel Meters, Scale Meters, Counters, Timers, Remote Displays, and Transmitters, are an easy method to set up Laureate 1/8 DIN digital panel meters, counters, timers, remote displays, and DIN-rail transmitters, as explained in the Instrument Setup Software Manual. Laureate 1/8 DIN instruments can also be set up from the front panel, as explained in their respective Owners Manuals. Instrument Setup software is of benefit whether or not the PC is connected to the instrument.
- When the PC is connected to the instrument, Instrument Setup software can retrieve the setup file from the instrument or open a default setup file or previously saved setup file from disk View Setup, then provides graphical user interface (GUI) screens with pull-down menus applicable to input, display, scaling, filtering, alarms, communications, analog output, and front panel lockouts. Fields that are not applicable to the instrument as configured are either left out or grayed out. Clicking on any item will bring up a detailed Help screen for that item. After editing, the setup file can be downloaded, uploaded to the instrument, or saved to a disk. The same setup file can then be downloaded into multiple instruments.
- When the PC is not connected to the instrument, the above GUI screens can be used to set up a virtual instrument. The setup file can then be saved to disk. Switching toView Menu then brings up a screen with the required front panel programming steps. This view can be printed out for use at the instrument site and to serve as a hard copy record.
Download Free Instrument Setup Software
Installation
Set User Account Control (UAC) of MS Windows to "Never notifiy me" so that Instrument Setup Software can create directories. The UAC change screen can be reached as follows:
- Under Windows 7, click on the Windows Start button in the lower left of the desktop and enter "UAC" in the search field.
- Under Windows 8, navigate to Control Panel, then to the "User Accounts and Family Safety" section, and click on "Change User Account Control Settings."
- Under Windows 10, click on the Windows Start button in the lower left of the desktop, then on "Settings", and enter "UAC" in the search field.
- Reboot your computer for the changed UAC setting to take effect.
RJ11-to-DB9 cable with rear view of DB9 connector to PC
RS232 cable, meter to PC, P/N CBL01
Laureate 1/8 DIN Laureate instruments must be equipped with a serial communications board and be connected to the computer via a serial communications cable. The connection can be via RS232, RS485, USB or Ethernet. Following setup, the serial communications board may be removed from the instrument if desired. The wiring of the RS232 cable is illustrated above with end views of the two connectors.
Laureate LT Series transmitters come standard with a 3-wire serial interface, which can be jumpered for RS232 or RS485.
Laureate LTE Series transmitters come standard with an Ethernet interface.
Meter Setup Screens
Click on any of the reduced screens below for a full-size screen view, then click on the Back button of your browser to return to this page. The screens examples below are for a fully-loaded Series 2 Digital Panel Meter (DPM), which is connected to the PC via RS232. If the meter is a Series 1 meter (pre-2007), this is sensed by the software, and somewhat different screens are brought up. Please see Series 1 setup screens.
Welcome Screen
From the computer desktop, click on Start > Programs > IS2 > IS2. Or click on the IS icon on your desktop. This splash screen will be displayed for three seconds. The software revision number is in the lower right.
Communications Selection Screen
Specify your desired communication protocol and the serial communications bus type, which should match the jumper setup of the instrument. Select None if the PC is not connected to the instrument.
Establish Communications Screen
If you selected RS-232, you will be asked to specify the PC Com Port and Baud Rate, which should match the jumper setup of the instrument. Click on Establish. With the right settings, the Communications Established field will light up in green, and the Meter Type will be recognized. If so, click onMain Menu.
Main Menu Screen
Click on File > Default Setup to retrieve the default setup file from disk for your type of meter. Click on File > Open Setupto retrieve a previously saved setup file from disk or on File > Save Setup to save your edited setup file to disk. Click onDPM > Get Setup to retrieve the setup file from your meter or on DPM > Put Setup to download your edited setup file into the meter.
DPM Input + Display Setup Screen
From the Main Menu, click on View > Setup, then on theInput+Display tab. You can now specify the meter hardware, signal type, display mode, and functions of control inputs A and B. Clicking on any item brings up a pull-down menu with the available choices.
DPM Scaling Setup Screen
Click on the Scaling tab, which provides three scaling methods to relate the signal to the displayed reading: 1) Scale and Offset method, 2) Coordinates of two points method, and 3) Reading Coordinates of Two Points method. The last method uses actual high and low signals, and the computer will prompt you.
DPM Filter Setup Screen
Click on the Filter tab, which allows you to specify the digital filter time constant (if any), the adaptive filter threshold, and whether Peak / Valley values are filtered or unfiltered. As for all setup screens, clicking on the F1 key while an item is highlighted brings up a Help screen for that item, as illustrated.
DPM Relay Alarms Setup Screen
Click on the Relay Alarms tab, which allows you to set up Alarms 1 and 2 for the optional dual relay output board. Clicking on any of the four numeric fields changes these to green and brings up a special field to enter the desired numeric value, which is tied to the displayed reading.
DPM Communications Setup Screen
Click on the Communications tab so set up serial communications. In particular, you can special the Serial Protocol and the meter address if multiple meters are to be addressed on the same serial data line.
DPM Analog Output Setup Screen
Click on the Analog Out tab so set up the optional analog output board. Three output ranges are selectable, the endpoints of which can be tied to user-specified High and Low readings.
DPM Lockouts Setup Screen
Click on the Lockouts tab to check off menu items which will no longer be accessible from the front panel of the meter. This will simplify meter operation and prevent unintended setup changes.
Meter Setup Utilities
DPM Front Panel Setup Screen
As an aid to programming the meter from the front panel when a serial connection is not available, you can return to the Main Menu and click on View > Menu. The required sequence of front panel screens will then be displayed. Click on any step in the sequence for the meaning of each digit, as illustrated for the FILtEr step. For a hardcopy, simply press on Print.
DPM Jumper Setup Screen
Specify your desired communication protocol and the serial communications bus type, which should match the jumper setup of the instrument. Select None if the PC is not connected to the instrument.
DPM Jumper Setup Screens
Click on any of the displayed plug-in boards, and you will be presented with the jumper positions and electrical connections for your selected board. This minimizes the need to refer to the printed manual.
DPM Commands Screen
This page allows you set up external input, serial communications, an analog output proportional to the display (optional), and lockouts for Laureate digital counters. The grayed out area at the top right of the screen applies to Laureate remote displays.
Graphical Output Screens (not available with Ethernet)
From the Main Menu, click on Readings if your PC is connected to the meter. A pull-down menu then offers three choices: List, Plot and Graph.
- List presents the latest readings in a 20-row by 10-column table. Press Pause at any time to freeze the display. This is one method to capture peak readings.
- Plot generates a plot of readings vs. time in seconds. It effectively turns the DPM-PC combination into a printing digital oscilloscope.
- Graph generates a histogram where the horizontal axis is the reading and the vertical axis is the number of occurrences of readings. The display continually resizes itself as the number of readings increases.
DPM Calibration Screens
Click on the Scaling tab, which provides three scalClick on the Scaling tab, which provides three scaling methods to relate the signal to the displayed reading: 1) Scale and Offset method, 2) Coordinates of two points method, and 3) Reading Coordinates of Two Points method. The last method uses actual high and low signals, and the computer will prompt you.
Frequency Meter Calibration Screen
Calibration of the quartz crystal of the Laureate frequency meter requires the input of a known frequency from a calibrator. Apply the frequency, then enter the frequency in Hertz. Calibration will be automatic, with storage of the calibration factor stored in non-volatile memory.
Laureate™ 1/8 DIN Case For Laureate Digital Panel Meters, Counters, Timers & Remote Displays
Key Features
- Meets 1/8 DIN Standard.
- Installs from front of panel.
- Short depth behind the panel: only 4" (102 mm) plus connectors.
- Understated 0.157" (4 mm) thick bezel.
- Meets NEMA 4X (IP-65) for high-pressure wawshdon when panel mounted.
- Screw clamps connectors meet VDE / IEC / UL / CSA safety standards.
- Rugged GE Lexan® housing material.
- Safety certified per EN 61010-1.
Dimensions
Maximum panel thickness: 4.5 mm (0.18")
Weight of base meter: 210 g (7.4 oz) typical (DPM, counter, timer, 6-digit remote display)
Weight of option boards: 30 g (1.0 oz) typical per board (analog output, relay output, communications)
Tightening Torque - Connectors: Screw terminal connectors: 5 lb-in (0.56 Nm)
Tightening Torque - Pawls: Digital Panel Meter Case Pawls: 5 lb-in (0.56 Nm)
Dimensioned CAD assembly drawings in EPRT, STEP, x_t. dwg, pdf file formats: Laureate-meter-case.zip (zipping prevents browser from opening CAD files as text files).
Panel Mounting
Slide the meter into a 45 x 92 mm 1/8 DIN panel cutout. Ensure that the provided gasket is in place between the front of the panel and the back of the meter bezel.
The meter is secured by two pawls, each held by a screw, as illustrated. Turning each screw counterclockwise extends the pawl outward from the case and behind the panel. Turning each screw clockwise further tightens it against the panel to secure the meter.
Turning each screw counterclockwise loosens the pawl and retracts it into its well. This position allows installed meter to be removed from their panel, or new meters to be installed in a panel. Do not remove the screws from their pawls. Doing so would cause the screw and pawl to fall off and likely get lost. Do not overtighten so as not to damage the plastic parts.
DC Digital Panel Meter Frequently Asked Technical Questions
In Laureate DC meters, a total of five DC voltage ranges and four DC current ranges are user selectable and factory calibrated, with calibration factors stored in EEPROM on the signal conditioner board. DC meters come factory set for a specific range, like DCV1. To change to a different range, move jumpers on the signal conditioner board and select the new range in software, as explained in Section 11 of the Laureate DPM user manual. If you change the range, also change the model number on the meter label.
Laureate DC meters are modular with slots for an analog output board, a choice of relay boards, and a choice of communication boards, as illustrated in our Laureates Overview web page. These boards can be ordered installed with a new meter, but they can also be purchased separately later and be simply plugged in. The presence of a new board and the type of board are automatically sensed by the meter’s firmware or by Instrument Setup (IS) software. If you change boards, also change the model number on the meter label.
Laureate DC meters and process meters are the same and are covered by the same Section 11 of the Laureate DPM user manual. The term “DC meter” is used for a meter that displays units of DC voltage or DC current. The term “process meter” is used for a DC meter that accepts an industry standard 4-20 mA or 0-10V DC signal and converts that signal to engineering units using scale and offset adjustment, also called zero and span adjustment. All Laureate DC meters are user scalable regardless of range.
A count is a unit of resolution. All ranges of Laureate DC meters are bipolar and are divided into ±20,000 input counts. For example, in the Laureate ±200.00 mV DCV1 range, an input count is 0.01 mV. The Laureate ±600.0V DCV5 range and ±300.0V DCV6 range are both based on a fictitious ±2000.0V range, so an input count is 0.1V.
A display count, also called output count, is the resolution of the meter reading, or the step value of the least significant digits. For example, a meter reading of 465.7 is 4657 output counts. The decimal point is set separately as a decoration.
Input scaling is the process of converting the input counts to a reading in display (or output) counts. For example, to convert the 0-50.00 mV DC output of a current shunt to a 0-800A DC reading, use the DC meter’s ±200.00 mV DCV1 range. 50.00 mV is then 5000 input counts. 800A is 800 display counts. To go from 5000 to 800, enter a scale factor (or multiplier) of 0.1600 and an offset of 0.
Analog output scaling is the process of converting the meter reading to an analog output. That output can be selected as 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-10V or -10 to +10V. Simply enter the DC meter readings for the bottom and tops of the analog output range, and the output will be interpolated linearly between these two readings. Please see Section 17 of the Laureate DPM user manual.
Chances are that your meter is set for the factory default analog output, which is 4-20 mA, and is applying 10V to force a current into an open circuit. To set your meter to a 0-10V or -10 to +10V analog output, set jumpers for unipolar 0-10V or bipolar -10 to +10V operation, select that range in software and scale it in software, and connect to the designated analog output pins, as explained in Section 17 of the Laureate DPM user manual.
Calibration is the process of setting the meter so that absolute readings in volts or amps are within specified tolerances of a recognized national standard. All ranges of Laureate DC input and DC analog output boards are factory calibrated to standards of the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), with calibration factors stored in EEPROM on the board itself. This allows boards to be swapped in the field with not need to recalibrate the meter as a system.
Annual calibration to NIST standards can be performed by Laurel Electronics, LLC.
The highest DC voltage that be applied to a Laureate DC meter is ±600.0V when the meter is set to the DCV5 range. For higher voltages, use an external high voltage resistor or string of resistors in series with meter’s 10 Meg input resistance to create a voltage divider. For example, to measure 0-1000V DC, use an external 50 Meg, 1 Watt resistor in series with the 10 Meg input resistance of the DCV6 range to create a 6:1 voltage divider. The meter then senses a safe 0-166.66V DC with 0.01V resolution when set to the ETL certified 300.0V DCV6 range. Apply a scale factor of 6.0000 to display 0-1000.0V DC. Laurel has equipment to calibrate the meter and external resistor as a system up to 1020V.
Yes, the Laureate DC/process meter can be used as a load cell meter in four-wire bridge mode, but its sensitivity is limited to 10 microvolts per count. It can apply 5V or 10V excitation and work in a ratiometric mode. In that mode, the excitation voltage is also used as the reference for the analog-to-digital converter, thereby automatically correcting for variations in excitation voltage. The 5-digit meter display can be scaled to read out in engineering units, such as units of weight or pressure. However, the Laureate load cell meter is preferred for demanding load cell applications, since it offers a higher sensitivity of 1 microvolt per count. The load cell meter also allows a 6-wire connection while the DC/process meter only allows a 4-wire connection.
Yes, the Laureate DC/process meter is ideal for potentiometer sensor applications used for displacement or angle measurement. Such sensors work as a voltage divider, where a fixed voltage is applied to endpoints of a resistive element and a voltage is picked off as a sliding contact is moved along its length. For such applications, the Laureate DC/process meter applies an excitation voltage of 5V DC and uses its 20.000V DCV3 range. It works in a ratiometric mode where the excitation voltage is also used as the reference for the analog-to-digital converter, thereby automatically correcting for variations in excitation voltage. The picked-off DC voltage is scaled by the meter for readout in percent or in engineering units, such as millimeters, as programmed.
CAL-Analog
Certificate of Calibration
$65.00
DLS-XLOG2
XLog2 Data logging Software
$495.00
IPC
Splashproof Cover
$55.00
CON01
CON01 Connector
$75.00
CBL01
RS232 Cable for Meters
$35.00
CBL02
USB-to-RS232 Adapter Cable
$47.00
CBL04
RS232 Cable for LT Transmitters
$47.00
CBL05
USB Data Cable for Meters
$47.00
CBL06
USB-to-RS485 Adapter Cable
$47.00
CBL07
USB Programming & Data Cable
$47.00
CBL08
RS485 Splitter Cable
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$47.00What Are 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters for DC Voltage Input Signal?
1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters are electronic devices designed to display measurements, particularly of voltage, in easy-to-read digital formats. The term "1/8 DIN" refers to the size of the Digital Panel Meters, with DIN standing for "Deutsches Institut für Normung," which is the German Institute for Standardization. The DIN standard sizes are commonly used in the industry to ensure that devices fit within standardized panel openings. Specifically, 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters typically have dimensions of 96 x 48 mm (3.78 x 1.89 inches).
These Digital Panel Meters are tailored for DC (Direct Current) voltage input signals, meaning they are designed to measure and display the voltage level of a direct current input. They offer high precision and stability, which makes them ideal for monitoring and controlling electrical systems.
How Do 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters Work?
- Input Signal Measurement:
The primary function of 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters is to measure the DC voltage input signal. This is done by connecting the Digital Panel Meters' input terminals to the circuit from which the voltage is to be measured. The Digital Panel Meters are calibrated to accurately convert the input voltage into readable digital output. - Analog-to-Digital Conversion:
Once the DC voltage is applied, the Digital Panel Meters use an internal analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to transform the analog voltage signal into a digital value. This conversion is essential as it allows the voltage level to be displayed on the digital screen. - Display of Measurement:
The converted digital value is then processed and displayed on the Digital Panel Meters' screen. The display typically consists of an LED or LCD screen, which shows the voltage reading in real-time. This allows operators to monitor the voltage easily and make informed decisions based on the reading. - Additional Features:
Many 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters include additional features like alarms, data logging, or communication capabilities (e.g., RS-232, RS-485) for integration into more extensive monitoring and control systems. These features enhance the functionality of the Digital Panel Meters, making them versatile in various applications.
Where Are 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters for DC Voltage Input Signals Used?
1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters for DC voltage input signals are widely used in numerous industrial and commercial applications due to their reliability and ease of use. Some of the common areas where these Digital Panel Meters are employed include:
- Industrial Automation and Control Systems
In industrial automation, maintaining precise control over electrical systems is critical to ensuring the safe and efficient operation of machinery. Digital Panel Meters are used to monitor DC voltage levels in motors, actuators, and sensors. By providing accurate voltage readings, these Digital Panel Meters help prevent over-voltage or under-voltage conditions that could damage equipment or disrupt operations. Additionally, Digital Panel Meters are integrated into control panels and systems to facilitate remote monitoring and automation, streamlining the operation of complex machinery. - Power Generation and Distribution
Digital Panel Meters are widely used in power generation and distribution facilities to monitor the voltage of various components, including generators, transformers, and power lines. In these settings, maintaining a stable voltage is essential to ensuring the reliability of power delivery and the protection of equipment. Digital Panel Meters allow operators to continuously monitor voltage levels, making real-time adjustments to prevent fluctuations that could lead to power outages or equipment failures. - Renewable Energy Systems
The adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, has increased the demand for reliable voltage monitoring. Digital Panel Meters are employed in these systems to monitor the DC voltage generated by solar panels or wind turbines. Accurate monitoring is crucial for optimizing the performance of these systems and ensuring that the energy produced is efficiently converted and stored. In solar power installations, for example, Digital Panel Meters help track the output of photovoltaic (PV) panels, ensuring they operate at peak efficiency and alerting operators to any issues that may arise. - Automotive and Transportation Industry
In the automotive and transportation sectors, Digital Panel Meters are essential for monitoring the voltage levels of batteries and other DC-powered components. These Digital Panel Meters are used in electric vehicles (EVs), trains, and other transportation systems to ensure that batteries are charged correctly and that the electrical systems are functioning properly. Monitoring voltage levels in real time helps prevent battery overcharging, which can lead to reduced battery life or even dangerous situations. Additionally, Digital Panel Meters are used in the development and testing of new automotive technologies, providing engineers with precise voltage data to fine-tune performance. - Laboratories and Research Facilities
In laboratories and research environments, precise measurement is paramount. Digital Panel Meters for DC voltage input signals are used in experimental setups, test benches, and calibration processes to provide accurate voltage readings. Researchers rely on these Digital Panel Meters to gather reliable data, which is critical for validating hypotheses, testing new materials, or developing new technologies. The accuracy and reliability of Digital Panel Meters make them indispensable tools in scientific research, where even minor deviations in voltage can significantly impact results. - HVAC and Building Automation
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and other building automation systems rely on consistent electrical performance to operate effectively. Digital Panel Meters are used in these systems to monitor the DC voltage supplied to various components, such as fans, pumps, and control systems. By ensuring that the correct voltage is maintained, Digital Panel Meters help optimize the efficiency of HVAC systems, reducing energy consumption and extending the lifespan of equipment. In building automation, Digital Panel Meters can be integrated into larger systems to provide centralized monitoring and control of electrical systems throughout a facility. - Marine and Aerospace Applications
In the marine and aerospace industries, where reliable electrical systems are critical for safety, Digital Panel Meters play a vital role. On ships, aircraft, and spacecraft, these Digital Panel Meters are used to monitor the voltage of onboard DC power systems, ensuring that essential systems remain operational. Whether it's powering navigation systems, communication equipment, or life support systems, maintaining stable voltage is essential in these environments. Digital Panel Meters provide real-time feedback, allowing operators to quickly identify and address any electrical issues before they escalate.
Conclusion
Digital Panel Meters for DC voltage input signals are versatile instruments that find applications across a wide range of industries. Their ability to provide accurate, real-time voltage monitoring makes them indispensable in settings where electrical performance is critical to safety, efficiency, and reliability. From industrial automation to renewable energy, transportation, and beyond, these Digital Panel Meters play a key role in ensuring that electrical systems operate within safe and optimal parameters. As technology continues to evolve, the demand for precise and reliable voltage monitoring will only increase, further solidifying the importance of Digital Panel Meters in modern industry.
DC Voltage Digital Panel Meter Frequently Asked Questions
What DC voltage ranges can these Digital Panel Meters accept?
1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters for DC voltage input are typically available with multiple jumper-selectable input ranges, allowing the same meter to be configured for millivolt-level signals up to several hundred volts DC, depending on the model. This lets a single meter be matched to the specific voltage range of the circuit being monitored, rather than requiring a separate device per range.
Do I need external signal conditioning to measure DC voltage with these meters?
In most cases, no. These Digital Panel Meters accept DC voltage directly at their input terminals across their supported ranges without requiring an external conditioner. For voltages outside the meter's rated input range, a voltage divider or isolated conditioner may be needed ahead of the meter.
How accurate are 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters for DC voltage measurement?
These meters are designed for high precision and stability, making them suitable for applications where small deviations in voltage matter, such as laboratory calibration, power distribution monitoring, and battery management. Accuracy specifications vary by model, so the exact tolerance should be confirmed against the datasheet for the intended application.
Can these meters be used with both AC and DC systems?
This particular meter type is configured for DC voltage input signals specifically. Systems that also need to monitor AC voltage or current require a meter model configured for true-RMS AC input, which is a separate configuration within the same 1/8 DIN platform.
What additional features are available beyond basic voltage display?
Many 1/8 DIN Digital Panel Meters for DC voltage input include options such as alarm relays, data logging, and communication interfaces like RS-232 or RS-485. These features allow the meter to be integrated into larger monitoring and control systems rather than functioning only as a standalone display.
Is isolation available between the input and output on these meters?
Isolated input and output configurations are available on many models, which helps protect the measurement circuit and connected control systems from ground loops or voltage transients. Isolation requirements should be specified based on how the meter will be wired into the surrounding electrical system.
How do I decide between a standard and extended main board for a DC voltage application?
A standard main board is sufficient for direct display of a single DC voltage reading. An extended main board is worth specifying if the application requires additional functions such as scaling, linearization, or arithmetic between two channels, which are common in power distribution or renewable energy monitoring setups.
What is the difference between common ground and isolated DC voltage inputs?
A common ground input shares its reference point with other circuits in the system, which is simpler to wire but can introduce measurement errors from ground loops. An isolated input has no direct electrical connection to the rest of the system, protecting the meter and connected equipment from noise and transients, which is preferable when multiple DC voltage points are monitored across a shared panel.
Can a DC voltage meter be networked with other meters for centralized monitoring?
Yes. Models equipped with RS-485 or Ethernet communications can be networked together using Modbus RTU or Modbus TCP/IP, allowing multiple DC voltage meters across a facility to report to a single PLC, SCADA system, or data logging platform for centralized monitoring.
What power supply does the meter itself require to operate?
The meter's own operating power is separate from the DC voltage signal it measures, and is typically supplied via standard AC line voltage or low-voltage DC, depending on the model ordered. This should not be confused with the DC voltage being monitored at the input terminals.
How do I choose between a 5-digit and 6-digit display for a DC voltage meter?
A 5-digit display is sufficient for most general voltage monitoring, where whole-number or single-decimal precision is adequate. A 6-digit display provides finer resolution, which is useful in laboratory, calibration, or renewable energy applications where small voltage changes need to be tracked precisely.
DC Voltage Digital Panel Meter Questions From the Field
Why does my DC voltage meter reading fluctuate or drift even when the source voltage is steady?
This is one of the most commonly reported panel meter issues in field forums, and it's almost always a wiring or grounding problem rather than a failing meter. A ground loop — where the signal common and the power common sit at slightly different potentials — pushes stray current through the meter's measurement path and shows up as jitter or drifting digits. Star grounding all signal returns to a single point, and running shielded twisted-pair cable grounded at one end only, resolves the majority of these cases.
Should the meter's 0V (signal common) be tied to the enclosure ground?
This comes up frequently in control panel wiring discussions, and the general guidance from panel builders is that 0V (the negative return of the DC supply) and protective earth ground are not the same thing and shouldn't be treated interchangeably. Whether they're bonded together at one point depends on the overall panel grounding scheme, but tying AC ground and DC signal common together carelessly is a common source of induced noise on sensitive analog inputs.
Can multiple DC voltage sources share a common ground when feeding separate meter inputs?
This depends on whether the DC sources are truly isolated from each other. If each source is floating and there's no risk of a polarity mismatch between them, tying their commons together for a shared reference is generally acceptable. If the sources aren't isolated, combining commons can create unintended current paths between circuits that were never meant to be connected.
Why does an old panel meter's housing read several volts to ground even though the meter works fine?
A small voltage on a meter's case relative to ground, often just a few volts, is frequently reported as either a high-impedance leakage path or a "ghost" voltage picked up through capacitive coupling rather than an actual fault. It's worth confirming with a low-impedance meter before assuming there's a wiring or insulation problem, since standard high-impedance test leads can report a phantom reading that disappears under load.
What's the right order to troubleshoot a DC voltage digital panel meter that isn't reading correctly?
Field troubleshooting guides generally recommend checking supply power to the meter first, since a large share of "dead" or erratic meters trace back to incorrect or missing auxiliary voltage at the power terminals. After confirming supply voltage, the next step is verifying input wiring polarity and any scaling or range jumpers, followed by checking fuses and terminal torque, before considering the display or internal electronics as the cause.
How do I scale a DC voltage digital panel meter to read current from an external shunt?
This is a frequent question when adapting a DC voltage meter for current measurement. Since a shunt produces a small millivolt signal proportional to current (commonly 50 mV or 100 mV at its rated maximum), the meter's sensitive low-voltage range is used, and a scale factor is entered so the millivolt reading is displayed directly in amps rather than raw millivolts.
What causes noise on a DC voltage reading near variable frequency drives (VFDs)?
VFDs are commonly cited as a major noise source for nearby DC instrumentation, since their switching can induce common-mode noise onto signal wiring. Clamp-on ferrite chokes on VFD motor leads and on the meter's own power wiring are a widely recommended first mitigation step, often reducing common-mode noise significantly before any other troubleshooting is needed.
Is it normal for input voltage ranges to be selected with jumpers rather than software alone?
Yes — jumper-selectable ranges are a long-standing design approach in DC panel meters, going back to early analog-to-digital conversion designs, and remain common because they let a single meter's front-end circuitry be reconfigured for a different full-scale voltage without replacing the unit. Software is then used to fine-tune scaling within the range the jumpers have set.
