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 Panel Meter for DC voltage and DC current meters
are a programmable DC panel meter 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 panel meter. 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 the Laureate Panel Meter 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 panel meter for precise operation.
The Laureate Panel Meter is 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™ Panel Meter uses 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.
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
$33.00CBL6
6-foot Power Cable
$41.00CBL12
12-foot Power Cable
$47.00Modular 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 Panel Meter.
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 Panel Meter to a Local Area Network (LAN)
Up to 30 Laureate Panel Meter 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 Panel Meter
The Laureate Panel Meter 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.
What Is a Panel Meter for DC Voltage Input Signal?
A Panel Meter is an instrument mounted directly into an equipment enclosure or control panel to give operators a continuous, at-a-glance reading of a DC voltage without needing a handheld multimeter. Unlike a benchtop or handheld instrument, a Panel Meter is installed permanently — wired into the circuit once and left in place for the life of the equipment — which is what makes it the standard choice anywhere a DC voltage needs to be watched continuously rather than spot-checked.
This particular configuration is built for DC voltage specifically, meaning the input circuitry, calibration, and display are all set up to read a steady or slowly varying direct current voltage rather than an alternating waveform. Because it's a dedicated instrument for one job, it tends to offer better accuracy and stability at that job than a general-purpose multimeter pressed into permanent service.
Why Choose a Dedicated Panel Meter Over a Handheld Multimeter
A handheld multimeter is built for occasional, short-duration measurements and typically isn't rated for continuous unattended operation. A Panel Meter, by contrast, is designed to run indefinitely, mounted permanently on a panel face where it's visible to an operator without opening an enclosure or connecting test leads. This distinction matters most in applications where a voltage genuinely needs to be monitored around the clock — battery banks, power supplies, generators — rather than checked periodically.
Basic Installation Considerations
A DC voltage Panel Meter needs its own operating power in addition to the voltage signal it's measuring — these are two separate things. Some models are loop-powered, drawing their operating energy directly from the signal being measured (common on 4-20 mA current loop instruments), while dedicated DC voltage Panel Meters more typically require a separate AC or DC supply to power the display and electronics, independent of the voltage being read at the input terminals.
Key Features
- Panel Mount Form Factor: Designed to install through a cutout in an enclosure door or panel face, so only the display and bezel are visible from the outside, with wiring terminals accessible from behind.
- Stable, Continuous Reading: Built for permanent installation and long-term unattended operation, unlike a handheld meter designed for brief spot checks.
- Configurable Input Range: Can typically be set for different DC voltage ranges to match the specific circuit being monitored.
- Additional Outputs: Many models offer optional alarms, analog retransmission, or serial communication for integration into a larger monitoring system.
Where Is a Panel Meter for DC Voltage Input Signals Used?
A Panel Meter for DC voltage input is widely used anywhere continuous, on-the-spot voltage indication matters more than an occasional spot check. Common areas where this instrument is put to work include:
- Industrial Control Panels
On the front of a control cabinet, a Panel Meter gives a technician or operator an immediate visual confirmation that a motor, actuator, or sensor circuit is receiving correct DC voltage without having to open the panel or connect a test meter. - Power Generation and Distribution
Generator rooms and substations use Panel Meters mounted directly on switchgear or distribution panels, giving staff continuous visibility into system voltage so drift or instability is caught immediately rather than discovered later. - Renewable Energy Installations
Solar and battery storage systems commonly mount a DC voltage Panel Meter directly on the equipment enclosure, letting an installer or site operator confirm panel or battery bank voltage at a glance during commissioning or routine checks. - Vehicles and Mobile Equipment
Buses, trains, and off-road equipment often panel-mount a DC voltmeter on the dash or equipment console, giving an operator continuous battery or system voltage feedback during operation. - Test Benches and Laboratories
A panel-mounted meter built into a test fixture or bench power supply gives a technician a permanent, always-visible voltage reading without needing to set up separate test equipment for every test. - Building and HVAC Equipment
Panel Meters mounted on HVAC control cabinets give facility staff a quick way to confirm control-circuit voltage is present and correct during troubleshooting or routine inspection.
Conclusion
A Panel Meter for DC voltage input gives equipment a permanent, always-visible voltage readout that a handheld multimeter simply isn't designed to provide. Wherever a DC voltage needs continuous, at-a-glance visibility rather than occasional spot-checking, a properly installed Panel Meter is the standard tool for the job.
Panel Meter Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Panel Meter need its own power supply separate from the voltage it's measuring?
In most cases, yes. A DC voltage Panel Meter typically needs a separate AC or low-voltage DC supply to power its display and internal electronics, which is a different connection from the voltage signal being measured at the input terminals. Loop-powered instruments, which draw their own operating power from a 4-20 mA current loop signal, are the main exception, and DC voltage Panel Meters specifically are more commonly the externally-powered type.
What panel cutout size does a standard Panel Meter require?
The most common industrial size is 1/8 DIN, with a front panel of roughly 96 x 48 mm and a matching standardized cutout, though Panel Meters are also available in other DIN fractions and custom sizes. Confirming the exact cutout dimension against the specific model before cutting a panel is standard practice.
Can a Panel Meter be damaged by connecting it to a voltage outside its rated input range?
Yes — exceeding a Panel Meter's rated input range can damage the input circuitry, so the meter's rated range needs to be matched to (or exceed) the maximum voltage expected in the circuit being monitored, with an external voltage divider used for voltages beyond the meter's own rated range.
Is a Panel Meter accurate enough to replace a calibrated bench instrument?
For continuous monitoring and general operational visibility, yes — but for precision calibration work or traceable measurement, a dedicated, periodically calibrated bench or handheld instrument is still typically preferred, since a permanently installed Panel Meter's accuracy should be periodically verified rather than assumed indefinitely stable.
Can a Panel Meter be mounted somewhere other than a flat panel face?
Some models are available in wall-mount, DIN-rail, or field/weatherproof enclosures in addition to standard panel-mount bezels, which is useful where there isn't a flat panel surface available or where the meter needs to be installed outdoors or in a harsh environment.
What outputs are available on a DC voltage Panel Meter besides the display?
Many models offer optional alarm relays, an isolated analog retransmission output, and serial communications such as RS-232 or RS-485, letting the meter do more than just display locally — feeding a reading into a PLC, alarm system, or data logger as well.
Does a Panel Meter need to be recalibrated periodically once installed?
Yes, for applications where measurement accuracy matters over the long term, periodic recalibration against a known reference is recommended, since drift can occur gradually over months or years of continuous operation even without any obvious fault.
Can one Panel Meter be used for multiple different DC voltage ranges over its lifetime?
Many models support field-reconfigurable input ranges, so the same physical meter can be reconfigured for a different DC voltage range if the application changes, rather than requiring a completely different unit.
How is a Panel Meter typically wired into a circuit for voltage monitoring?
The meter's input terminals are connected directly across the circuit points where the voltage is to be measured (in parallel with the circuit, not in series), while the meter's separate power terminals are connected to its own power source — these two sets of connections shouldn't be confused with each other.
Is isolation between the input and the meter's power supply important?
Isolated models are commonly available and are generally preferred in industrial installations, since isolation between the measured circuit and the meter's own power and output circuits helps prevent ground loops and protects both the meter and the monitored circuit from unwanted interaction.
Panel Meter Questions From the Field
What exactly does "loop-powered" mean, and does it apply to a DC voltage Panel Meter?
Loop-powered means the meter draws its own operating power directly from the signal loop it's measuring, most commonly seen on 4-20 mA current-loop instruments, where the meter's voltage drop is deliberately kept very low (often under a few volts) so it doesn't interfere with the loop's operation. Standard DC voltage Panel Meters, by contrast, more typically require a separate dedicated power supply rather than drawing power from the voltage being measured.
Why does my meter's reading fluctuate or drift when I power it from the same battery bank it's measuring?
This is a documented practical issue: since a shunt-based meter is looking for a small voltage difference across the shunt, and picking the meter's own operating power from either side of that shunt introduces additional voltage fluctuation into the same measurement path, the reading becomes less stable than if the meter were powered from a separate, stable source. Using a dedicated, independent power connection for the meter itself — rather than tapping power from the same points being measured — is the standard fix for this kind of instability.
Can a Panel Meter power itself directly from the voltage it's reading, without any separate supply?
This has been a long-running question in electronics forums, and the practical answer is that it depends heavily on the specific circuit and voltage level — a meter that draws power directly from the measured circuit can, in some designs, slightly affect the very voltage it's trying to read, and very low DC voltages may not carry enough power to run the meter's own display and electronics at all. For circuits where this matters, a meter with a genuinely separate power input avoids the issue entirely.
My meter reads exactly half of what I expect — what's the most common cause?
This has been documented as a classic wiring symptom: with dual current transformers or dual shunt sensing paths wired with opposing polarity, the two halves of the signal effectively cancel each other out, producing a reading that's roughly half of the true value. A quick polarity check at each sensing connection — confirming markings and orientation match the meter manufacturer's wiring diagram — typically catches this quickly.
My shunt-based meter reads correctly under load but drifts when the load changes — could my wiring be the cause?
Yes — a commonly documented cause is a shunt sense wire connected to the wrong point, such as the load-side power stud instead of the dedicated millivolt sense screw meant specifically for the meter connection. Even though both points are electrically part of the same circuit, the power stud carries additional voltage drop from load current that the dedicated sense tap is specifically designed to avoid, so re-landing the sense wire on the correct dedicated terminal resolves this class of drift.
Should the Panel Meter's power supply and the circuit being measured share a common ground?
This depends on the specific installation and whether the meter has isolated inputs — sharing a common ground is sometimes necessary or unavoidable, but where isolation is available, keeping the meter's power supply reference and the measured circuit's reference separate generally reduces the risk of ground loops or unexpected interaction between the two circuits.
Why would someone deliberately choose to power a Panel Meter from a separate source instead of the circuit being measured, even when self-powering is technically possible?
Field discussion on this generally comes back to measurement stability — powering the meter from a separate, regulated source keeps the meter's own operating voltage constant regardless of what the measured signal is doing, which avoids the kind of feedback-driven drift that can occur when a meter both measures and draws power from the same fluctuating circuit.
I swapped a failed Panel Meter for a "compatible" replacement and now my readings are off — could the power supply be the cause?
This has been reported as a real gotcha when swapping meters between brands or models: two meters that both accept "24V DC" or "120V AC" power can still differ in how much current they actually draw, and a marginal or undersized power supply that worked fine with the original meter can sag under a replacement with a different power draw, subtly affecting reading stability or accuracy. Confirming the replacement meter's actual power consumption against the supply's rated capacity — not just matching the
