CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

MEASURING INSTRUMENTS

1.1 Definition of instruments

An instrument is a device in which we can determine the magnitude or value of the
quantity to be measured. The measuring quantity can be voltage, current, power and energy etc.
Generally instruments are classified in to two categories.

Instrument

Absolute Instrument Secondary Instrument

1.2 Absolute instrument

An absolute instrument determines the magnitude of the quantity to be measured in terms of the
instrument parameter. This instrument is really used, because each time the value of the
measuring quantities varies. So we have to calculate the magnitude of the measuring quantity,
analytically which is time consuming. These types of instruments are suitable for laboratory use.
Example: Tangent galvanometer.

1.3 Secondary instrument

This instrument determines the value of the quantity to be measured directly. Generally these
instruments are calibrated by comparing with another standard secondary instrument.
Examples of such instruments are voltmeter, ammeter and wattmeter etc. Practically
secondary instruments are suitable for measurement.

Secondary instruments

Indicating instruments Recording Integrating Electromechanically

Indicating instruments

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1.3.1 Indicating instrument

This instrument uses a dial and pointer to determine the value of measuring quantity. The pointer
indication gives the magnitude of measuring quantity.

1.3.2 Recording instrument

This type of instruments records the magnitude of the quantity to be measured continuously over
a specified period of time.

1.3.3 Integrating instrument

This type of instrument gives the total amount of the quantity to be measured over a specified
period of time.
1.3.4 Electromechanical indicating instrument

For satisfactory operation electromechanical indicating instrument, three forces are necessary.
They are
(a) Deflecting force

(b) Controlling force

(c)Damping force

1.4 Deflecting force

When there is no input signal to the instrument, the pointer will be at its zero position. To deflect
the pointer from its zero position, a force is necessary which is known as deflecting force. A
system which produces the deflecting force is known as a deflecting system. Generally a
deflecting system converts an electrical signal to a mechanical force.

Fig. 1.1 Pointer scale

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1.4.1 Magnitude effect

When a current passes through the coil (Fig.1.2), it produces a imaginary bar magnet. When a
soft-iron piece is brought near this coil it is magnetized. Depending upon the current direction
the poles are produced in such a way that there will be a force of attraction between the coil and
the soft iron piece. This principle is used in moving iron attraction type instrument.

Fig. 1.2

If two soft iron pieces are place near a current carrying coil there will be a force of repulsion
between the two soft iron pieces. This principle is utilized in the moving iron repulsion type
instrument.

1.4.2 Force between a permanent magnet and a current carrying coil

When a current carrying coil is placed under the influence of magnetic field produced by a
permanent magnet and a force is produced between them. This principle is utilized in the moving
coil type instrument.

Fig. 1.3

1.4.3 Force between two current carrying coil

When two current carrying coils are placed closer to each other there will be a force of repulsion
between them. If one coil is movable and other is fixed, the movable coil will move away from
the fixed one. This principle is utilized in electrodynamometer type instrument.

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Fig. 1.4

1.5 Controlling force

To make the measurement indicated by the pointer definite (constant) a force is necessary which
will be acting in the opposite direction to the deflecting force. This force is known as controlling
force. A system which produces this force is known as a controlled system. When the external
signal to be measured by the instrument is removed, the pointer should return back to the zero
position. This is possibly due to the controlling force and the pointer will be indicating a steady
value when the deflecting torque is equal to controlling torque.

Td = Tc (1.1)

1.5.1 Spring control

Two springs are attached on either end of spindle (Fig. 1.5).The spindle is placed in jewelled
bearing, so that the frictional force between the pivot and spindle will be minimum. Two springs
are provided in opposite direction to compensate the temperature error. The spring is made of
phosphorous bronze.

When a current is supply, the pointer deflects due to rotation of the spindle. While spindle is
rotate, the spring attached with the spindle will oppose the movements of the pointer. The torque
produced by the spring is directly proportional to the pointer deflection θ .

TC ∝ θ (1.2)

The deflecting torque produced Td proportional to ‘I’. When TC = Td , the pointer will come to a
steady position. Therefore
θ∝I (1.3)

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Fig. 1.5

Since, θ and I are directly proportional to the scale of such instrument which uses spring
controlled is uniform.
1.6 Damping force

The deflection torque and controlling torque produced by systems are electro mechanical.
Due to inertia produced by this system, the pointer oscillates about it final steady position before
coming to rest. The time required to take the measurement is more. To damp out the oscillation
is quickly, a damping force is necessary. This force is produced by different systems.

(a) Air friction damping

(b) Fluid friction damping
(c) Eddy current damping
1.6.1 Air friction damping

The piston is mechanically connected to a spindle through the connecting rod (Fig. 1.6). The
pointer is fixed to the spindle moves over a calibrated dial. When the pointer oscillates in
clockwise direction, the piston goes inside and the cylinder gets compressed. The air pushes the
piston upwards and the pointer tends to move in anticlockwise direction.

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Fig. 1.6

If the pointer oscillates in anticlockwise direction the piston moves away and the pressure of the
air inside cylinder gets reduced. The external pressure is more than that of the internal pressure.
Therefore the piston moves down wards. The pointer tends to move in clock wise direction.

1.6.2 Eddy current damping

Fig. 1.6 Disc type

An aluminum circular disc is fixed to the spindle (Fig. 1.6). This disc is made to move in the
magnetic field produced by a permanent magnet.

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When the disc oscillates it cuts the magnetic flux produced by damping magnet. An emf is
induced in the circular disc by faradays law. Eddy currents are established in the disc since it has
several closed paths. By Lenz’s law, the current carrying disc produced a force in a direction
opposite to oscillating force. The damping force can be varied by varying the projection of the
magnet over the circular disc.

Fig. 1.6 Rectangular type

1.7 Permanent Magnet Moving Coil (PMMC) instrument

One of the most accurate type of instrument used for D.C. measurements is PMMC instrument.
Construction: A permanent magnet is used in this type instrument. Aluminum former is
provided in the cylindrical in between two poles of the permanent magnet (Fig. 1.7). Coils are
wound on the aluminum former which is connected with the spindle. This spindle is supported
with jeweled bearing. Two springs are attached on either end of the spindle. The terminals of the
moving coils are connected to the spring. Therefore the current flows through spring 1, moving
coil and spring 2.

Damping: Eddy current damping is used. This is produced by aluminum former.

Control: Spring control is used.

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Fig. 1.7

Principle of operation
When D.C. supply is given to the moving coil, D.C. current flows through it. When the current
carrying coil is kept in the magnetic field, it experiences a force. This force produces a torque
and the former rotates. The pointer is attached with the spindle. When the former rotates, the
pointer moves over the calibrated scale. When the polarity is reversed a torque is produced in the
opposite direction. The mechanical stopper does not allow the deflection in the opposite
direction. Therefore the polarity should be maintained with PMMC instrument.
If A.C. is supplied, a reversing torque is produced. This cannot produce a continuous deflection.
Therefore this instrument cannot be used in A.C.

Torque developed by PMMC

Let Td =deflecting torque

TC = controlling torque
θ = angle of deflection
K=spring constant
b=width of the coil

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l=height of the coil or length of coil

N=No. of turns
I=current
B=Flux density
A=area of the coil
The force produced in the coil is given by
F = BIL sin θ (1.4)
°
When θ = 90
For N turns, F = NBIL (1.5)
Torque produced Td = F × ⊥ r distance (1.6)

Td = NBIL × b = BINA (1.7)

Td = BANI (1.8)

Td ∝ I (1.9)

Advantages
Torque/weight is high
Power consumption is less
Scale is uniform
Damping is very effective
Since operating field is very strong, the effect of stray field is negligible
Range of instrument can be extended
Disadvantages
Use only for D.C.
Cost is high
Error is produced due to ageing effect of PMMC
Friction and temperature error are present

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1.7.1 Extension of range of PMMC instrument

Case-I: Shunt
A low shunt resistance connected in parrel with the ammeter to extent the range of current. Large
current can be measured using low current rated ammeter by using a shunt.

Fig. 1.8

Let Rm =Resistance of meter

Rsh =Resistance of shunt

I m = Current through meter

I sh =current through shunt

I= current to be measure
∴Vm = Vsh (1.10)

I m Rm = I sh Rsh

I m Rsh
= (1.11)
I sh Rm

Apply KCL at ‘P’ I = I m + I sh (1.12)

Eqn (1.12) ÷ by I m

I I
= 1 + sh (1.13)
Im Im

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I R
=1+ m (1.14)
Im Rsh

 R 
∴ I = I m 1 + m  (1.15)
 Rsh 
 R 
1 + m  is called multiplication factor
 Rsh 
Shunt resistance is made of manganin. This has least thermoelectric emf. The change is
resistance, due to change in temperature is negligible.

Case (II): Multiplier

A large resistance is connected in series with voltmeter is called multiplier (Fig. 1.9). A large
voltage can be measured using a voltmeter of small rating with a multiplier.

Fig. 1.9
Let Rm =resistance of meter

Rse =resistance of multiplier

Vm =Voltage across meter

Vse = Voltage across series resistance

V= voltage to be measured
I m = I se (1.16)

Vm Vse
= (1.17)
Rm Rse

V R
∴ se = se (1.18)
Vm Rm

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Apply KVL, V = Vm + Vse (1.19)

Eqn (1.19) ÷ Vm

V V  R 
= 1 + se = 1 + se  (1.20)
Vm Vm  Rm 

 R 
∴V = Vm 1 + se  (1.21)
 Rm 

 Rse 
1 +  → Multiplication factor
 Rm 

1.8 Moving Iron (MI) instruments

One of the most accurate instrument used for both AC and DC measurement is moving iron
instrument. There are two types of moving iron instrument.
• Attraction type
• Repulsion type
1.8.1 Attraction type M.I. instrument
Construction: The moving iron fixed to the spindle is kept near the hollow fixed coil (Fig. 1.10).
The pointer and balance weight are attached to the spindle, which is supported with jeweled
bearing. Here air friction damping is used.

Principle of operation
The current to be measured is passed through the fixed coil. As the current is flow through the
fixed coil, a magnetic field is produced. By magnetic induction the moving iron gets magnetized.
The north pole of moving coil is attracted by the south pole of fixed coil. Thus the deflecting
force is produced due to force of attraction. Since the moving iron is attached with the spindle,
the spindle rotates and the pointer moves over the calibrated scale. But the force of attraction
depends on the current flowing through the coil.

Torque developed by M.I

Let ‘ θ ’ be the deflection corresponding to a current of ‘i’ amp
Let the current increases by di, the corresponding deflection is ‘ θ + dθ ’

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Fig. 1.10
There is change in inductance since the position of moving iron change w.r.t the fixed
electromagnets.
Let the new inductance value be ‘L+dL’. The current change by ‘di’ is dt seconds.
Let the emf induced in the coil be ‘e’ volt.
d di dL
e= ( Li ) = L + i (1.22)
dt dt dt
Multiplying by ‘idt’ in equation (1.22)
di dL
e × idt = L × idt + i × idt (1.23)
dt dt

e × idt = Lidi + i 2 dL (1.24)

Eqn (1.24) gives the energy is used in to two forms. Part of energy is stored in the inductance.
Remaining energy is converted in to mechanical energy which produces deflection.

Fig. 1.11

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Change in energy stored=Final energy-initial energy stored

1 1
= ( L + dL)(i + di) 2 − Li 2
2 2
1
= {( L + dL)(i 2 + di 2 + 2idi) − Li 2 }
2
1
= {( L + dL)(i 2 + 2idi) − Li 2 }
2
1
= {Li 2 + 2 Lidi + i 2 dL + 2ididL − Li 2 }
2
1
= {2 Lidi + i 2 dL}
2
1
= Lidi + i 2 dL (1.25)
2
Mechanical work to move the pointer by dθ
= Td dθ (1.26)
By law of conservation of energy,
Electrical energy supplied=Increase in stored energy+ mechanical work done.
Input energy= Energy stored + Mechanical energy
1
Lidi + i 2 dL = Lidi + i 2 dL + Td dθ (1.27)
2
1 2
i dL = Td dθ (1.28)
2
1 dL
Td = i 2 (1.29)
2 dθ
At steady state condition Td = TC

1 2 dL
i = Kθ (1.30)
2 dθ
1 2 dL
θ= i (1.31)
2 K dθ
θ ∝ i2 (1.32)
When the instruments measure AC, θ ∝ i 2 rms
Scale of the instrument is non uniform.

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Advantages
MI can be used in AC and DC
It is cheap
Supply is given to a fixed coil, not in moving coil.
Simple construction
Less friction error.
Disadvantages
It suffers from eddy current and hysteresis error
Scale is not uniform
It consumed more power
Calibration is different for AC and DC operation
1.8.2 Repulsion type moving iron instrument
Construction: The repulsion type instrument has a hollow fixed iron attached to it (Fig. 1.12).
The moving iron is connected to the spindle. The pointer is also attached to the spindle in
supported with jeweled bearing.
Principle of operation: When the current flows through the coil, a magnetic field is produced by
it. So both fixed iron and moving iron are magnetized with the same polarity, since they are kept
in the same magnetic field. Similar poles of fixed and moving iron get repelled. Thus the
deflecting torque is produced due to magnetic repulsion. Since moving iron is attached to
spindle, the spindle will move. So that pointer moves over the calibrated scale.
Damping: Air friction damping is used to reduce the oscillation.
Control: Spring control is used.

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Fig. 1.12

1.9 Dynamometer (or) Electromagnetic moving coil instrument (EMMC)

Fig. 1.13

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This instrument can be used for the measurement of voltage, current and power. The difference
between the PMMC and dynamometer type instrument is that the permanent magnet is replaced
by an electromagnet.

Construction: A fixed coil is divided in to two equal half. The moving coil is placed between the
two half of the fixed coil. Both the fixed and moving coils are air cored. So that the hysteresis
effect will be zero. The pointer is attached with the spindle. In a non metallic former the moving
coil is wounded.
Control: Spring control is used.
Damping: Air friction damping is used.
Principle of operation:

When the current flows through the fixed coil, it produced a magnetic field, whose flux density is
proportional to the current through the fixed coil. The moving coil is kept in between the fixed
coil. When the current passes through the moving coil, a magnetic field is produced by this coil.

The magnetic poles are produced in such a way that the torque produced on the moving coil
deflects the pointer over the calibrated scale. This instrument works on AC and DC. When AC
voltage is applied, alternating current flows through the fixed coil and moving coil. When the
current in the fixed coil reverses, the current in the moving coil also reverses. Torque remains in
the same direction. Since the current i1 and i2 reverse simultaneously. This is because the fixed
and moving coils are either connected in series or parallel.

Torque developed by EMMC

Fig. 1.14

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Let
L1=Self inductance of fixed coil
L2= Self inductance of moving coil
M=mutual inductance between fixed coil and moving coil
i1=current through fixed coil
i2=current through moving coil
Total inductance of system,
Ltotal = L1 + L2 + 2M (1.33)
But we know that in case of M.I
1 2 d ( L)
Td = i (1.34)
2 dθ
1 d
Td = i 2 ( L1 + L2 + 2 M ) (1.35)
2 dθ

The value of L1 and L2 are independent of ‘ θ ’ but ‘M’ varies with θ

1 dM
Td = i 2 × 2 (1.36)
2 dθ
dM
Td = i 2 (1.37)
dθ
If the coils are not connected in series i1 ≠ i2
dM
∴Td = i1i2 (1.38)
dθ
TC = Td (1.39)

i1i2 dM (1.40)
∴θ =
K dθ

Hence the deflection of pointer is proportional to the current passing through fixed coil and
moving coil.

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1.9.1 Extension of EMMC instrument

Case-I Ammeter connection
Fixed coil and moving coil are connected in parallel for ammeter connection. The coils are
designed such that the resistance of each branch is same.
Therefore
I1 = I 2 = I

Fig. 1.15

To extend the range of current a shunt may be connected in parallel with the meter. The value
Rsh is designed such that equal current flows through moving coil and fixed coil.

dM
∴ Td = I1I 2 (1.41)
dθ
dM
Or ∴ Td = I 2 (1.42)
dθ
TC = Kθ (1.43)

I 2 dM
θ= (1.44)
K dθ

∴θ ∝ I 2 (Scale is not uniform) (1.45)

Case-II Voltmeter connection

Fixed coil and moving coil are connected in series for voltmeter connection. A multiplier may be
connected in series to extent the range of voltmeter.

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Fig. 1.16
V V
I1 = 1 , I 2 = 2 (1.46)
Z1 Z2

V V dM
Td = 1 × 2 × (1.47)
Z1 Z 2 dθ

K V K V dM
Td = 1 × 2 × (1.48)
Z1 Z2 dθ

KV 2 dM
Td = × (1.49)
Z1Z 2 dθ

Td ∝ V 2 (1.50)

∴θ ∝ V 2 (Scale in not uniform) (1.51)

Case-III As wattmeter

When the two coils are connected to parallel, the instrument can be used as a wattmeter. Fixed
coil is connected in series with the load. Moving coil is connected in parallel with the load. The
moving coil is known as voltage coil or pressure coil and fixed coil is known as current coil.

Fig. 1.17

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Assume that the supply voltage is sinusoidal. If the impedance of the coil is neglected in
comparison with the resistance ‘R’. The current,
v sin wt
I2 = m (1.52)
R
Let the phase difference between the currents I1 and I2 is φ

I1 = I m sin(wt − φ ) (1.53)

dM
Td = I1I 2 (1.54)
dθ
V sin wt dM
Td = I m sin( wt − φ ) × m (1.55)
R dθ
1 dM
Td = ( I mVm sin wt sin( wt − φ )) (1.56)
R dθ
1 dM
Td = I mVm sin wt. sin( wt − φ ) (1.57)
R dθ
The average deflecting torque

1 2Π
(Td ) avg = ∫ Td × d (wt ) (1.58)
2Π 0
2Π
1 1 dM
(Td ) avg = ∫ R×I V sin wt.sin( wt − φ ) × d (wt ) (1.59)
dθ
m m
2Π 0

Vm I m 1 dM  
(Td ) avg = × ×  ∫ {cos φ − cos(2 wt − φ )}dwt  (1.60)
2 × 2Π R dθ  

Vm I m dM 
2Π 2Π

(Td ) avg = ×  ∫ cosφ .dwt − ∫ cos(2wt − φ ).dwt  (1.61)
4ΠR dθ  0 0 

(Td ) avg =
Vm I m dM
×
4Π R dθ
[
cos φ [wt ]0
2Π
] (1.62)

Vm I m dM
(Td ) avg = × [cos φ (2Π − 0)] (1.63)
4Π R dθ
Vm I m 1 dM
(Td ) avg = × × × cos φ (1.64)
2 R dθ
1 dM
(Td ) avg = Vrms × I rms × cos φ × × (1.65)
R dθ

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(Td ) avg ∝ KVI cosφ (1.66)

TC ∝ θ (1.67)

θ ∝ KVI cos φ (1.68)

θ ∝ VI cos φ (1.69)
Advantages
It can be used for voltmeter, ammeter and wattmeter
Hysteresis error is nill
Eddy current error is nill
Damping is effective
It can be measure correctively and accurately the rms value of the voltage

Disadvantages
Scale is not uniform
Power consumption is high(because of high resistance )
Cost is more
Error is produced due to frequency, temperature and stray field.
Torque/weight is low.(Because field strength is very low)

Errors in PMMC
The permanent magnet produced error due to ageing effect. By heat treatment, this error
can be eliminated.
The spring produces error due to ageing effect. By heat treating the spring the error can
be eliminated.
When the temperature changes, the resistance of the coil vary and the spring also
produces error in deflection. This error can be minimized by using a spring whose
temperature co-efficient is very low.
1.10 Difference between attraction and repulsion type instrument
An attraction type instrument will usually have a lower inductance, compare to repulsion type
instrument. But in other hand, repulsion type instruments are more suitable for economical
production in manufacture and nearly uniform scale is more easily obtained. They are therefore
much more common than attraction type.

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1.11 Characteristics of meter

1.11.1 Full scale deflection current( I FSD )
The current required to bring the pointer to full-scale or extreme right side of the
instrument is called full scale deflection current. It must be as small as possible. Typical value is
between 2 µ A to 30mA.
1.11.2 Resistance of the coil( Rm )

This is ohmic resistance of the moving coil. It is due to ρ , L and A. For an ammeter this should
be as small as possible.
1.11.3 Sensitivity of the meter(S)
1 Z↑
S= (Ω / volt ), ↑ S =
I FSD V
It is also called ohms/volt rating of the instrument. Larger the sensitivity of an instrument, more
accurate is the instrument. It is measured in Ω/volt. When the sensitivity is high, the impedance
of meter is high. Hence it draws less current and loading affect is negligible. It is also defend as
one over full scale deflection current.
1.12 Error in M.I instrument
1.12.1 Temperature error
Due to temperature variation, the resistance of the coil varies. This affects the deflection of the
instrument. The coil should be made of manganin, so that the resistance is almost constant.

1.12.2 Hysteresis error

Due to hysteresis affect the reading of the instrument will not be correct. When the current is
decreasing, the flux produced will not decrease suddenly. Due to this the meter reads a higher
value of current. Similarly when the current increases the meter reads a lower value of current.
This produces error in deflection. This error can be eliminated using small iron parts with narrow
hysteresis loop so that the demagnetization takes place very quickly.

1.12.3 Eddy current error

The eddy currents induced in the moving iron affect the deflection. This error can be reduced by
increasing the resistance of the iron.

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1.12.4 Stray field error

Since the operating field is weak, the effect of stray field is more. Due to this, error is produced
in deflection. This can be eliminated by shielding the parts of the instrument.

1.12.5 Frequency error

When the frequency changes the reactance of the coil changes.

Z = ( Rm + RS ) 2 + X L2 (1.70)

V V
I= = (1.71)
Z ( Rm + RS ) 2 + X L2

Fig. 1.18

Deflection of moving iron voltmeter depends upon the current through the coil. Therefore,
deflection for a given voltage will be less at higher frequency than at low frequency. A capacitor
is connected in parallel with multiplier resistance. The net reactance, ( X L − X C ) is very small,
when compared to the series resistance. Thus the circuit impedance is made independent of
frequency. This is because of the circuit is almost resistive.
L
C = 0.41 (1.72)
( RS ) 2
1.13 Electrostatic instrument
In multi cellular construction several vans and quadrants are provided. The voltage is to be
measured is applied between the vanes and quadrant. The force of attraction between the vanes

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and quadrant produces a deflecting torque. Controlling torque is produced by spring control. Air
friction damping is used.

The instrument is generally used for measuring medium and high voltage. The voltage is reduced
to low value by using capacitor potential divider. The force of attraction is proportional to the
square of the voltage.

Fig. 1.19
Torque develop by electrostatic instrument
V=Voltage applied between vane and quadrant
C=capacitance between vane and quadrant
1
Energy stored= CV 2 (1.73)
2
Let ‘ θ ’ be the deflection corresponding to a voltage V.
Let the voltage increases by dv, the corresponding deflection is’ θ + dθ ’
When the voltage is being increased, a capacitive current flows
dq d (CV ) dC dV
i= = = V +C (1.74)
dt dt dt dt
V × dt multiply on both side of equation (1.74)

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Fig. 1.20

dC 2 dV
Vidt = V dt + CV dt (1.75)
dt dt

Vidt = V 2 dC + CVdV (1.76)

1 1
Change in stored energy= (C + dC )(V + dV )2 − CV 2 (1.77)
2 2

=
1
2
[ ] 1
(C + dC )V 2 + dV 2 + 2VdV − CV 2
2
1
2
[ 1
]
= CV 2 + CdV 2 + 2CVdV + V 2 dC + dCdV 2 + 2VdVdC − CV 2
2
1
= V 2 dC + CVdV
2
1
V 2 dC + CVdV = V 2 dC + CVdV + F × rdθ (1.78)
2
1
Td × dθ = V 2 dC (1.79)
2

1  dC 
Td = V 2   (1.80)
2  dθ 

At steady state condition, Td = TC

1  dC 
Kθ = V 2   (1.81)
2  dθ 

1 2  dC 
θ= V   (1.82)
2K  dθ 

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Advantages
It is used in both AC and DC.
There is no frequency error.
There is no hysteresis error.
There is no stray magnetic field error. Because the instrument works on electrostatic
principle.
It is used for high voltage
Power consumption is negligible.
Disadvantages
Scale is not uniform
Large in size
Cost is more
1.14 Multi range Ammeter
When the switch is connected to position (1), the supplied current I1

Fig. 1.21

I sh1Rsh1 = I m Rm (1.83)
I R I R
Rsh1 = m m = m m (1.84)
I sh1 I1 − I m

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Rm Rm I
Rsh1 = , Rsh1 = , m1 = 1 = Multiplying power of shunt
I1
−1 m1 − 1 Im
Im
Rm I
Rsh 2 = , m2 = 2 (1.85)
m2 − 1 Im

Rm I
Rsh3 = , m3 = 3 (1.86)
m3 − 1 Im

Rm I
Rsh 4 = , m4 = 4 (1.87)
m4 − 1 Im

1.15 Ayrton shunt

R1 = Rsh1 − Rsh2 (1.88)

R2 = Rsh2 − Rsh3 (1.89)

R3 = Rsh3 − Rsh4 (1.90)

R4 = Rsh 4 (1.91)

Fig. 1.22
Ayrton shunt is also called universal shunt. Ayrton shunt has more sections of resistance. Taps
are brought out from various points of the resistor. The variable points in the o/p can be
connected to any position. Various meters require different types of shunts. The Aryton shunt is
used in the lab, so that any value of resistance between minimum and maximum specified can be
used. It eliminates the possibility of having the meter in the circuit without a shunt.

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

1.16 Multi range D.C. voltmeter

Fig. 1.23

Rs1 = Rm ( m1 − 1)
Rs 2 = Rm (m2 − 1) (1.92)
Rs3 = Rm (m3 − 1)
V V V
m1 = 1 , m2 = 2 , m3 = 3 (1.93)
Vm Vm Vm

We can obtain different Voltage ranges by connecting different value of multiplier resistor in
series with the meter. The number of these resistors is equal to the number of ranges required.

1.17 Potential divider arrangement

The resistance R1, R2 , R3 and R4 is connected in series to obtained the ranges V1,V2 ,V3 and V4

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.24
Consider for voltage V1, ( R1 + Rm ) I m = V1

V V V 
∴ R1 = 1 − Rm = 1 − Rm =  1  Rm − Rm (1.94)
Im V  Vm 
( m)
Rm

R1 = (m1 − 1) Rm (1.95)

V
For V2 , ( R2 + R1 + Rm ) I m = V2 ⇒ R2 = 2 − R1 − Rm (1.96)
Im

V2
R2 = − (m1 − 1) Rm − Rm (1.97)
 Vm 
 
 Rm 
R2 = m2 Rm − Rm − (m1 − 1) Rm

= Rm (m2 − 1 − m1 + 1) (1.98)

R2 = (m2 − m1) Rm (1.99)

For V3 (R3 + R2 + R1 + Rm )I m = V3

V
R3 = 3 − R2 − R1 − Rm
Im

V
= 3 Rm − (m2 − m1 ) Rm − (m1 − 1) Rm − Rm
Vm
= m3 Rm − (m2 − m1 ) Rm − (m1 − 1) Rm − Rm

R3 = (m3 − m2 ) Rm

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

For V4 (R4 + R3 + R2 + R1 + Rm )I m = V4
V
R4 = 4 − R3 − R2 − R1 − Rm
Im

V 
=  4  Rm − (m3 − m2 ) Rm − (m2 − m1) Rm − (m1 − 1) Rm − Rm
 Vm 
R4 = Rm [m4 − m3 + m2 − m2 + m1 − m1 + 1 − 1]
R4 = (m4 − m3 )Rm

Example: 1.1
A PMMC ammeter has the following specification
Coil dimension are 1cm × 1cm. Spring constant is 0.15 × 10 −6 N − m / rad , Flux density is

1.5 × 10 −3 wb / m 2 .Determine the no. of turns required to produce a deflection of 900 when a current
2mA flows through the coil.

Solution:
At steady state condition Td = TC
BANI = Kθ
Kθ
⇒N=
BAI

A= 1 × 10−4 m 2
N −m
K= 0.15 × 10 − 6
rad

B= 1.5 × 10 −3 wb / m 2

I= 2 × 10 −3 A
Π
θ = 90° = rad
2
N=785 ans.
Example: 1.2

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

The pointer of a moving coil instrument gives full scale deflection of 20mA. The potential
difference across the meter when carrying 20mA is 400mV.The instrument to be used is 200A
for full scale deflection. Find the shunt resistance required to achieve this, if the instrument to be
used as a voltmeter for full scale reading with 1000V. Find the series resistance to be connected
it?
Solution:
Case-1
Vm =400mV

I m = 20mA
I=200A
V 400
Rm = m = = 20Ω
Im 20

 R 
I = I m 1 + m 
 Rsh 
 20 
200 = 20 × 10−3 1 + 
 Rsh 

Rsh = 2 × 10 −3 Ω

Case-II
V=1000V
 R 
V = Vm 1 + se 
 Rm 

 R 
4000 = 400 × 10 − 3 1 + se 
 20 

Rse = 49.98kΩ

Example: 1.3
A 150 v moving iron voltmeter is intended for 50HZ, has a resistance of 3kΩ. Find the series
resistance required to extent the range of instrument to 300v. If the 300V instrument is used to
measure a d.c. voltage of 200V. Find the voltage across the meter?
Solution:
Rm = 3kΩ , Vm = 150V , V = 300V

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

 R se 
V = Vm 1 + 
 Rm 

 R 
300 = 1501 + se  ⇒ Rse = 3kΩ
 3 

 R 
Case-II V = Vm 1 + se 
 Rm 

 3
200 = Vm 1 + 
 3
∴Vm = 100V Ans

Example: 1.4
What is the value of series resistance to be used to extent ‘0’to 200V range of 20,000Ω/volt
voltmeter to 0 to 2000 volt?

Solution:
Vse = V − V = 1800
1 1
I FSD = =
20000 Sensitivity
Vse = Rse × iFSD ⇒ Rse = 36MΩ ans.

Example: 1.5
A moving coil instrument whose resistance is 25Ω gives a full scale deflection with a current of
1mA. This instrument is to be used with a manganin shunt, to extent its range to 100mA.
Calculate the error caused by a 100C rise in temperature when:
(a) Copper moving coil is connected directly across the manganin shunt.
(b) A 75 ohm manganin resistance is used in series with the instrument moving coil.
The temperature co-efficient of copper is 0.004/0C and that of manganin is 0.000150/C.
Solution:
Case-1
I m = 1mA

Rm = 25Ω

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

I=100mA
 R 
I = I m 1 + m 
 Rsh 

 25  25
100 = 11 +  ⇒ = 99
 Rsh  Rsh
25
⇒ Rsh = = 0.2525Ω
99

Instrument resistance for 100C rise in temperature, Rmt = 25(1 + 0.004 × 10)

Rt = Ro (1 + ρt × t )

Rm / t =10° = 26Ω

Shunt resistance for 100C, rise in temperature

Rsh / t =10° = 0.2525(1 + 0.00015 × 10) = 0.2529Ω

Current through the meter for 100mA in the main circuit for 100C rise in temperature
 Rm 
I = I m 1 + 
Rsh  t =10 C
°

 26 
100 = I mt 1 + 
 0.2529 
Im = 0.963mA
t =10

But normal meter current=1mA

Error due to rise in temperature=(0.963-1)*100=-3.7%
Case-b As voltmeter
Total resistance in the meter circuit= Rm + Rsh = 25 + 75 = 100Ω

 R 
I = I m 1 + m 
 Rsh 

 100 
100 = 11 + 
 Rsh 

100
Rsh = = 1.01Ω
100 − 1

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Resistance of the instrument circuit for 100C rise in temperature

Rm = 25(1 + 0.004 × 10) + 75(1 + 0.00015 × 10) = 101 .11Ω
t =10

Shunt resistance for 100C rise in temperature

Rsh = 1.01(1 + 0.00015 × 10) = 1.0115Ω
t =10

 R 
I = I m 1 + m 
 Rsh 
 101.11 
100 = I m 1 + 
 1.0115 

I m t = 10° = 0.9905mA

Error =(0.9905-1)*100=-0.95%

Example: 1.6
The coil of a 600V M.I meter has an inductance of 1 henery. It gives correct reading at 50HZ and
requires 100mA. For its full scale deflection, what is % error in the meter when connected to
200V D.C. by comparing with 200V A.C?

Solution:
Vm = 600V , I m = 100mA
Case-I A.C.
V 600
Zm = m = = 6000Ω
I m 0 .1

X L = 2ΠfL = 314Ω

Rm = Z m 2 − X L2 = (6000) 2 − (314) 2 = 5990Ω

V 200
I AC = AC = = 33.33mA
Z 6000
Case-II D.C
V 200
I DC = DC = = 33.39mA
Rm 5990

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

I − I AC 33.39 − 33.33
Error= DC × 100 = × 100 = 0.18%
I AC 33.33

Example: 1.7
A 250V M.I. voltmeter has coil resistance of 500Ω, coil inductance 0f 1.04 H and series
resistance of 2kΩ. The meter reads correctively at 250V D.C. What will be the value of
capacitance to be used for shunting the series resistance to make the meter read correctly at
50HZ? What is the reading of voltmeter on A.C. without capacitance?

L
Solution: C = 0.41
( RS ) 2
1.04
= 0.41 × = 0.1µF
(2 × 103 ) 2

For A.C Z = ( Rm + RSe ) 2 + X L2

Z = (500 + 2000) 2 + (314) 2 = 2520Ω

With D.C
Rtotal = 2500Ω
For 2500Ω → 250V
250
1Ω →
2500

250
2520Ω → × 2520 = 248V
2500
Example: 1.8
The relationship between inductance of moving iron ammeter, the current and the position of
pointer is as follows:
Reading (A) 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8
Deflection (degree) 36.5 49.5 61.5 74.5
Inductance ( µH ) 575.2 576.5 577.8 578.8
Calculate the deflecting torque and the spring constant when the current is 1.5A?
Solution:
For current I=1.5A, θ =55.5 degree=0.96865 rad

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

dL 577.65 − 576.5
= = 0.11µH / deg ree = 6.3µH / rad
dθ 60 − 49.5
1 2 dL 1
Deflecting torque , Td = I = (1.5) 2 × 6.3 × 10 − 6 = 7.09 × 10 − 6 N − m
2 dθ 2

T 7.09 × 10 −6 N −m
Spring constant, K = d = = 7.319 × 10 − 6
θ 0.968 rad

Fig. 1.25
Example: 1.9
For a certain dynamometer ammeter the mutual inductance ‘M’ varies with deflection θ as

M = −6 cos(θ + 30° )mH .Find the deflecting torque produced by a direct current of 50mA
corresponding to a deflection of 600.
Solution:

dM dM
Td = I1I 2 = I2
dθ dθ

M = −6 cos(θ + 30° )
dM
= 6 sin(θ + 30)mH
dθ
dM
θ = 60 = 6 sin 90 = 6mH / deg
dθ
dM
Td = I 2 = (50 × 10 − 3 ) 2 × 6 × 10 − 3 = 15 × 10 − 6 N − m
dθ

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Example: 1.10
The inductance of a moving iron ammeter with a full scale deflection of 900 at 1.5A, is given by

the expression L = 200 + 40θ − 4θ 2 − θ 3µH , where θ is deflection in radian from the zero
position. Estimate the angular deflection of the pointer for a current of 1.0A.

Solution:

L = 200 + 40θ − 4θ 2 − θ 3 µH
dL 2
° = 40 − 8θ − 3θ µH / rad
dθ θ = 90

dL Π Π
° = 40 − 8 × − 3( ) 2 µH / rad = 20 µH / rad
dθ θ = 90 2 2
1 2  dL 
∴θ = I  
2 K  dθ 

Π 1 (1.5) 2
= × 20 × 10 − 6
2 2 K

K=Spring constant=14.32 × 10 −6 N − m / rad

1 2  dL 
For I=1A, ∴θ = I  
2 K  dθ 

∴θ =
1
×
(1) 2
2 14.32 × 10 − 6
(
40 − 8θ − 3θ 2 )
3θ + 36.64θ 2 − 40 = 0

θ = 1.008rad ,57.8°
Example: 1.11

The inductance of a moving iron instrument is given by L = 10 + 5θ − θ 2 − θ 3 µH , where θ is

the deflection in radian from zero position. The spring constant is 12 × 10 −6 N − m / rad . Estimate
the deflection for a current of 5A.
Solution:

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

dL µH
= (5 − 2θ )
dθ rad
1 2  dL 
∴θ = I  
2 K  dθ 

1 (5) 2
∴θ = × (5 − 2θ ) × 10 − 6
2 12 × 10 − 6

∴θ = 1.69rad ,96.8°

Example: 1.12
The following figure gives the relation between deflection and inductance of a moving iron
instrument.
Deflection (degree) 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Inductance ( µH ) 335 345 355.5 366.5 376.5 385 391.2 396.5
Find the current and the torque to give a deflection of (a) 300 (b) 800 . Given that control spring

constant is 0.4 × 10 −6 N − m / deg ree

Solution:
1 2  dL 
θ= I  
2 K  dθ 

(a) For θ = 30°

The curve is linear
 dL  355.5 − 335
∴  = = 1.075µH / deg ree = 58.7 µH / rad
 dθ θ = 30 40 − 20

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Fig. 1.26
Example: 1.13
In an electrostatic voltmeter the full scale deflection is obtained when the moving plate turns
through 900. The torsional constant is 10 × 10 −6 N − m / rad . The relation between the angle of
deflection and capacitance between the fixed and moving plates is given by
Deflection (degree) 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Capacitance (PF) 81.4 121 156 189.2 220 246 272 294 316 334
Find the voltage applied to the instrument when the deflection is 900?
Solution:

Fig. 1.27

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

dC bc 370 − 250
= tan θ = = = 1.82 PF / deg ree = 104.2 PF / rad
dθ ab 110 − 44
N −m
Spring constant K = 10 × 10 − 6 = 0.1745 × 10 − 6 N − m / deg ree
rad

1 2  dC  2 Kθ
θ= V   ⇒V =
2K  dθ  dC
dθ

2 × 0.1745 × 10 − 6 × 90
V= = 549volt
104.2 × 10 −12
Example: 1.14
Design a multi range d.c. mille ammeter using a basic movement with an internal resistance
Rm = 50Ω and a full scale deflection current I m = 1mA . The ranges required are 0-10mA; 0-50mA;

0-100mA and 0-500mA.

Solution:
Case-I 0-10mA
I 10
Multiplying power m = = = 10
Im 1
Rm 50
∴ Shunt resistance Rsh1 = = = 5.55Ω
m − 1 10 − 1
Case-II 0-50mA
50
m= = 50
1
Rm 50
Rsh 2 = = = 1.03Ω
m − 1 50 − 1
100
Case-III 0-100mA, m = = 100Ω
1
Rm 50
Rsh3 = = = 0.506Ω
m − 1 100 − 1
500
Case-IV 0-500mA, m = = 500Ω
1
Rm 50
Rsh 4 = = = 0.1Ω
m − 1 500 − 1
Example: 1.15

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

A moving coil voltmeter with a resistance of 20Ω gives a full scale deflection of 1200, when a
potential difference of 100mV is applied across it. The moving coil has dimension of
30mm*25mm and is wounded with 100 turns. The control spring constant is

0.375 × 10 −6 N − m / deg ree. Find the flux density, in the air gap. Find also the diameter of copper
wire of coil winding if 30% of instrument resistance is due to coil winding. The specific

resistance for copper= 1.7 × 10 −8 Ωm .

Solution:
Data given
Vm = 100mV

Rm = 20Ω

θ = 120°
N=100

K = 0.375 × 10 −6 N − m / deg ree

RC = 30%ofRm

ρ = 1.7 × 10−8 Ωm
V
I m = m = 5 × 10 −3 A
Rm

Td = BANI , TC = Kθ = 0.375 × 10 −6 × 120 = 45 × 10 −6 N − m

Td 45 × 10 −6
B= = = 0.12 wb / m 2
− 6
ANI 30 × 25 × 10 × 100 × 5 × 10 − 3

RC = 0.3 × 20 = 6Ω
Length of mean turn path =2(a+b) =2(55)=110mm

 ρl 
RC = N  
 A

N × ρ × (lt ) 100 × 1.7 × 10 −8 × 110 × 10−3

A= =
RC 6

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

= 3.116 × 10−8 m 2
= 31.16 × 10−3 mm 2
Π 2
A= d ⇒ d = 0.2mm
4
Example: 1.16
A moving coil instrument gives a full scale deflection of 10mA, when the potential difference
across its terminal is 100mV. Calculate

(1) The shunt resistance for a full scale deflection corresponding to 100A
(2) The resistance for full scale reading with 1000V.
Calculate the power dissipation in each case?

Solution:

Data given
I m = 10mA
Vm = 100mV
I = 100 A
 Rm 
I = I m 1 + 
 Rsh 

 10 
100 = 10 × 10−3 1 + 
 Rsh 
Rsh = 1.001× 10−3 Ω

Rse = ??,V = 1000V

V 100
Rm = m = = 10Ω
Im 10

 R 
V = Vm 1 + se 
 Rm 

 R 
1000 = 100 × 10 − 3 1 + se 
 10 
∴ Rse = 99.99 KΩ

Example: 1.17

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

Design an Aryton shunt to provide an ammeter with current ranges of 1A,5A,10A and 20A. A
basic meter with an internal resistance of 50w and a full scale deflection current of 1mA is to be
used.
Solution: Data given

I
m1 = 1 = 1000 A
Im
I1 = 1A I
−3
m2 = 2 = 5000 A
I m = 1× 10 A I2 = 5A Im
Rm = 50Ω I 3 = 10 A I
m3 = 3 = 10000 A
I 4 = 20 A Im
I
m4 = 4 = 20000 A
Im

Rm 50
Rsh1 = = = 0.05Ω
m1 − 1 1000 − 1
Rm 50
Rsh 2 = = = 0.01Ω
m2 − 1 5000 − 1
Rm 50
Rsh3 = = = 0.005Ω
m3 − 1 10000 − 1
Rm 50
Rsh 4 = = = 0.0025Ω
m4 − 1 20000 − 1
∴ The resistances of the various section of the universal shunt are

R1 = Rsh1 − Rsh 2 = 0.05 − 0.01 = 0.04Ω

R2 = Rsh 2 − Rsh3 = 0.01 − 0.005 = 0.005Ω
R3 = Rsh3 − Rsh 4 = 0.005 − 0.025 = 0.0025Ω
R4 = Rsh 4 = 0.0025Ω

Example: 1.18
A basic d’ Arsonval meter movement with an internal resistance Rm = 100Ω and a full scale
current of I m = 1mA is to be converted in to a multi range d.c. voltmeter with ranges of 0-10V, 0-
50V, 0-250V, 0-500V. Find the values of various resistances using the potential divider
arrangement.
Solution:
Data given

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 CLASS NOTES ON ELECTRICAL MEASUREMENTS & INSTRUMENTATION 2015

V 10
m1 = 1 = = 100
Vm 100 × 10 − 3
Rm = 100Ω
V 50
I m = 1mA m2 = 2 = = 500
Vm 100 × 10 − 3
Vm = I m × Rm
V 250
Vm = 100 × 1× 10−3 m3 = 3 = = 2500
Vm 100 × 10 − 3
Vm = 100mV V 500
m4 = 4 = = 5000
Vm 100 × 10 − 3

R1 = (m1 − 1) Rm = (100 − 1) × 100 = 9900Ω

R2 = (m2 − m1 ) Rm = (500 − 100) × 100 = 40 KΩ
R3 = (m3 − m2 ) Rm = (2500 − 500) × 100 = 200 KΩ
R4 = (m4 − m3 ) Rm = (5000 − 2500) × 100 = 250 KΩ

53