Increased Range

for DVM
R1
INH

Vin R2

Iin

INL

Range R1 R2
040037- 11
2V 910k 100k
20 V 1M 10k
Vin
200 V 1M 1k addition, it is also possible to measure In contrast with the input impedance of a
current with these modules. voltmeter, the input impedance of a cur-
2000 V 1M 100 Ω In order to measure higher voltages we rent meter needs to be as low as possi-
200 mA 0Ω 1k have to reduce the voltage with a poten- ble. The input impedance of this circuit
tial divider. For this purpose we add R1 depends on the range and is practically
2 mA 0Ω 100 Ω
Iin and R2. R1 is connected in series with identical to the value of R2. As a conse-
20 mA 0Ω 10 Ω the + input of the module and R2 is con- quence, keep in mind that there is a volt-
nected in parallel with the inputs. In the age drop across the meter of up to 0.2 V.
200 mA 0Ω 1Ω
table we can see the correct ratios of R1 When making measurements you have
and R2. These modules typically have an to take into account that lethal voltages
Voltmeter modules are readily available, input impedance of more than 10 MΩ. can be present in the circuit, particularly
both as LCD- and LED-versions. A disad- With the attenuator in front of it the input with the 200-V and 2000-V ranges. In
vantage of these modules is the standard impedance reduces to 1 MΩ, still high addition, the specifications of your ordi-
measuring range of 200 mV DC. So, enough for most measurements. nary, common or garden resistor do not
with such a module you can only meas- To measure current with a voltmeter we permit these kinds of voltages. When
ure DC voltages up to 0.2 volts. Fortu- first have to convert the current into an measuring these high voltages suitable
nately it is not difficult to increase the equivalent voltage. Resistor values for resistors need to be used.
measuring range to higher voltages. In doing this are also shown in the table. (040037-1)

2 elektor electronics - 7-8/2006