Output meters measure the amount of work or energy produced by a device and can measure torque, sound, light, power, or electrical outputs. They vary in size and design and are used to diagnose system efficiency. Different types of output meters use different measurement methods and units of measure.
An output meter is a measuring device that provides an indication of the amount of work or energy produced by a device in a relevant unit of measurement. Output meters are used to measure many forms of work or energy, including torque, sound, light, power, or electrical outputs. Each different type of output meter has external metering devices and internal mechanisms that are relevant to the work or energy involved. Some output meters may be small portable devices, while others are found permanently mounted on dashboards, panels, or installation instrument consoles. Output meters are often essential diagnostic aids in establishing the overall efficiency of many different types of systems.
The power of most machines, appliances or systems that produce work or energy can be measured using a power meter. The measurement generated is useful in determining whether the particular machine or appliance is functioning properly. Output meter readings are taken in a variety of ways and expressed in application-specific units of measure. The meters themselves vary considerably in size and design.
For example, the light output meter is most often a small, hand-held device used to measure light output in photography, industrial or security lighting installations, and indoor crops. The devices typically consist of an array of photosensitive cells that collect light and express the output in lumens, lux, or candelas on a digital or analog readout. Sound or audio output meters can also be portable devices or permanently integrated into audio systems or recording and sampling desks. These meters measure the loudness of a system’s audio output. The unit of measurement used with these meters is usually the decibel or unit of sound pressure and volume (VU), which is a measure of electrical signal strength.
Electrical power outputs are measured in watts and typically displayed on watt power meters built into electrical distribution panels. The power of internal combustion engines and electric motors is expressed in horsepower (HP) or kilowatts (kW). The measurement method for these machines usually involves a resistance roller arrangement that is driven by an automobile’s engine or wheels with the reading displayed graphically on a panel or console-mounted gauge. The torque output of this type of machine is also measured in a similar way and expressed in foot pounds or newton meters.
There are many other types of output meters that measure a variety of system outputs, including air and fluid flow, temperature, and pressure. All of these devices use different measurement methods, such as temperature probes, pressure sensors, or flow-activated mechanical mechanisms. Output meter readings are not only used to verify whether individual devices are functioning properly, but also as a guide to overall system efficiency in applications that have interdependent elements.
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