Reply To: Converting a Vernier Height Gage to Digital?

[Martin WParticipant @martinw]

Hi

While I would not advocate destroying/converting a quality measuring instrument the article does, in my opinion, have merit in showing what can be done to make life easier in the 'Amateur's' workshop.

The comments about the accuracy of the old vernier instruments compared to the modern digital instruments doesn't really hold water. Modern digital measuring instruments are now offering resolutions to 0.001mm, 1 micron, with an accuracy better than + 0.002mm. They also have the capability of setting the '0' at any point, making relative measurements, measure in metric or imperial units, are easily read and come at a reasonable price. No wonder they are finding their way into everyday engineering situations.

No I am not a youngster looking for an easy way out but well into retirement and still ready to accept new ideas when they have merit. That said I still have and treasure my father's vernier calliper made by P Roch, Rolle, Switzerland complete with its purple lined case, circa 1939. Do I use it, no, would I ever butcher it, of course not.

Modern WELL MADE measuring instruments are every bit as good or even better than the items they replace.

Just my penny worth .

Martin W

 PS

Hi Norm

Looks like I was cogitating about my post when you submitted yours, sorry about the repeats but at least we are coming from a similar direction.

Cheers 

Edited By Martin W on 09/06/2012 11:31:11