Digital and analog pressure both measure pressure and rate changes. While similar, there are also very distinct differences between the two that would make your choice heavily dependent on your needs regarding your pressure gauge. If you’re trying to figure out what makes a digital pressure gauge different from an analog pressure gauge, this is the guide you need.
Wide Range of Applications
If you aren’t sure whether you need a digital or analog gauge, it all comes down to usage. There are different types of accuracies necessary for different industries. Some of the most common uses for gauges are as follows:
- Line testing
- Calibration
- Tank refill
- Tire pressure
- Leak detection
- Process monitoring
This is only to name a few. Analog gauges tend to be on the more cost-effective side. While there is little that a digital one cannot do, it’s important to choose one that will suffice.
Quick and Precise
When it comes to digital gauges, like Parker gauges, you get a quick and precise reading. Speed and precision are crucial. The multi-function display allows you to see everything you need without having to take any extra calculations. Likewise, you are able to look at the past minimum and maximum readings. Between the two, a digital pressure gauge is more precise.
Easy to Read
From a distance, you are more likely to be able to read an analog pressure gauge. However, digital gauges have a clear screen with a digital display that makes it easier to see the accurate reading right away. Likewise, many of them are backlit so that you can see in all types of dim lighting. Of course, with an analog gauge, you have to count all of the hashes and sometimes the arrow may look off, given the angle. Digital takes out the guesswork.
Easy to Calibrate
While you can calibrate a digital and an analog pressure gauge, the digital is less likely to fall out of calibration. If you drop an analog gauge or bang it around, you’re most likely going to knock it out of calibration. The truth is that it doesn’t take a lot of effort to cause that problem. Digital pressure gauges, on the other hand, have a higher standard. In fact, many people will use a digital gauge to check to see if an analog gauge is in calibration. Digital gauges can withstand vibration, shock and a considerable amount of abuse without losing calibration.
Both digital and analog pressure gauges work. However, when it comes to accuracy and durability, the digital version tends to be of higher quality.