Lab No 4
Conversion of Galvanometer into Voltmeter
Objectives:
Convert a galvanometer into a voltmeter by adding a high-resistance multiplier resistor in series,
allowing accurate measurement of voltage across a circuit without significant interference.
Apparatus:
Galvanometer
Breadboard
Digital Multimeter
D.C power supply
Connecting wires
Resistors
Galvanometer:
A galvanometer is basic type of instrument used to detect and measure small electric currents. It
forms the foundation for many modern electrical instruments, including ammeters and
voltmeters.
Fig 4.1
Working Principle:
A galvanometer operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction. When an electric current
flows through a coil within a magnetic field, a torque is exerted on the coil, causing it to rotate.
The degree of rotation is proportional to the strength of the current. A pointer attached to the coil
indicates the current intensity on a calibrated scale.
Construction:
Coil Design:
The coil is typically made of a lightweight and conductive material such as copper [Link] coil
is wound into a compact and precise shape to enhance its sensitivity to current changes.
Suspension System:
The coil is mounted on a spindle that allows it to rotate freely. The suspension system is
designed to minimize friction and mechanical resistance, ensuring the coil responds to even
small currents.
Magnetic Field:
- Galvanometers utilize a magnetic field, either from a permanent magnet or electromagnets, to
exert torque on the coil. The strength and uniformity of the magnetic field are crucial for
accurate and consistent readings.
Pointer and Scale:
A pointer is attached to the coil, and it moves over a calibrated [Link] scale is marked with
values representing the magnitude and direction of the current.
Damping Mechanism:
- Damping is incorporated to prevent the coil from oscillating excessively and to enable it to
settle quickly for accurate readings.
- Damping can be achieved through air resistance or fluid damping, depending on the design.
Housing and Enclosure:
- The galvanometer components are housed in a protective enclosure to shield them from
external influences.
- The design may include provisions for easy calibration and maintenance.
Sensitivity Adjustment:
- Some galvanometers have provisions for sensitivity adjustments to accommodate varying
current magnitudes.
Construction Material:
- High-quality materials are used to ensure durability and stability of the galvanometer's
components over time.
- Non-magnetic materials are often preferred to avoid interference with the magnetic field.
Zero-Adjustment Mechanism:
- A mechanism is included to enable the adjustment of the zero position, ensuring accurate
readings in the absence of current.
Fig 4.2
Procedure:
1. Make circuit according to diagram.
2. To convert galvanometer into voltmeter we connect high resistance in series with
galvanometer.
3. We find the series Resistance with help of this formula
Rse= [(V-Im Rm)/Im]
4. Find the value of Vg, Rg, & Ig to know the value of series resistance.
5. For the reading of galvanometer current “Im”.
6. We find the voltage passing through galvanometer
7. We test the ammeter in various current conditions to confirm its accuracy and reliability.
Ensure it doesn't significantly alter the behavior of the original circuit.
Circuit Diagram:
Calculations:
Applied Voltage Division on G.M Measure Measure %Error
Voltage on G.M Voltage on
DMM
10 1.62 3.24 3.5 7.40
15 2.5 4.05 5.3 7.01
20 3.5 5.67 6.1 5.58
25 11.6 18.9 19.5 3.07
30 20.1 35.3 36.2 2.48
Reading on galvanometer
Fig 4.4
Conclusion:
To turn a galvanometer into a voltmeter, connect a resistor in parallel. This resistor, called a
shunt, allows the voltmeter to measure higher voltages while protecting the galvanometer.