Analoognäitajad

Analoognäitajad, often translated as analog indicators or analog gauges, are instruments that display information through a mechanical pointer moving across a calibrated scale. Unlike digital displays that present numerical values, analog indicators rely on physical motion to convey data. Common examples include the speedometer and tachometer in a car, a traditional clock face, and mercury thermometers. The position of the pointer on the scale directly corresponds to the measured quantity, such as speed, time, or temperature.

The design of analog indicators typically involves a sensing mechanism that is linked to a pointer. This mechanism translates changes in the measured variable into rotational or linear movement. For instance, in a pressure gauge, a diaphragm or Bourdon tube deforms under pressure, and this deformation is mechanically amplified to move the pointer. The scale is carefully marked to ensure accurate readings.

Analog indicators offer several advantages. They can provide a continuous representation of data, allowing users to quickly observe trends and fluctuations. The visual nature of the display can be intuitive for some users, offering a more immediate understanding of the magnitude and direction of change. However, they can be less precise than digital counterparts, and reading them accurately can depend on viewing angle and lighting conditions. Despite the prevalence of digital technology, analog indicators remain in use in various applications where their unique display characteristics are valued.