intervalmeter

An intervalmeter, also known as an intervalometer or interval timer, is a device that triggers events at programmable time intervals. It is used to automate repetitive actions across camera control, laboratory experiments, and environmental monitoring. The core function is to generate timed outputs after an initial delay and then at set regular intervals for a specified number of cycles.

In photography, intervalmeters enable time-lapse sequences by triggering a camera shutter at fixed intervals, often with controllable exposure settings. They may be sold as standalone units or integrated into digital cameras; older film cameras required external intervalometers, while many modern cameras include built-in interval shooting modes or support third-party intervalometers.

In scientific and industrial contexts, intervalmeters automate data collection, sample triggering, or actuation of equipment, reducing the need for manual intervention and enabling precise replication of experiments. They are used in meteorology, biology, chemistry, astronomy, and manufacturing settings where repeated actions must occur at consistent intervals.

Typical features include programmable start delay, interval length, total number of shots or duration, and output types such as TTL electrical pulses, camera remote contacts, USB, or radio triggers. Some devices offer advanced capabilities like exposure control, multi-camera synchronization, exposure ramping, or external synchronization with clocks.

Limitations include dependence on power supply, potential timing drift if the device is not high-precision, and compatibility issues with certain camera makes or input types. For many users, software-based interval triggering on smartphones or computers can serve as a low-cost alternative, though hardware intervalmeters generally provide more reliable triggering in field conditions. See also: interval timer, time-lapse photography, data logger.