Besides 3- and 4-digit digital indicators, additionally, there are 3 1/2-digit indicators available for sale. But exactly what is a 1/2 digit?
A complete digit can indicate all numbers from ?0? to ?9?. A 1/2 digit, on the other hand, can only display a ?1?, a number ?2? or higher isn’t possible. With a 3 1/2-digit digital indicator, the indicatable range of values is thus significantly limited in comparison to a 4-digit indicator.
Thus, on the main one hand, the maximum of the indicatable selection of values is 1999 instead of 9999. Alternatively, no negative values could be indicated, since the minus sign can’t be displayed in the initial position. Therefore, the the least the indicatable selection of values is 0 rather than -1999.
An exception to the limitation of the indicatable negative value range is represented by indicators that have another space for the display of the sign. Dishonest with this particular characteristic can therefore also indicate values right down to -1999.
Number of digits
3-digit indicator
3 1/2-digit indicator
4-digit indicator
Representation
Max. scale range, standard
-199?999
0?1999
-1999?9999
Max. scale range with separate sign
-999?999
-1999?1999
-9999?9999
Max. amount of positions after decimal point
2
3
3
Note
More info about digital indicators from WIKA can be found on our website.
See also our article
Characteristics of the display of an electronic indicator ? there you can find general information on the main characteristic features of the display of an electronic indicator.