Full-scale deflection

Definition

Full-scale deflection is the maximum deflection of a measuring instrument's pointer or indicator, corresponding to the maximum current or voltage that the instrument can measure. It represents the upper limit of the instrument's range.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Full-scale deflection in an ammeter occurs at its maximum measurable current.
2. In voltmeters, full-scale deflection corresponds to the highest voltage that can be measured.
3. The sensitivity of an instrument is often described in terms of full-scale deflection.
4. When designing circuits, it's important to ensure that currents and voltages do not exceed the full-scale deflection limits of measuring instruments.
5. Exceeding full-scale deflection can damage the measuring instrument or lead to inaccurate readings.

Review Questions

Related terms

Ammeter:

An instrument used for measuring electric current in a circuit.

Voltmeter:

An instrument used for measuring electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit.

Sensitivity: The degree to which an instrument responds to small changes in the quantity being measured.