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 full digit can indicate all numbers from ?0? to ?9?. A 1/2 digit, on the other hand, can only display a ?1?, lots ?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 one hand, the utmost of the indicatable selection of values is 1999 instead of 9999. Alternatively, no negative values could be indicated, because the minus sign cannot be displayed in the initial position. Therefore, the minimum of the indicatable range of values is 0 rather than -1999.
An exception to the limitation of the indicatable negative value range is represented by indicators that have a separate space for the display of the sign. Displays with this particular characteristic can therefore also indicate values 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? Unpopular of positions after decimal point
2
3
3
Note
More information about digital indicators from WIKA are available on our website.
See also our article
Characteristics of the display of a digital indicator ? there you will discover general information on the most crucial characteristic features of the display of a digital indicator.