Looking for cheap voltmeter

[wesnewell]

I'm looking for a cheap, small voltmeter that will go up to at least 60V. Digital that draws it's power from the measured source would be perfect. No, not a cheap vom. I've already got a couple of them. By cheap, I mean under $10. Anyone run across something like this?

 

[wesnewell]

I guess no cheap volt meters then. What's involved in wiring in a Watt's Up? Batt in -> out?

 

[neptronix]

Yep, pretty much.

Same thing with the turnigy watt-meter.

They're about $17.

 

[wesnewell]

Yep, pretty much.

Same thing with the turnigy watt-meter.

They're about $17.

Who sells these for $17?

 

[neptronix]

HM.. i think they went up in price.. $24 now:

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=10080

 

[auraslip]

I'm also looking for a cheap panel voltmeter that goes to 100v

like this? http://www.sureelectronics.net/goods.php?id=31

 

[wesnewell]

I'm also looking for a cheap panel voltmeter that goes to 100v

like this? http://www.sureelectronics.net/goods.php?id=31

That would be perfect if it didn't need a 5v power source. Thanks

 

[Bazaki]

Im Glad you told it needs a 5v powersource, I almost ordered it
I am also looking something like a small voltmeter.

With testriding it is nice to watch the amps, outgoing mah, peak watts etc etc.

But for daily use only a voltmeter is good enough. I have 18s lipo, so 75V is fully charged and 66,6v I consider it as empty.

Any new idea's for a simple voltmeter ?

 

[auraslip]

CA

Seriously though - if you don't already have a 12v lighting system, a 5v system is great for LEDs.

 

[texaspyro]

If you can find an LCD panel meter, it should draw a low enough current to be able to run it off the 5V throttle power lines. I had some that drew less than 1 mA (backlight off)... but verify yours before trying. Also, you probably want an LCD meter because an LED meter won't be readable in sunlight.

Also note that mostr of those cheap digital panel meters require an isolated power supply. You can't run them off a voltage derived from the same voltage source that you are measuring. Most require a 7-12V power supply (won't run off a 5V throttle). A 9V battery works.

 

[Gordo]

If you can find an LCD panel meter, it should draw a low enough current to be able to run it off the 5V throttle power lines. I had some that drew less than 1 mA (backlight off)... but verify yours before trying. Also, you probably want an LCD meter because an LED meter won't be readable in sunlight.

Also note that mostr of those cheap digital panel meters require an isolated power supply. You can't run them off a voltage derived from the same voltage source that you are measuring. Most require a 7-12V power supply (won't run off a 5V throttle). A 9V battery works.

I looked at it carefully and see that it can use a common ground to the voltage being measured. Does this not mean that you can then use a 5V regulator chip to power it? Does the description need to include the words "self powered" to be able to tap the supply off the pack? IF so, they have those also, but only to 30V DC.

Thanks;