The main scale and dial scale are integral parts of a dial caliper that work together to provide the measurement reading. The main scale gives the primary measurement while the dial scale allows for added precision.

Checking the zero reading confirms that the caliper is correctly calibrated. An improper zero reading means that all subsequent measurements could be inaccurate.

After recording the main scale reading, you must add the dial scale reading to capture the complete measurement. This method ensures that you account for the extra precision provided by the dial.

The outside jaws of a dial caliper are designed to measure the external dimensions of an object. This type of measurement is a common application in both engineering and technical drawing.

A dial caliper offers enhanced precision through a secondary dial that subdivides the main scale readings. This additional measurement scale provides a more exact value than a conventional ruler.

Alignment of the dial pointer with a numeral shows that the dial reading corresponds directly to that numeral. This direct reading means no interpolation is necessary.

A non-zero value when the caliper is closed indicates the presence of a zero error. Correcting by subtracting this error ensures that all subsequent measurements reflect the true dimensions.

The resolution refers to the smallest measurable value, which is defined by the minimum division on the dial scale. A finer division means higher resolution and improved accuracy.

The inner jaws of a dial caliper are specifically designed to measure the internal dimensions of objects, such as the inside diameter of a pipe. Their design permits accurate internal measurement.

To accurately measure the external length of an object, position it between the outside jaws of the caliper and take the reading from both scales. This technique ensures precision and repeatability in the measurement.

Applying a consistent clamping force ensures that the object is held securely during measurement. This consistency minimizes variation and enhances repeatability.

Interpolation requires estimating the fraction of the division that has been covered by the pointer. This method provides a more precise measurement than simply rounding up or down.

Complete contact between the jaws and the object ensures proper alignment, which is essential for obtaining an accurate measurement. A lack of contact can introduce errors into the reading.

Parallax error occurs when the observer's eye is not directly in line with the dial face, leading to a distorted reading. Viewing the dial straight on avoids this common mistake.

The complete measurement is a combination of the main scale reading and the dial scale reading. Adding these two values together produces the accurate measurement.

A consistent positive error indicates that the caliper overestimates the actual measurement. By subtracting the zero error from subsequent readings, you adjust for this discrepancy and obtain accurate results.

Dividing the 1 mm main scale division by 50 dial divisions gives a resolution of 0.02 mm. This is the smallest measurable increment that the caliper can discern.

The final measurement is obtained by adding the main scale value to the dial reading. In this case, 12 mm added to 0.37 mm gives a total of 12.37 mm.

A negative zero error means the caliper underestimates the actual measurement by 0.05 mm. Adding this value to the measured reading corrects the error.

Averaging multiple readings minimizes random errors and helps overcome uncertainty in a single measurement. This strategy enhances the reliability of the result when ideal alignment is challenging.