Question 1(a) [3 marks]#
Give Definition of Accuracy, Reproducibility and Repeatability.
Answer:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | Closeness of measured value to the true or actual value of the quantity being measured |
| Reproducibility | Ability of an instrument to give identical measurements for the same input when measured under different conditions (different operators, locations, times) |
| Repeatability | Ability of an instrument to give identical measurements for the same input when measured repeatedly under the same conditions |
Mnemonic: “ARR - Accurate Results Repeatedly”
Question 1(b) [4 marks]#
Draw and Explain Wheatstone bridge.
Answer:
Diagram:
graph LR
A[Supply+] --- R1
A --- R3
R1 --- B[Output+]
R3 --- C[Output-]
B --- R2
C --- R4
R2 --- D[Supply-]
R4 --- D
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Configuration | Four resistors connected in diamond pattern |
| Balance Condition | R1/R2 = R3/R4 (when output voltage is zero) |
| Application | Precise measurement of unknown resistance |
| Operation | Unknown resistor placed in one arm, remaining resistors adjusted until bridge is balanced |
Mnemonic: “WBMP - When Balanced, Measure Precisely”
Question 1(c) [7 marks]#
Explain Principle of Q meter. Also draw and explain Practical Q Meter.
Answer:
Principle of Q Meter:
The Q-meter operates on the principle of series resonance, where Q factor is measured as the ratio of voltage across the capacitor to the applied voltage at resonance.
Diagram of Practical Q Meter:
graph LR
A[RF Oscillator] --> B[Work Coil]
B --> C[Series Circuit]
C --> D[Unknown Inductor L]
D --> E[Variable Capacitor C]
E --> F[VTVM]
F --> G[Q-Scale]
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| RF Oscillator | Provides variable frequency signals |
| Work Coil | Inductively couples signal to test circuit |
| Resonant Circuit | Test inductor L in series with variable capacitor C |
| VTVM | Measures voltage across capacitor |
| Q-Scale | Calibrated to read Q value directly |
- Resonant Formula: f = 1/(2π√LC)
- Q Calculation: Q = Vc/Vs (voltage across capacitor / source voltage)
Mnemonic: “RIVQ - Resonance Indicates Valuable Quality”
Question 1(c OR) [7 marks]#
Draw and explain construction of Moving coil type instruments.
Answer:
Diagram:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Permanent Magnet | Creates strong magnetic field |
| Moving Coil | Lightweight coil wound on aluminum frame |
| Springs | Provide controlling torque and electrical connections |
| Pointer | Attached to coil, moves over calibrated scale |
| Core | Soft iron cylindrical core to concentrate magnetic flux |
- Operating Principle: Deflecting torque = BIlN (B-field strength, I-current, l-length, N-turns)
- Controlling Torque: Provided by springs proportional to deflection angle
Mnemonic: “MAPS-C: Magnet Acts, Pointer Shows Current”
Question 2(a) [3 marks]#
List out different Types of errors. Explain any Two.
Answer:
| Types of Errors |
|---|
| Gross Errors |
| Systematic Errors |
| Random Errors |
| Environmental Errors |
| Loading Errors |
Explanation of Two Errors:
Systematic Errors:
- Consistent and predictable deviations from actual value
- Caused by instrument calibration, design, or method
Random Errors:
- Unpredictable variations in measurements
- Caused by noise, environmental fluctuations, or observer limitations
Mnemonic: “GSREL - Good Systems Reduce Error Levels”
Question 2(b) [4 marks]#
Draw and Explain Maxwell’s bridge.
Answer:
Diagram:
graph LR
A[Supply] --- R1
A --- R3
R1 --- B[Detector]
R3 --- C[Detector]
B --- R2
C --- R4
B --- L["Unknown L"]
C --- C1["Capacitor C"]
R2 --- D[Ground]
R4 --- D
L --- D
C1 --- D
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| R1, R2, R3, R4 | Precision resistors in bridge arms |
| Unknown L | Inductor with resistance to be measured |
| Capacitor C | Standard capacitor in opposite arm |
| Detector | Null detector (galvanometer) |
- Balance Equation: L = CR2R3
- Resistance Equation: RL = R2R3/R4
- Application: Measures inductance with significant resistance
Mnemonic: “MBLR - Maxwell Bridge Links Resistance”
Question 2(c) [7 marks]#
Draw and explain construction of moving iron type instruments.
Answer:
Diagram:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Coil | Fixed coil that carries measuring current |
| Iron Vanes | Two soft iron pieces (one fixed, one movable) |
| Pointer | Attached to movable vane |
| Control Spring | Provides restraining torque |
| Damping Mechanism | Air friction damping using light aluminum piston |
- Working Principle: When current flows through coil, both iron pieces get magnetized with same polarity causing repulsion
- Advantages: Suitable for both AC and DC, robust construction
- Disadvantages: Non-uniform scale, higher power consumption than PMMC
Mnemonic: “IRAM - Iron Repulsion Activates Movement”
Question 2(a OR) [3 marks]#
Explain basic DC voltmeter.
Answer:
Diagram:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| PMMC Movement | Basic current-sensitive movement |
| Multiplier Resistor | High-value series resistor |
| Scale | Calibrated to read voltage directly |
- Working Principle: Voltmeter is PMMC meter with series resistor
- Calculation: Rs = (V/Im) - Rm (Rs=series resistor, V=voltage, Im=full scale current, Rm=meter resistance)
Mnemonic: “SVM - Series Voltage Measurement”
Question 2(b OR) [4 marks]#
Draw and Explain Schering bridge.
Answer:
Diagram:
graph LR
A[AC Supply] --- C1["Unknown Capacitance"]
A --- R3
C1 --- B[Detector]
R3 --- C[Detector]
B --- R1
C --- C4["Standard C"]
R1 --- D[Ground]
C4 --- R4["Variable R"]
R4 --- D
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| C1 | Unknown capacitor (with loss) |
| R1 | Resistance representing loss in C1 |
| R3, R4 | Precision resistors |
| C4 | Standard loss-free capacitor |
| Detector | Null indicator |
- Balance Equations: C1 = C4(R3/R1)
- Dissipation Factor: D = ωC1R1 = ωC4R4
- Application: Measurement of capacitance and dielectric loss
Mnemonic: “SCDR - Schering Capacitance Determines Resistance”
Question 2(c OR) [7 marks]#
Write shortnote on Electronic Multimeter.
Answer:
Diagram:
graph LR
A[Input] --> B[Attenuator/Range Selector]
B --> C[Signal Converter]
C --> D[Amplifier]
D --> E[Rectifier/Detector]
E --> F[Display]
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Functions | Measures voltage (AC/DC), current (AC/DC), resistance, and other parameters |
| Sensitivity | Higher sensitivity than analog meters (10MΩ input impedance typical) |
| Ranges | Multiple selectable measurement ranges |
| Accuracy | 0.1% to 3% depending on quality and parameter |
| Display | Digital readout or analog pointer |
- Types: Analog electronic multimeter, Digital multimeter (DMM)
- Advantages: High input impedance, minimal loading effect, multiple functions
- Key Circuit: Input attenuator, signal converter, amplifier, rectifier, display driver
Mnemonic: “VCAR-D: Voltage, Current And Resistance - Displayed”
Question 3(a) [3 marks]#
Explain Various probes for CRO.
Answer:
| Type of Probe | Description |
|---|---|
| Passive Probe (1X) | Direct connection probe with no attenuation |
| Passive Probe (10X) | Attenuates signal by factor of 10, reduces circuit loading |
| Active Probe | Contains active components for high impedance, low capacitance |
| Current Probe | Measures current by sensing magnetic field |
- Selection Criteria: Bandwidth, loading effect, measurement range
- Compensation: 10X probes require compensation adjustment for accurate waveforms
Mnemonic: “PAC-S: Probes Allow Circuit Sensing”
Question 3(b) [4 marks]#
Draw and explain construction of Clamp on Meter.
Answer:
Diagram:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Split Core CT | Ferrite core that clamps around conductor |
| Coil Winding | Secondary winding that generates induced current |
| Signal Circuitry | Converts current to measurable signal |
| Display Unit | Digital/analog display calibrated in amps |
| Trigger Mechanism | Opens/closes core around conductor |
- Working Principle: Based on current transformer, measures current without breaking circuit
- Applications: Measuring AC current in live conductors safely
Mnemonic: “CAMP - Current Analyzed by Magnetic Principle”
Question 3(c) [7 marks]#
Write shortnote on successive approximation type DVM.
Answer:
Block Diagram:
graph LR
A[Input] --> B[Sample & Hold]
B --> C[Comparator]
C --> D[SAR Logic]
D --> E[DAC]
E --> C
D --> F[Digital Display]
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Sample & Hold | Captures and holds input voltage |
| Comparator | Compares input with DAC output |
| Successive Approximation Register | Controls binary search algorithm |
| D/A Converter | Generates analog voltage for comparison |
| Digital Display | Shows measured value |
- Working Principle: Uses binary search algorithm to find digital value matching analog input
- Conversion Time: Fixed regardless of input magnitude (8-16 clock cycles for 8-16 bit)
- Advantages: Medium speed, good resolution, consistent conversion time
- Applications: General purpose measurements where medium speed is sufficient
Mnemonic: “SACD - Sample, Approximate, Compare, Display”
Question 3(a OR) [3 marks]#
Explain PH Sensor.
Answer:
Diagram:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Glass Electrode | Sensitive to hydrogen ion concentration |
| Reference Electrode | Provides stable reference potential |
| Temperature Sensor | Compensates for temperature effects |
| Signal Conditioner | Amplifies and processes the millivolt signal |
- Working Principle: Generates voltage proportional to hydrogen ion concentration
- Output: ~59 mV per pH unit at 25°C
- Range: 0-14 pH scale (acidic to alkaline)
Mnemonic: “PHRV - PH Related to Voltage”
Question 3(b OR) [4 marks]#
Draw and explain construction of Electronic Watt Meter.
Answer:
Block Diagram:
graph LR
A[Current Input] --> B[Current Transformer]
C[Voltage Input] --> D[Voltage Transformer]
B --> E[Multiplier Circuit]
D --> E
E --> F[Integrator]
F --> G[Digital Display]
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Current Sensor | Measures load current via CT or shunt |
| Voltage Sensor | Measures voltage via potential divider |
| Multiplier | Multiplies instantaneous voltage and current |
| Integrator | Averages power over time |
| Display | Digital readout in watts |
- Working Principle: Power = V × I × cosθ (cosθ is power factor)
- Advantages: High accuracy, wide range, digital display
- Types: True RMS, average sensing
Mnemonic: “VIMP - Voltage & Intensity Make Power”
Question 3(c OR) [7 marks]#
Write shortnote on Integrating type DVM.
Answer:
Block Diagram:
graph LR
A[Input] --> B[Integrator]
B --> C[Comparator]
D[Clock] --> E[Counter & Control]
C --> E
E --> F[Digital Display]
| Type | Working Principle |
|---|---|
| Dual-Slope | Integrates input for fixed time, then measures discharge time with reference |
| Voltage-to-Frequency | Converts voltage to frequency, counts pulses over fixed time |
| Charge-Balance | Balances input charge with reference charge |
Key Features:
- Noise Rejection: Excellent rejection of power line noise (50/60Hz)
- Accuracy: High accuracy due to time averaging
- Conversion Speed: Slower than successive approximation type
- Resolution: Typically 4½ to 6½ digits
Applications: Precision measurements, noisy environments, bench instruments
Mnemonic: “TINA - Time Integration Nullifies Average”
Question 4(a) [3 marks]#
Write advantages and applications of Digital storage oscilloscope.
Answer:
| Advantages | Applications |
|---|---|
| Pre-trigger Viewing | Capturing transient events |
| Signal Storage | Analyzing intermittent faults |
| Waveform Processing | Complex signal analysis |
| Higher Bandwidth | High-speed digital circuit testing |
| Multiple Channel Display | Comparing multiple signals |
- Key Benefits: Can capture one-time events, store waveforms for later analysis
- Digital Features: Automated measurements, FFT analysis, PC connectivity
Mnemonic: “SPADE - Storage, Processing, Analysis, Display, Events”
Question 4(b) [4 marks]#
Write shortnote on Electronic Energy Meter.
Answer:
Block Diagram:
graph LR
A[Voltage Sensor] --> C[Multiplier]
B[Current Sensor] --> C
C --> D[Integrator]
D --> E[Pulse Generator]
E --> F[Counter]
F --> G[Display]
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Voltage & Current Sensors | Measure line voltage and load current |
| Multiplier Circuit | Calculates instantaneous power |
| Integrator | Converts power to energy over time |
| Microcontroller | Processes signals and controls display |
| LCD Display | Shows energy consumption in kWh |
- Working Principle: Energy = ∫P.dt (integral of power over time)
- Advantages: No moving parts, high accuracy, tamper detection
- Features: Multiple tariff support, bi-directional measurement, remote reading
Mnemonic: “VICES - Voltage & Current Energy Summation”
Question 4(c) [7 marks]#
Draw and explain Block diagram of Analog C.R.O. and working of each block in brief.
Answer:
Block Diagram:
graph LR
A[Vertical Input] --> B[Vertical Attenuator]
B --> C[Vertical Amplifier]
C --> D[Vertical Deflection Plates]
E[Trigger Circuit] --> F[Time Base Generator]
F --> G[Horizontal Amplifier]
G --> H[Horizontal Deflection Plates]
I[Cathode Ray Tube] --> J[Screen]
D --> I
H --> I
K[Power Supply] --> All
| Block | Function |
|---|---|
| Vertical System | Controls amplitude display (signal attenuation, amplification) |
| Horizontal System | Controls time base (sweep generation) |
| Trigger System | Synchronizes horizontal sweep with input signal |
| CRT | Displays signal (electron gun, deflection plates, phosphor screen) |
| Power Supply | Provides required voltages to all circuits |
- Vertical System: Processes input signal, controls Y-axis deflection
- Horizontal System: Controls X-axis deflection (time base)
- Triggering: Stabilizes waveform display by starting sweep at same point
- CRT Display: Converts electrical signals to visible trace
Mnemonic: “VTHCP - Vertical, Time, Horizontal, CRT, Power”
Question 4(a OR) [3 marks]#
Draw and explain PIEZO-ELECTRIC transducer.
Answer:
Diagram:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Principle | Generates electric charge when mechanically stressed |
| Materials | Quartz, Rochelle salt, PZT ceramics |
| Operation | Direct effect: force → voltage, Inverse effect: voltage → displacement |
| Output | High impedance voltage proportional to applied force |
- Applications: Pressure sensors, accelerometers, ultrasonic devices
- Advantages: High sensitivity, fast response, wide frequency range
- Limitations: High output impedance, temperature sensitive
Mnemonic: “PFVD - Pressure Forms Voltage via Displacement”
Question 4(b OR) [4 marks]#
Draw and explain Measurement of Frequency by using CRO.
Answer:
Method 1: Using Lissajous Patterns
Method 2: Using Time Base
| Method | Calculation |
|---|---|
| Lissajous Pattern | Fx = Fy × (Nx/Ny) |
| Time Measurement | f = 1/T (T is period measured using time base) |
| XY Mode | Comparing unknown frequency with known reference |
- Time Base Method: Measure period of waveform, calculate frequency as 1/T
- Lissajous Method: Connect reference to X input, unknown to Y input
- Digital CRO: Direct frequency readout using internal counter
Mnemonic: “LTX - Lissajous or Time for X-axis”
Question 4(c OR) [7 marks]#
Draw and explain Thermistor and Thermocouple.
Answer:
Thermistor Diagram:
Thermocouple Diagram:
| Transducer | Principle | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Thermistor | Resistance changes with temperature | High sensitivity, non-linear, limited range |
| Thermocouple | Junction of dissimilar metals generates voltage | Wide range, linear, low sensitivity |
Thermistor Types:
- NTC: Negative Temperature Coefficient (resistance decreases with temperature)
- PTC: Positive Temperature Coefficient (resistance increases with temperature)
Thermocouple Types:
- Type K: Chromel-Alumel (-200°C to 1350°C)
- Type J: Iron-Constantan (-40°C to 750°C)
- Type T: Copper-Constantan (-200°C to 350°C)
Mnemonic: “TRT/TVJ - Temperature Resistance/Voltage Junction”
Question 5(a) [3 marks]#
Draw and Explain Velocity transducer.
Answer:
Diagram:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Permanent Magnet | Creates magnetic field |
| Moving Coil | Generates voltage proportional to velocity |
| Housing | Supports structure and magnetic circuit |
| Output Circuit | Conditions signal for measurement |
- Working Principle: Based on Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction
- Output: Voltage proportional to velocity (V = Blv)
- Applications: Vibration measurement, seismic monitoring, motion control
Mnemonic: “VMMF - Velocity Makes Magnetic Flux”
Question 5(b) [4 marks]#
Give Classification of transducers and explain it.
Answer:
| Classification | Types |
|---|---|
| By Energy Conversion | Active (self-generating) vs. Passive (requiring external power) |
| By Measurement Method | Primary vs. Secondary |
| By Physical Principle | Resistive, Capacitive, Inductive, Photoelectric, etc. |
| By Application | Temperature, Pressure, Flow, Level, etc. |
Explanation:
| Type | Examples | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Active | Thermocouple, Piezoelectric | Generate output without external power |
| Passive | RTD, Strain gauge | Require external excitation |
| Resistive | Thermistor, Potentiometer | Change resistance with input |
| Capacitive | Pressure sensors, Proximity | Change capacitance with input |
| Inductive | LVDT, Proximity | Change inductance with input |
Mnemonic: “APRCI - Active Passive Resistive Capacitive Inductive”
Question 5(c) [7 marks]#
Write shortnote on LVDT.
Answer:
Diagram:
graph LR
A[Primary Coil] --> B[Core]
B --> C[Secondary Coil 1]
B --> D[Secondary Coil 2]
E[AC Excitation] --> A
C --> F[Phase Sensitive Detector]
D --> F
F --> G[Output]
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Primary Coil | Excitation coil connected to AC source |
| Secondary Coils | Two identical coils connected in series opposition |
| Ferromagnetic Core | Movable core that varies mutual inductance |
| Signal Conditioner | Converts differential output to displacement measurement |
Working Principle:
- At null position: Equal voltage induced in both secondaries, net output zero
- Core movement: Creates imbalance in secondary voltages
- Output voltage: Proportional to displacement, phase indicates direction
Characteristics:
- Range: Typically ±0.5mm to ±25cm
- Linearity: Excellent within rated range
- Resolution: Virtually infinite (limited by readout circuit)
- Advantages: Frictionless, robust, reliable, high resolution
Mnemonic: “CPSO: Core Position Shifts Output”
Question 5(a OR) [3 marks]#
Draw and Explain block diagram of simple frequency Counter.
Answer:
Block Diagram:
graph LR
A[Input] --> B[Input Conditioning]
B --> C[Gate Control]
D[Time Base] --> C
C --> E[Counter]
E --> F[Display]
| Block | Function |
|---|---|
| Input Conditioning | Amplifies, shapes input signal into pulses |
| Gate Control | Controls counting period based on time base |
| Time Base | Provides accurate reference time interval |
| Counter | Counts input pulses during gate period |
| Display | Shows count result (frequency) |
- Working Principle: Counts pulses over precise time interval (typically 1 second)
- Frequency Calculation: f = counts/time interval
- Resolution: Determined by time base accuracy and gate time
Mnemonic: “IGTCD - Input Gated Time Counts Display”
Question 5(b OR) [4 marks]#
Draw and Explain Capacitive Transducer.
Answer:
Diagram:
| Configuration | Principle | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Variable Gap | C = ε₀εᵣA/d (varies inversely with distance) | Pressure, displacement |
| Variable Area | C = ε₀εᵣA/d (varies directly with overlap area) | Angular position, level |
| Variable Dielectric | C = ε₀εᵣA/d (varies with dielectric constant) | Humidity, material analysis |
Working Principle:
- Capacitance changes with physical parameter
- Signal conditioning converts capacitance to voltage/current
- High impedance output requires proper shielding
Advantages: High sensitivity, no moving contacts, low mass
Mnemonic: “CGAD - Capacitance Gap Area Dielectric”
Question 5(c OR) [7 marks]#
Draw and Explain block diagram of Function generator.
Answer:
Block Diagram:
graph LR
A[Frequency Control] --> B[Waveform Generator]
C[Mode Selector] --> B
B --> D[Amplifier & Attenuator]
D --> E[Output Buffer]
E --> F[Output]
G[Sweep Circuit] --> B
H[AM/FM Modulator] --> D
| Block | Function |
|---|---|
| Frequency Control | Sets oscillator frequency (typically 0.1Hz to 20MHz) |
| Waveform Generator | Produces basic waveforms (sine, square, triangle) |
| Mode Selector | Selects output waveform type |
| Amplifier & Attenuator | Controls output amplitude |
| Output Buffer | Provides low output impedance |
| Sweep Circuit | Automatically varies frequency over range |
| AM/FM Modulator | Modifies signal for modulation functions |
Working Principle:
- Generates sine wave using RC oscillator or DDS
- Shape converters transform sine into square and triangle
- Output amplitude controlled by attenuator circuit
- Modern generators use digital synthesis techniques
Applications: Circuit testing, signal injection, filter characterization
Mnemonic: “FWMASO - Frequency Waveform Mode Amplitude Sweep Output”

