Galvanometer
A galvanometer is an instrument that can detect and measure small amounts of current in an electrical circuit.
- It measures small current in amperes (A).
- One thousandth (10-3) of an ampere is abbreviated as mA, also known as milliamps.
- One millionth (10-6) of an ampere is abbreviated as µA, also known as microamps.
- Can be configured to measure Direct Current (DC) or Altenating Current (AC).
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It is represented by the following symbol in the circuit;
- The major significant difference between ammeter and galvanometer is that ammeter shows only the magnitude of the current. Whereas, the galvanometer shows both the direction and magnitude of the current.