Historical information

When this AVOMETER was being utilised in the early 1950's it was at the "leading" edge of electrical measuring instrumentation.The first meter was produced by Automatic Coil Winder and Electrical Equipment Co. in 1923. This model was produced in the time from 1933 to 1951 when it was superseded by the most popular model, Model 8 (1951 to 2008).

Significance

This AVO meter brought the measuring of three electrical power indicators i.e., amps, volts and ohms into one measuring unit. By using a "one fits all" unit, the carrying of separate measuring devices was reduced considerably. The need for a mountainous and a large area of operational requirements, such as the SEC Vic Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme, to minimise the weight of equipment carried by electricians and technicians was of the utmost relevance. The significance of this meter to the Kiewa Valley region relates to the impact of modern technology (at that time) upon a mainly rural environment. This equipment shows how the boost of "modern" equipment into the area because of the "Hydro Scheme" was facilitated a lot faster than would have taken under "normal" evolutionary time. The speed of information on all "new technology" had a relatively slow assimilation rate to those living in rural communities.

Physical description

This AVOMETER is a Model 7 MKII, production pre 1951. This meter measures electrical Amps, Volts and Ohms and has two internal batteries for its power. The main casing is made from aluminium with a bake-lite front. The front has a "window" detailing, with a needle pointer, the amount of electrical power being tested. There are two big dial switches, detailing Direct Current(DC) and Alternating Current(AC) when reading measurements of Ampere, Voltage and Ohms for power. This meter took the place of three or four meters used earlier. Modern meters (2000 onwards) have become digilised and are considerably lighter in weight and smaller. There are two electrical connection leads (one black and one red) each has a removable clasp and is 125cm long.

Inscriptions & markings

Molded on the front centre panel " UNIVERSAL AVOMETER". Below this and above the left hand dial "D.C. SWITCH" .Above the right hand switch the right "A.C. SWITCH". On the left of each switch is an arrow pointing to it.The left switch is marked with a "+" and the right one with a "-". There is a "divisional 2" mark. Between and below the dials is "CUT OUT" plunger.