How to Use Dial Calipers

Dial Calipers are used in measurement when one is try to get a precise measurement. Dial calipers are precise because it can measure hole depth, step distance, inside diameter, and outside diameter.

Close the dial caliper all the way, so you cannot see any light showing through the jaws.

While the jaws are closed, twist the bezel nut to loosen it and twist the outside of the dial until it is zeroed out. After it is zeroed, tighten the bezel nut.

Determine which side of the jaws you will need for your measurement. The inside jaws are used for gaps and holes. The outside jaws are used for length and width.

Open the jaws and measure the part. Once you have the measurement of the object, tighten the lock screw to hold the caliper's position and measurement.

You must know what each of the marks mean. Every mark is equivalent to .1 and every 10 marks is equal to 1 inch. On the dial, the number the needle rests on is expressed in thousandths, meaning it'll be multiplied by .001.

First, find how many inches the straight edge is on, then the tenths. Next, look at the dial and take the number lying on the needle and multiply by .001. If the needle is not lying on a mark, you will have to express the measurement as .0001, there is 10 marks in between the marks on the dial.

Add all the measurements together to get the precise measurement (1.0000+0.1000+0.0100+0.0010+0.0001=sum).