In manufacturing, measurement accuracy is crucial to ensure product quality. Two precision measuring tools often used are Digital Indicators and Digital Test Indicators. Although their names are similar, they differ in design and function, which is important to understand for proper use and accurate measurement results.
What is a Digital Indicator?
A Digital Indicator (also known as a dial indicator in analog form) is a precision measuring tool that uses a plunger-style contact point which moves vertically. This vertical motion makes it ideal for comparative measurements, such as checking the dimensional consistency of parts in repetitive setups.
Digital indicators are commonly mounted in fixture gauges. Their straight motion ensures that the probe contacts the same spot every time, making them highly reliable for quick quality inspections. However, they need to be oriented perfectly vertical to the surface being measured.
Key Characteristics:
- Plunger-style probe (moves up and down).
- Best for fixture-based, comparative measurements.
- Often used in ID/OD gauges, bore gauges, thickness and height gauges.
- Longer measurement range than test indicators (e.g., 0.25" or more).
- Can perform hole depth measurements.
- Offers multiple dial revolutions, often with revolution counters.
Product Recommendation:
1. Sylvac Digital Indicator S_Dial WORK Analog Smart
- Type: Digital with analog-style display
- Resolution: 0.001 mm
- Features: Bluetooth® (Smart version only), IP54
- Use: Combines digital accuracy with analog readability
2. Sylvac Digital Indicator S_Dial Mini Smart
- Type: Compact digital
- Resolution: 0.01 mm or 0.001 mm
- Features: Bluetooth® Smart, small form factor
- Use: Ideal for tight spaces or small setups
3. Sylvac Digital Dial Indicator S_Dial PRO Smart
- Type: Full digital
- Resolution: High (up to 0.001 mm)
- Features: Advanced functions, Bluetooth®, Smart connectivity
- Use: Precision applications with data transfer
What is a Digital Test Indicator?
A digital test indicator is a precision tool with a lever-style contact, which swings at an angle instead of moving straight. It is generally smaller, lighter, and more flexible than a digital indicator, making it well-suited for measuring surface deviations such as flatness, roundness, or runout.
The digital test indicators are frequently used with height stands and surface plates to check consistency across surfaces in one or two dimensions. Because of their angular motion, the contact tip can glide over surface irregularities, making them especially useful in machine setups, like on lathes, where quick and easy alignment is needed.
Key Characteristics:
- Lever-style probe (swings side to side).
- Best for consistency or geometric measurements (flatness, roundness, runout).
- Highly useful for lathe setups or when accessing tight spaces.
- Typically offers higher resolution (e.g., 0.00005"), but a shorter range (e.g., 0.008"–0.030").
- Can’t measure depth and is not ideal for fixture gaging.
- Single revolution dial, continuous scale.
- Pointer always travels clockwise.
Product Recommendation:
Sylvac Digital Test Indicator S_Dial TEST Smart
- Type: Digital test indicator.
- Resolution: High (0.001 mm / .00005 in).
- Features: Side lever contact, Bluetooth® Smart.
- Use: Surface flatness, alignment, and runout checking.
Advantages of Using Sylvac Digital Indicators & Digital Test Indicators
1. Easy and Accurate Readings
Large digital displays provide clear, instant measurements with high resolution, minimizing human reading errors common with analog dials.
2. Zero Setting and Unit Conversion
Users can easily set reference (zero) points and switch between millimeters and inches with a single button—ideal for flexible, multi-standard operations.
3. Digital Data Output
Equipped with interfaces for USB, RS232, or Bluetooth, Sylvac indicators allow real-time data transfer for SPC, quality control, and traceability systems.
4. Wireless Connectivity
Sylvac’s integrated Bluetooth technology enables wireless communication with PCs, tablets, or smartphones—reducing cable clutter and improving workflow efficiency.
5. Durable and Industrial-Grade Design
Many models are IP54 to IP67 rated for dust and water resistance, making them suitable for use in tough shop-floor and manufacturing environments.
6. Swiss Precision and Build Quality
Manufactured in Switzerland, Sylvac tools are known for their long-term reliability, mechanical stability, and repeatable accuracy.
7. Compatibility with Measurement Systems
Sylvac indicators are easily integrated with height gauges, stands, bore gauges, and custom setups, making them versatile across various applications.
Recommended Accessories for Sylvac Digital Indicators and Test Indicators
1. Magnetic Base Stand
The Sylvac 908-1201 magnetic base stand is specifically designed for lever-type digital indicators. It features a strong magnetic base with 80 kg of holding force, ensuring excellent stability during measurement. The stand includes a vertical rod (Ø 16 mm) and a hinged horizontal rod (Ø 12 mm), allowing for flexible and precise positioning. With a maximum measuring height of 350 mm, this stand is ideal for accurate and repeatable measurements in demanding industrial environments.
2. Granite Stand for Digital Indicators
 |
 |
| Sylvac 808-1206 | Sylvac 808-1202 |
The Sylvac Series 808 stands (e.g. 808-1206, 808-1202) are precision stands for digital indicators and probes, made in Switzerland with superior quality. They feature a reinforced column (Ø 25 or 35 mm) and a precision measuring arm for high rigidity and excellent parallelism—reducing measurement errors. The stand supports 8 mm and 25 mm clamping diameters, suitable for tools like the S_Dial PRO. It includes a fine adjustment ring for vertical positioning and a Grade 00 granite base for maximum stability and flatness.
3. Probe / Stylus Replacement Set
The Probe / Stylus Replacement Set enables quick and flexible replacement of worn or damaged styli on Sylvac digital and test indicators. These interchangeable styli—including options such as the 905‑2240 short stylus with tungsten‑carbide (TC) ball and the 905‑2241 short standard stylus with TC ball—fit various S_Dial models and let users match the probe to the measurement task or surface type.
4. Lifting Devices
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| 905-4215 | 905-4214 | 905-2220 | 905-2218 | 905-2215 | 905-2214 |
Lifting Devices are accessories designed to help position and handle digital indicators accurately and safely during measurements. They provide stable support and easy height or angle adjustment, improving measurement precision and reducing operator fatigue. These devices are ideal for use in tight spaces or when frequent repositioning is needed.
Examples of Sylvac lifting devices include:
- Upper Lifting Device (905-4215)
- Lower Lifting Lever (905-4214)
- Vacuum Lifting Device (905-2220)
- Pneumatic Lifting Device (905-2218)
- Upper Lifting Lever (905-2215)
- Lifting Device (905-2214)
5. Data Cable and Interface Converter
Sylvac digital indicators and test indicators connect to computers or data loggers via Proximity or Power cables (RS232 or USB), enabling easy and efficient data transfer from the indicators to external devices.
 |
 |
 |
| 926-6721 | 926-6723 | 926-6821 |
Examples:
6. Sylvac Bluetooth Dongle
The Sylvac Bluetooth Dongle enables wireless data transmission from Sylvac digital indicators and test indicators to computers or tablets via Bluetooth. It allows for fast, cable-free communication, ideal for efficient data logging and integration with Sylvac software.
Examples:
Sylvac Digital Indicator Distributor in Singapore
LFC PTE LTD is the authorized distributor of Sylvac in Singapore. Our expert team can assist you in selecting the ideal digital indicators to meet your specific requirements.
Stay updated on Sylvac products and other measuring tools by following LFC PTE LTD on social media. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
