Besides 3- and 4-digit digital indicators, there are also 3 1/2-digit indicators available in the market. But what is a 1/2 digit?
A full digit can indicate all numbers from “0” to “9”. A 1/2 digit, in contrast, can only display a “1”, a number “2” or higher is not possible. With a 3 1/2-digit digital indicator, the indicatable range of values is thus significantly limited in comparison with a 4-digit indicator.
Thus, on the one hand, the maximum of the indicatable range of values is only 1999 rather than 9999. On the other hand, no negative values can be indicated, since the minus sign cannot be displayed in the first position. Therefore, the minimum of the indicatable range of values is 0 instead of -1999.
An exception to the limitation of the indicatable negative value range is represented by indicators that have a separate space for the display of the sign. Displays with this characteristic can therefore also indicate values down to -1999.
| Number of digits |
3-digit indicator | 3 1/2-digit indicator |
4-digit indicator |
| Representation |  |
 |
 |
| Max. scale range, standard |
-199…999 | 0…1999 | -1999…9999 |
| Max. scale range with separate sign |
-999…999 | -1999…1999 | -9999…9999 |
| Max. number of positions after decimal point | 2 | 3 | 3 |
Note
More information about digital indicators from WIKA can be found on our website.
See also our article
Characteristics of the display of a digital indicator – there you will find general information on the most important characteristic features of the display of a digital indicator.