Module Description Controls & Ins/Outs
vu01.jpg (17703 bytes) VU01 - Moving coil VU meter module

The VU01 is a moving coil meter as found on classic analogue synths like the EMS VCS3, or older style hi-fis and mixing desks. A VU meter is basically a device that shows voltage level via a moving needle. A VU meter is by no means an essential device, but it is a handy diagnostic to to check if signals are present (for instant non-audio signals like CVs), as well as giving a rough guide to intensity (voltage level). It will also make your modular system look that much better and give it an even more vintage look!

General information
A moving coil meter differs from the more modern LED bargraph in that it does not react instantly to quick and big changes in voltage. It takes a small amount of time for the needle to move to its new position. So if there are quick changes in voltage (like a fast square wave), the needle may not have time to move to the new position before the wave shape changes. The result is a moving coil gives a more ‘average’ reading of signal.

 Inputs:
1

Outputs:
Through

Power:
none

Controls:
Range HI/LO

Indicators:
Meter!

Size:
10HP

Use

Apply either an audio signal or CV into the IN socket. This socket is paralled through to the THRU socket so the signal can be fed through to another module. The signal is rectified to remove any negative voltages. This is necessary as the meter only measures positive voltages. As the signal is rectified, negative only signals will not register on the meter. When using low voltage signals and audio signals select LO with the range switch. When using higher level signals, like LFO or EG outputs use the HI setting. When the range is set to LO, the meter reads approximately 1V at full scale deflection. When the range is set to LO, the meter reads approximately 10V at full scale deflection.

 Accuracy

Please note this is not a precision voltage measuring device, although good approximations will be given. For this to be a precision device, the price would at least double because this would involve calibration circuits and a more expensive accurate meter. In the very unlikely event that you need to make PRECISE measurements, you would be advise to buy a multimeter, as use by electronics engineers.