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How to Use PiggyMeter: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Image of PiggyMeter
Cirkit Designer LogoDesign with PiggyMeter in Cirkit Designer

Introduction

The PiggyMeter by Aquaticus (Manufacturer Part ID: IEC62056-21 Optical Interface) is a versatile digital multimeter designed for precise measurement of electrical parameters such as voltage, current, and resistance. It is equipped with a user-friendly interface and advanced features like data logging and connectivity options, making it suitable for both hobbyists and professionals. The PiggyMeter is particularly useful in applications requiring accurate monitoring and analysis of electrical systems.

Explore Projects Built with PiggyMeter

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
ESP32-Based Smart Energy Monitoring and Control System with PZEM004t and LCD Display
Image of pr1: A project utilizing PiggyMeter in a practical application
This circuit is a monitoring and control system using an ESP32 microcontroller. It integrates multiple PZEM004t energy meters, a rain gauge, a light sensor, and an LCD display for data visualization. Additionally, it controls a relay module to switch a bulb on or off based on sensor inputs.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Arduino UNO-Based Smart Energy Meter with GSM Module and LCD Display
Image of energy meter: A project utilizing PiggyMeter in a practical application
This circuit is an energy meter system that uses an Arduino UNO to monitor and control power usage. It includes a GSM module for sending SMS notifications, a relay to control an AC bulb, a limit switch for input, an LCD for display, and a buzzer for alerts.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
ESP32-Based Energy Monitoring and Control System with RS485 Communication
Image of ENERGY METER USING ESP-NOW: A project utilizing PiggyMeter in a practical application
This is a smart energy monitoring system consisting of three single-phase energy meters, each connected to an AC power supply and an AC bulb to measure energy consumption. The energy meters are interfaced with ESP32 microcontrollers through RS485 modules, indicating a setup for data acquisition and possibly remote communication, although the specific embedded functionality is not provided.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
ESP32C3 and SIM800L Powered Smart Energy Monitor with OLED Display and Wi-Fi Connectivity
Image of SERVER: A project utilizing PiggyMeter in a practical application
This circuit is a power monitoring system that uses an ESP32C3 microcontroller to collect power usage data from slave devices via WiFi and SMS. The collected data is displayed on a 0.96" OLED screen, and the system is powered by an AC-DC converter module. Additionally, the circuit includes a SIM800L GSM module for SMS communication and LEDs for status indication.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Explore Projects Built with PiggyMeter

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Image of pr1: A project utilizing PiggyMeter in a practical application
ESP32-Based Smart Energy Monitoring and Control System with PZEM004t and LCD Display
This circuit is a monitoring and control system using an ESP32 microcontroller. It integrates multiple PZEM004t energy meters, a rain gauge, a light sensor, and an LCD display for data visualization. Additionally, it controls a relay module to switch a bulb on or off based on sensor inputs.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of energy meter: A project utilizing PiggyMeter in a practical application
Arduino UNO-Based Smart Energy Meter with GSM Module and LCD Display
This circuit is an energy meter system that uses an Arduino UNO to monitor and control power usage. It includes a GSM module for sending SMS notifications, a relay to control an AC bulb, a limit switch for input, an LCD for display, and a buzzer for alerts.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of ENERGY METER USING ESP-NOW: A project utilizing PiggyMeter in a practical application
ESP32-Based Energy Monitoring and Control System with RS485 Communication
This is a smart energy monitoring system consisting of three single-phase energy meters, each connected to an AC power supply and an AC bulb to measure energy consumption. The energy meters are interfaced with ESP32 microcontrollers through RS485 modules, indicating a setup for data acquisition and possibly remote communication, although the specific embedded functionality is not provided.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of SERVER: A project utilizing PiggyMeter in a practical application
ESP32C3 and SIM800L Powered Smart Energy Monitor with OLED Display and Wi-Fi Connectivity
This circuit is a power monitoring system that uses an ESP32C3 microcontroller to collect power usage data from slave devices via WiFi and SMS. The collected data is displayed on a 0.96" OLED screen, and the system is powered by an AC-DC converter module. Additionally, the circuit includes a SIM800L GSM module for SMS communication and LEDs for status indication.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications and Use Cases

  • Electrical circuit testing and troubleshooting
  • Monitoring power supply performance
  • Data logging for research and development
  • Educational purposes in electronics labs
  • Industrial equipment maintenance and diagnostics

Technical Specifications

The PiggyMeter is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users, offering robust performance and reliability. Below are its key technical specifications:

General Specifications

Parameter Value
Manufacturer Aquaticus
Part ID IEC62056-21 Optical Interface
Measurement Modes Voltage, Current, Resistance
Display Type Digital LCD with backlight
Connectivity Options Optical interface, USB
Data Logging Capability Yes
Power Supply 9V battery or USB power
Dimensions 150mm x 75mm x 30mm
Weight 250g

Measurement Ranges and Accuracy

Measurement Type Range Accuracy
Voltage (DC) 0 - 600V ±0.5% + 2 digits
Voltage (AC) 0 - 600V ±1.0% + 3 digits
Current (DC) 0 - 10A ±1.0% + 2 digits
Current (AC) 0 - 10A ±1.5% + 3 digits
Resistance 0 - 40MΩ ±1.0% + 2 digits

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

Pin Name Description
COM Common ground terminal for all measurements
VΩmA Input terminal for voltage, resistance, and low-
current measurements (up to 200mA)
10A Dedicated input terminal for high-current
measurements (up to 10A)

Usage Instructions

The PiggyMeter is designed for ease of use, but proper handling is essential to ensure accurate measurements and safety. Follow the steps below to use the PiggyMeter effectively:

Basic Operation

  1. Power On: Insert a 9V battery or connect the PiggyMeter to a USB power source. Turn the rotary switch to the desired measurement mode (e.g., voltage, current, resistance).
  2. Connect Probes: Insert the black probe into the COM terminal and the red probe into the appropriate terminal (VΩmA for most measurements or 10A for high-current measurements).
  3. Select Range: If the PiggyMeter is not auto-ranging, manually select the appropriate range for the measurement.
  4. Take Measurement: Connect the probes to the circuit or component under test. Read the measurement on the LCD display.

Important Considerations

  • Always start with the highest range when measuring an unknown parameter to avoid damaging the device.
  • Do not exceed the maximum input ratings for voltage, current, or resistance.
  • Use the optical interface or USB connection to transfer data to a computer for logging or analysis.
  • Ensure the device is powered off when not in use to conserve battery life.

Example: Using the PiggyMeter with an Arduino UNO

The PiggyMeter can be used to measure voltage or current in circuits involving an Arduino UNO. Below is an example of measuring the voltage across a resistor in a simple LED circuit.

Arduino Code

// Simple LED circuit example for voltage measurement
// Connect the PiggyMeter probes across the resistor to measure voltage.

const int ledPin = 9; // Pin connected to the LED
void setup() {
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT); // Set the LED pin as output
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);                // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);                // Wait for 1 second
}

Measurement Steps

  1. Build the circuit with the Arduino UNO, LED, and resistor.
  2. Set the PiggyMeter to DC voltage mode.
  3. Connect the probes across the resistor.
  4. Observe the voltage reading on the PiggyMeter display.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

Issue Possible Cause Solution
No display on the screen Battery is dead or not installed Replace or install a 9V battery
Incorrect readings Probes connected to wrong terminals Verify probe connections
Overload (OL) displayed Measurement range exceeded Select a higher range
Data not transferring to PC Faulty USB or optical connection Check cables and ensure drivers are
installed

FAQs

Q: Can the PiggyMeter measure AC current?
A: Yes, the PiggyMeter can measure AC current up to 10A using the 10A terminal.

Q: How do I enable data logging?
A: Use the optical interface or USB connection to connect the PiggyMeter to a computer. Install the Aquaticus software to enable data logging.

Q: Is the PiggyMeter suitable for high-voltage applications?
A: The PiggyMeter can measure voltages up to 600V. For higher voltages, use appropriate step-down circuits or equipment.

By following this documentation, users can maximize the functionality and lifespan of their PiggyMeter while ensuring safe and accurate measurements.