Rotary switch memory for digital multimeter

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

0001This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/838,881, filed Aug. 14, 2007, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/838,881.

BACKGROUND

0002Multimeters are used for measuring a variety of parameters associated with electrical circuitry, such as currents, voltages, resistances, and capacitances. Multimeters commonly include rotary switches for selecting between different measurement functions. For example, a rotary switch on a conventional multimeter may be configured such that a first position of the rotary switch corresponds to a voltage measurement function, a second position of the rotary switch corresponds to a current measurement function, and a third position of the rotary switch corresponds to a resistance measurement function.

0003Modern digital multimeters commonly provide many different measurement functions. Accordingly, to save space on these multimeters, researchers have developed rotary switches where each position of the rotary switch corresponds to more than one measurement function. As examples, a single position of a rotary switch may correspond to different units of measurement, such as Amps (“A”) and milliamps (“mA”), or different measurement types altogether, such as current measurement and temperature measurement. These multimeters generally allow a user to switch between the different measurement functions associated with a particular position of the rotary switch by actuating a separate button or switch while maintaining the rotary switch in the same position.

0004Another feature found in modern digital multimeters enables a user to select between different modes that affect what or how measurements are acquired, maintained, and displayed. For example, a user can select a “Minimum/Maximum” (Min/Max) mode, which updates a display with minimum and maximum detected measurement values. As another example, a user can select a “Record” mode to record measurement values for memory storage and later retrieval.

0005In sum, conventional digital multimeters incorporate various tools for performing different types of measurements and different capabilities for displaying measurement values in a digital format on a screen. Further capabilities and improvements are needed, however, in both hardware and software, to enable users to organize measurement information to be obtained by the instrument so as to operate the instrument efficiently, effectively, and safely.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0006<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates a front face of a digital multimeter in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

0007<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a schematic layout of various components of the digital multimeter.

0008<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates a screen that can appear after a user has selected a Max/Min mode in the digital multimeter.

0009<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates a screen that can appear after a user has selected a function for measuring milli-volts of direct current (mVDC) in the digital multimeter.

0010<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates an example of a function and mode menu for the digital multimeter.

0011<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> illustrates a screen displaying a value of a measured temperature in the digital multimeter.

0012<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> illustrates a screen that can appear after a user selects the Min/Max mode by pressing a [MIN MAX] button while the multimeter displays the screen shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>.

0013<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a flow diagram illustrating a method of operating the multimeter when a user moves a rotary switch of the multimeter to a new position.

0014<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> illustrates a screen simultaneously displaying a “mini-measurement” of a live reading and a frozen measurement of a past reading.

0015<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a flow diagram illustrating a method for dynamically generating a status bar display in the digital multimeter.

0016<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> illustrates an example information dialog displayed on a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen of the digital multimeter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0017An inventive digital multimeter and inventive methods for operating the digital multimeter are disclosed below in detail. The digital multimeter incorporates a rotary switch, a set of keys and buttons, and a digital display so as to provide highly integrated, programmable and configurable features not available on conventional multimeters. Several of these features, either taken alone or in combination, provide significant improvements in ease of use, speed of user operation, and safety associated with use of the digital multimeter. Modifications, alterations, and additions to conventional multimeters that were necessary to accomplish these features have resulted in benefits that otherwise would not have been foreseen or appreciated by others skilled in the art.

0018In one embodiment, a digital multimeter has informative display features including a display for displaying measurement values and available functions of the multimeter and a user interface for inputting or accessing information, inputting commands, or browsing through various multimeter functions. Graphical icons and/or words presented in the display indicate the potential functions of the multimeter. The multimeter also usually has a memory for storing information, including context-sensitive explanatory information, information on how to use or perform a function or mode of the multimeter, safety information, and measurement data information collected by the multimeter. This information may be accessed via an information (or Info/“i”) button. The multimeter also typically has a processor, which retrieves information from the memory and shows the retrieved information on the display. Preferably, the digital multimeter is portable and can information transferred to and from an external storage medium, such as an external computer. User input is achieved through actuating one or more buttons or switches on the multimeter.

0019A multimeter may present detailed graphical representations of data collected. For example, the multimeter may represent trends in the data, which can be used for visualizing a large amount of data at once or documenting performance of multimeter designs, processes or systems. It is useful for monitoring and displaying unattended multimeter use, such that a user could return to a multimeter and quickly review large amounts of data, allowing the user to see overall trends and data anomalies. In one embodiment, a user has the ability to “zoom in” or “zoom out” on graphical trend data to better analyze the data in a desired perspective on the meter screen. Preferably, the multimeter can store and graph can display at least 5,000 data readings, more preferably at least 10,000 data readings.

0020The display of the multimeter may have a display box that appears over the first display screen, which is called a “pop-up” box. The pop-up box may display pictures, graphics, video, charts or text. In one alternative, the text indicates and explains the available functions of the multimeter. A user may scroll through information listed on either the main display screen or in the pop-up box with an associated scrolling mechanism. The pop-up box may also comprise a title bar, which displays information regarding the multimeter functions in operation at the time when the user input was received. When the pop-up box is displayed, the box may also display smaller versions of the measurement value or values shown on the larger display screen.

0021In another embodiment, a digital multimeter presents multiple measurements and other information in fonts of various sizes and in various locations on a multimeter display. The digital multimeter has means, including inputs, for gathering various measurements, including electrical measurements and a display, which has various regions or areas within the display. The first region of the display is centrally-located, i.e., in the middle of the display area, which is typically a screen. The second region is peripherally-located, which means that it may be above, below, or to the side of the centrally-located region and may abut the centrally-located region. A primary reading value of an electrical measurement may appear in either the first region or second region or may be in both regions. In another embodiment, the display simultaneously displays both a primary reading value of an electrical measurement and another item, which may be a derivative reading value of the electrical measurement, a dialog, a menu, another value or any combination thereof. If the derivative reading value is displayed, the primary reading value and the derivative reading value are preferably based upon the same electrical property.

0022In a related embodiment, the multimeter display uses a larger font in the centrally-located (i.e., main) portion of the display than it does in the peripherally-located portion of the display. The font size difference may be any difference such that the centrally-located font is larger, but is preferably larger by at least 25%, and more preferably, larger by at least 50%. If the second region displays the primary reading value, the first region may display one or more of various types of information, including a derivative reading value, a dialog, a menu, or a saved measurement value.

0023The multimeter may also provide ongoing monitoring of dangerous electrical conditions by showing a warning message on the display. In one embodiment, the results of the monitoring are displayed in the second area of the display. The multimeter can be set or programmed to display a warning message accompanying the primary reading value when the primary reading value is greater than a predetermined limit. This functionality provides additional safety for the user because, no matter what display is occurring in the center of the screen, the user can be apprised of potentially dangerous situations. The warning message may be any symbol or text which would indicate that the reading has exceeded the preset safety level. In certain embodiments, the warning message is a lightning bolt, flashing text, a flashing status bar, a flashing screen, a red screen, an alarm sound, such as a repeated beeping, or any combination thereof so that the warning message causes the user's attention to turn to the excessive value reading.

0024In another embodiment, the display may be used to show comparisons between values. For example, the primary reading value may be a relative value indicating a difference between an electrical condition and a reference value. The primary reading value may be displayed anywhere on the display, including in the first or second region. Various value comparisons may be displayed in both the first and second region simultaneously. The display may have an indication, such as an icon accompanying the value, that the value displayed is a relative value as opposed to an absolute value or a raw measurement.

0025In yet another embodiment, a digital multimeter comprises a display for showing measurement values associated with at least one electrical characteristic of an electrical circuit, a user interface for receiving a user input to select a mode governing a display format of the measurement values, a memory for storing an indication of the mode, and a processor for retrieving the indication of the mode from the memory, determining measurement values associated with the electrical circuit based on input to the multimeter, and generating display data for the measurement values in accordance with the mode. When the mode is a live-measurement mode, live actual measurement values are displayed in a normal font size in a central portion of the display. However, when the mode is not a live-measurement mode, live actual measurement values are displayed in a smaller than normal font size in a status bar in a peripheral portion of the display while other measurement values are displayed in the central portion of the display. In one embodiment, when the multimeter is in a mode that is not a live-measurement mode, the status bar at the top of the screen is “inversed,” meaning that white characters in the black status bars turn black and the black background of the status bars turns white or otherwise reverses the contrast between the bar background and the text. The status bar may be inversed when the meter is in HOLD, AutoHOLD or AutoSAVE mode, when the user is viewing readings from memory (as opposed to live readings), and when a recording, Min Max, or Peak session has been stopped, but has not yet been closed. An inversed status bar is designed to provide the user with a visual reminder that the values on the central portion of the display are not live measurement values.

0026A multimeter may also store a voltage threshold value in the memory. A voltage threshold value is an electrical value, a reading above which may indicate a dangerous condition in the vicinity of the multimeter. When the processor determines that any live actual measurement value displayed in the status bar is greater than the stored voltage threshold value, a warning message is displayed. As explained with respect to the above embodiments, the warning message may be any indication that the voltage threshold value has been reached or exceeded, including flashing words or symbols, including a lightning bolt, warning colors, warning sounds, or warning words such as “danger” or “threshold exceeded.” A multimeter may also display live actual measurement values in the status bar when the mode is a hold mode and a frozen past measurement is displayed in the central portion of the display. The multimeter may comprise a status bar or bars with one or more of a battery strength indicator, a time, or a date.

0027Methods of operating digital multimeters of the present invention are also disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises displaying live measurements within a main area of a display of the multimeter, detecting whether a user has selected a mode for the multimeter, upon detecting that the user has selected a mode for the multimeter, retrieving from a memory, display parameters corresponding to the selected mode, determining whether the display parameters indicate that the live measurements have been removed from the main area of the display, and upon making such a determination, dynamically reconfiguring a status bar within the display to include a smaller-sized or miniature representation of the live measurements. Methods of using the multimeter may also comprise retrieving a voltage threshold value from the memory, comparing the live measurements with the voltage threshold value, and, if one or more of the live measurements exceeds the voltage threshold value, displaying a warning message on the display, which may be displayed in the status bar or in the main display area and may be any of the warning messages described herein.

0028In another embodiment, a digital multimeter has a rotary switch memory and a rotary switch that has more than one position. Preferably, the rotary switch will have more than two positions, and more preferably, more than three positions. Each position on the rotary switch is associated with a “default” primary measurement function, which is the function that the multimeter performs or reverts to if the associated memory does not store a different function at that position. Additionally, at least one position on the rotary switch is associated with one or more non-default primary measurement functions. In one embodiment, each position on the rotary switch has one default and one non-default primary measurement functions. Alternatively, each position on the rotary switch may have one default and multiple non-default primary measurement functions. A further alternative is that some positions of the rotary switch have only a default primary measurement function and other positions have both default and non-default primary measurement functions. A multimeter user may control and program the multimeter to accommodate the user's needs.

0029The multimeter of the present invention has a processor, which allows for modification of the primary measurement function selected at a given time for a position on the multimeter (“active primary measurement function”) and a memory for storing such associations. For each position on the rotary switch, the active primary measurement function may change from default to non-default, non-default to default, or from one non-default function to a different non-default function. The processor processes and memory stores the active primary measurement and, when the multimeter is switched to a given position on the switch, the process retrieves the active primary measurement function from the rotary switch memory and causes the multimeter to perform the active primary measurement function. The rotary switch memory may also store a mode associated with an active primary measurement function, such that the multimeter performs the active primary measurement function in accordance with the associated mode (such as max/min, hold, etc.)

0030In certain embodiments, the multimeter stores the active primary measurement functions from each position on the switch even when the multimeter is turned off or the multimeter is powered down and then resumes performance of the active primary measurement function in response to the multimeter being turned back on or powered up. In other embodiments, powering down/turning off the multimeter automatically resets one or more of the active primary measurement functions to the default primary measurement functions. User input can determine whether the active primary measurement is saved or not. The digital multimeter may also have a mechanism for disabling the rotary switch memory, so that the multimeter only performs the default measurement functions associated with a particular position when the disabling mechanism is activated. The memory still retains its non-default position information, however, and can provide that information to the processor when the memory-disabling mechanism is turned off.

0031In yet another embodiment, the rotary switch memory also stores an active secondary measurement function associated with the active primary measurement function, and the multimeter performs the active secondary measurement function in conjunction with performing the active primary measurement function. The memory may associate the secondary measurement functions with both default and non-default primary measurement functions.

0032The digital multimeter may have a reset mechanism, which clears the rotary switch memory. After the reset mechanism is activated, the multimeter will perform the default primary measurement function associated with a particular position on the rotary switch. Preferably, reset mechanism has safeguards so that the memory will not be cleared by accident. The user can also customize the rotary switch in any combination or permutation of the various functionalities described herein, including locking the active primary and/or secondary measurement functions at certain locations on the rotary switch, preventing the rotary switch memory from storing non-default primary measurement functions for selected positions of the rotary switch, and resetting one position of the rotary switch without modifying the active primary measurement functions associated with other positions of the rotary switch.

0033In another embodiment, a multimeter is connected to an external central processing unit or computer. The multimeter may be connected to the external computer before, during, and/or after use. Transfer of data between the multimeter and the computer may occur both ways. For example, the multimeter can be connected to the computer and the computer can download a new set of operating instructions to the multimeter. This is a significant advantage because the multimeter can be updated with new software programs and new versions of existing programs without having to replace the memory of the multimeter. Conversely, the multimeter can upload saved data from its memory into the external computer, thus freeing up more space for additional measurements. If the external computer is connected to the multimeter during use, the processor of the computer and the processor the multimeter can work in tandem to process the data being acquired by the multimeter. The data acquired can then either be saved to the memory of the multimeter or the external computer or both.

0034Additional optional features of a multimeter include a low impedance voltage function to prevent false readings due to “ghost voltage.” Separately, a low pass filter function allows test of ac voltage output, and tests for accurate voltage and frequency measurements on adjustable speed motor drives and other electrically noisy equipment. Finally, a “50 Low Ω” feature allows testing of resistance up to 50 ohms with one milliohm resolution and is useful for testing motor windings or contact resistance or other areas where making reliable low resistance readings is required.

0035The many embodiments of a digital multimeter described herein may be used alone or in any combination or permutation. For example, a multimeter with a rotary switch and rotary switch memory may also have a mini-measurement feature and an information button. One skilled in the art will appreciate the variety of features for a digital multimeter, which are further described herein with respect to the figures.

Description of Components in a Highly-Integrated Multimeter Instrument

0036<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates a front face of an example multimeter <b>100</b>. Multimeter <b>100</b> typically comprises a compact, handheld body, including contour indentations improving suitability for one-handed operation. The face of multimeter <b>100</b> is generally characterized by a display <b>105</b>, a rotary switch <b>120</b>, soft keys <b>110</b>-<b>113</b>, navigation buttons <b>114</b>-<b>117</b>, dedicated buttons <b>125</b>-<b>128</b>, and various input jacks <b>121</b>-<b>124</b>. Multimeter <b>100</b> can be powered by AA alkaline batteries (not shown) or another suitable power supply.

Measurement Functions and Modes

0037Multimeter <b>100</b> may provide primary measurement functions, such as functions for measuring voltage, current, temperature, resistance, electrical continuity, conductance, capacitance, diode test, low impedance, low resistance (e.g., 50 Ohms), and AC/DC combinations (“AC+DC”, “AC,DC”). Additionally, multimeter <b>100</b> may further provide secondary measurement functions, which are functions for measuring secondary characteristics of signals or measurements generated by the primary measurement functions. Examples of secondary measurement functions include functions for measuring signal frequency, duty cycle, pulse width, decibels, and crest factor. Although multimeter <b>100</b> performs only one primary measurement function at a time, it may simultaneously perform a primary measurement function and one or more secondary measurement functions.

0038Multimeter <b>100</b> may be set to certain modes that operate in conjunction with various measurement functions. These modes determine how measurements are acquired and represented without changing the measurement function. Examples of these modes include “Min/Max,” “Hold,” “Range,” “Peak,” and “Record” modes. “Min/Max” mode is a mode in which multimeter <b>100</b> displays minimum, maximum, and average measurements that have occurred over a period of time. In this mode, whenever a new maximum or minimum occurs—exceeding the previous maximum or minimum—the new maximum or minimum is stored and displayed. “Hold” mode is a mode in which a displayed value is frozen on the display. Manual “Range” mode is a mode in which a range, or resolution, of a displayed value is specified by user input. Auto “Range” mode is a mode in which a range of a displayed value is determined by the multimeter. Both Auto Range and Manual Range may be accessed via the RANGE button. “Recording” mode is a mode in which a sequence of measurements of a parameter is recorded over a period of time for future review or storage. As an example, a sequence of multiple resistance measurements obtained at different parts of a circuit can be recorded using the “record” mode.

User Input Components—Rotary Switch, Buttons, and Keys

0039User input components of multimeter <b>100</b> include, among other things, rotary switch <b>120</b>, navigation buttons <b>114</b>-<b>117</b>, soft keys <b>110</b>-<b>113</b>, dedicated buttons <b>125</b>-<b>128</b>, an on/off switch <b>118</b> and a backlight control button <b>119</b>. Dedicated buttons <b>125</b>-<b>128</b> (also referred to as dedicated mode buttons) include an [Info] button <b>128</b>, a [HOLD] button <b>125</b>, a [MIN MAX] button <b>126</b>, and a [RANGE] button <b>127</b>. A user can interact with multimeter <b>100</b> using the various buttons and other features included on the face of multimeter <b>100</b>. Additionally, the user's interactions can be guided by information presented on various screens of display <b>105</b>. Further, multimeter <b>100</b> may present the user with output via display <b>105</b>, an indicator light, and/or an audible beeper. Multimeter <b>100</b> further includes an internal memory for storing information such as measurement values.

0040Soft keys <b>110</b>-<b>113</b> are located in an area beneath the display <b>105</b> and positioned to correspond with labels <b>106</b>-<b>109</b> on the display. Pressing one of the soft keys <b>110</b>-<b>113</b> invokes the command indicated by the corresponding label on the display. Every screen shown on display <b>105</b> has a custom set of soft key labels <b>106</b>-<b>109</b>. Some screens have fewer soft key labels than soft keys. When a soft key label is left blank, the corresponding soft key is disabled. For example, in the screen shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, soft key label “Menu” <b>150</b> corresponds to soft key “F<b>1</b>” <b>110</b>, soft key label “Save” <b>152</b> corresponds to soft key “F<b>2</b>” <b>111</b>, soft key label “Setup” <b>156</b> corresponds to soft key “F<b>4</b>” <b>113</b>, and soft key label <b>154</b> is left blank, indicating that soft key “F<b>3</b>” <b>112</b> is disabled.

0041In the example of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, navigation buttons <b>114</b>-<b>117</b> are centrally located among the other buttons of multimeter <b>100</b>. Navigation buttons <b>114</b>-<b>117</b> correspond to four cardinal directions: [UP] <b>115</b>, [DOWN] <b>117</b>, [LEFT] <b>114</b>, and [RIGHT] <b>116</b>. Navigation buttons <b>114</b>-<b>117</b> can be used to move within menus and dialogs and to make choices and perform data entry. They can also be used to scroll through a sequence of information too extensive to be displayed on a single screen.

0042[Info] button <b>128</b> can provide access to context-sensitive explanatory information about a measurement function and display contents. Additional details regarding [Info] button <b>128</b> are discussed further below. The context-sensitive explanatory information may appear in a pop-up information dialog which covers a portion, including most or all, of the underlying screen.

0043Multimeter <b>100</b> may include a backlight for the display <b>105</b> to allow improved viewing in conditions of reduced light. The backlight is typically activated by backlight control button <b>119</b>. Multimeter <b>100</b> can also include an On/Off button <b>118</b> used to turn multimeter <b>100</b> on or off.

0044Rotary switch <b>120</b> includes positions <b>130</b>, <b>132</b>, <b>134</b>, <b>136</b>, <b>138</b>, <b>140</b>, <b>142</b>, <b>144</b>, <b>146</b>, and <b>148</b>. Each of these positions corresponds to at least one primary measurement function of multimeter <b>100</b>. These primary measurement functions are indicated by symbols about the periphery of rotary switch <b>120</b>. Where more than one symbol is located next to a single position of rotary switch <b>120</b>, the symbol closest to rotary switch <b>120</b> corresponds to a default primary measurement function for that position and any symbols located farther away from rotary switch <b>120</b> correspond to non-default primary measurement functions for that position. For instance, position <b>142</b> of rotary switch <b>120</b> corresponds to a default primary measurement function for capacitance measurement (indicated by a capacitance circuit symbol), and a non-default primary measurement function for diode testing (indicated by a diode circuit symbol). A user can change the primary measurement function currently associated with a particular position of rotary switch <b>120</b> by actuating specific buttons on the face of multimeter <b>100</b>, as will be described in further detail below.

0045For explanation purposes, the term “active primary measurement function” will be used to refer to the primary measurement function currently associated with a particular position of rotary switch <b>120</b>. In other words, the active primary measurement function for a particular position of rotary switch <b>120</b> is the function that is performed by multimeter <b>100</b> when rotary switch <b>120</b> is moved to the particular position. As will be appreciated, the active primary measurement function for a particular position of rotary switch <b>120</b> may be a default primary measurement function or a non-default primary measurement function.

0046As indicated by the various symbols around rotary switch <b>120</b>, multimeter <b>100</b> may perform several different primary measurement functions. These primary measurement functions may include, for example, AC voltage measurement (e.g., from 0 V to 1000.0 V), AC millivolt measurement (e.g., from 0 mV to 3000.0 mV), DC voltage measurement (e.g., from 0 V to 1000.0 V0, DC millivolt measurement (e.g., from 0 mV to 3000.0 mV), resistance measurement (e.g., from 0Ω to 500.0 MΩ), capacitance measurement (e.g., from 0.001 nF to 50 mF), temperature measurement, AC current measurements (e.g., from 0 mA to 20.000 A), AC current measurements (e.g., from 0 μA to 5000.0 μA), DC current measurements (e.g., from 0 mA to 20.000 A), DC current measurements (e.g., from 0 μA to 5000.0 μA).

0047When rotary switch <b>120</b> is set to a particular position, multimeter <b>100</b> may be set to display a particular screen containing pertinent information related to the present primary measurement function. Each screen may present one or more menu items related to the present primary measurement function. These menu items may be presented by placing specific names on soft key labels <b>106</b>-<b>109</b>. Accordingly, a user may select from the menu items by pressing the corresponding soft keys <b>110</b>-<b>113</b>. As discussed below with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4 and 5</figref>, these menu items may, among other things, allow a user to switch between the different primary measurement functions associated with a current position of rotary switch <b>120</b>.

0048Dedicated mode buttons <b>125</b>-<b>128</b> provide direct single-press access to different modes. Pressing [HOLD] button <b>125</b> may cause multimeter <b>100</b> to hold a currently displayed measurement value. Pressing [MIN MAX] <b>126</b> button may cause multimeter <b>100</b> to capture the highest, lowest, and average readings over a period of time. Pressing [RANGE] button <b>127</b> may cause multimeter <b>100</b> to prompt a user to manually select a desired measurement range. Other modes may be selected by using soft keys <b>110</b>-<b>113</b> and navigation buttons <b>115</b>-<b>117</b> to make selections from menus on display <b>105</b>.

0049Multimeter <b>100</b> can be turned off and on again without losing its presently-employed settings. For instance, multimeter <b>100</b> can be turned off and on again without reverting from a non-default primary measurement function associated with a particular position of rotary switch <b>120</b> to a default primary measurement function associated with the same position. Similarly, multimeter <b>100</b> can be turned off and on again without reverting from a non-default mode associated with a particular position of rotary switch <b>120</b> to a default mode associated with the same position. Moreover, upon powering up, multimeter <b>100</b> can resume performance of any previously selected secondary measurement functions without requiring additional user input. In other words, multimeter <b>100</b> preserves specific user-configured settings even when turned off.

0050When rotary switch <b>120</b> changes from a first position to a second position, the screen of display <b>105</b> changes in accordance with a new measurement function associated with the second position. Typically, any modes or other configurations that have been designated for the first position are not maintained when rotary switch <b>120</b> changes to the second position. For instance, if multimeter <b>100</b> performs a first measurement in Hold mode while rotary switch <b>120</b> is at a first position, multimeter <b>100</b> will not necessarily maintain the Hold mode when rotary switch <b>120</b> is moved to a second position.

0051Multimeter <b>100</b> may receive input signals through probes or other input sources connected to input jacks <b>121</b>-<b>124</b>. Multimeter <b>100</b> may produce output through display <b>105</b> and other output interfaces such as indicator lights or audio sources for generating a beeping noise. Multimeter <b>100</b> can include an internal memory for storing information such as measurement values.

Multimeter User Display

0052Display <b>105</b> may comprise an LCD screen or any other suitable type of display. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, rotary switch <b>120</b> is set to position <b>132</b>, which corresponds to a voltage measurement for an alternating current. Accordingly, display <b>105</b> displays voltages measured by this measurement function. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, some measurements may be displayed in a bold type and/or in a comparatively larger font size in relation to other displayed measurements. Display <b>105</b> may further display additional measurements or collateral information related to the displayed measurements.

Schematic Layout of Multimeter Circuitry and Components

0053<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a schematic layout illustrating various components of digital multimeter <b>100</b> in accordance with one example. In the example of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, multimeter <b>100</b> comprises a digital display <b>200</b>, a power source <b>210</b>, controllers/processors <b>220</b>, a memory <b>230</b>, and input components <b>240</b>, <b>250</b>, <b>260</b>, an external input interface <b>270</b>.

0054Display <b>200</b> typically comprises an LCD screen or other suitable display. In some examples, display <b>200</b> is characterized as having a small footprint of approximately 6-8 square inches. Display <b>200</b> includes an area for a status bar <b>201</b> near an upper portion, and a soft keys area for displaying soft key labels. Display <b>200</b> receives data from controllers/processors <b>220</b> and power from power source <b>210</b>.

0055In some examples, power source <b>210</b> comprises batteries to allow for portability. Alternatively or additionally, power source <b>210</b> may incorporate an AC adapter to receive power from a standard AC electrical outlet. Power source <b>210</b> is connected to display <b>200</b>, controllers/processors <b>220</b>, and memory <b>230</b>.

0056In the example of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, controllers/processors <b>220</b> include one or more application processors <b>222</b> and one or more measurement processors <b>221</b>. In general, it should be recognized that the functionality of application processors <b>222</b> and measurement processors <b>221</b> can partitioned, combined, and implemented in a variety of different ways. For instance, various components of both processors can be implemented on the same chip, or distributed across many discrete and distinct electrical and/or logical components. Moreover, many components of application processors <b>222</b> and measurement processors <b>221</b> can be implemented in various combinations of hardware and/or software.

0057Application processors <b>222</b> typically comprise components for controlling other features of multimeter <b>100</b>, and for receiving and processing inputs from input components <b>240</b>, <b>250</b>, and <b>260</b>, measurement data from measurement processors <b>221</b>, and stored data from memory <b>230</b>. Measurement processors <b>221</b> typically comprise components for capturing measurement data provided through one or more electrical leads or contacts of input component <b>260</b>. Several basic technologies for implementing the functions of controllers/processors <b>220</b> are well known and will therefore not be discussed in great detail.

0058Memory <b>230</b> typically comprises one or more volatile or nonvolatile memory devices. The one or more memory devices may store and retrieve data using any of several known techniques, architectures, database systems, and so on. In general, memory <b>230</b> stores information <b>231</b> and <b>232</b> respectively relating to various available measurement functions (e.g., V AC, V DC, ohms, etc.) and modes (e.g., auto-save, relative) of multimeter <b>100</b>. Such information may be used, for instance, to control the operation of these functions and modes. Memory <b>230</b> further stores information <b>233</b> related to the state of rotary switch <b>120</b> and any current configurations (e.g., non-default primary measurement functions, modes) associated with different positions of rotary switch <b>120</b>. Memory <b>230</b> further stores information <b>234</b> related to a status bar mini-measurement display, information <b>235</b> related to voltage threshold values for different modes, and information <b>236</b> related to an information button of multimeter <b>100</b>.

Rotary Switch and Rotary Switch Memory

0059FIGS. <b>1</b> and <b>3</b>-<b>7</b> illustrate various screens associated with different positions of rotary switch <b>120</b>. The information displayed in these screens is described in further detail below.

0060<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates a screen associated with position <b>132</b> of rotary switch <b>120</b>. The screen of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> displays a measured voltage “123.45 VAC”.

0061<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates a screen that appears when rotary switch <b>120</b> is in position <b>132</b> and a user presses [MIN MAX] button <b>126</b> to invoke the Min/Max mode. The screen of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> displays a live voltage “119.8 VAC” (labeled <b>302</b>), a maximum measurement value “127.09 VAC” (labeled <b>304</b>), an average measurement value “119.50 VAC” (labeled <b>306</b>), and a minimum measurement value “110.23 VAC” (labeled <b>308</b>). Each of measurement values <b>304</b>, <b>306</b>, and <b>308</b> is accompanied by a time stamp <b>310</b> denoting a time when the measurement value was detected.

0062<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates a screen displayed when a user selects the default primary measurement function associated with position <b>138</b> of rotary switch <b>120</b>. In the disclosed example, the default primary measurement function associated with position <b>138</b> is a function for measuring mVDC. To access a non-default primary measurement function associated with position <b>138</b>, a user may select soft key <b>110</b> to access a function and mode menu for changing the primary default function. The menu presents options for alternative primary measurement functions and modes and allows the user to select an alternative primary default function or mode for the current position of rotary switch <b>120</b>.

0063<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates an example of the function and mode menu that can appear after the user presses soft key <b>110</b> in the screen of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, a user has selected a temperature measurement function by using navigation keys <b>114</b>-<b>117</b> to highlight a box <b>504</b> located next to the label “Temp” as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>. When box <b>504</b> is highlighted, the soft key labels corresponding to soft keys <b>110</b>, <b>111</b>, and <b>113</b> show an “F” (also labeled <b>506</b>) for measurement in degrees Fahrenheit, a “C” (also labeled <b>508</b>) for measurement in degrees Celsius, and “close” (also labeled <b>510</b>) to close the function and mode menu and return to the screen of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>.

0064<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> illustrates a screen that can be displayed after a user presses soft key <b>110</b> when the screen of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is displayed. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> illustrates a screen that can appear after a user selects Min/Max mode by pressing [MIN MAX] button <b>126</b> while the screen of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is displayed. The screen of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> displays a measured voltage “26.5° C.” (labeled <b>702</b>), a maximum measurement value 29.28 (labeled <b>704</b>), an average measurement value 27.83 (labeled <b>706</b>), and a minimum measurement value 25.02 (labeled <b>708</b>). The screen of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> further displays time stamps <b>710</b> indicating when the minimum, maximum, and average values were obtained.

0065Multimeter <b>100</b> includes a rotary switch memory (RSM) for storing configuration information associated with individual positions of rotary switch <b>120</b>. The RSM may store any non-default primary measurement function, secondary measurement functions, and mode used by multimeter <b>100</b> in conjunction with each position of rotary switch <b>120</b>. In some examples, the RSM comprises a non-volatile memory to maintain the stored configuration information even when multimeter <b>100</b> is turned off.

0066The RSM operates as follows: When a user moves rotary switch <b>120</b> to a new position, multimeter <b>100</b> accesses the RSM to determine whether any configuration information has been stored for the new position. If the RSM does not store any configuration information for the new position (or the RSM indicates default configuration information), multimeter <b>100</b> will perform the default primary measurement function corresponding to the new position using a corresponding default mode. However, if the RSM stores configuration information for the new position, multimeter <b>100</b> will perform any primary measurement function indicated by the configuration information, and will use any mode indicated by the configuration information. Accordingly, if the RSM stores non-default function or mode information, multimeter <b>100</b> will operate in accordance with the non-default information without requiring the user to access any menus or press any buttons.

0067Functions associated with the RSM (hereafter, “RSM functions”), such as functions for storing and applying configuration information, can be configured and/or enabled or disabled from a setup screen. An example setup screen can be accessed by pressing soft button <b>113</b> when display <b>105</b> shows any of the screens illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1</figref>, <b>3</b>-<b>4</b>, and <b>6</b>-<b>7</b>. If the RSM is disabled, multimeter <b>100</b> simply performs a default primary measurement function using a default mode each time rotary switch <b>120</b> changes to a new position. Accordingly, when RSM functions are disabled, a user must access a menu or press a function key to access previously used non-default primary measurement functions or modes. A user can reset the RSM so that multimeter <b>100</b> will operate using default primary measurement functions and default modes for all or some positions of rotary switch <b>120</b>. The user can perform this reset from a reset menu, button, or other input interface.

0068Returning to the example of FIGS. <b>1</b> and <b>3</b>-<b>7</b>, where RSM functions are enabled, a user can switch multimeter <b>100</b> from the configuration of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> (Temperature Measurement, Min/Max display mode) directly to the configuration of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> (VAC measurement, Min/Max mode) by switching rotary switch <b>120</b> from position <b>138</b> to position <b>132</b>. When rotary switch <b>120</b> assumes position <b>132</b>, multimeter <b>100</b> accesses the RSM, identifies the prior primary measurement function and mode associated with position <b>132</b>, and initiates that primary measurement function and mode. Similarly, a user can switch multimeter <b>100</b> back to the configuration of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> by simply moving rotary switch <b>120</b> from position <b>132</b> to position <b>138</b>.

0069On the other hand, where RSM functions are disabled and multimeter <b>100</b> has the configuration of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, if a user moves rotary switch <b>120</b> from position <b>132</b> to position <b>138</b>, multimeter <b>100</b> will automatically return to the screen shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>. In other words, multimeter <b>100</b> will assume the default primary measurement function and mode associated with position <b>132</b>.

0070In some embodiments, certain modes or functions may not be affected by RSM functions. For instance, to comply with safety standards, multimeter <b>100</b> may prevent the RSM from automatically changing the contents of display <b>105</b> based on certain modes. As an example, multimeter <b>100</b> may prevent the RSM from automatically changing the contents of display <b>105</b> to show only low frequency signals (e.g., in a low-pass filter mode) because a user may mistake the displayed low frequency signals for a complete live measurement. As a result, the user may fail to appreciate the possible danger of touching live connections that the user believes to be safe. While multimeter <b>100</b> may automatically prevent some modes or functions from being affected by RSM functions, multimeter <b>100</b> may also allow a user to specify certain modes or functions that may or may not be affected by RSM functions.

0071Multimeter <b>100</b> may be programmed to perform certain procedures involving a sequence of measurements taken by a user. These procedures may include steps which require the user to change rotary switch <b>120</b> to various new positions and/or to select non-default primary measurement functions for different positions of rotary switch <b>120</b>. When RSM functions are enabled, multimeter <b>100</b> can store information for the procedure. For instance, if the procedure requires the user to perform a sequence of non-default primary measurement functions corresponding to different positions of rotary switch <b>120</b>, the RSM memory may store information to allow the user to automatically access these functions without accessing menus or pressing buttons after moving rotary switch <b>120</b>. The RSM function can also store any information necessary to resume a procedure in cases where the power supply for multimeter <b>100</b> is interrupted for any reason in the middle of the procedure.

0072In some embodiments, RSM functions are permanently enabled to prevent a user from accidentally losing stored configuration information. In these embodiments, a user may be able to restore default settings for rotary switch <b>120</b> by pressing a button or by making a selection from a menu. Additionally, in some embodiments, RSM functions may be permanently enabled for only some positions of rotary switch <b>120</b>. In these embodiments, a user can control whether RSM functions are enabled in positions for which RSM functions are not permanently enabled.

0073<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a flow diagram illustrating a method of operating multimeter <b>100</b> when rotary switch <b>120</b> is moved to a new position. In the description that follows, example method steps will be denoted by parentheses (XXX). For explanation purposes, it will be assumed that the method is performed by multimeter <b>100</b> under the control of application processors <b>222</b>. However, it should be understood that the method may be performed by other devices or implemented in different ways.

0074Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, application processors <b>222</b> detect movement of rotary switch <b>120</b> to a new position (<b>801</b>). Next, application processors <b>222</b> determine whether RSM functions have been enabled (<b>802</b>), which can be done, e.g., using a setup menu, as described above. If RSM functions are disabled (<b>802</b>=No) application processors <b>222</b> control multimeter <b>100</b> to perform the default primary measurement function for the new position of rotary switch <b>120</b> (<b>811</b>). Multimeter <b>100</b> then performs one or more measurements using the default primary measurement function (<b>808</b>) and displays the measurements on display <b>105</b> (<b>809</b>).

0075If RSM functions are enabled (<b>802</b>=Yes), application processors <b>222</b> retrieve data from the RSM for the new position of rotary switch <b>120</b>. Based on the retrieved data, application processors <b>222</b> determine whether the most recent primary measurement function performed at the new position of rotary switch <b>120</b> was a default primary measurement function or a non-default primary measurement function (<b>804</b>). If the most recent primary measurement function was a default primary measurement function (<b>804</b>=No), multimeter <b>100</b> performs the default measurement function (<b>811</b>) and continues to steps <b>808</b> through <b>810</b>.

0076Otherwise, if the most recent primary measurement function was a non-default primary measurement function (<b>804</b>=Yes), application processors <b>222</b> selects the non-default primary measurement function (<b>805</b>). Then, the application processor determines whether a non-default mode was previously enabled in conjunction with the selected non-default primary measurement function (<b>806</b>). If so, (<b>806</b>=Yes), application processors <b>222</b> enable the non-default mode (<b>807</b>), and multimeter <b>100</b> continues to steps <b>808</b> through <b>810</b>. Otherwise, (<b>806</b>=No), multimeter <b>100</b> continues to steps <b>808</b> through <b>810</b>, performing measurements and displaying the measurements using a default mode for the new position of rotary switch <b>120</b>. After completing step <b>809</b>, application processors <b>822</b> determine whether rotary switch <b>120</b> has been moved to a new position (<b>810</b>). If so (<b>810</b>=Yes), multimeter <b>100</b> returns to step <b>801</b>. If not (<b>810</b>=No), multimeter <b>100</b> may take more measurements and display the measurements by returning to step <b>808</b>.

Dynamically Generated Status Bar Providing Live Measurement Reading

0077Digital multimeters commonly are used to perform relatively simple measurements of voltage, current, resistivity or other circuitry parameters. When used for this purpose, the instrument typically displays the measured value in a prominent manner on a display screen to apprise a user of the measurement result.

0078As discussed above, more sophisticated digital multimeters include capabilities to display measurement information beyond simple measurement values, relating to one or more different modes. For selection of at least some of these modes, the resulting measurement value displayed on the instrument is no longer the actual value of the voltage, current, or resistivity across a node in a circuit. Instead, the displayed value corresponds to a different characteristic of the actual measurement associated with the selected mode.

0079As an unfortunate consequence of utilizing different modes when operating a multimeter instrument, a user may easily be lulled into a misperception that the multimeter display is reporting an actual live measurement reading. As an example, while the hold mode is selected, a user may mistakenly believe that a reading reports an actual live measurement, instead of being a previously recorded value. In some situations, such a misperception could prove to be hazardous to the operator of the instrument.

0080In an example embodiment of a digital multimeter, an additional display value is provided as a live measurement value to ensure that a user can discern the live actual measurement. However, because a portable, handheld multimeter incorporates a very small digital screen, displaying this value could tend to overcrowd the display or otherwise confuse the user. There thus exists a tension between the advantages of displaying the live, actual measurement prominently for safety considerations, and arranging the display in a manner for easy use with a quick glance at the instrument.

0081In accordance with the exemplary embodiment, a digital multimeter includes a dynamically generated status bar that provides, in a single, predictable area, dynamically selected information believed to be of significance to a user. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the status bar may include, for example, a battery strength indicator <b>158</b>, the time <b>160</b> and date <b>162</b>, and some indication of the instrument setting (speaker set “on”) <b>164</b>. Additionally, when necessary, the status bar may include a display of the live, actual measurement reading, and an icon indicating whether such a reading might be considered dangerous, and to be handled with caution. The status bar(s) may be inversed to indicate a non-live reading. To preserve space on the display screen, the status bar may be positioned at the top of the screen (as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>), or optionally, at a side or bottom area of the screen. In some embodiments, the positioning of the status bar may be configurable by a user.

0082Accordingly, in some embodiments, a mini-measurement can be displayed automatically when the primary measurement function's measurement is not displayed or is otherwise obscured from view on the screen. As yet another example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, a user may select the “hold” mode for freezing the display of a measurement, such that the main area of display <b>105</b> does not report the live, actual reading. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, the status bar includes an indication <b>902</b> of the hold mode and a “mini-measurement” <b>904</b> informing the user of the live reading while display <b>105</b> is frozen with a past reading on hold. The status bar may be inversed to indicate a non-live reading.

0083As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, the status bar displays the live reading with a unit symbol (e.g., VAC, VDC, etc.) or other indication of the type of measurement being displayed. Additionally, when a measurement obtained by a secondary measurement function is displayed in the main area of display <b>105</b>, the mini-measurement can display a measurement obtained by the corresponding primary measurement function. For instance, if the primary measurement function measures the amplitude of an AC signal and the secondary measurement function measures the frequency of the AC signal, the amplitude may be displayed in the status bar while the frequency is displayed in the main area of display <b>105</b>. In some embodiments, multimeter <b>100</b> allows a user to control whether the mini-measurement is displayed on display <b>105</b>.

0084As an additional safety feature, the mini-measurement may be accompanied by a mini lightning bolt (mini bolt) if display <b>105</b> is displaying a Volts AC or DC and a potentially hazardous voltage is present. The value that triggers the mini bolt is preferably factory preprogrammed to preserve the integrity of the safety feature. For instance, a user or a manufacturing process could set the mini bolt to appear when multimeter <b>100</b> measures a voltage at or above 30 VAC. In some embodiments, the user can set the minimum voltage or other condition triggering the mini bolt to appear, and can alter a factory programmed value.

0085In some embodiments, primary readings may be accompanied by a comparatively larger lightning bolt (not shown) when a potentially hazardous voltage has been measured or multimeter <b>100</b> is being calibrated. If the mini bolt is displayed and a larger lightning bolt accompanying the displayed reading is obscured, the mini-measurement, the mini bolt, or both may blink. Additionally, the mini-measurement may blink when high current is present in the A and mA functions to warn the user that a fuse of multimeter <b>100</b> may eventually fail. In some embodiments, a user may be able to set conditions under which the mini bolt will appear and/or blink.

0086<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a flow diagram illustrating a method for dynamically generating the status bar display in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. For explanation purposes, it will be assumed that the method is performed by multimeter <b>100</b> under the control of application processors <b>222</b>. However, it should be understood that the method could be performed by other devices or implemented in different ways.

0087In the method, application processor <b>222</b> first detects that a user has selected a mode for multimeter <b>100</b> (<b>1002</b>). Next, application processor <b>222</b> retrieves display parameters from memory <b>230</b> corresponding to the selected mode (<b>1004</b>). Next, the method determines whether the display parameters indicate that the live measurements have been removed from the main area of display <b>105</b> (<b>1006</b>). If so (<b>1006</b>=Yes), application processor <b>222</b> dynamically re-configures the status bar on display <b>105</b> to include a live measurement with a reduced font size, as a “mini-measurement” (<b>1008</b>). Otherwise (<b>1006</b>=No), no re-configuration occurs unless a user selects a new mode for multimeter <b>100</b>.

0088Next, application processors <b>222</b> retrieve from memory <b>230</b> a threshold value that was configured by the user or otherwise programmed into memory (<b>1010</b>). Application processor <b>222</b> then compares the retrieved threshold value with a live measurement and determines whether the live measurement is above the threshold value (<b>1012</b>). If so (<b>1012</b>=Yes), a lightning bolt warning icon is included in the status bar area (<b>1014</b>), and application processors <b>222</b> then determine whether a new mode was selected (<b>1016</b>). Otherwise (<b>1012</b>=No), application processors <b>222</b> skip to step <b>1016</b> without including the lightning bolt warning icon in the status bar area.

0089The method of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> provides integrated capability to dramatically improve the safety associated with use of a digital multimeter with potential high voltage or high current circuitry. By dynamically re-configuring the status bar area of display <b>105</b>, multimeter <b>100</b> can include extra measurement data when needed, but remove this information from an already-crowded display area when the data otherwise would be redundant. Additionally, the method displays a warning icon, such as a lightning bolt, to notify a user when a live actual measurement has exceeded a voltage threshold value that could threaten the user's safety. By positioning the warning icon in the status bar area, the user can quickly and efficiently check whether its status without otherwise disrupting measurements in progress.

Information Screens

0090Multimeter users do not frequently carry the instruction manual for the multimeter while using the multimeter. However, as multimeters have become increasingly complex and now incorporate a wide variety of features, it is often helpful to provide technical information to help the users take measurements and interpret the multimeter's output. For instance, the information may help a user to remember what a certain icon represents on a multimeter, or how a particular function of the multimeter is used.

0091To address the user's need for information, multimeter <b>100</b> is configured to display explanatory information about the functions of multimeter <b>100</b> when a user presses [Info] button <b>128</b>. In particular, when the user presses [Info] button <b>128</b>, multimeter <b>100</b> displays explanatory information describing available functions of multimeter <b>100</b> and indicating the purpose of visual elements appearing in display <b>105</b>. In addition to or as an alternative to providing descriptions and indications related to the available functions and visual elements in display, the explanatory information may also instruct a user how to use the functions or interact with the visual elements.

0092The function of [Info] button <b>128</b> is described in further detail below. Although the following description presents a dedicated button as a user input for requesting generation of an information screen, other input techniques may be used as an alternative to the dedicated button.

0093When a user presses [Info] button <b>128</b>, multimeter <b>100</b> displays a pop-up dialog box including information regarding the functionality of icons and other information on display <b>105</b>. The displayed information may vary according to the context at the time [Info] button <b>128</b> was pressed. For example, [Info] button <b>128</b> may be pushed by a user to receive additional information regarding measurement functions such as a function for measuring the voltage level of a direct current, a function for measuring a voltage level of an alternating current, a function for measuring the crest factor of a periodic signal, a function for measuring the duty cycle of a periodic signal, a function for recording a sequence of measurements, or a function for choosing a measurement function. Because the context can vary with the position of rotary switch <b>120</b> and various soft key choices, the information displayed can vary according to these variables.

0094Each screen, menu, and dialog of multimeter <b>100</b> potentially can have a corresponding information dialog that can be displayed when a user presses [Info] button <b>128</b>. When a menu is shown on display <b>105</b>, a selected item on the menu can determine the context for the information dialog. Alternatively, all menu items can determine the context for the information dialog.

0095Multimeter <b>100</b> may display information on any of several different topics when a user presses [info] button <b>128</b>. The topics may include, e.g., instructions for using a function or examples of applications in which a user could employ certain functionality available on the multimeter. As one example, a topic could explain what a certain mode of measuring is and when a user would use the mode. Multimeter <b>100</b> can be further programmed by the user to include certain topics in certain contexts. For instance, a company may have a particular procedure for taking measurements in a building. The company could program multimeter <b>100</b> to display an information dialog including instructions for performing the company's procedure. By relying on these instructions, the operator can perform the procedure without carrying an instruction manual.

0096Multimeter <b>100</b> can be programmed such that the explanatory information disappears after a predetermined amount of time or upon occurrence of a certain event. Once the explanatory information disappears, multimeter <b>100</b> restores any information that was covered or displaced by the explanatory information.

0097<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> shows an example screen <b>1100</b> including an information dialog displayed in response to a user pressing [Info] button <b>128</b>. The information dialog is displayed in place of, or over, current measurements, and thus screen <b>1100</b> includes a miniaturized version <b>1102</b> of a current measurement. Screen <b>1100</b> also includes a title bar <b>1106</b> indicating the context in which [Info] button <b>128</b> was pressed. In the example of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>, [Info] button <b>128</b> was pressed while multimeter <b>100</b> was configured to perform a function for measuring DC voltage. A list of specific topics is provided below title bar <b>1106</b>.

0098In the example of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>, each of the specific topics relates to the context in which [Info] button <b>128</b> was pressed. More particularly, each topic is associated with an icon <b>1108</b> and a brief explanation <b>1110</b> of the icon. Icon <b>1108</b> provides an easy way for the user to quickly identify a topic. Additionally, icon <b>1108</b> can provide an anchor for each topic so that a user can switch from topic to topic by navigating between icons <b>1108</b> using navigation buttons <b>114</b>-<b>117</b>. The topics shown may be listed in order of relevance to the context. When the user is uncertain about an operation or visible element appearing in the display, the user can push [Info] button <b>128</b> to learn about the operation or visible element appearing in the display.

0099The user can navigate forward and backward between individual topics as well as between different pages of the information dialog. Soft Key <b>110</b> can be set to select “Next” <b>1112</b>, which moves the dialog to a next topic entry. By pressing soft key <b>110</b> and looking at icons <b>1108</b>, the user can move fairly rapidly to different topics of interest. Soft key <b>110</b> can be programmed to become disabled once a last topic is reached in the information dialog.

0100Soft key <b>111</b> can be programmed to select “Prev” <b>1114</b>, which causes screen <b>1100</b> to move to a previous topic entry. Soft key <b>111</b> can be programmed to become disabled once a first topic is reached in the information dialog. Soft Key <b>112</b> can be programmed to operate to select “More . . . ” <b>1116</b> which allows the user to scroll down the information one page at a time, ignoring topic boundaries. Selecting “More . . . ” <b>1116</b> can provide a way for the user to continue reading the text accompanying an icon for a topic when only a portion of the text is shown on the display. Soft key <b>112</b> can be programmed to become disabled once the end of a topic is reached. The down navigation button can perform the same function as soft key <b>112</b> when the information dialog is present. The up navigation button can perform that opposite function of the down navigation button and soft key <b>112</b> when the information dialog is present. In other words, the up navigation button can be programmed to provide a way to scroll up the information on the display. The left and right navigation buttons can be disabled when the information dialog is present.

0101Soft key <b>113</b> can be programmed to select “Exit” <b>1118</b>, which closes the information dialog once soft key <b>1111</b> is pressed. There are various other ways the information dialog can be prompted to close. For instance, the user can close the information dialog by pressing [Info] button <b>128</b> while the information dialog is present. The information dialog may also be closed by turning the rotary switch to a new position or pressing on/off button <b>118</b> or one of dedicated mode buttons <b>125</b>-<b>127</b>.

0102[Info] button <b>128</b> can be pressed in any context. Title bar <b>1106</b> can reflect the context within which the button as pressed. Examples of such contexts include configurations of multimeter <b>100</b> in which it is performing or ready to perform any of the following functions: “Measure Volts DC”, “Measure Volts AC”, “Measuring Crest Factor”, “Measuring Duty Cycle”, “Recording Measurements”, and “Choosing a Measurement Function”.

0103The information dialog may be associated with a scrolling memory that remembers where in the information dialog the user last scrolled during a previous viewing of the information dialog in the same context. Once the user has scrolled to a certain position in the information dialog, the user may toggle between the underlying screen and the information dialog without losing the user's place in the information dialog. For instance, if the user presses [Info] button <b>128</b> while measuring Volts AC, the information dialog can pop up to display the first topic listed in the information dialog. Then, if the user scrolls down the information dialog to a fourth listed topic, and then toggles back to the original screen and subsequently back to the information dialog, the information dialog will display the fourth listed topic. In general, toggling can be accomplished by pressing a button on multimeter <b>100</b> to change the screen displayed on display <b>105</b>.

0104The overview information displayed when [Info] button <b>128</b> is pushed can be available in a variety of languages. The overview information can be stored in a compressed format to minimize storage requirements and provide more capacity for storing measurement information.

0105In the example of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, [Info] button <b>128</b> may be part of keys/button input <b>250</b>, which are electrically connected to application processors <b>222</b>. When a user depresses this [Info] button <b>128</b>, application processor <b>222</b> retrieves information about the current context of multimeter <b>100</b> from memory <b>230</b>. Based on the retrieved context information, application processors <b>222</b> retrieve data from memory <b>230</b> to be presented in the information dialog on display <b>200</b>. For instance, application processors <b>222</b> may retrieve information regarding icons currently displayed on multimeter <b>100</b> or current functions of multimeter <b>100</b>.

0106The information dialog presented in display <b>105</b> helps a user to take advantage of the various capabilities of multimeter <b>100</b>. The information dialog is tailored for a small LCD screen provided on multimeter <b>100</b>. Because multimeter <b>100</b> is intended to be portable and self-contained, it is otherwise highly inconvenient to separately carry a user manual. Further, experienced technicians or other users may be unlikely to tote a user's manual, but would benefit from information presented in the information dialog. By incorporating this functionality with the soft-buttons, navigational buttons, and other forms of user input, a user can easily navigate through a vast glossary of information concerning multimeter <b>100</b> to find desired information quickly and efficiently.

0107As another unique aspect of incorporating [Info] button <b>128</b> on multimeter <b>100</b>, a company can re-program or tailor the presentation of information from [Info] button <b>128</b> to correspond to particular company procedures or processes associated with measuring electrical circuits. This highly-innovative feature provides a particular, unforeseen benefit in the context of digital multimeters, since it can be used by a fleet of mobile technicians at remote sites, who may be required to follow strict guidelines provided by a company. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, memory <b>230</b> can be programmed for customized information through an associated Flash input, USB port, or other interface.

0108Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 and 3</figref>, in an exemplary embodiment, a user can re-program the information to be presented in response to depressing the [Info] button <b>128</b> via a screen presented as part of either the Menu or Setup. Via either a Menu or Setup screen accessible through soft keys <b>110</b>-<b>113</b>, the multimeter <b>100</b> may prompt a user to connect the instrument to a PC via a USB cable at port <b>270</b>, as depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. Alternatively, the application processor <b>222</b> in multimeter <b>100</b> automatically may switch into a programming mode upon detecting a USB connection. Instead of a USB port, port <b>270</b> may be adapted to receive flash memory from which application processor <b>222</b> can retrieve data to reconfigure memory section <b>236</b>. As a further alternative, multimeter <b>100</b> may include Bluetooth capability to detect a wireless connection for downloading additional [Info] button data to memory section <b>236</b>.

CONCLUSION

0109Rotary switch memory, mini-measurement display, and Info button glossary access can be integrated into a single multimeter. Alternatively, each can be provided separately, or independently. A user of the multimeter configures the multimeter to enable or disable the rotary switch memory, the mini-measurement or the Info button.

0110Many specific details of certain embodiments of the invention are set forth in the description and in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-11</figref> to provide a thorough understanding of these embodiments. A person skilled in the art, however, will understand that the invention may be practiced without several of these details or additional details can be added to the invention. Certain well-known structures and functions have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the disclosed embodiments.

0111Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to.” Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description using the singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular number respectively. The word “or,” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

0112The above detailed description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed above. While specific embodiments of, and examples for, the invention are described above for illustrative purposes, various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. For example, while processes or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative embodiments may perform routines having steps, or employ systems having blocks, in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to provide alternative or subcombinations. Each of these processes or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Also, while processes or blocks are at times shown as being performed in series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed in parallel, or may be performed at different times.

0113The teachings of the invention provided herein can be applied to other systems, not necessarily those described above. The elements and acts of the various embodiments described above can be combined or altered to provide further embodiments.

0114These and other changes can be made to the invention in light of the above Detailed Description. While the above description describes certain embodiments of the invention, and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, the invention can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may vary considerably in its implementation details, while still being encompassed by the invention disclosed herein.

0115The terminology used in the Detailed Description is intended to be interpreted in its broadest reasonable manner, even though it is being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the invention. Certain terms may even be emphasized; however, any terminology intended to be interpreted in any restricted manner will be overtly and specifically defined as such in this Detailed Description section. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless the above Detailed Description section explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the invention encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the invention under the claims.

0116While certain aspects of the invention are presented below in certain claim forms, the inventors contemplate the various aspects of the invention in any number of claim forms. Accordingly, the inventors reserve the right to add additional claims after filing the application to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects of the invention.