reflecting galvanometer
Date: 1920-1930
Inventory Number: 0435
Classification: Reflecting Galvanometer
Subject:
Maker: Kipp & Zonen (1866-present)
User: Department of Physics, Harvard University (founded 1884)
Cultural Region:
Place of Origin:
Dimensions:
24 × 15 × 15 cm (9 7/16 × 5 7/8 × 5 7/8 in.)
Description:
This instrument consists of a vertical tube that contains a moving coil and mirror on a suspension wire. This tube has been set between the poles of an inverted horseshoe magnet. The apparatus rests on a circular bakelite base, which is supported by a fixed foot and two leveling screws. Two binding posts are seen on the base.
Signedon base: KIPP / DELFT HOLLAND
FunctionElectrical apparatus used in measuring very low voltage potentials for calibrating equipment. When a current is applied to the galvanometer, a small variation will create a torque motion on the mirror. A light is then beamed on the mirror, which will be redirected away from the galvanometer towards a graduated scale. The position of the reflected light on that scale will indicate the variation of the current detected by the galvanometer.
Curatorial RemarksAccording to the company's website, Kipp started producing thermopiles and galvanometers in 1913: "In this year another man from Utrecht brings a new impulse to the firm. Dr. W.J.H. Moll, a scientist at Utrecht University, contacts Kipp & Zonen to show him some innovations; a sensitive mirror galvanometer and a rapid sensitive thermopile. Mr. Ankersmit is impressed and starts the production of both instruments, which eventually leads to a complete new product range of scientific instruments."
For this information, go to the following website.
For this information, go to the following website.
ProvenanceFrom the Department of Physics, Lyman Laboratory, Harvard University.