Workshop: Calibrating a Digital Caliper

Even cheap calipers can be accurate if they are zeroed and cleaned correctly.

1. Cleaning the Jaws

Wipe the measuring faces with a clean, dry cloth. A single speck of dust can throw off your reading by 0.05mm.

2. The Light Test

Close the jaws and hold them up to a light source. If you see light between the jaws, there is debris or the jaws are bent.

3. Zeroing

Close the jaws fully and press the 'Zero' button. Do this every time you turn them on.

4. Verification

Measure a known reference, like a 10mm gauge block or a high-quality drill bit shank. If it's off by more than 0.02mm, your calipers may need adjustment or replacement.