Tachometers

A tachometer, often abbreviated as “tach,” is an instrument used to measure the rotational speed or revolutions per minute (RPM) of a rotating object, typically a motor or engine. Tachometers are commonly found in various types of machinery, vehicles, and industrial equipment to monitor and display the speed at which the engine or motor is operating.

In automobiles, for example, a tachometer is usually part of the instrument cluster and provides the driver with information about the engine’s RPM. This information is useful for maintaining proper engine performance, shifting gears in manual transmissions, and preventing over-revving the engine, which can cause damage.

Tachometers can also be found in various other applications, such as aircraft, boats, and industrial machinery, where monitoring and controlling the rotational speed of engines or equipment is essential for safety and efficiency. Tachometers can use various methods to measure RPM, including electronic sensors, optical sensors, or mechanical linkages depending on the specific application and the accuracy required.