An Evaluation of the Three-Voltmeter Method for AC Power Measurement

The accuracy and frequency response limitations in the present square-law responding laboratory wattmeters have promoted the search for alternate methods of ac power measurement using electronic instrumentation. The three-voltmeter method is based on an old principle of operation implemented by new analog circuitry. Results of the tests reported here show a precision of power calculation with 0.01 percent error at frequencies below 5 kHz. A unique test procedure is described for the comparison of the three-voltmeter device and a time-division multiplier wattmeter operating at zero power factor.