1. galvanometer, astatic A galvanometer with a pair of magnetic needles connected astatically, or parallel with their poles in opposition. (See Astatic Needle.) Each needle has its own coil, the coils being wound in opposite directions so as to unite in producing deflections in the same sense. As there should be some directive tendency this is obtained by one of the magnets being slightly stronger than the other or by the proximity of a fixed and adjustable controlling magnet, placed nearer one needle than the other.
For small deflections the currents producing them are proportional to their extent.
Definitions of galvanometer, astatic
