Ammeter

Object number2007.167.99

Manufacturer Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company (1886 - 1945)

Date1890

MediumMetal, Rock, Glass, Rubber.

Credit LineTransfer from George Westinghouse Museum Foundation

DescriptionRectangular glass case with marble base; interior has metal and rubber parts with a long arrow that swing back and forth on a white plate; patent plate in middle near bottom see maker's mark note for text.Dimensions17.125 x 10.125 x 5 in. (43.5 x 25.7 x 12.7 cm)
Marks"WESTINGHOUSE ELEC. &M'F'G CO / PITTSBURGH PA. / PATENTED / LANGE JUL. 12 '87 JUL. 31 '88 / AUG. 12 '90 / LANGE & SHALLENBERGER / JULY 12 '87"
Label TextOnce the challenge of delivering power to homes and factories was resolved, a method for measuring and charging for the new energy was needed. Oliver B. Shallenberger, a talented electrician working for the Westinghouse Electric Company, developed the first electric meter for alternating current, patented in 1887. Additional label: Electrical engineer Oliver Shallenberger solved the major issue of how to measure alternating current. In 1887 he patented an induction meter to track current and ensure that it maintained a stable level. This wall-mounted meter is one of the earliest known products from Westinghouse Electric.

Related person Oliver B. Shallenberger

Subjects