Simpson 260 Series 6P Overload Protected Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter VOM Meter

Simpson 260 Series 6P Overload Protected Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter VOM Meter

The Simpson 260 Series 6P is a classic analog Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter (VOM) — one of the most recognized and widely used analog multimeters ever produced. It measures DC and AC voltage, DC and AC current, and resistance across more than 20 selectable ranges, all controlled by two front-panel knobs. The meter movement uses a taut-band suspension rather than a conventional pivot-and-jewel mechanism, which increases shock resistance and eliminates pivot friction for more accurate, repeatable readings.

Specifications & What's Included

• Model: Simpson 260 Series 6P
• Type: Analog Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter (VOM)
• DC sensitivity: 20,000 Ω/V DC
• AC sensitivity: 5,000 Ω/V AC
• Measurement functions: DC voltage, AC voltage, DC current, AC current, resistance (Ohms)
• More than 20 measurement ranges total
• DC voltage ranges: 2.5V, 10V, 50V, 250V, 500V, 1000V
• Current ranges: 1 mA, 10 mA, 100 mA, 500 mA (Transit), 60A/250 mV, 10A
• Resistance ranges: Rx1, Rx100, Rx10,000
• Output jack: 1000V AC/DC
• Display: Large tri-color arc scale with mirrored strip to eliminate parallax error
• Meter movement: Self-shielding taut-band suspension
• Overload protection: Yes — protects the meter movement from damage on accidental overrange
• Input jacks: Reverse recessed safety jacks — Common, +, Output, −10A, +10A
• Zero Ohms adjust knob on right front panel
• Case: Black reinforced phenolic with built-in carry handle
• Meter only — no test leads or accessories included

Applications

The Simpson 260 has been a staple of electronics workbenches, electrical maintenance shops, and trade schools since its introduction in the 1930s, with the Series 6P representing a mature mid-20th-century production run (the taut-band movement and reverse recessed safety jacks became standard features in later series). These meters are still actively used today by technicians working on vintage electronics, radio equipment, and tube amplifiers, where an analog VOM's continuous needle deflection gives a more intuitive reading of fluctuating or peak values than a digital meter. The 260 is also a common calibration reference and a standard teaching instrument. Its 20,000 Ω/V DC sensitivity makes it a relatively high-impedance meter for its type, reducing loading effects on sensitive circuits. The dB scale and 500 mA Transit range extend its usefulness to audio-level measurements and higher-current circuits. Collectors and working technicians alike seek out the Series 6 variants for their reliability and the availability of replacement parts.