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How to Zero a Micrometer

A micrometer looks something like a C-clamp with a superiority complex. It is, in fact, a scientific instrument used for taking extremely precise measurements in a laboratory setting, and is typically accurate to within .005mm. You will occasionally have to reset or "zero" the micrometer to ensure the continued accuracy of its measurements, as the instrument itself is rather delicate and can get knocked out of calibration relatively easily.

Things You'll Need

Small spanner wrench (included with micrometer)

Instructions

- 1
  Place a piece of paper in between the micrometer's measuring jaws, then close the spindle -- the technical name for the lower "movable" jaw -- until it closes lightly onto the paper.
- 2
  Pull the paper out from the jaws without loosening the spindle. This will wipe the surface of the jaws clean and allow for greater accuracy when resetting.
- 3
  Close the jaws all the way until you hear a "click" or until the jaws cannot close anymore.
- 4
  Insert the spanner wrench included with the micrometer into the small slot immediately above the measurement markings on the sleeve -- the twistable handle portion -- and rotate the sleeve until the zero line lines up perfectly with the zero line on the "thimble" -- the piece above the sleeve.

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