We've all probably used a basic protractor in a geometry class, and these are handy tools to use if you want to measure an angle. There are quite a few other types of protractors out there and many are far more sophisticated than those we used in grammar school or high school. Electronic protractors, also called digital protractors or perhaps a digital angle gauge make measuring angles a snap. Some of these digital devices resemble the typical bevel protractor but some just look like a box with a digital readout.

If you are wondering how to use an electronic protractor there actually are two methods of taking measurement using the protractor. The horizontal measurement mode uses a horizontal surface as the base or zero angle. You set the protractor to "horizontal measurement mode" then place the protractor on the angled surface.

With the relative measurement mode one can take measurements of two surfaces. You place the protractor on the first angled surface and take the readings, place zero to clear the reading and place the protractor on the second angled surface. The reading will show the difference between the first angle and the second.

There are literally dozens of professions that require the use of an electronic protractor. You see these used in fields such as carpentry and construction as well as with surveying and even geophysics. Using principles of trigonometry and armed with a digital protractor, one can measure the height of a building or tall trees in a vast forest. Often, the digital protractor will be a tool used to measure the slope or incline of land for a variety of land surveying jobs as well as civil engineering projects.

Additionally, electronic protractors can be used to measure drilling angles when drilling a well. You might also use this device to measure the rate and depth of a landslide or to monitor changes in a volcano. Astronomers can use a digital protractor to measure the angle of crux stars, while a doctor might measure the range of body part motion using this device. Even soldiers might use an electronic protractor to adjust angles for gun training and sniping.

There are many other uses for electronic protractors, and the world is full of important tasks where angles must be measured precisely. Among the many professions that utilize the digital protractor you will find volcanologists and geophysicists as well as all types of surveyors and engineers. Carpenters also use these devices and even a homeowner can use an electronic protractor to help with various household repairs and tasks.