Flutterby™! : Going Metric 2008-03-27 02:49:25.818458+00

Going Metric

2008-03-27 02:49:25.818458+00 by Dan Lyke 5 comments

We've been trying to slowly go metric in the shop. It ain't easy, I've got a 150mm rule in millimeters, which isn't nearly small enough (in fact I'm not sure how anyone manages, half a millimeter is pretty darned big, 1/64" is a nice small size), we got a set of digital calipers that switch back and forth between metric and Imperial, and we got a tape measure, but it's only metric on one side, so I have to be sure to get it on the right side of whatever I'm measuring.

People in other countries have better tools, one of which is Talmeter, what looks like a fabulously designed markingmeasure/tape measure. Want. Can't find anyone who'll ship it to the U.S., but want.

#Comment Re: made: 2008-03-28 12:00:26.242283+00 by: m [edit history]

A unitless measurement system I am coming to rely on more and more is the story pole system.

Indeed. In fact I'm having trouble totally understanding all of the Talmeter marketing prose, but my impression is that they intend the lock and the case shape to let you use the tape as a story stick.

I've used cubits more times than I care to admit. Unfortunately, coming up with fractions of cubits is painful.

Just an aside - In the early days of "metrification is just around the corner" the 1970s), the argument was that the decimal system of division used in the metric system is more compatible with computers and the way they operate. Let's see - 1/2", 1/4", 1/8", ... sounds pretty binary to me!