Analog Dials

[halcyonforever]

I've noticed several projects use various analog dials for various things; VU/Temp/cool factor. What are some good sources for those. I can't seem to find a reliable source. Any suggestions where to find some... (think a bunch like a big panel of dials and knobs)

[widefault]

Ebay, of course, has tons of different devices and gauges listed. Finding matching parts is near impossible, though.

Have any auto wrecking yards near you? Might be able to find something in old cars or trucks. Might even want to check out any auto parts stores neaby, might be able to find cheap voltage gauges.

Have any place nearby that deals with scrap industrial equipment? Electrical supply houses? I don't mean radio shack but a place the deals with components and parts in bulk. They may not have anything in stock, but might be able to point you towards someone who does.

Also might want to check the next few websites, I've seen some dials and gauges here and there.
www.digikey.com
www.allelectronics.com

Might even want to hit your local thrift shops, usually find some old electronic junk that could have a few things that are interesting.

Finding them is going to be half the problem, though. Your next issue is interfacing them with the PC or whatever device you use. Probably not going to have manuals, so you better be good with a multimeter.

[halcyonforever]

Thanks for the links, I know I had stumbled upon some of those through the wiki and my own wanderings.

I guess my challenge is I am trying to build some non-standard gauges and am looking at some pretty in depth fabrications to make what I want. Volt meters and some others will definately be used. I also want to have things like a panel mounted flow meter

Another link we definately need on the wiki is for http://www.thomasnet.com/ that is one of the most trusted sources for manufacturers in industry.