Simpson Electric

Overview

Simpson Electric manufactures analog and digital panel meters, test instruments, and equipment for industrial, laboratory, and environmental applications.¹²⁶ The company holds a position in the panel and test instrument market, recognized for products like the 260 Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter and its U.S. manufacturing as a minority-owned business.¹²

History

Ray Simpson founded Simpson Electric, building the indicating mechanism for the earth inductor compass used by Charles Lindbergh in his 1927 solo trans-Atlantic flight.¹³ The company was chartered in 1936, with the 260 Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter establishing its reputation for quality in industrial conditions.² In 1985, it was purchased by the Lac du Flambeau Band of the Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, operating as a Native American-owned firm.¹⁴

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured in the U.S.A. at its facility in Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin.¹

Notable Products

• 260 Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter - Iconic analog multimeter that defined the company's reputation for reliable industrial testing.²
• Earth Inductor Compass Mechanism - Indicating mechanism built by founder for Charles Lindbergh's 1927 trans-Atlantic flight.³
• Digital Panel Meters - Digital displays for industrial and laboratory voltage, current, and process monitoring.⁶
• Analog Panel Meters - Durable analog meters for environmental and tough industrial applications.¹

Reputation

Simpson Electric is regarded for its long-standing reliability in analog panel meters and test instruments among industrial professionals.²⁶ Its U.S. manufacturing and minority-owned status add to its appeal in specialized markets.¹⁴ The brand maintains a niche reputation tied to heritage products rather than broad market dominance.