A stopwatch is a type of timer device designed to measure the amount of time elapsed, from a start point when it is activated to the time when it is deactivated. Timers are used in a wide range of applications from sporting events to experiments and provide a precise time measurement from start to finish.RS Components offer to customers a wide range of stopwatches both hand held and desk versions.Types of stopwatchesTwo main types of stopwatches are available on the market: Digital and Analogue. The most important difference between them is a time resolution. Analogue Devices provide accuracy of 1/5 s but in the digital version in most of the cases deliver 1/100 s resolution of the time. All digital stopwatches are battery operated, normally powered by coin button batteries, but the source of power in analogue stopwatches comes from a mechanical system. Some of the RS PRO stopwatches are equipped with an illuminated screen, useful in low light situations. Many stopwatches also include an audible alarm that starts once the count down has ended or a set time is reached, providing an enhance notification useful for when the timer is not in operation.What to look for when buying stopwatch?The time accuracy can make a massive difference. Often, 1/5 s accuracy is good enough but for higher speed tasks 1/100 s accuracy is necessary. The source of power is also important. Mechanical stopwatches need some user attention for correct operation whilst digital devices are always ready to work. They are usually equipped with an illuminated screen that can be helpful in low light conditions.