A micrometer is a measuring instrument that is used to determine the thickness of blocks, depths of slots and diameters of shafts. This instrument is one of the most precise and easy to read measuring instruments available, and is often favored over the caliper. Micrometers are a common tool in the field of mechanical engineering.

There are three different types of micrometers, each with its own specific purpose: the external micrometer, the internal micrometer and the depth micrometer. As the name suggests, the external micrometer measures the external dimensions of objects, such as blocks, spheres and wires. The internal micrometer is used to measure the openings of holes, and the depth micrometer is used to measure the depth of holes and slots.

Mitutoyo is a popular name brand of micrometers. A Mitutoyo micrometer can be used in a variety of industrial settings to ensure the proper thickness, depth and diameters of products. Mitutoyo was founded in the 1940s, and was Japan's first manufacturer of micrometers. They have since grown to one of the leading manufacturers of micrometers in the world.

The micrometer was invented in the 17th century as an improvement to the previously used vernier caliper. William Gascoigne invented the micrometer to measure the distances between stars. It was later that the micrometer was adapted to measure small dimensions. Because the adaptation was made by a Frenchman named Jean-Louis Palmer, the French often refer to the device as the palmer.