Plain English Meaning

An analogue instrument shows information using a moving needle on a dial, like a traditional clock face, instead of showing it as numbers on a screen.

Full Definition

In aviation instrumentation, analogue refers to a display or signal that represents information continuously, typically using a moving needle, pointer, or dial against a graduated scale, rather than as discrete numerical values.

Context Anchor

Seen when comparing traditional round-dial instruments with electronic flight displays, or when an electronic display uses a dial, pointer, tape, or scale to show flight information.

Derivation

From the Greek 'analogos', meaning 'proportionate' or 'corresponding'. The needle's position is proportional to the value being measured — half-scale deflection means half the value. That proportional, continuous relationship is what makes it 'analogue'.