How to Create a Meter Chart in Excel (with Easy Steps)

Step 1 – Create a Dataset with Proper Parameters

We need to create a dataset to make a meter chart in Excel. We calculate the end value of the pointer using a mathematical formula.

• Enter the following formula:

Where 200 is the total reading of speed, F5 is the speed value, and F6 is the pointer value.

Our dataset reads,

Step 2 – Make a Doughnut Pie Chart

• Select cells range from B5 to C9.
• From your Insert ribbon, go to Insert → Charts → Pie Chart → Doughnut

• You can create a doughnut pie chart using the dataset in the screenshot below.

Read More: How to Create a Gauge Chart in Excel

Step 3 – Give a Format to the Meter Chart

• Place your cursor on the chart and right-click on the mouse.
• A window will appear. Select the Format Data Series option.

• A Format Data Series drop-down list pops up.
• Type 270⁰ in the Angle of first slice typing box under the drop-down list named Series Options.

• Select the bigger portion of the Doughnut chart, and check the No fill option under the Fill drop-down list.

• Our chart looks like the screenshot below.

We will create a pointer to the meter chart.

• Place your cursor on the chart and right-click. A window will appear.
• Select the Select Data option.

• A dialog box named Select Data Source will appear.
• From the Select Data Source dialog box, select the Add option.

• An Edit Series dialog box pops up. From the Edit Series dialog box, type =’Meter Chart’!$E$4:$F$4 in the Series name typing box.
• Type =’Meter Chart’!$E$4:$F$4 in the Series values typing box.
• Press OK.

• Go back to the Select Data Source dialog box and press the OK option.

We will change the type of the chart.

• Place your cursor on the chart and right-click.
• A window will appear.
• Select the Change Series Chart Type option.

• A Change Chart Type dialog box pops up. Select the Pie chart in the pointer, and press OK.

• Select the larger two portions of the Pie chart, and check the No fill option under the Fill drop-down list.

• Type 270⁰ in the Angle of first slice typing box under the drop-down list named Series Options.

You will have created a meter chart like the screenshot below.

Step 4 – Check the Meter Chart

• We will change the pointer value from 3 to 5, and we will notice that the pointer’s thickness changes automatically.
• You can also change the speed value to check the meter chart. If you change the speed value, the pointer position will change automatically.

Things to Remember

➜ While a value can not found in the referenced cell, the #N/A! error happens in Excel.

➜ #DIV/0! error happens when a value is divided by zero(0) or the cell reference is blank.

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Related Articles

• How to Create Speedometer Chart in Excel

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