The instrument described here was designed as a laboratory aid for the visually handicapped. It is basically a 3 1/2‐digit multimeter with speech output; however, it has added functions which extend its usefulness beyond the ability to measure the usual ranges of ac and dc voltage and current. The device can function as a thermometer, a pH meter, a 6‐digit timer, and an events counter. Two voltage‐to‐frequency (V/F) converters make it useful as an audible comparator and peak detector. An integrator is realized by using the counter to count the pulse train from a V/F converter which monitors the input signal. A low‐level differential channel is provided for interfacing to instruments with recorder outputs, such as gas chromatographs. Spoken values of measured quantities are accompanied by sign, decimal point, and units. The instrument can also interface with other digital devices through 42 lines of parallel digital input–output. It can convert seven parallel BCD digits into speech or it can output BCD data from its counter or converter to a microcomputer.