An analysis is given of a direct‐reading system for micron range differential‐capacity type diaphragm manometers. It is shown that electrostatic compensation of diaphragm displacement by feedback produces a linear pressure calibration when control system gain is sufficient. It is also shown that adjustment can be provided for unavoidable inequalities in the manometer capacities without changing the calibration. An experimental direct‐reading gauge is described with deviations from linearity less than 1% in the pressure range 0 to 500 &mgr;.