Electrostatic voltmeters are now almost entirely used for the measurement of high voltages from 2000 to 50,000 volts employed in electrotechnics.
It is thus futile to compare the absolute voltages met with at two stations, unless allowance can be made for the influence of the environment.
Ayrton and others, for measuring voltages from 10,000 volts down to 1 volt.
These instruments are only adapted for the measurement of continuous potential difference, that is to say, unidirectional potential difference, but not for alternating voltages.
During construction of such a voltage divider always ensure all parts have adequate clearances for the voltages being measured.