Abstract. As an abstract concept, 'location error' in is considered to be an important element with great difficult to understand and apply. The paper designs and develops an instrument to measure the location error. The location error is affected by different position methods and reference selection. So we choose position element by rotating the disk. The tiny movement transfers by grating ruler and programming by PLC can show the error on text display, which also helps students understand the position principle and related concepts of location error. After comparing measurement results with theoretical calculations and analyzing the measurement accuracy, the paper draws a conclusion that the teaching aid owns reliability and a promotion of high value.