Abstract: A precision drive system for a chart recorder adapted to record time histories of one or more sensed parameters on a single chart including one power source, one or more sensing means adapted for electrical connection to said power source, a drive motor having a rotatable output shaft and adapted for electrical connection to the power source, a pulse generator operative in response to the power source to provide a pulse at selectable regular time intervals, a motor and sensor starting means operative in response to a pulse from the pulse generator for starting the motor and the sensing means at the regular time intervals, and a self interrupting means for the motor and the sensing means to turn the motor and the sensing means off after a reading has been recorded on said chart recorder, to provide a chart recorder which can operate in a remote location for long periods of time and give a precise time record independent of the power source voltage, with a low power consumption.