Proper Usage Of A Multimeter

A multimeter is able to measure to measure ohms (resistance), voltage and amperage in electrical circuits. Although they all work on basic principals always read the instructions with the multi meter you are going to use for the proper instructions.

Analog or Digital

The two basic types of multimeter, analog and digital only differ in the way they show the results. An analog meter has a dial with a needle that moves to point to the value being measured while a digital one displays the value as a number.

Measuring Resistance

To measure the resistance in a component or circuit you need to select the ohms scale. Do not try to measure resistance in a live circuit – the multimeter uses its own batteries to test the circuit. Make sure you have the test leads in the right sockets.

Measuring Voltage

Select the voltage scale. The voltage in a circuit can be measured with the multimeter but always start to measure from the highest value to protect the multimeter from damage. If no voltage registers switch to the next lower value and so forth until the voltage value shows.

Measuring Amperage

Select the amps scale and start to measure from the highest values and work down until the amperage registers.

Multi meters are very accurate and proper use will prolong their life.