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So, you want to measure the resistance or voltage of the pumps, sockets, and other things around your house. How should you get started? Read on to learn more!
Before everything else, you may want to know more about multimeter and its beneficial uses.
A digital multimeter (DMM) is a useful device mainly used for measuring resistance, voltage, and current as well as for checking fuse and wire continuity. It is also known as a volt-ohm meter (VOM). If you love DIY jobs such as troubleshooting an electrical or electronic component, the multimeter is such a handy, useful accessory to be added in your home toolkit. Electronic industries and technicians are the main benefactors of this tool.
Analog meters were replaced by the digital multimeter because of its ability to provide a much higher level of accuracy and reliability. The first multimeter was first introduced by Fluke in 1977. It is usually composed of 4 components: (1) display where you can see the measurement readouts; (2) buttons which allows you to choose from different functions (note that options vary from one model to another); (3) input jacks in which test leads are attached; and (4) rotary switch or dial if you need to choose between ohms, volts, and amps to perform a particular task.
There are digital multimeters of all sizes and shapes. Each has its own certain functions. Regardless of the type of multimeter you use, there are some basic practices about the electrical properties measurement that we want to tackle.
It is imperative to know the different symbols in a multimeter:
Volts DC (=) – the most commonly used setting for automotive applications. Specific readings rely on the electrical component status and the circuit.
Volts AC (~) – emits AC current that is rectified by the diodes within the regulator.
Ohms – the third most utilized value on the multimeter. You can use it if you need to test most sensors.
Amperage – the most dangerous value. Most of the units are available in detached lead port for amperage, with the limited number of amps a unit can be able to measure safely.
Continuity – the symbol varies by digital multimeter manufacturers. It is very useful if you want to find poor grounds, open or short circuits, damaged wires, etc.
Use the voltage to measure various things around your house, including the microwaves, pumps, and sockets.
Before starting, switch off the power of your component if it’s in an appliance or on the circuit board.
Here, we determine the current of a circuit through measuring in amperage (amps). It is a unit of an electrical current that indicates the amount of electricity thatruns through a circuit.
Want to check if the diode or LED in your circuit is in good shape? Perhaps, your curiosity kills you about the color of your LED when powered. This is where the diode mode comes handy.
Continuity testing identifies if a closed or open circuit occurs in an electrical/electronic device or appliance. You can even use it for sensing broken wires and bugs likefaulty wires.
It is one of the most useful multimeter tests for electrical or electronics repair. Before getting started, make sure there is no current functioning through the component or circuit you plan to test. Remove the batteries or switch off the power supply.
DMMs are impulsive tools. Hence, proper safety precautions must be taken into account when handling any electrical measurements. Refer to the manual first to understand the accurate operating procedures, restrictions, and safety precautions before using electrical test equipment.
Just a random guy who likes to build things. Providing tool knowledge, appliance/device testing tips, and DIY project info in an easy-to read & non-intimidating style.