How to Use a Southwire Multimeter 10030S

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There’s no doubt that a digital multimeter is a crucial device for any electrical task or project. A basic DMM combines the job of measuring the three crucial electrical properties for a particular circuit or voltage, current, voltage, and resistance.

A multimeter has the ability to measure all three of those parameters, but a digital multimeter might still be heard, referred to as ohmmeter, ammeter, and voltmeter. 

In big part, that is because the single task analog multimeters having been so typical before digital technology made it simpler or more economical to combine such activities into one multi-functional device. You will also find different models that provide added features and innovative options.

From household appliances to computers to cars, a multimeter is a strong device any handyman should have in their arsenal to fight faulty electrical power and electronic problems. No matter if you are a professional engineer, technician, electrician, or just a DIY type of person, you can find a multimeter with the specific features you are seeking to meet all your testing requirements. 

In this article, we will present an in-depth review of Southwire Multimeter 10030S and the best ways on how you can make the most out of it. If you’re ready to learn more, keep reading!

What is Southwire Multimeter 10030S? 

Are you working in the electric field? Whether it is a yes or not, Southwire Multimeter 10030S is a multimeter can and probably should become a part of your tool bag. This basic, general-purpose multimeter can test appliances, outlets, electrical fixtures, light fixtures, batteries, and all other types of electrical devices.

The manual ranging multimeter of Southwire falls on the basic side of stuff. However, that does not make this to the lower leagues. It does not have all the bells and whistles of other multimeters from the company, but you can expect it to support the same general functions as a pro model. 

The Southwire Multimeter 10030S features a backlit digital display for better and smoother visibility in darker settings. It also features a hold feature to help you keep all your measurements posted on display.

It’s worth mentioning as well that it features an integrated stand holding the unit upright. What’s more, impact resistance over-molding makes for a much comfortable grip and offers more protection for the meter when you unavoidably drop it. Isn’t it amazing? 

Here are some of the features you can expect from using Southwire Multimeter 10030S:

  • Integrated tilt-stand for better and hassle-free viewing
  • CAT IIIV or CAT II 600V listed
  • Impact resistance mode double molded housing offers easy and convenient grip
  • Special changes for testing AAA, AA, D, and 9volt batteries
  • It offers seven functions with twenty ranges
  • Includes test leads, multimeter, and 9-volt battery

How do you use a Southwire Multimeter 10030S multimeter?

For you to fully know how to use a Southwire Multimeter 10030S, it’s important to understand what a multimeter is and how it works. 

You will find numerous settings on a multimeter, including continuity, capacitance, current, voltage, and resistance. Such settings are put to use by rotating the dial, which is normally positioned at the center of your multimeter,

As a mechanic or a handyman, you can use such settings to help locate the problem with the electrical components of your vehicle. Typical points of testing involve batteries, relays, cables, and wires. Nonetheless, you can utilize the Southwire Multimeter 10030S multimeter to test anything with current electricity running through it. 

  • Current – This refers to how much electricity is flowing through your circuit from the battery.
  • Resistance – This refers to how complicated it is for the electricity to flow through a circuit. 
  • Volt – It measures how much electricity is getting driven or pushed into the circuit from the battery.

You will also notice different symbols denoting Direct Current and Alternating Current, which you will utilize based on the type of current utilized in every part’s specific circuit. Finally, you will also find a Continuity Check Symbol that looks like a Wi-Fi sign, indicating whether or not the circuit is connected. 

You will also find two wires linked to probes, and they are:

  • Black lead/probe – This is intended for negative electric ground or output.
  • Red lead/probe – This is intended for the positive electric ground or output. 

How to use Southwire Multimeter 10030S to check a 12-volt car battery?

Keep in mind that testing a car battery offers you the basic concept of one way a digital multimeter works. In that case, you’re locating for voltage to ensure the battery is generating enough power output. 

Here are the steps you need to do if you like to use this multimeter for testing your car battery. Follow all the steps so you don’t get lost along the way. 

  • Park your vehicle in a safe area out of the way. Allow it to cool down for a while.
  • Pop the food, find the battery and disconnect any terminal covers you will find.
  • Insert the probes into your Southwire Multimeter 10030S and disconnect the tip caps. 
  • Turn the dial of the multimeter to voltage and ensure it is set to at least 20V. 
  • Insert the red positive lead tip on the red positive terminal. Then insert the black negative probe tip on the black negative terminal. At this stage, you need to ensure the tips should touch the metal. 
  • Your Southwire Multimeter 10030S should read close to 12.6 volts when the vehicle is turned off. Do you notice a number below that number? Then your battery must be recharged or must be replaced right away. If your car is running, it will sit in the 13 to the 14-ish range. 

Final thoughts

There you have it! We hope you find the answers to your question on how to use a Southwire Multimeter 10030S. You can check if your multimeter is working by doing a quick battery check to find anything strange or out of sorts. 

For other measurements, you can do a basic check or test on a known entity that you’re sure has a particular amperage, resistance, or voltage.

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