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Step 1
Test devices in your home with an analog volt-ohm meter. Analogs have the needle that makes it easy to detect the subtle fluctuations of devices. These meters also are available in digital--which are good. But the digital meters do not detect subtle fluctuations of voltage as it travels into the device. Volt-ohm meters test voltage, ohms and amps. Touch the two probes together prior to testing then "zero out" the meter for an accurate test.
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Step 2
Test the resistance of devices by using the ohms scale on the meter which shows how devices conduct electricity.
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Step 3
Test how much electrical current a device is using by utilizing the amp scale on the meter.
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Step 4
Test the life of batteries safely by using a volt-ohm meter. The meter will show if there is still life in the batteries. Use the meter to test battery operated toys also. Match the polarity of the probes with the batteries.
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Step 5
Test with a digital volt-ohm meter to get the "auto range" which automatically selects the highest range the device can have safely before you test the device. This is helpful when you are switching back and forth between testing for volts, ohms and amps.
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Step 6
Unplug then test extension cords and cords to devices with the meter. Zero indicates a closed circuit, while infinity indicates an open circuit. If the reading is infinity, that means the cord has a break somewhere and should be replaced.
