How to Check Voltages on Vintage Radios

Using and collecting vintage radios is a hot topic right now and has been for years. When you buy an older radio though, there aren't any guarantees that it may work, which means you might need to check the voltage. It might sound like a complicated process, but it’s actually very easy. Even the inexperienced can check the voltage on the radio as long as they have a voltage meter.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Voltage meter
• Radio

Checking the Voltage on a Vintage Radio

1. Attach the lead from your voltage meter to a flat wire and connect that wire to the radio. You’ll want to use the black lead from the meter because this is the grounded portion.

2. Set your voltage meter to DC voltage, which is the voltage used in the old vintage style radios. If you use the AC voltage you probably won’t find any problems because the meter can’t read the voltage coming off the radio.

3. Hold the red lead in one hand and run it across the back of the radio. The lead should have a rubber or plastic grip on it that will prevent any electricity from reaching your body.

4. Press the red lead against the back of the radio and hold it against the various electrical components on the radio. You’ll be able to see areas where the voltage is low and areas where the voltage may be too high.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid electrical shock by only holding one lead in your hand at a time and only using one hand to hold the lead.