How to Use the Multimeter

The multimeter is the electrician's best friend. A versatile tool, the multimeter is a must-have if you plan on doing any of your own electrical work in your home. But because of the various functions, it may be difficult for the homeowner to fully understand how a multimeter works. Here, we take a closer look at the multimeter and explain how you can get the most use out of this essential device.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Multimeter

1. Take a look at the picture of the above multimeter and you will see that there are a number of settings and terminals. The black probe ALWAYS gets plugged into the terminal that is labeled "COM" or common. The voltage being tested determines which port the red probe gets inserted into.

2. Look at the various signs on the multimeter. You will see a "V" with a wavy line above it, a "V" with both a solid line and dotted line above it and what looks like an upside-down "O" with feet (the Greek symbol for Omega).

3. Turn the dial to the area designated with the "V" with the wavy line above it when you want to test for AC voltage. Then, choose the level of voltage you will be measuring; for instance, if you are testing a 120V circuit, set the multimeter to read 200 in the AC voltage section. NEVER set the dial at a lower voltage than what you will be testing.

4. Turn the dial to the section with the "V" with the dotted and solid line above it to read DC voltage. Again, adhere to the level of voltage you are going to be testing when you choose the setting.

5. Turn the dial to the section with the Omega symbol if you want to test the resistance of something, like a resistor. Here, you will also have to know what you are going to be testing for before you select the setting. Also, never test for resistance when there is power in the circuit. always turn off the circuit before testing resistance or you will damage the multimeter.

6. At the bottom of the dial, you will see a small section with a right-pointing arrow. This setting is for testing continuity. This should also be performed with the circuit's power off. If you place one probe on each end of a circuit and the tester reads .OL, then there is a break in the circuit. If you get a numerical reading along with an audible tone, then the circuit is electrically connected.

7. If your multimeter has a setting that has an "A," then it is capable of measuring amperage. You can measure amperage by either using the clamp that came with the multimeter or by putting the meter in series with the circuit.

Tips & Warnings

• Always be sure of what it is you are testing for and set your multimeter accordingly or you could damage a rather expensive piece of equipment or be injured.