How to Use a Multi Meter to Measure Electricity

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A multi meter is a simple, inexpensive device for testing circuit continuity, and measuring voltage and resistance. Occasionally our posts mention using a multi meter to test something on a battery. However, we realized we never provided any tips on how to use a multi meter previously. Therefore, we thought to plug the gap and write this post.

How to Use a Multi Meter to Check Voltage

how to use a multi meter
Basic Multi Meter: Becky Stern: CC 2.0

We use two settings on a basic multi meter  to measure volts. One toggles between AC and DC current, while the other sets the minimum and maximum voltage range. Advanced multi meters are able to auto-range. This adds to their cost while not being strictly necessary for occasional use.

To test a battery for voltage, turn the multi meter  on, and set the range and current type. Then touch the red and black probes to the positive and negative terminals respectively as marked. The multi meter will display the voltage it measures on the read out.

Checking Resistance with a Multi Meter

how to use a multi meter
Multi Meter with Carry Case: Gareth Halfacree: CC 2.0

Electrical resistance is the degree of difficulty with which electricity passes through a circuit or an object. We can compare this to the flow of water through a pipe, or a drinking straw. We express electrical resistance in ohms (Ω), while electrical conductance measures in siemens (S).

It’s a vital safety requirement that we disconnect a device before testing it. The key to using a multi meter for measuring resistance is a matter of selecting the Ω symbol as opposed to AC or DC, and adjusting the range. Then we measure the resistance by placing the probes at the beginning and end of the circuit, or on opposite sides of the object, or resistor.

How to Use a Multi Meter to Test for Connectivity

If a circuit won’t complete we need to find the fault. Since this potentially can happen anywhere, we narrow down the search progressively. First, we isolate the electricity and set the device to the Ω symbol. Then we place one multi meter  probe in the middle of the circuit, and the other one at the end we choose.

If we do not get a reading, voila, we already know in which half the fault is. Now you know how to use a multi meter to do split-half testing, you will find many other uses for this handy device.

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I tripped over a shrinking bank balance and fell into the writing gig unintentionally. This was after I escaped the corporate world and searched in vain for ways to become rich on the internet by doing nothing. Despite the fact that writing is no recipe for wealth, I rather enjoy it. I will not deny I am obsessed with it when I have the time. I live in Margate on the Kwazulu-Natal south coast of South Africa. I work from home where I ponder on the future of the planet, and what lies beyond in the great hereafter. Sometimes I step out of my computer into the silent riverine forests, and empty golden beaches for which the area is renowned. Richard

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