Multimeters are essential tools for electricians, electronics, engineers.
It is used to measure current, voltage, resistance. Based on that, one can discover damaged and unsafe conductors, power supplies, circuits, switches, resistors, and motors so that they can be replaced and repaired promptly.
Currently, there are famous manufacturers of multimeters such as Fluke, Klein, Amprobe, Mastech, Hioki, Extech…
Multimeters have 2 types.
Analog multimeter
Analog multimeter is also known as a VOM.(volt-ohm-milliammeter)
The measured values are indicated by the pointer deviating from the “0” point. So each time before measuring, we have to correct the point “0”, in order to reduce the error of the measurement.
To measure current, voltage, and resistance we must know in advance the range of values to be measured and rotate the control knob to the corresponding scale.
Analog multimeter has not high accuracy. Suitable for simple measurements.
Therefore, the cost of an analog multimeter is also lower than that of a digital multimeter.
Digital multimeter.
Digital multimeter also knew as DMM, DVOM
All measurements are displayed on an easy-to-read LCD surface
Although it functions similarly to an analog multimeter, the digital multimeter is more accurate. Suitable for high precision measurements.
The price of a digital multimeter is also higher than that of an analog multimeter. However, depending on the needs of use, we should choose the right watches at reasonable prices. as it has different basic and advanced types.
A high-end digital multimeter can measure the following values:
- AC (alternating current) voltage and amperage
- DC (direct current) voltage and amperage
- Resistance (ohms)
- Capacity (farads)
- Conductance (siemens)
- Decibels
- Duty cycle
- Frequency (Hz)
- Inductance (henrys)
- Temperature Celsius or Fahrenheit
Notes:
Voltage measurement:
Select the correct scale to allow the measurement to avoid equipment damage: Ac to measure alternating voltage, DC for DC voltage.
Resistance measurement:
– Be sure to turn off the power before measuring.
– Pay attention to the scale, and ensure good contact position before measuring
-Do not measure resistance directly in the circuit because it will cause error.
Measure current:
– the scale must be correct (A, mA)
-Ensure good contact at the site to be measured.
Summary
When using the multimeter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. In order to avoid errors, equipment damage, especially safe hunger for users.
further reading:
How to Use a Digital Multimeter?