Want to know how to use a multimeter? This step by step guide shows how it is done

Ever needed to check the voltage, AC DC current or resistance of your appliances or other electrical components? Most of us have called an electrician at some point to do just that, but you can do it yourself with a multimeter if you know how to use a multimeter.

A multimeter is a device that measures circuit currents. With this device you’ll be able to see if a circuit has voltage and if there is an electrical problem.

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A multimeter is designed mainly for voltage metering but newer models have other features built in that automate a lot of tasks. It has a lot of functions but that does not mean it is difficult to use. The following step by step guide shows how to use it.

How to Measure Resistance

Step 1. Adjust the multimeter setting to resistance or ohms

Turn your multimeter on. Locate the ohm scale, typically it is at the uppermost scale with the highest values along the dial’s left side, going down to zero to the right. This is the opposite of the other measurements that have the lowest values along the left and go up to the right.

Step 2. Check the meter indicator

If the test leads don’t touch anything, an analog meter’s pointer should be at the left most area. This indicates resistance is infinite and the circuit is open. It also means there is no path between the black and red probes and no continuity.

Step 3. Hook the test leads.

Link up the black test lead on the jack labeled “-” or “common”. Connect the red test lead on the jack with the ohm symbol or omega / R sign. Adjust the range to R x 100 if the option is available.

Step 4. Grab the test lead probe ends and set them together

The pointer will now move to the right. Find the knob labeled zero adjust and turn it so the meter is as near 0 as possible.

Make sure to zero your multimeter after the resistance has been changed or the next reading will come out wrong.

Step 5. Measure resistance

• To try out the multimeter, get a light bulb and find its two electrical contact points. They are the bottom base center and the threaded base.
• Hold the bulb or have a friend hold it for you. Set the red probe against the base bottom center and the black probe on the threaded base.
• Observe the needle as it goes from left to right.

How to Measure Voltage

Step 1. Set your multimeter to the maximum AC volt range allowed

Often the voltage to be tested has an unknown value. By choosing the highest setting your multimeter ensures you don’t risk damaging the device.

Step 2. Put the probes in the jacks

Put the black probe in the jack marked “-” or COM. Put the red probe in the jack marked “+” or V.

Step 3. Find the voltage scales

The range selected by the knob decides what scale is evaluated. The max value scale needs to match the selector ranges on the knob.

Step 4. Test a power outlet

• In the US and other nations, the volts are either 120 or 240, though in other countries it might be 380 volts.
• Set the black probe in one of the electrical outlet’s slots. The outlet’s contact grabs hold of the probe so you can let it go.
• Put the red probe in the other slot.
• Check your multimeter. It should signify voltage close to 120 or 240.

Step 5. Take off the probes

Turn the selector knob to the lowest range available that is higher than the voltage measurement you got.

Step 6. Put the probes back in

Insert the probes the same way you did before. This time the meter may read 125 or 110 volts. Keep in mind the meter range is critical in getting an accurate reading.

If the pointer doesn’t move it means DC was selected rather than AC. Double check and make certain AC is selected.
When testing voltage, do it in a way that won’t require you to hold them at the same time. Fortunately a lot of multimeters have alligator clips to help with this.

How to Measure Amperes

Step 1. Ensure the voltage measurement has been taken

You have to check if it’s an AC or DC circuit. Measure the voltage the same way as described above.

Step 2. Adjust the multimeter to the maximum AC or DC amp range

Bear in mind that some multimeters only measure small levels of current along the mA and uA range. 1 mA is equal to. .001 amp and 1 uA is 000001.

Those are current values which flow in intricate electronic circuits. That is smaller than the typical flow in household appliance and car circuits. Just for reference a typical 120 volt light bulb pulls in .833 amperes.

How to Use a Clamp on ammeter

This device is ideal for measuring current thru an ohm resistor (4700) at 9V DC. This is more suited for homeowners who want to check appliances and fixtures. Here’s how you use one.

How to Measure Battery Voltage

Follow these steps.

Step 1. Insert the probes

Insert the black probe in the COM and the red probe at the jack labeled A or mAV. Adjust the multimeter to 2V DC.

Step 2. Connect the probe and battery

Link the black probe with the battery’s – sign and the red probe to the plus sign. Squeeze the probes a bit.

Step 3. Read the results

If the battery is new, the reading should be 1.5V or thereabouts. For DC voltage, make sure the knob is set where the V line is straight.

Tips and Warnings

Whether it is your first time to use a multimeter or have been using it for years, always practice safety.

The effects of electric shock depends on several factors such as:

• The body areas affected
• The path the current went through
• How long your body was exposed
• Condition of your body

You should always be aware of the potential hazards of using a multimeter. Aside from those described above, be aware of the following.

Overvoltage

A transient overvoltage is a short voltage surge. It might reach thousands of volts, and the most common causes are power being switched on and off repeatedly, unfiltered electrical components, lightning and motors.

Arc Blasts and Flashes

These are electric currents that have been discharged in a gap of air. This is due to two conductors accidentally making contact. It could also be due to too much voltage that it ionizes the air.

An arc flash can also happen if you use a multimeter and a power surge or lightning strike occurs. This could reach the electrical system you’re working on, and that’s why it is important to use only multimeters with CAT ratings to prevent damage.

CAT Ratings and Voltage

There is a voltage rating in each category that determines its capacity to handle a higher transient.

For instance, a CAT III 1000 V multimeter provides better protection than a CAT III 600 V. However, a CAT II 1000 V does not provide additional protection compared to a CAT III 6000 V.

Bottom line: the higher the category, the more protection provided.

CAT II

These multimeters are for portable tools, household appliances and other devices with the same loads.

CAT III

These are for fixed installation equipment like polyphase motors and switchgear. Other examples are appliances with short service entrance connectors, commercial lighting systems, short branch circuits and feeders.

CAT III rated multimeters are also good for industrial plant feeders and devices which feed from the distribution panels directly.

CAT IV

These are often used for origin of installation, underground lines, overhead lines, service and outside entrance, over current protection gear and more.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the many ways you can use a multimeter. The steps provided above are meant as a general guideline only, as your multimeter may have other features and function differently.

For instance, some multimeters can automatically detect if you’re measuring current, voltage or resistance. The unit automatically adjusts so you don’t have to do a lot of tinkering.

The important thing to remember is to get a quality multimeter and use it as directed. Do that and you won’t go wrong.