Multimeter Basics: Different Apps and Uses

Some of you may know what a digital multimeter is, some of you may not – for those of you who do not know, it has been referred to as the tape measure of the new millennium. It is also commonly referred to as DMMs and it is one of the most used testing instrument.

The fact that is mostly prefer regarding multimeters is that they can consolidate the functions of many different instruments such as: voltmeters, ammeters, and ohmmeters into one combined unit. You can easily search for multimeter buy them online if you are interested in owning one. Their proper work depends on energized and de-energized electrical circuits. It measures alternating currents, AC voltage, direct currents, DC voltage, resistance, continuity, and diodes.

There are some more advanced models that measure capacitance, frequency, temperature, pressure, and vacuum. There are many applications that a multimeter may be used for, including engineering design, maintenance, quality control, inspection, electrical servicing, and diagnostic testing. It is important to remember that any time you work with currents and voltages extreme caution and care should be taken.

To really know if a multimeter is best for whatever application you want to use it for, you should understand the resolution, digit, and accuracy separately.

• Resolution refers to how fine of a measurement a meter can make. By knowing the resolution of a meter, you can know if it is possible to see any small changes in the measured signals.
• Digits and counts are terms often used to describe multimeters’ resolution. Some higher quality models can offer you enhanced resolution within their digital range.
• Accuracy refers to the largest allowable error in the reading you can take. The real reading should be anywhere between 99 volts to 101 volts. Auto-ranging or dialing is another feature from a multimeter and it allows you to move from the various measuring scales all while maintaining accurate and precise readings.

Another thing you should take into consideration before you purchase a multimeter is whether it is a true root, meaning square or RMS meter. This could have an effect on your measurements.

Safety is always a concern so you should know that different multimeters are designed with different levels of protection against electrical hazards.

Furthermore, let’s touch upon three main points you should also bear in mind and this includes the transient voltage rating of the circuit, energy capacity, and the maximum voltage rating of the circuit. To make sure you are using them safely you should use a multimeter withing it’s ratings, use replacement fuses that have been approved by the manufacturer, use high quality safety related testing leads and always follow proper lockout procedures. If the two circuit options are available to you, always choose de-energized circuits.

The most important thing to remember is that any electrical test equipment should be handled with care and caution. Always read the manufacturers guidelines and follow the maintenance suggestions. Any employer or employee should have the proper training to be able to use this equipment correctly. You can easily search multimeter buy online and browse different models and prices suited to your needs.