A multimeter is a highly efficient, electronic measuring device that is used to take measurements of electrical circuits, helping you identify and troubleshoot any problem with your electrical device.
A multimeter has numerous measurement functions integrated into it and it can be expertly used to detect faults in the home, commercial, and industrial electrical devices.
A multimeter can help you measure voltage, resistance, current, the capacitance of capacitors etc. In addition to that, there are several multimeters that have sensors built into them to help take measurements such as sound pressure level, wind speed, relative humidity, light level, and acidity/alkalinity etc.
There are commonly two types of multimeter available for purchase in the market—analog multimeters and digital multimeters. While digital multimeters showcase a numeric display, analog multimeters provide readings through the use of a microammeter with a moving pointer.
How to test a multimeter is working
It is of paramount importance for you to have your multimeter checked and calibrated at least once a year. It is not necessary for you to hire the services of a professional to have your multimeter checked. It is completely safe and feasible for you to test your multimeter yourself.
One way to test if a multimeter is capable of measuring resistance is as follows:
First, you will need to purchase a resistor of a known value. Then, you need to set the multimeter to the correct factor of 10.
Now, you need to set the multimeter to the 100 ohms mark to test a resistor known to be, for example, a 500 ohms resistor.
You will then need to place one probe at each end of the resistor. Does the multimeter display the correct resistor value? If so, you can be assured that your multimeter measures resistance correctly.
If you want to check if your multimeter works and is capable of measuring voltage, you should again correctly wire your leads. At the same time, you should also ensure that your battery is good. You should then proceed to short-circuit both leads.
The reading on the multimeter should read O volts. Then, you should select the appropriate range and plug both the leads into mains. The readings on the multimeter should now read something in the range of your voltage (220 or 110 volts).
There is also another way to examine if a multimeter is capable of measuring voltage. All you will need to do is to purchase a new 9 V battery. Now, you should carefully place the red probe to the positive terminal of the battery and the black probe to the negative terminal. If the multimeter provides a reading of 9 V or very close to it, the multimeter works!
If you want to find out if your multimeter works at measuring current, you will first need to have a loaded circuit. You could have a battery connected to the resistance. Then, you should place the multimeter in the series to the circuit. If it shows a reading, it works. If it doesn´t show a proper reading, it doesn´t work.
By the way, this video might help you to fix a problem with your multimeter:
However, you should be extremely careful when testing your multimeter. You need to first identify the maximum allowed limits and see to it that the leads are placed correctly.If your multimeter fails to perform the aforementioned functions, you should investigate the inside of the battery compartment and see if a fuse has been blown. If you can´t find any fault in the battery compartment, you should get your multimeter repaired or replaced immediately.
If you want your multimeter to be operable for a long period of time, it is imperative for you to store it well, clean it regularly, and maintain it. Hence, the multimeter should be stored in a toolbox when it is not used. You should also provide cover to the exposed metal probes of your multimeter. It is also advisable for you to wipe the device with a damp (not wet) cloth every once a while.
If you think it’s time to buy a new multimeter, then do that. For example, Fluke 87V is a great option. Find out more on Amazon.com
Conclusion
We are of the opinion that everyone should own a multimeter. Having a multimeter can be beneficial in numerous ways. A multimeter can be expertly used to help measure voltage, current, and resistance.
In addition to that, it can also help diagnose and troubleshoot electrical problems in the power supplies, wiring systems, and electronic equipment etc.
However, in order to use the features of a multimeter, it is imperative for you to ensure that it works. We would recommend you to have your multimeter checked, maintained, and calibrated at least once a year. You need not hire the services of a professional to have your multimeter checked.
It is completely safe and feasible for you to test your multimeter yourself. It is advisable for you to change batteries and fuses when required. You should also consider removing the batteries if you don´t plan to use the multimeter for a long time.