Basic Multimeter Use

Question 1

should the circuit be energized while using the ohm function?

Answer 1

NO! This could create a short.

Question 2

What safety considerations should be taken when using a multimeter

Answer 2

1. Pay attention when testing live circuits to avoid creating a short.
2. Ensure test leads are the right type and are in good condition
3. Read the manual for your particular meter
4. Refer to Fluke electrical measurement safety materials online for more safety info.

Question 3

What considerations must you take when checking your test leads?

Answer 3

1. check that they are in good physical condition
2. appropritly CAT rated for the voltage being measured
3. display 0-0.2 ohms when touched together and set on resistance mode

Question 4

What is being measured when you use the voltage setting?

Answer 4

The voltage is measured in parallel to the circuit being tested. This measurement represents the difference in potential between the two probes.

Question 5

what steps do you need to take to measure current?

Answer 5

1. de-energize the circuit
2. ensure the black test lead is in the COM port and the red in the A port
3. break the circuit at the location where you want to measure current
4. set multimeter to the appropriate AC or DC setting
5. choose appropriate range if not auto ranging
6. insert test leads in series with circuit
7. energize circuit
8. record measurement

Question 6

What steps do you need to take to measure voltage?

Answer 6

1. Energize circuit
2. Ensure the black test lead is in the COM port and the red test lead is in the V port
3. Set multimeter to the correct AC or DC volt setting
4. choose an appropriate range if not auto ranging
5. apply the black lead to the lower voltage side and red to the higher
6. record measurement

Question 7

what is being measured on your multimeter when you measure current?

Answer 7

The measurement represents amperage flowing through the measurement device, this is done in series with the circuit being tested. Make sure your meter can handle the amperage you are testing.

Question 8

What steps do you need to take to measure DC current above the rated capacity of the multimeter

Answer 8

1. De-energize the circuit
2. ensure the black test lead is in the COM port and the red test lead in the A port
3. break the circuit where you want to measure
4. Set Multimeter to the appropriate DC voltage setting
5. choose appropriate range if not auto ranging
6. insert test leads in series with circuit or in parallel to shunt
7. energize the circuit
8. record voltage measurement
9. calculate and record amperage using ohms law of the shunts listed conversion.

Question 9

What steps do you need to take to measure resistance

Answer 9

1. de-energize the circuit
2. make sure the black test lead is in the COM port and the red in the ohm port
3. position test leads in across area of concern, remembering that current takes all paths
4. record resistance.