Electrical appliances surround a person today at every step. Sometimes they break at the most inopportune moment. Moreover, the cause of the breakdown may be the most insignificant and the only problem in its elimination is the search for the place of the malfunction. To learn how to find it, just watch a video for dummies on how to use a multimeter. A simple device can facilitate the work of not only experienced electricians, but also crazed beginner craftsmen.
Content
- Device device
-
Areas of use
- Voltage measurement
- Direct current operation
- Resistance test
- Precautionary measures
Device device
There are many different types of testers. Nowadays, the most popular electronic or digital measuring instruments, which are more compact and affordable. All such devices are very similar in principle of operation and general structure. The front of such a device usually consists of three main parts:
-
Display. In classic models, this is a dial with several dials and an index hand. In electronic versions - a normal display on which the result of the instrument readings is displayed. - Switch for ranges and types of measurements. This part usually includes: the switch-off position of the device; AC current measurement section; DC sectors up to 200 mA and 10 A; diode test section; sector for measuring the resistance of transistors, as well as for establishing the magnitude of the constant voltage.
- Sockets for connecting probes, usually there are three of them plus a socket for testing transistors.
The set of the instrument kit includes two probes. One is red, the other is black. The black one is always connected to the socket marked COM, and the red one, depending on the value of the current at the place of measurement.
If it is higher than 200 mA, then it is inserted into the socket with the 10 A pointer, if it is lower, into the third.
Areas of use
Those who know how to use a tseshka, a solid device still of Soviet production, know that an electrician requires accuracy and clear sequence in all operations. In addition, in many areas of electromechanics, accurate measurements are simply indispensable. To use a digital multimeter correctly, you just need to learn simple rules.
There are three main areas of use for such devices:
- DC and AC voltage measurement (voltmeter mode);
- Electrical resistance test (ohmmeter mode).
- Operation only with direct current (ammeter mode);
In addition, there is the simplest way to determine the location of the break in the network and several more complex modes that are used by those who are versed in electronics and radio engineering.
Voltage measurement
The easiest way to start learning is how to use a voltmeter. These measurements are the easiest to make. Here is the diagram main steps in the process of using the tester:
-
Determine the voltage of which current should be checked. To do this, study the documentation, markings and other signs. In accordance with these indications, set the switch to the appropriate mode. - If the approximate limit of the measured parameter is unknown, then they start with the highest one and go down to the closest one, within which the shown result fits. Thus, the most accurate indicators are revealed.
- Connect the tester probes in parallel on the measured section of the circuit.
The efficiency of the calculations is largely dependent on the correct choice of measurement points.
In alternating current circuits, the calculation is carried out from the neutral wire, and in constant current circuits - from the mass (common wire). It is not at all burdensome to measure voltages with a multimeter, if you do not forget the established procedure.
Direct current operation
Some multimeters can only work with direct current. However, most instruments provide a wider range of measurements. Getting started in ammeter mode, it is important to connect it correctly.
If the voltage is up to 200 mA, then the red probe is installed in the socket marked VΩmA, and if more than 200 - in the 10 A socket. Accordingly, the switch is moved to the desired position on the dial.
To the electrical circuit the tester is not connected in parallel, but in discontinuity. To do this, the circuit must be broken, otherwise the device may deteriorate or, at best, the fuse will burn out. The multimeter gives the most accurate readings at the optimal specified parameters of the calculation limits.
Resistance test
If you use a multimeter tester as an ohmmeter, then you must remember that you cannot measure resistance in an electrical circuit connected to a power supply. Such use of the device will lead to its failure.
Connect the probes in parallel to the de-energized circuit and try to set the measurement parameters as close as possible to the real ones.
It is very easy to check the health of the device. To do this, simply connect the probes to each other.
The reading should be zero or very close to zero. This error should be taken into account when calculating the resistance accurately.
Precautionary measures
The main thing in how to use a multimeter tester is the correct application of safety rules. It should always be remembered that jokes with electric shock are bad, so it is important to adhere to the following rules:
- When measuring voltage, do not touch the bare parts of the probes and other areas under voltage.
- It is important to follow the rules for operating the device, do not forget to set the correct operating parameters and the sequence for connecting the tester.
- Do not measure resistance when the circuit is connected to a current source.
Having carefully read the video instructions for using the tester, novice electricians can put their knowledge into practice. With this small device, they will be able to troubleshoot many faults without the intervention of experienced technicians.
