If you’re testing a 12-volt car battery, select the next highest option-20 DCV. For example, if you’re measuring the voltage in a 120-volt wall outlet, turn the multimeter knob to the next highest option-200 ACV.
Start by selecting the corresponding current on the multimeter and a voltage range higher than the current you’re testing. With a multimeter, you can measure both AC and DC voltage-particularly useful for locating short circuits or determining if a rechargeable battery is holding a charge.
Applications and Limitationsīoth VOM and DMM models measure voltage, resistance, and current, replacing the need for individual voltmeters, ohmmeters, and ammeters. The new kids on the block-digital multimeters (DMM)-offer greater precision with decimal point readouts, even enhanced functions, such as the ability to auto-detect alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). Photo: Two Types of MultimetersĪnalog multimeters, or volt-ohm-milliammeters (VOM), have been around for decades and can still be found, affordably, at any do-it-yourself-type store.