What is a multimeter used for?

A multimeter is an essential instrument in electrical work that is designed to measure multiple electrical parameters, specifically voltage, current, and resistance. This versatility makes it an invaluable tool for diagnosing electrical problems, performing circuit checks, and assessing the performance of electrical components.

When measuring voltage, the multimeter allows users to determine the electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit. This is crucial for troubleshooting issues related to power supply or circuit functionality. For current measurement, the multimeter can be used in series with the circuit, allowing technicians to monitor how much current is flowing through a particular pathway. Resistance measurements are taken by placing the multimeter across a component, leading to assessments of conductor quality or functionality of resistors.

This variety of functions means that anyone using a multimeter can effectively diagnose a vast array of electrical issues and ascertain the health of electrical circuits and devices.