A multimeter is a versatile electronic measuring instrument used to measure multiple electrical parameters. It is commonly used by technicians, electricians, and engineers for various purposes, including troubleshooting, testing, and monitoring electrical circuits and components.
Multimeters can measure several electrical quantities, such as voltage (both AC and DC), current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, and temperature. They typically consist of a digital or analog display, a dial or selector switch to choose the desired measurement function, and input jacks to connect test leads or probes to the circuit or component being measured.
By selecting the appropriate measurement function and connecting the test leads to the relevant points in a circuit, a multimeter can provide numerical readings of the electrical quantities being measured. This allows users to assess the characteristics, performance, and integrity of electrical systems, diagnose faults or issues, and verify the compliance of components or circuits with specified values or standards.
Multimeters come in various types, including analog multimeters, which use a needle or pointer to indicate measurements on a scale, and digital multimeters, which display readings as numeric values on a digital screen. Some advanced multimeters may also offer additional features like diode testing, continuity testing, data logging, and advanced connectivity options.