If you recently received a multimeter as a gift or bought one merely because it looked interesting, you might wonder what you could do with it. The good news is that this versatile device can perform a wide variety of worthwhile tasks.
Circuit Electric Solar, Tampa’s top solar company, will discuss the many things you may accomplish with your multimeter in this article:
INVEST IN YOUR OWN ENERGY
Check Batteries
After selecting the correct DC range, touch a battery’s positive and negative terminals with the corresponding test leads. Your meter’s display will reveal the battery’s strength. This process may help you identify specific batteries and devices that need replacement.
Test DC Adapters
A multimeter allows you to check the output voltage of a DC power supply or charger. It can simplify equipment troubleshooting. For example, you may discover that your electric shaver’s adapter has failed, and it needs replacement rather than the shaver.
Checking Outlets
You can use a multimeter to verify that a wall outlet works correctly and delivers the appropriate number of volts. Be sure to read the meter’s directions carefully and exercise caution when you perform any task involving high-voltage electricity.
Testing Solar Panels
A multimeter could help you identify the true output voltage of a photovoltaic panel and confirm that it still works properly. You can experiment by watching the meter’s display while exposing the panel to different amounts of light.
Compare Flashlights
If you have a small solar panel, you could use your multimeter to precisely compare the brightness of two or more flashlights. Likewise, you can see what brand or type of battery yields the brightest beam. Just shine the flashlight on the panel and check the output voltage.
Test Cigarette Lighters
If you connect a device to your car’s cigarette lighter and it doesn’t work, consider testing the lighter with a meter. Don’t forget to select a suitable DC voltage range. Touch the positive and negative terminals with your test leads. The lighter ought to produce 12 volts.
Check For Power
Does your multimeter have an NCV tester? If so, you can use it to detect electricity without touching any wires or terminals. This function lets you safely confirm that you’ve switched off the correct circuit breaker before working on electrical equipment.
Test Light Fixtures
When a light stops working, you can check the socket’s voltage with a meter. This is helpful if the fixture uses a hard-to-find or expensive bulb that may or may not actually need replacement. Use the test leads cautiously, being careful not to create a short circuit.
If your multimeter has a continuity mode, you can also easily check incandescent light bulbs with it. Touch the terminal on the bulb’s base with the positive lead and its metal threading with the negative lead. The meter will produce a sound if the bulb still works properly.
Final Thoughts from Tampa’s Solar Experts
These are only a few examples; you can find many other things to do with a multimeter. Remember to take safety precautions consistently. Inspect and test your meter from time to time. Always use protective gear when measuring substantial amounts of power.
Circuit Electric Solar is a Tampa solar installation company that envisions to be the world’s best renewable energy supplier. Focusing on supporting homeowners and business owners in minimizing their carbon footprint in order to speed the world’s transition to sustainable energy while lowering their expenses.
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