Multimeter (Types, Applications, How to Choose)

How many types of Multimeters are there?

There are two types of multimeters depending on their output display: digital multimeters and analog multimeters.

Analog Multimeter

Analog multimeters are old-fashioned meters that indicate the measured value with a needle on an analog scale.

They are a preferred choice when high precision and power consumption from the built-in power supply in the mode of voltage and current measurement is not required.

Digital Multimeter

Digital multimeters are modern and reliable measuring devices that convert the analog input into digital and display the measured value in digit form. 

Digital devices feature high measurement accuracy and various functional capabilities. This multimeter performs all functions from AC to DC other than analog. 

Today most multimeters are produced in digital form. Specialists working with electrical equipment, if necessary, can select a model of the digital multimeters focused on a specific task.

What is the difference between Analog Multimeter and Digital Multimeter?

Some of the main differences between analog and digital multi meter are explained in the following:

What are the different types of a digital multimeter?

Digital multi meters or DMMs are the best friends of an electrician. Different kinds of DMMs are available due to the range of operation these devices provide.

Simple Digital Multimeter

Simple digital multimeters are used for various calibration activities. They calibrate electric current, voltage and resistance, and other electrical units across different components.

A Fluke DMM consists of a large display screen, making it very easy to get the readings. Some innovative DMMs can measure temperature, frequency, pressure, humidity, and duty cycle. 

The voltage, current, or resistance reading is measured when the two leads are connected to the device. Also, because of its capacity to calibrate electrical units, it has advantages over other types of digital multimeters.

Digital Clamp Meter

A digital clamp meter (clamp multimeter) is a measuring device with built-in tools used to measure electrical flow. The main purpose of a clamp DMM is to read amperage that is surging through an insulated cable and the circuit’s voltage.

Normally, most digital clamp meters can not measure electrical resistance. 

They normally measure current flow through the clamp portion and the volts using the probes. The power consumption, or Watts, can be calibrated by multiplying the amps and the readings of the volt. 

It is only recommended for use by trained professionals. 

Our  clamp meter category includes high-quality products. Check it now.

Auto ranging Multimeter

Auto-ranging Multimeter is another type of digital multimeter that adjusts automatically and can automatically switch their ranges based on what value they measure. 

This digitized measurement tool is designed to make projects easier to complete. This measurement method is more suitable for Electricians and DIY enthusiasts to conduct their own electrical projects in their homes. 

That’s because it only measures one component at a time. Also, this digital flow meter is categorized as a type of focus tool.

Different parts of a Multimeter

Each digital multimeter consists of the four main parts:

Display: The amount of measured value is displayed in this area.

Selector knob or selector switch: By turning the selector key, the desired parameter (voltage, current, and resistance) can be selected.

Port: Port or input terminal is the hole at the front of the multimeter. You need to connect your test probes to the appropriate ports to allow the multimeter to measure the desired parameter.

Test Probes: A test probe or a test lead is a device used to connect a multimeter to a Device Under Test which is known as DUT. All multimeters have two probes, One group is red which connects to the positive terminal and the other is black which connects to the negative terminal.

A brief look at multimeter use

1. Automotive Inspection: One of the most important applications of multimeters is the automotive service.
Measuring battery charge, running a leak test on its cover, testing the alternator, and inspecting the car horn or any other electrical circuit in your system is the function of the multimeter. It's an essential device for automotive technicians.

2. Household Applications: A multimeter is essential in every home. With a multimeter, you can Test faulty sockets, check continuity, inspect home appliances, and test the rest of the circuits in your house. Although there is no brand specially designed multimeter for home use, a multimeter capable of measuring key parameters will work.

3. Industrial Applications: There is a wide range of applications for Multimeters in industrial activities. Engineers need to use multimeters in their tasks to measure the temperature of instruments, conduct continuity tests, evaluate current flow, or analyze circuits via infrared imaging. Some modern multimeters are designed to send live feeds wirelessly.

4. DIY Applications: Everyone interested in DIY electronic projects are widely used multimeters. by using a multimeter they can perform experiments at home easily. Since there is no high-end testing required, basic multimeters are most suitable for DIY project applications. So they are relatively inexpensive compared to other applications.

Which multimeter do I need?

Multimeters are electronic tools that measure voltage, current, and resistance. Although there are many different types of multimeters with various functions and advantages. 

When you need to choose the right multimeter for your needs, you should pay attention to its properties, and determine what you would use it for and how often it would be utilized. 

So many good multimeters are available out there, and you need to do a little comparison between available models to see which type operates the way you want it to. First, you should learn more about these handy devices. Merchant websites are great to see product reviews and talk to employees about different options of a multimeter.

Next, find what types of multimeters are suitable for your needs. There are many different types of multimeters to meet the needs of any kind of user. Then, consider which multimeter features are key. 

Some of the features that everyone should notice before buying a multimeter are whether an analog multimeter suits your needs or a digital multimeter with advanced features and determining the demanding accuracy of the meter. Also, types of manufacturers are important to look at when choosing a multimeter.

Questions

What are multimeters used for?

A multimeter is test equipment used to measure two or more electrical values— voltage, current, and resistance. It is a standard diagnostic device for technicians in the electrical/electronic industries.

Are all digital multimeters the same?

No. Many digital multimeters have the same features and functions, but there are many models with certain features and uses.

What are the advantages of a digital multimeter?

• Their accuracy is more than analog multimeters.

• They reduce reading and interpolation errors.

• The 'auto-polarity' function can avoid problems from connecting the meter to a test circuit with the wrong polarity.

• Parallax errors are removed.

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