subject: Digital Multimeters – A Step By Step Do It Yourself (DIY) Guide [print this page] Digital Multimeters A Step By Step Do It Yourself (DIY) Guide
Digital multimeters have indeed made the measurement of the working condition of any appliances very easy. Unlike, their analog counterpart, these can be operated by anyone with a little guidance just like the digital pressure gauge. And the best part is that they display readings in numbers, while the analog multimeters indicate the value with a needle over a scale. You can use them in gauging just anything, just by yourself.
Digital Multimeters to check dysfunctional bulbs- Step 1:
If a bulb is not working inspite being brand new, most of the time what we do is call an electrician. But not anymore... because now you can use any of the digital multimeters to check the same! For this you can check the resistance, or 'continuity' test function of your system. But before going for the same, first always disconnect the appliance from power source to avoid any accidents related to electrical shocks. Now, set the multimeter dial to Resistance (Ohms).
Digital Multimeters to check dysfunctional bulbs- Step 2:
After this, now touch the two test probes together (here it is important to note that the red one is 'positive', while the black is 'negative'. As soon as you do this, the OHM meter reading will indicate zero resistance, which means that there is continuity. A reading of zero indicates the circuit is closed and the circuit can conduct current. As, for your bulb- checking, take a standard one out of a lamp socket and touch one test probe to the bottom of the lightbulb, and the other onto the threaded side of the lightbulb socket. If the reading shows zero resistance, then there is continuity, and the lightbulb is good. On other hand, if it's does not indicate continuity then the lightbulb interior filament is obviously broken.
Follow these easy steps and you would become a pro in diagnosing electrical problems with digital multimeters in no time.
