The DT-830B multimeter is a Chinese-made device that is used by many. Those who constantly deal with electronics cannot do without such equipment. This article describes what the DT-830B multimeter is. The instructions with a detailed description of the device allow even beginners to use it.

There are many models available that differ in quality, accuracy and functionality.

The device is designed for the following basic measurements:

• electric current values;
• voltage between 2 points in an electrical circuit;
• resistance.

In addition, the DT-830B multimeter and other related models can perform many additional operations:

• ring the circuit when the resistance is below 50 Ohms with an audible alarm;
• test the semiconductor diode for integrity and determine its forward voltage;
• check the semiconductor transistor;
• measure electrical capacitance and inductance;
• using a thermocouple;
• determine the frequency of the harmonic signal.

How does a multimeter work?

1. The dial shows the measured values ​​as numbers on a plastic or glass display.
2. The switch allows you to change the functions of the device, as well as switch ranges. When not in use, it is set to the "Off" position.
3. Sockets (connectors) in the housing for installing probes. The main thing, with the inscription COM and negative polarity, has a general purpose. A probe with a black wire is inserted into it. The next one, marked VΩmA, has positive polarity with a red probe.
4. Test flexible wires red and black with clamps.
5. Panel for monitoring transistors.

Multimeter DT-830B: instructions with a detailed description of measurement modes

Not everyone understands how to measure the necessary parameters with a device. When using the DT-830B multimeter, the operating instructions must be followed exactly. Otherwise, the device may burn out.

1. Resistance measurement

The function is necessary when you need to carry out electrical wiring in an apartment or find a break in the home network. Not everyone knows how to use a multimeter in this case, but you just need to set the switch in the resistance measurement sector to the appropriate measurement range. The device has an audible alarm indicating that the circuit is closed. If there is no signal, this means that there is a break somewhere or the circuit resistance value is higher than 50 ohms.

The range of minimum resistance (up to 200 Ohms) is called a short circuit. If you connect the red and black probes, the device should show a value close to zero.

The Chinese-made DT-830B multimeter has the following features when measuring electrical resistance:

1. High reading error.
2. When measuring small resistances, the value obtained at the contact of the probes should be subtracted from the readings. To do this, they are pre-closed. On other ranges of the sector the error decreases.

2. How to measure DC voltage

The device switches to the DCV sector, divided into 5 ranges. The switch is set to a obviously larger range of values. When measuring voltage powered by a 3 V or 12 V battery, you can set the sector to position “20”. You should not set it to a higher value, since the reading error will increase, and if it is lower, the device may burn out. For rough measurements, if you need accuracy of only up to 1 V, the multimeter can be immediately set to the “500” position. The same is done when the measured voltage is unknown in magnitude. Afterwards, you can gradually switch the range to lower values. The highest measurement level is indicated by the "HV" warning, which lights up in the upper left corner. Large voltage values ​​require caution when working with the device, although as a voltmeter from the DT-830B multimeter it is more reliable than an ammeter or ohmmeter.

It is not necessary to maintain the polarity of the probes for a digital device. If it does not match, this will not affect the value of the readings, and the “-” sign lights up on the left side of the screen.

3. How to measure AC voltage

Installation in the ACV sector is carried out in the same way as in the DCV. 220-380 V can lead to failure of the device if connected incorrectly.

4. Direct current measurement

Small currents for electronic circuits are measured in the DCA sector. Voltage measurement is not permitted in these switch positions. In this case, a short circuit will occur.

To measure current values ​​up to 10 A, there is a third socket into which the red probe should be moved. Readings can be taken in just a few seconds. Typically, an ammeter is used to measure the current of electrical appliances. In this case, the device should be used carefully and when measurements are really necessary.

5. Monitoring the health of diodes

In the reverse direction, the device should show infinity on the diode (one on the left). In the forward direction, the voltage at the junction is 400-700 mV.

In this sector you can also check the serviceability of the transistor. If you imagine it as two back-to-back diodes, you need to check each transition for breakdown. To do this, find out where the base is located. For the pnp type, you need to use the positive probe to find such a pin (base) so that the minus probe shows infinity on the other two (emitter and collector). If the transistor is of the npn type, the base is located with the negative probe. To find the emitter, you need to measure the resistance of its junction, which is always greater than the collector. For a working element it should be in the range of 500-1200 Ohms.

By testing the transitions with a multimeter in the forward and reverse directions, you can determine whether the transistor is working or not.

6. hFE sector

The device can determine the current gain of the h21 transistor. To do this, just insert its 3 pins into the corresponding sockets of the socket. The display will immediately show the value "h21". To obtain correct results, it is necessary to distinguish between pnp (right side of the socket) and npn (left side) types.

7. Possibilities for improving the device

The instructions for the DT-830B multimeter provide a certain number of functions. The models differ slightly from each other, and if desired, you can improve any of them, for example, add measurement of capacitance of the capacitor, temperature and all the other additional functions listed earlier.

The basis of a multimeter is

Multimeter DT-830B: circuit and repair

For an inexpensive small-sized device, the ICL7106 chip is most often used.

When measuring voltage, the signal comes from the switch through resistor R17 to input 31 of the microcircuit. When an alternating voltage is measured, it is rectified through diode D1, after which the signal also passes through the chain to pin 32 of the microcircuit.

The measured direct current is created across the resistors, after which the signal is also supplied to input 32. The microcircuit is protected by a 0.2 A fuse installed at the input.

The device often fails when contacts are lost or turned on incorrectly. First of all, check and change the fuse.

The device works reliably when measuring voltage, since it is well protected at the input from overloads. Failures may occur when measuring resistance or current.

Burnt resistors can be identified visually, and diodes and transistors can be checked using the methods given earlier. A check is made for the absence of breaks and reliability of contacts.

When repairing the device, the power supply is first checked. Then the serviceability of the microcircuit is checked. It should be operational if the voltage at pin 30 is 3 V, and there is no breakdown between the power supply and the common terminal of the microcircuit.

When disassembling, do not lose the switch balls, without which it will not be securely fixed.

When to change the battery?

The power supply of the device changes in cases where the numbers on the display disappear and the measurement results deviate from the approximate known values. A battery image appears on the screen. To replace it, you need to remove the back cover, remove the old one and install a new element.

Using the DT-830B multimeter is very convenient: the battery is changed easily and very rarely. You just need to work with it very carefully. The device can easily be burned if used incorrectly.

SAFETY MEASURES

Multimeters of this series are designed in accordance with the IEC-1010 instruction concerning electronic measuring instruments with overvoltage category CAT II.

ELECTRICAL SYMBOLS

	AC (Alternating Current).
	DC (Direct Current).
	Important safety information. Refer to the instructions.
	Possible high voltage.
	Grounding..
	Fuse.
	Complies with EU directives
	Double insulation

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

· Display: 3 ½-digit with a maximum reading of 1999.

· Polarity: Automatic polarity indication.

· Overflow indication: Only symbol “1” on the display.

· Working environment: temperature 0-40 ºС, relative humidity no more than 75%.

· Storage temperature: from –15 ºС to 50 ºС.

· Battery: 9V 6F22.

· Low battery indicator: “” appears on the display.

· Dimensions: 125mm x 75mm x 20mm.

· Weight: 145 g (including battery).

· Power: 20mW.

WARNING

To prevent possible damage to the instrument or equipment during measurements, follow these instructions:

· Disconnect circuit power and discharge all high voltage capacitors before testing resistance, continuity, diodes or capacitance.

· Use the correct terminals, functions and limits for measurements.

· Before measuring current, check the fuses of the instrument and turn off the power to the circuit before connecting the instrument to the circuit.

· Before rotating the limit switch to change the function, disconnect the instrument probes from the circuit.

· Before attempting to insert transistors for testing, always be sure that the probes are disconnected from any circuits.

· Disconnect the probes from the device before opening its housing.

OPERATION

· Always disconnect probes from any circuits before opening the case.

· To protect against fire when replacing, use fuses designed only for a certain voltage and current: F 250mA/250V (fast breakdown) Ø 5x20.

· Clean the housing periodically with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use abrasives or solvents.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The devices in this series are compact 3 ½ - digit digital multimeters for measuring DC and AC voltage, DC current, resistance, testing diodes, transistors, batteries and conductivity. They have overload protection and a low battery indicator.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FRONT PANEL

0 " style="margin-left:5.4pt;border-collapse:collapse;border:none">

Function

2000µ-20m-200mA

200-20k-200k-2000kΏ

Accuracy is determined at temperatures from 180C to 280C at relative humidity up to 75% for a period of 1 year after calibration. The accuracy characteristics have the following form:

±([% of reading]+[number of least significant digits])

1. Constant voltage

Range	Permission	Accuracy

Input impedance: 1MOhm

Maximum input voltage: 500V DC or 500V AC (rms voltage).

2. AC voltage

Range	Permission	Accuracy

Input impedance: 1MOhm

Frequency range: 50-200Hz

Maximum input voltage: 500V (rms voltage)

Signal type: sinusoidal. Average value (calibrated in rms sine wave values.)

3. D.C

Range	Permission	Accuracy

Overload protection: fuse A/250V melted (10A unmelted).

4. Resistance

Range	Permission	Accuracy

Maximum open circuit voltage: about 3V.

5. Current transfer coefficient

Vcc about 3V, Ib about 10 µA, coefficient readings: 1-1000.

6. Checking diodes and continuity

Diodes: test voltage is about 2.4V, current is about 1mA. The display will show the reverse breakdown voltage.

Continuity: The buzzer will sound if the resistance of the circuit under test is less

7. Checking the batteries

Range	Description	Test condition
	The display will show the operating voltage of the battery, thus the quality of the battery can be checked	Operating current is about 40mA.
	Operating current is about 24mA.

OPERATION

DC voltage measurement

1. Set the range switch to the desired DC voltage range. If the voltage is not known in advance, set the range selector to the highest range and then reduce the ranges until a suitable resolution is achieved.

2. Attach test leads to the device or circuit you want to measure. The voltage value and voltage polarity on the red probe will appear on the screen.

AC voltage measurement

1. Set the range switch to the desired AC voltage range.

2. Connect the test leads to the device or circuit you want to measure and the display will show the voltage value.

DC current measurement

1. Set the range switch to the desired DC range.

2. Open the circuit in which you want to measure direct current, and connect the probes in series with the circuit.

3. The display will show the DC current value.

Resistance measurement

1. Set the range switch to the desired resistance range.

2. Connect the probes in parallel with the resistor being measured and read the resistance value from the display.

3. If the resistor being measured is in a circuit, disconnect power to the circuit and discharge all high voltage capacitors before measuring resistance.

Checking transistors

1. Set the band selector to “hFE”.

2. Determine the type of transistor (p-n-p or n-p-n) and the location of the emitter, collector and base legs.

3. Insert the pins into the corresponding holes in the hFE connector on the front panel. The device will show the approximate value of the current transfer coefficient.

Diode check

2. Connect the red probe to the anode of the diode that needs to be measured, and the black probe to the cathode of the diode.

3. The display will show the approximate reverse breakdown voltage of the diode in mV. If the connection of the device to the diode is reversed, then the symbol “1” will be displayed on the screen.

Dial (for 831B+)

1. Set the band switch to “”.

2. Connect test leads to the ends of the circuit to be tested. If the resistance is less than 40 ohms, the built-in buzzer will sound a signal.

Battery measurement

1. Set the band switch to “”.

2. Connect the probes to the terminals of the battery being measured and read the reading from the display.

REPLACING THE BATTERY AND FUSE

When the sign appears on the display, the battery needs to be replaced. If there are too many erroneous meter readings, this also indicates that the battery needs to be replaced. To replace the battery, you must remove the screws on the back panel and open the device case. Replace the dead battery with a new one of the same type.

The fuse rarely requires replacement and its failure is almost always caused by operator error. To replace the fuse, open the case and replace the broken fuse with a new rating: 250mA/250V.

ATTENTION!

Before opening the housing, make sure that the probes are disconnected from the circuit being measured. To prevent electrical shock, close the cabinet and tighten the screws thoroughly before using the appliance.

Warranty

If the device fails due to the fault of the manufacturer (manufacturer's defect), the product is subject to free repair. within 6 months from the date of sale - if the passport contains the date of sale and the seal of the trading organization (seller). In this case, the device should not have any signs of opening or mechanical damage indicating a violation of the rules for handling the device.

If it is established that the user has violated the operating rules, the device will be removed from warranty.

Date of sale _______________________

Stamp of the trading organization _____________________

Manufacturer: S-Line Easter Electronic, China

Declaration of conformity with the requirements of GOSR R (IEC 61010-1:2001), GOST R, (IEC), GOST R 51317.4.2-99, GOST R 51317.4.3-99

A multimeter is one of the inexpensive measuring instruments that is used by both professionals and amateurs who repair home wiring and electrical appliances. Without it, any electrician feels like he has no hands. Previously, three different instruments were required to measure voltage, current, and resistance. Now all this can be measured using one universal device. Using a digital multimeter is very easy.

The main two rules to remember:

• ⚡ where to connect the measuring probes correctly
• ⚡ in what position should the switch be set to measure different quantities?

Multimeter appearance and connectors

On the front of the tester, all the inscriptions are made in English, and even using abbreviations.

What do these inscriptions mean:

• OFF - the device is turned off (to prevent the device batteries from running out, set the switch to this position after measurements)
• ACV - measurement of variable U
• DCV - constant U measurement
• DCA - DC current measurement
• Ω - resistance measurement
• hFE - measurement of transistor characteristics
• diode icon - continuity test or diode test

Modes are switched using the central rotary switch. When you first start using your digital multimeter, it is recommended that you immediately mark the pointer mark on the switch with contrasting paint. For example like this:

Most device failures are due to the incorrect choice of switch position.

Power is supplied from a Krona battery. By the way, by looking at the connector for connecting the crown, you can indirectly judge whether the tester was assembled in a factory or somewhere in Chinese “cooperatives”. With high-quality assembly, connection occurs through special connectors designed for the crown. Lesser quality options use regular springs.

The multimeter has several connectors for connecting probes and only two probes. Therefore, it is important to correctly connect the probes to measure certain quantities, otherwise you can easily burn the device.

The probes are usually of different colors - red and black. The black probe is connected to the connector labeled COM (translated as “common”). Red probe into the other two connectors. The 10ADC connector is used when it is necessary to measure current from 200mA to 10A. The VΩmA connector is used for all other measurements - voltage, current up to 200mA, resistance, continuity.

The main criticism is caused by the factory probes that come with the device. Almost every second owner of a multimeter recommends replacing them with better ones. However, their cost can be comparable to the cost of the tester itself. As a last resort, they can be improved by strengthening the bends of the wires and insulating the tips of the probes.

If you want high-quality silicone probes with a bunch of tips, then you can order them with free shipping on AliExpress.

Previously, pointer testers were also widely used. Some electricians even prefer them, considering them more reliable. However, due to the large error of the measurement scale, it is less convenient for ordinary consumers to use them. In addition, when working with a dial multimeter, it is imperative to guess the polarity of the contacts. For digital ones, if the poles are not connected correctly, the readings will simply be displayed with a minus sign. This is normal operation and will not damage the multimeter.

Basic Multimeter Operations

Voltage measurement

How to use a digital multimeter to measure voltage? To do this, set the switch on the multimeter to the appropriate position. If this is the voltage in the outlet at home (alternating voltage), then flip the switch to the ACV position. Insert the probes into the COM and VΩmA connectors.

First of all, check that the connectors are connected correctly. If one of them is mistakenly installed in contact 10ADC, a short circuit will occur when measuring voltage.

Start measuring from the maximum value on the device - 750V. The polarity of the probes does not play any role at all. It is not necessary to touch the zero with a black probe, and the phase with a red one. If a much lower value is displayed on the screen, and the number “0” appears in front of it, this means that for a more accurate measurement, you can switch to another mode, with a smaller voltage level scale that your multimeter allows you to measure.

When measuring DC voltage (for example, electrical wiring in a car), switch to DCV mode.

And you also start measuring from the largest scale, gradually lowering the measurement levels. To measure voltage, you need to connect the probes in parallel to the circuit being measured, while using your fingers to hold only the insulated part of the probe so as not to get under voltage yourself. If the display shows a voltage value with a minus sign, this means that you have reversed the polarity.

ATTENTION: when measuring voltage, be sure to check that the multimeter scale is set correctly. If you start measuring voltage with the DCA switch in the on position, i.e., measuring current, you can easily create a short circuit right in your own hands!

Some experienced electricians recommend holding both probes in one hand when measuring the voltage in an outlet. If the probes are poorly insulated and breakdown, this will allow you to protect yourself to some extent from electric shock.

The multimeter operates on a battery (a 9-volt crown is used). If the battery starts to run low, the multimeter starts to lie shamelessly. In the outlet, instead of 220V, it may seem like 300 or 100 Volts. Therefore, if the device readings begin to surprise you, first check the power supply. An indirect sign of battery discharge can be chaotic changes in the readings on the display, even when the probes are not connected to the object being measured.

Current measurement

The device can only measure direct current. The switch must be in the – DCA position.

Be careful! When measuring current, if you do not know approximately what limits the current will be, it is better to start measuring by inserting the probe into the 10ADC connector, otherwise measuring a current of more than 200mA at the VΩmA connector can easily burn the internal fuse.

Here, probes, unlike voltage measurements, must be connected in series with the object being measured. That is, you will have to break the circuit and then connect the probes into the resulting gap. This can be done in any convenient place (at the beginning, middle, end of the chain).

In order not to constantly hold the probes with your hands, you can use alligator clips for connection.

Know that if, when measuring current, you mistakenly set the switch to ACV mode (voltage measurement), then most likely nothing bad will happen to the device. But if it’s the other way around, the multimeter will fail.

Resistance measurement

To measure resistance, set the switch to position - Ω.

Choose the desired resistance value or start again with the largest one. If you are measuring resistance on some operating device or wire, it is recommended to turn off the power from it (even from the battery). This way the measurement data will be more accurate. If during measurement the value “1, OL” appears on the display, this means that the device is signaling an overload and the switch needs to be set to a larger measurement range. If “0” is displayed, then on the contrary, reduce the measurement scale.

Most often, a multimeter in resistance mode is used during repair work, to check the functionality of household appliances, the serviceability of the windings, and the absence of a short circuit in the circuit.

When measuring resistance, do not touch the bare parts of the probes with your fingers - this will affect the accuracy of the measurements.

Calling

Another operating mode of the tester that is often used is dialing.

What is it for? For example, in order to find an open circuit, or vice versa - to make sure that the circuit is not damaged (checking the integrity of the fuse). The level of resistance is no longer important here; it is important to understand what is wrong with the circuit itself - whether it is intact or not.

It should be noted that there is no sound signal on the DT830B.

For other brands, as a rule, the signal is heard at a circuit resistance of no more than 80 Ohms. The dialing mode itself occurs when the pointer is positioned - checking the diodes.

It is also useful to check the integrity of the probes themselves by testing them by connecting them to each other. Since with frequent use they may be damaged, especially at the point where the wire enters the probe tube. Before each measurement, be sure to make sure that there is no voltage in the area where you will connect the test leads, otherwise you may burn the device or create a short circuit.

Safety precautions when working with a multimeter

• ⚡ do not take measurements in a damp room
• ⚡ do not switch measurement limits during the measurements themselves
• ⚡ do not measure voltage and current if their values ​​are greater than those for which the multimeter is designed
• ⚡ use probes with good insulation

I hope this material helped you become familiar with the basic operating parameters of a multimeter. And you can safely and productively use it during repair work.

A multimeter is a universal portable device designed to measure various electrical (electronic) quantities. The multimeter can replace several devices, because It can be used to measure voltage, current, resistance, etc.

For example, the functionality of some multimeters additionally allows you to measure temperature, test transistors, semiconductors, etc. Many models of multimeters have a function that automatically turns off the display when the device is not active, and also has a backlight function.

Multimeters have long been used as portable measuring instruments both in production and at home.

Modern multimeters come in two types: analog and digital. When using an analog multimeter, the measured value is determined by the position of the arrow on the instrument scale. With digital multimeters, the measured value is displayed on a liquid crystal display in the form of numbers.

Digital multimeters are used in practice more often than analog ones. The main reason is the high accuracy of measurements and convenience in displaying the measured value. But analog devices also have their advantages.

To use a multimeter correctly, you need to know its basic structure and basic operating modes. Multimeters of different models may differ in size, appearance and number of measured quantities, but the basic functionality is the same for all.

The simplicity of the device, basic functionality and additional modes is demonstrated by the DT-831 digital multimeter.

Design and equipment of the DT-831 multimeter

At the top of the front panel there is a digital display, in the center there is a multi-position switch for measurement modes, and at the bottom there are three sockets for measuring probes.

When purchasing a multimeter, it is a good idea to know what is included in the package. Each product, including the DT-831, is supplied with two test leads, one 9V Krona battery, one user manual and a packaging box.

Multimeter functionality

Regardless of the type and type, any multimeter allows you to measure basic electrical quantities. This also applies to the DT-831 model.

• Alternating current voltage is measured in ACV (alternating current voltage) mode.
• DC voltage measurement is performed in DCV (direct current voltage) mode.
• Direct current measurements are performed in DCA (direct current amps) mode.
• Electrical resistance is measured in Ω mode.

For measurements, in addition to the main modes, additional modes are also used. For example, the semiconductor image is a diode test mode. Sound image – the mode of continuity of circuits with a buzzer.

The device is turned off by setting the multi-position switch to OFF mode.

Before measurements, the black probe is connected to a common socket marked COM (common), and the red measuring probe is connected to the VΩmA socket. Sometimes it is necessary to measure direct current with a value of more than 200mA. In this case, the red test probe must be connected to the “10A” socket.

How to use the DT-831 multimeter for dummies - Video

AC voltage measurement

In domestic conditions, voltage is most often measured in sockets, in adapter boxes, in distribution panels, in metering panels. The standard value of this voltage is about 220V. In production, alternating voltage is measured in switchgears, power cabinets, protection devices, etc. If in a household network the voltage is usually single-phase, then in production there is both single-phase voltage 220V and three-phase 380V.

The first measurement is made as follows. The multi-position switch is set to the maximum limit. For the DT-831 multimeter it is 750V. After this, the actual measurement is performed by connecting the multimeter in parallel to the element or section of the circuit being measured. For example, the voltage of a phase is measured relative to zero (phase voltage), or between two phases of a three-phase network (line voltage).

If the voltage value (and other values ​​in a different measurement mode) is significantly less than the maximum limit (for example, 150V), then for greater accuracy the multi-position switch switches to a lower limit. In ACV mode this will be a 200V limit.

DC voltage measurement

In home living conditions, measuring DC voltage comes down to measuring the voltage of ordinary batteries, car batteries, and power supplies from household appliances. In production, DC voltage sources are rectifiers, DC generators, etc.

Measuring DC voltage is not much different from measuring AC voltage. The only difference is that the measurement in DCV mode is performed between plus and minus. In addition to directly measuring voltage, the DCV mode allows you to determine the polarity in DC circuits.

If the voltage value is known in advance before measurement (for example, a 1.5V AA battery), then the multi-position switch can be immediately set to the nearest limit (20V).

DC current measurement

This measurement is performed in DCA mode. A multimeter, like an ammeter, is connected in series to an open circuit. It is advisable to know the current value in advance in order to set the appropriate measurement limit.

How to measure resistance with a multimeter

Any multimeter model has a resistance measurement function. In Ω mode, you can measure the resistance of resistors, the value of electrical insulation resistance of wires, etc. Often in Ω mode they perform continuity testing of electrical circuits.

The DT-831 multimeter has five resistance measurement limits, ranging from 200 Ohms to 2000 kOhms (2MOhms). Resistance is measured by first selecting one of five limits.

If the measured value is greater than the set limit, “1” will be displayed on the multimeter display. In this case, it is enough to set the switch to a higher limit. If the display shows all zeros, then the actual resistance value is significantly less than the set limit and therefore the limit must be reduced.

Resistance measurements are only allowed when the voltage is turned off to avoid damaging the multimeter.

A multimeter is a very useful device that will allow both novice and experienced electricians to quickly check the voltage in the network, the performance of an electrical appliance, and even the current strength in the circuit. In fact, working with this type of tester is not at all difficult; the main thing is to remember the correct connection of the probes, as well as the purpose of all the ranges indicated on the front panel. Next, we will provide detailed instructions for dummies on how to use a multimeter at home!

Meet the tester

First of all, we will briefly tell you what is on the front panel of the measuring device and what functions you can use when working with the tester, after which we will tell you how to measure resistance, current and voltage in the network. So, on the front side of the digital multimeter there are the following symbols:

• OFF – tester is turned off;
• ACV – alternating voltage;
• DCV – constant voltage;
• DCA – direct current;
• Ω - resistance;

You can clearly see the front appearance of the electronic tester in the photo:

You probably immediately noticed the 3 connectors for connecting probes? So here we need to immediately warn you that it is necessary to correctly connect the tentacles to the tester before taking measurements. The black wire is always connected to the output labeled COM. Red according to the situation: in order to check the voltage in the network, current up to 200 mA or resistance, you must use the “VΩmA” output; if you need to measure the current value above 200 mA, be sure to insert the red probe into the socket marked “10 ADC”. If you do not take this requirement into account and use the “VΩmA” connector to measure large currents, the multimeter will quickly fail because The fuse will blow!

There are also old-style devices - analog or, as they are commonly called, dial multimeters. The model with an arrow is practically no longer used, because such a scale has a higher error and, moreover, measuring voltage, resistance and current using a dial indicator is less convenient.

If you are interested in how to use a dial multimeter at home, we immediately recommend watching a visual video lesson:

Learning to work with an analog model

We will talk in more detail later about how to use a more modern digital model of the tester, looking at step-by-step instructions in pictures.

Measuring voltage

To measure the voltage in the circuit yourself, you must first move the switch to the desired position. In a network with alternating voltage (for example, in a socket), the switch arrow should be in the ACV position. The probes must be connected to the COM and “VΩmA” sockets. Next, select the approximate network voltage range. If difficulties arise at this stage, it is better to set the switch to the highest value - for example, 750 Volts. Next, if the display shows a lower voltage, you can move the switch to a lower level: 200 or 50 Volts. Thus, by reducing the setpoint to a more suitable one, you can determine the most accurate value. In a constant voltage network, you need to use a multimeter in the same way. Usually, in the latter case, it is best to set the switch to 20 Volts (for example, when repairing car electrical systems).

A very important nuance that you should know about is that you need to connect the tentacles to the chain in parallel, as shown in the picture:

We measure the current strength

In order to independently measure the current strength in a circuit with a multimeter, you must first decide whether direct or alternating current flows through the wires. After this, you need to find out the approximate value in Amperes in order to select the appropriate socket for connecting the black probe - “VΩmA” or “10 A”. We recommend that you initially insert the probe into the connector with a higher current value and if a lower value is displayed on the display, switch the plug to another socket. If again you see that the measured value is less than the setting, you need to use a range with a lower value in Amperes.

Please note that if you decide to use a multimeter as an ammeter, you need to connect the tester to the circuit in series, as shown in the picture:

Measuring resistance

Well, the safest thing in relation to the safety of the multimeter is to use a device to measure the resistance of circuit elements. In this case, you can set the switch to any range of the “Ω” sector, and then select the appropriate setting for more accurate measurements. A very important point - before using the device to measure resistance, be sure to turn off the power in the circuit, even if it is a regular battery. Otherwise, your tester in ohmmeter mode may show an incorrect value.

Most often, you have to measure resistance with a multimeter yourself. For example, if, you can measure the resistance of the heating element, which most likely has failed.

By the way, if, when measuring the resistance on a section of the circuit with a multimeter, you saw the value “1”, “OL” or “OVER” on the display, then you need to move the switch to a higher range, because at the setting you select, an overload occurs. At the same time, if “0” is displayed on the dial, move the tester to a smaller measurement range. Remember this point and using a multimeter when measuring resistance will not be difficult!

We use dialing

If you take a closer look at the front panel of the tester, you can see several additional functions that we have not yet talked about. Some of them are used only by experienced radio technicians, so there is no point in telling a home electrician about them (they are unlikely to be useful in everyday use anyway). But there is another important tester mode that you may use - dialing (we have indicated its designation in the picture below). For example, to find in a circuit, you need to ring the electrical wiring, and if the circuit is closed, you will hear a sound indication. To do this, you just need to connect the probes to the required 2 points of the circuit.

Again, a very important nuance - the power on the section of the circuit that you are going to call must be turned off. For example, if you decide