What does a multimeter measure?

A multimeter is a versatile electrical measuring instrument that is primarily used to measure voltage, current, and resistance in various electrical circuits. It operates by allowing a technician or engineer to troubleshoot and diagnose electrical issues efficiently.

When measuring voltage, the multimeter can assess both AC and DC voltage levels, making it useful in numerous applications, from checking the voltage of batteries to ensuring that household circuits are functioning properly. The current measurement capability shows how much electric current is flowing through a circuit, which is crucial for understanding how devices are operating and for diagnosing potential issues like shorts or overloads. Lastly, resistance measurement is essential for evaluating components such as resistors or checking the integrity of wires and connections.

The combination of these three fundamental measurements—voltage, current, and resistance—enables the multimeter to be an invaluable tool in both the field and laboratory settings, aiding in the maintenance, repair, and understanding of electrical systems.