A multimeter is a hand tool used to measure different types of electrical outputs. Typical multimeters measure amperage, voltage and resistance. Resistance, which is measured in a unit called Ohms, is the ability of an electrical component -- usually a resistor -- to slow down the flow of current. Resistors are used in series and parallel circuits to prevent electrical shorts. A multimeter can measure the resistance in a circuit or, more directly, of a resistor.
Instructions
1. Plug the positive and negative test leads into the corresponding jacks on the front of the multimeter.
2. Turn the multimeter's power to the on position.
3. Set the range selection dial to Ohms. On a multimeter, the resistance range measurement will be designated by the Omega sign, the letter K (for kilo-ohms) or the letter M for meg-ohms.
4. Place the tips of the one multimeter lead to one end of a resistor and the other lead to the other end of the resistor. On digital multimeters, the measured resistance reading will simply appear on the readout screen. However, on analog multimeters, read the resistance by watching where the needle falls or rises to on the bottom scale on the meter face.
Tags: