How to Read Amps on a Multimeter
How to Mensurate Amps or Watts With a Multimeter
By Benjamin Aries
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A multimeter is a device that tin can measure several fundamental details of an electrical circuit. These units are commonly used by professional person electricians as well as hobbyists, and they can exist purchased from retail stores such equally Radio Shack. A modern digital multimeter makes information technology easy to measure the current catamenia, expressed in amps; voltage can also be determined. Once the voltage and electric current are known, y'all can summate watts using a uncomplicated formula.
Measuring Amps
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Select the "Current" setting on the main dial of the multimeter. Choose a current range high plenty for the circuit being tested. For instance, if the excursion has a current that y'all estimate to be around five amps, select the "10 amp" setting instead of the "1 amp" option. Choosing a setting that is likewise low tin overload the multimeter.
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Insert the leads into the multimeter connections labeled "electric current." Typically, the black lead should be connected to the "common" port, while the crimson lead is connected to a port that matches the selected current range. This organisation varies, depending on the unit. Consult the multimeter labels advisedly to ostend that the configuration is correct for measuring electric current.
Step 3
Place the multimeter leads into the circuit using a series configuration. The electricity must be redirected to flow completely through the multimeter to obtain an accurate reading. Current should usually motion into the red lead and exit the black lead.
Step 4
Read the amount of amperage displayed on the multimeter. Remember to consider this number in the context of the selected current range. For example, the number "10.00" may bespeak x amps on i setting but simply 0.01 amps if the multimeter is ready to the smaller "milliamps" range.
Measuring Watts
Step 1
Choose the "Voltage" setting on the multimeter punch. As you did when measuring the electric current, ensure that the advisable voltage range is selected. Information technology is usually a good thought to select the highest possible voltage range to prevent an overload.
Step 2
Configure the multimeter leads into the ports marked for "voltage." The black lead can unremarkably remain in the "mutual" position. Motility the red lead to the port labeled for the voltage range beingness tested.
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Connect the leads to the excursion in a parallel arrangement. The black lead should link to a negative or grounded point, while the ruby-red lead should exist touched to a point of the circuit you wish to measure. Unlike a current measurement, a voltage test does non demand to be completely redirected through the multimeter.
Step four
Read the number on the multimeter brandish. As with current, retrieve to consider the context of the multimeter range setting.
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Multiply the amount of current and the amount of voltage in a circuit to make up one's mind the watts. For example, a motor circuit that uses five amps and 12 volts has 60 watts of power.
References
Warnings
- Ever observe electric prophylactic procedures when using a multimeter. Avert causing a short circuit with the exam leads. Confirm that the multimeter is on the correct setting earlier utilise. Read the owner's manual and follow the instructions advisedly.
Writer Bio
Benjamin Aries has been involved in digital media for much of his life and began writing professionally in 2009. He has lived in several different states and countries, and currently writes while exploring different parts of the earth. Aries specializes in technical subjects. He attended Florida State Academy.
Source: https://itstillworks.com/measure-amps-watts-multimeter-1243.html
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