How to Use a Multimeter to Test Voltage?

The multimeter test voltage is an electrical instrument capable of detecting different electrical parameters in a circuit, including voltage, current, and resistance.

You can use this equipment while connecting different wires or creating a new electrical connection. It can save you from accidents and unwanted incidents.

So, it is essential to understand its proper usage. If you are not aware of the exact procedure for using it, then don’t worry; this article is to facilitate you in the best possible manner.

Before we start on how to use a multimeter, let’s get to the basics first.

What is a Multimeter?

A multimeter, also known as a multi-tester, is an instrument used to measure electrical properties in a circuit. The multimeter is supposedly a favorite tool of electricians, engineers, technicians, and people who deal with electricity.

A multimeter provides measurements for voltage, current, and resistance and also captures capacitance, frequency, and temperature.

Below are the key components of a multimeter:

Display: The most updated multimeter comes with an LCD that provides precise reading. However, older models also have an analog to display a needle that moves on a scale, indicating the power
Dial: Multimeters have a dial that allows you to select the measurement such as current, voltage, resistance, etc.
Test leads: The multimeter has test leads, and there are cables and clips at the ends. The leads make the electrical connection with the component you are measuring.
Jacks: A jack is a place where you plug the test leads. And it is labeled with the type of measurement.

Steps to using a multimeter:

Below are the main steps to using a multimeter:

You’ll have two leads with your multimeter. You should connect the negative lead with COM Port and the positive lead with “V”.
Once you have connected these leads, secure yourself. Do not touch the outlets or other electrical sockets with bare hands. Use protective gloves and take all the necessary measures.
Now, connect the positive end of the lead with the right side of the smaller hole in the outlet. Similarly, connect the negative side of the wire with the larger or the left outlet.
Rotate the dial to the AC current, and your multimeter will show you the readings. These readings must be around 110V to 120V. This is the general current that flows through outlets.
You can even check the current flowing through the ground wire. For that, you need to put the negative lead into the smaller hole at the bottom and the positive one into the Right socket opening. You’ll see the Multimeter showing you the reading. It would also be around 110V to 120V.

Summing up:

A multimeter can help you find the exact current flowing through the circuit so you can make electrical decisions accordingly. As this meter can also measure voltage and resistance, you can change the dial and find these electrical aspects with great ease. But make sure to use it cautiously or get help from expert electricians.