Common tools used by electricians: Precautions for using a multimeter

The multimeter is a tool commonly used by electricians, so electricians should be familiar with some precautions when using it.

It doesn’t matter if you are a new electrician. Let’s learn about the precautions of multimeter with Rongce Electronics.

1. "Mechanical zeroing" before use

Mechanical zeroing means adjusting the hairspring of the meter head so that the pointer points to zero when there is no power.

Before using the multimeter, observe whether the pointer of the multimeter is aligned with and overlaps the zero scale line on the left. If it does not coincide, "mechanical zero adjustment" is required, otherwise the reading will be affected and the measurement result will be inaccurate.

2. It is strictly forbidden to touch the metal part of the pen with your hands during use.

The multimeter needs to be connected with probes. Do not touch the metal part of the probe with your hands, which will not only affect the measurement results but also cause electric shock.

3. It is forbidden to switch gears during measurement

When measuring circuit current and voltage, it is forbidden to switch gears at the same time, otherwise the multimeter is easily damaged. Especially when measuring high voltage and large current, arcs are easily generated when switching gears, which may burn out the switch contacts and is very dangerous.

To shift gears, first remove the probe, then shift gears, and then measure after the change.

4. Gear selection should be from large to small

When the current or voltage to be measured is unclear, you should first select the highest gear, and then adjust to the appropriate gear according to the measurement results to avoid bending the pointer or damaging the meter head due to excessive deflection of the pointer.

5. When using a multimeter, place it horizontally.

When using a multimeter, the multimeter should be placed horizontally and the reading should be faced with the dial to avoid errors.

6. Do not connect the positive and negative poles incorrectly

When measuring DC current or DC voltage, be careful not to connect the positive and negative poles in reverse, otherwise the hand will rotate in the opposite direction. Once the positive and negative poles are found to be connected in reverse, immediately rotate the red and black probes to avoid damaging the dial, head and other parts.