Electrical experts and hobbyists must have multimeters since they make it simple for them to measure a variety of electrical values. measuring current, a fundamental electrical quantity that enables the measurement of a system’s power usage, is the device’s most typical use.
Using a multimeter to measure current might be a bit frightening if you’re not used to them. But if you know what you’re doing, you can use a multimeter to measure current precisely. We’ll look at the fundamentals of measuring current with a multimeter in this beginner’s guide.
What is a Multimeter?
A multimeter is an electrical instrument that can measure a variety of electrical parameters, including voltage, resistance, and current. It is used for defect finding, testing various electrical components, and evaluating the performance of electrical circuits.
The two probes of a multimeter are normally red and black, and they may be used to connect to the circuit or component you wish to measure. Also, it contains a display that indicates the measured electrical quantity’s value.
Current Measurement With a Multimeter
Using a multimeter to measure current differs slightly from using one to measure voltage or resistance. You may connect the probes in any direction to measure voltage or resistance. To prevent breaking the instrument or generating false results, you must make sure the multimeter is connected properly before measuring current.
Make sure the multimeter is set to the current mode before beginning to measure current. The majority of multimeters contain a rotary switch that lets you choose which mode to utilize. Set the rotary switch to the current mode in order to measure current.
The red probe should now be connected to the multimeter’s “A” or “10A” connector. Typically, the multimeter’s right side is where this socket is located. The socket on the multimeter marked “COM” or “-” is where the black probe is attached. Typically, the multimeter’s left side houses this socket.
Current Series Measurement
You must connect the multimeter in series with the circuit or component you wish to measure for determining the current flow. As a result, you must cut the circuit off and attach the multimeter to the circuit in series.
Connect the black probe to the negative side of the component or circuit and the red probe to the positive side to do this. Before attaching the multimeter, make sure the component is unplugged from the power supply.
Turn on the power source after connecting the multimeter in series and check the reading on the multimeter display. The multimeter may show an overload state if the current is too high, in which case you may need to apply a current shunt or change to a higher current range.
Parallel Current Measurement
You might need to measure the current in parallel with the circuit or component in some circumstances. As a result, you must connect the multimeter and the component in parallel.
To do this, switch the multimeter to the current mode and attach the black probe to the component’s negative side and the red probe to the positive side. The multimeter will experience current flow, and the display will show the current value.
While Measuring Current, Take Care
To achieve accurate results and prevent harming the multimeter, you must take certain safety measures when measuring current.
When connecting the multimeter in series, first check to see that the circuit has been unplugged from the power supply. Failing to do this may result in a short circuit, which might harm the multimeter or cause the circuit to fail.
Second, confirm that the multimeter’s current range is set to the appropriate value. To correctly measure the current, you might need to move to a higher current range or apply a current shunt if the current is too high, since the multimeter may suggest an overload condition.
Finally, ensure sure the multimeter can withstand the current without being destroyed when measuring current in parallel. The multimeter can be harmed by using the incorrect current range or by connecting it in parallel with a circuit or component that is experiencing excessive current flow.
Lastly, while measuring current, check to see that the proper probes and sockets are being used. Incorrect probe connections might cause the multimeter to malfunction or produce unreliable results.
Conclusion
Any electrical engineer or hobbyist should be proficient in using a multimeter to measure current. You can measure current properly and securely using a multimeter with a little knowledge and practice.
We have looked at the fundamentals of measuring current with a multimeter in this beginner’s tutorial. We’ve spoken about the many modes of a multimeter, the proper way to connect the probes, and how to measure current in parallel and series.
While measuring current, keep in mind to follow the safety measures to prevent breaking the multimeter or receiving false values. You can measure current safely and precisely with a multimeter by adhering to these rules.
