While using a digital multimeter to diagnose electrical problems on customers’ equipment, I frequently hear the comment, “I’ve got one of those multimeter things, but I never learned how to use it.” ...

A multimeter and its test leads allow electrical workers to reach into an energized panel, touch live circuit components with the end of the test leads, and capture electrical readings like voltage, ...

We have all had difficulty testing diodes in-circuit. Most DMM’s have a diode Vf function that measures forward drop, but what is the normal voltage drop? Analog VOM’s attempt to measure resistance of ...

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. Learn more. A good multimeter is like the Swiss Army knife of electronics tinkerers. It's so useful you'll rarely put it away ...

Modern digital multimeters (DMMs) are user-friendly, accurate, and safe — when used correctly! Reading voltage is simple, but measurements must be properly interpreted. With a clamp-on DMM, accurate ...

A digital multimeter is one of the most important tools for both professional mechanics and DIYers, not to mention people ...

Craig brought 15 years of automotive journalism experience to the Cars team. A lifelong resident of Michigan, he's as happy with a wrench or welding gun in hand as he is in front of the camera or ...

Multimeters are indispensable tools when working on electronics. It’s almost impossible to build any but the most basic of circuits without one to test and troubleshoot potential issues, and they make ...

To measure a zener diode’s breakdown voltage, you need a dc voltage source whose voltage exceeds that of the zener voltage. In Figure 1, resistor R SER provides voltage drop between V IN and V ZEN. In ...

If you're looking to get into automotive electrical testing, Harbor Freight has just the right kit for you to get started.