Measurements in Electronic Laboratory

1. Multimeter

The multimeter is the most commonly used instrument for engineers, technicians and electricians making electrical measurements. Originally, electrical work required multiple instruments for measuring voltage (voltmeter), current (ammeter) and resistance (ohmmeter). These instruments have been combined into a "multi"meter.
There are three connections available on the multimeter, typically labeled , , and . Two of the connections are required to make a measurement. The connection is used as one of the connections for all measurements. The connection is only use for current measurements. The connection is used for all other measurements. The dials and/or buttons on the multimeter are used to select the type of measurement, range, etc. How the connections are made with the element or system depends upon the type of measurement being made. Using the wrong connections / measurement combination can cause serious damage to the multimeter and/or system. The following sections discuss how to make each of the three basic types of measurements: resistance, voltage, and current.