A digital multimeter is a critical and indispensable component
of the electrical technician’s toolbox. Companies such as Fluke,
Mastech, Tektronix, and Extech to name a few manufacture popular
brands of these devices. These electrical measuring tools range
in price from as little as $10 for the most basic models to
around $5000 for top of the line units. Regardless of the make
or cost, digital multimeters share many of the same functions.
This article provides a brief overview of the essential parts
and basic function of the typical multimeter. A digital
multimeter generally has a large and intuitive display that is
simple to use and easy to read. Most displays have a four digit
display, with the first being a 0 or 1, with a +/- indicator.
Some units may also have additional displays, such as an AC/DC
readout. All digital multimeters have two connections for the
probe; some models may have three, four or more. Connectors are
attached to leads that are flexible, well insulated, and
terminate with connectors th