Digital automotive multimeters are rapidly becoming among the most important tools for auto-mechanics. In tackling various automotive technicalities, you need tools like screwdrivers, torque wrenches and most importantly automotive voltmeter or multimeters. Digital multimeters are more efficient and sophisticated than analog voltmeters. Newbies are probably going to ask themselves this question; what is a digital multimeter and how is it used? Well, this article will provide you with some answers to your queries and give an overview of all you need to know about digital multimeters.

 

Definition

A multimeter is simply an electronic device that measures amps, volts, and ohms. This versatile tool combines the functions of three individual meters into one integrated instrument. The three individual meters contained in the multimeter are the ammeter, which measures current, a voltmeter, which measures voltage (potential difference between two points), and an ohmmeter, which measures resistance.

 

Top Automotive Multimeters

Some of the top digital automotive multimeters include; Innova 3340, Innova 3320, Amprobe AM-510, fluke 77-4, and Klein MM500. When choosing the best piece for your car make sure you reconsider their pros and cons to ascertain the best of all. They have varied abilities, durability, measures, and features. The differences can help you in making an informed decision. Their prices also vary based on the factors as mentioned above. However, it is advisable to go for heavy duty and long lasting digital automotive multimeter.

 

Basic Forms of Digital Multimeters

Multimeters come in two basic forms: digital and analog. An analog device has a needle; the digital counterpart has a LED or LCD display. Of the two, analog is the oldest technology. Although digital units have largely supplanted the analog devices in daily use, there are still many analog devices that are still used today throughout the world. As with digital versions of other types of equipment, a digital multimeter provides a more accurate readout of what is being measured.

 

Uses of Digital Multimeters

Multimeters are often used as hand-held tools for doing basic troubleshooting and field service measurements. They can also be used in a shop or manufacturing facility as a bench test instrument for measuring the electrical output with a high level of accuracy. Additionally, multimeters can be used to service electrical problems in many different homes and industrial applications such as batteries, motor controls, large and small appliances, electric power supplies, and all manner of wiring systems.

 

Performance

Inexpensive DMM’s can perform the basic tasks of measuring amps, volts, and ohms quite easily, but there are not too many bells and whistles with these devices. Even so, these cheap instruments probably have more features than the average person will ever need or use. More expensive units, on the other hand, have many specialized features that can handle the most intricate and complicated electrical measurements required for any job in any industry.

 

Where to Buy

Digital multimeters are available at traditional brick and mortar retail stores that sell electrical test equipment, and online merchants. Features and prices vary greatly with each model. The least expensive multimeters can be purchased for about $10, while the more expensive premium digital multimeters can cost several hundred or even several thousand dollars. The price you pay all depends on what features you need, and how much you are willing to spend.

 

Other Uses

Digital multimeters, also known as DMM’s are sophisticated instruments that are used to troubleshoot electrical problems in many fields requiring electrical service and maintenance. These devices are widely used by electricians, electrical engineers and service technicians in a wide range of industries including the automotive multimeter safety, manufacturing, computer, construction, and machine repair fields to name a few.…