I am a software developer trying to understand how computers work at a lower level.
I have purchased a digital MultiMeter. I realise that MultiMeters enable you to measure voltages, ohms, amps etc. I also understand that you can select a range e.g. 20k ohms by turning the knob. If I select 20k ohms for example, then does this mean that the MultiMeter can then be used to measure up to 20k ohms of resistance? and if I select 20V of direct current then does this mean that the MultiMeter can be used to measure up to 20V of direct current?
I have a book which comprehensively talks about MultiMeters but does not confirm this question I have.
I realise it is a basic question, but then I am new to this field (I hold a GCSE in Electronics).
Best Answer
You should check the manual that came with your multimeter. However, in general, digital multimeters display a 1 on resistance ranges to show overranging. That means that the resistance connected to the meter is larger than the meter can display on whatever range setting it is on. If the meter is not connected to anything, then the resistance is very high and it will display a 1 on all ranges. Are you sure the 200m range is a resistance range and not a voltage or current range? If it is a resistance range and the leads are shorted then 00.0 would be the expected reading. If the leads are not shorted than something is not right. On the other hand, if the 200m range is a voltage (200 millivolts maybe) or current range (200 milliamperes maybe), and nothing is connected, 00.0 is the correct display.