What does a multimeter measure?

What does a multimeter measure?

• A. Voltage, resistance, and current
• B. Temperature
• C. Color matching
• D. Pressure

Answer: (A)

A multimeter is used to test electrical properties in a circuit, primarily voltage, current, and resistance. You measure voltage by placing the probes across a component to see the potential difference it has. To measure current, you insert the meter in series so the current from the circuit flows through the meter. For resistance, you power down the circuit and place the probes across the component; the meter applies a small current and reads how much resistance it has, shown in ohms. In car work, this lets you check battery voltage, verify wiring continuity, and compare sensor resistance to spec values. Temperature, color matching, and pressure require other tools—thermometers or infrared devices for temperature, a spectrophotometer or shade guide for color, and a pressure gauge for pressure. Some meters can cover more functions, but the fundamental measurements are voltage, current, and resistance.