digital multimeter

[supermanotorious]

I typically use these for testing 12V applications and verifying continuity, is it possible to measure amperage with the tool? Maybe if an expert jumps on here and shows a breakdown of tips, tricks, and images, this will become a sticky!

 

[Doc Sprocket]

That has an AC inductive ammeter on it- that's what that clamp-lookin' thingy is. Examine the range switch to see it's capability. I can't tell from the pic if it will read DC current.

 

[devino246]

Most DVOM's will measure DC amperage in series (ie, to measure the current draw of a car with key off, you'd pull the battery positive off, stick the DVOM positive to the battery positive, and the DVOM negative to the disconnected battery cable). That being said, like Chris said, that clamp is for AC amp reading only.

 

[OzFab]

In majority of cases, amperage is measured under load requiring special equipment. Most multimeters can't do that...

 

[mckutzy]

If you try to read AC, you have to read one leg not both on 1ph, It cancels it out for a reading.

 

[gsegovia]

If your wanting to check for amp draw on dc voltage you need to connect the leads in series on the circuit. If all you want to check is dc power your better off going with a regular multimeter. An amp meter is better for ac power.

Example if you want to see why your car battery is draining your battery. You need too disconnect the positive cable on the battery and connect one lead of the meter to the battery post and the other lead to the cable and observe the reading. But make sure that the meter is set on the amperage setting and that the leads are black on comm and red on the amps. Keep in mind that you can check amps in a quickly manner never leave the leads connected for a long time because you will blow the fuse in the meter.they are design to check amps for a few seconds only.

 

[fowler]

In majority of cases, amperage is measured under load requiring special equipment. Most multimeters can't do that...

Even the cheapies from dick smiths with read up to 10 amps

U gotta itstall the meter in series and load the circuit

 

[Kaptain Krunch]

Even the cheapies from dick smiths with read up to 10 amps

U gotta itstall the meter in series and load the circuit

But be careful with that, its very easy to accidentally try to test a circuit with over 10 amps and fry that meter in a split second. Inductive ammeters are best, some higher end DMMs have optional inductive ammeter attachments.

 

[fowler]

Oh yeah and the cheap ones ain't to accurate sometimes

Mine seems to have no name but it was given to me by an old bloke
It'll do up to 500v DC and 30 amps