How does a multimeter function?

A multimeter is an essential tool in electrical work that can measure various electrical properties, primarily voltage, current, and resistance.

When set to measure voltage, the multimeter determines the potential difference between two points in an electrical circuit, thereby assisting in troubleshooting and confirming the correct operation of electrical devices. When measuring current, it shows how much electricity is flowing through the circuit, which is crucial for understanding load and ensuring the safe operation of electrical systems. Lastly, by measuring resistance, the multimeter can help identify issues such as breaks in a circuit or the quality of connections, which is vital for maintaining electrical integrity.

The capability to measure all three properties—voltage, current, and resistance—is what makes multimeters highly versatile and invaluable in both individual and professional electrical diagnostic work. This functionality is what sets it apart from simpler tools that only measure one specific characteristic, such as current or resistance alone.