What does a multimeter measure?

A multimeter is a versatile instrument used in electrical work, and it is specifically designed to measure multiple electrical parameters. The correct understanding of what a multimeter measures includes voltage, current, and resistance.

Voltage measurement allows users to determine the electric potential difference between two points in a circuit. Current measurement enables the assessment of the flow of electric charge, helping to identify how much electricity is being supplied to or consumed by a component. Resistance measurement evaluates how much a component opposes the flow of electric current, which is crucial for troubleshooting circuits or understanding component health.

While a multimeter can perform limited functions related to power and energy consumption, these measurements typically require additional calculations using the measurements of voltage and current. Similarly, frequency and amplitude measurements are typically conducted with specialized instruments like oscilloscopes rather than a standard multimeter. Thus, the comprehensive capabilities of a multimeter specifically cover voltage, current, and resistance, making it an essential tool in electrical diagnostics and testing.