Polytechnic University of the Philippines

College of Engineering

Industrial Engineering Department

Anahaw, Rhica Mae Reyes July 18, 2017

Group 4 July 25, 2017

 Experiment No. 1

FAMILIARIZATION OF A MULTIMETER

OBJECTIVES

1. To familiarize oneself on the functions of the multimeter.

2. To measure the resistance, voltage, and current of the circuit.

INTRODUCTION

A multimeter or multitester is an instrument that functions as an ohmmeter, a

voltmeter, and an ammeter. It is also often called as a Volt-Ohmmeter (VOM). The
instrument measures dc and ac voltages and current in dc values. Learning how to
use the tester and interpret its readings are essential parts of the training for all
technicians and enthusiasts.

The Ohmmeter

The ohmmeter is used to measure resistance. The topmost scale of the

multimeter is for ohmmeter readings. Zero is located on the right side and the infinity
on the left side of the meter.

The two steps in resistance measurement are:

1. Select a proper range or multiplier in the function selector knob.

2. Adjust the needle (pointer) to zero reading using the zero adjust. (Short
together the test prods and turn the ohms adjustment knob). Zero adjustment
is done for every selection of multiplier range to ensure accuracy of
measurement.

Sanwa Analog VOM is a common tester with four multiplier ranges: x1, x10,
x1k, and x10k. The lowest range x1 is used for measuring low resistance not
exceeding 500 , x10 range is used for measuring resistance less than 1000.
For resistance values not exceeding 100,000 , multipliers of x1k and 10k can
be used either way.
Voltmeter
The voltmeter function is used to measure the voltage on a unit under test
either DC or AC. The Dc scale is below the ohmmeter scale while the ACV scale is
below the DC scale as shown in the label. The zero reading for both scales is located
on the left and the pointer rests on it and moves to the right during measurement. The
dc voltmeter ranges are 0.1, 0.5, 2.5, 10, 50, 250, and 1000v. For example, in
measuring voltages which are expected to be less than 50 V, the voltage selector can
be set to a higher range 0 50V (to be accurate).
The ranges of the AC function of the voltmeter are 10, 50, 250, and 1000V. An
important point to remember is that the type of voltage to be measured must
correspond to the meter function.
When measuring unknown voltages, it is best to set the voltmeter to the highest
voltage setting to avoid damage of the meter. If the meter does not respond to a higher
setting, decrease the voltage setting gradually until a reading is obtained.
Measurement of voltage is done by connecting the test prods across the source of the
component.

DC Milliammeter
The direct current milliammeter (DC mA) is used to measure small current
flowing in a given circuit. The four selector settings of the dc mA are 50 A, 2.5, 25,
and 250 mA. Measurement of a current in a circuit is done by connecting the test prods
in series.

MATERIALS
1 Sanwa analog multimeter
1 Variable regulated power supply
2 Assorted resistors, -W (kilo ohms)
1 Set of connecting wires

PROCEDURE
1. Examine the multimeter you have borrowed. Familiarize yourself with the
function selector knob and the scales on the front panel.
2. Draw the VOM and the scales of the multimeter in the space provided for
Figure 1.1 and level them.
3. Using ohmmeter, measure the resistance of each resistor and record in
Table 1.1.
DATA

Table 1.1

Resistors Resistance,

R1 160

R2 7000

R3 190

R4 100

R5 15, 500

R6 850

R7 15,000

R8 4,000

R9 1000

R10 5
DISCUSSION

First, set the selector knob to x1k.

Second, check the needle if it points on 0 . It must be on 0 to have an accurate

measurement. If not, using the zero-ohm adjuster switch, adjust the needle until it

reaches 0.

Third, press the probes against the resistor legs. If the needle didnt move,

select a proper range in the selector knob.

Fourth, set the voltmeter to the highest voltage setting to avoid damage of the

meter. If the meter does not respond to a higher setting, decrease the voltage setting

gradually until a reading is obtained.

QUESTIONS

1. How do you measure the resistance of a resistor?

- A multimeter is use to measure the resistance of a resistor. Adjust the needle

to 0 to measure the actual resistor value. Press the probes against the
resistor legs. If the needle didnt move, select a proper range in the selector
knob.

2. Give the function of the following components of a VOM:

a) Scale this is where the reading of the item being tested indicates, this is
where the reading being d. The lower part of the scale is where the voltage
and current is measured, while the upper scale is the resistance.

b) Pointer also called the needle, it points on the respective reading of the
measurement.

c) Zero ohm Adjuster It use to adjust the pointer to 0 before measuring

the resistance, this is where the accuracy of the measurement depends.

d) Selector Knob it use to set the desired range of resistance.

e) Test Probes It comes in Red (positive) and Black (negative), it allow users
to keep their hands outside of the panel, allowing for a safer measurement.
CONCLUSION

I therefore conclude that, a multitester also called VOM (Volt-Ohm-

Milliammeter) is adequate for many diagnostic jobs, serious electrical and appliance

troubleshooting and repairs. It is a multi-function device that is use to measure the

Voltage, Current and Resistance. It has components that contribute to the accurate

reading of the device.