Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer

Digital Multimeter Breakdown: Which Type Is Your Perfect Match?

The Different Types of Digital Multimeters and Their Uses

The Different Types of Digital Multimeters and Their Uses - The most important instrument for anyone dealing with electronics is a digital multimeter. They are employed to measure a variety of electrical quantities, including resistance, current, and voltage. The various varieties of digital multimeters and their applications will be covered in this article.

Types of Digital Multimeters


1. Handheld Digital Multimeters

Handheld Digital Multimeters

The most popular kind of multimeters is handheld digital ones. They are convenient to use and portable. The measured values are often shown on a tiny LCD display on these multimeters. They are utilized by electricians, technicians, and enthusiasts because they are perfect for outside work.

Portable digital multimeters include the following features:

  • Ranging automatically or manually
  • Voltage measurement of AC and DC
  • Resistance analysis
  • Actual measurement
  • Testing for continuity
  • Testing of diodes
Automotive, HVAC, and electronic repair are just a few of the many uses for handheld digital multimeters.

2. Benchtop Digital Multimeters

Benchtop digital multimeters

Benchtop digital multimeters are intended for usage in a laboratory or workshop setting and are bigger than portable multimeters. They have a better resolution and are more accurate than portable multimeters. Often, these multimeters have a bigger display and more sophisticated functions.

Benchtop digital multimeters include the following features:

  • High resolution and accuracy
  • Voltage measurement of AC and DC
  • Resistance analysis
  • Actual measurement
  • Frequency calculation
  • Measurement of temperature
Applications for engineering, quality control, and scientific research all employ benchtop digital multimeters.

3. Clamp Digital Multimeters

Clamp Digital Multimeters

Digital multimeters with clamps are made to measure current without cutting off the circuit being checked. They clamp around the wire or conductor being tested using a jaw-like construction. When it is difficult or impossible to disconnect the circuit, these multimeters are employed.

Clamp digital multimeters include the following features:

  • Measurement of AC and DC current
  • Voltage measurement of AC and DC
  • Resistance analysis
  • Testing for continuity
Applications for HVAC, electrical, and automotive clamp digital multimeters are popular.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Digital Multimeter

The following considerations should be taken into account when purchasing a digital multimeter:

1. Accuracy

The degree of similarity between the measured value and the real value is referred to as accuracy. In order to guarantee that the measurements are accurate, it is crucial to select a multimeter with a high level of precision.

2. Resolution

The smallest change in the measured value that the multimeter can pick up is referred to as the "resolution." The multimeter can identify more subtle variations in the measured value when it has a better resolution.

3. Range

Range describes the highest and lowest numbers that the multimeter is capable of measuring. It's crucial to pick a multimeter whose range is suitable for the task at hand.

4. Features for Safety

If not handled properly, digital multimeters can be harmful. The safety features of a multimeter, such as an overload protection, auto shut-off, and fused inputs, must be considered before buying one.
Budget

Price ranges for digital multimeters vary. In order to satisfy your needs and stay within your budget, it's critical to select a multimeter.

Conclusion

Digital multimeters are a crucial tool for anyone dealing with electronics, to sum up. Digital multimeters come in three primary categories: clamp, tabletop, and portable. Each variety of multimeter has unique characteristics and uses. 

To make sure you get the best digital multimeter for your needs, it's crucial to take into account elements like accuracy, resolution, range, safety features, and price.

FAQs

A digital multimeter and an analog multimeter are two different instruments?

- In contrast to analogue multimeters, which utilise a needle and scale to display the results, digital multimeters show the measured values on an LCD screen.

When measuring AC and DC voltage, can a digital multimeter be used?

- The majority of digital multimeters can, in fact, detect both AC and DC voltage.

When should a digital multimeter be calibrated?

- It is advised to calibrate your digital multimeter every year or after experiencing a substantial change in operating circumstances.

Is it possible to gauge resistance with a digital multimeter?

- It is possible to measure resistance with a digital multimeter.

Is it necessary to use safety equipment when using a digital multimeter?


- Yes, it is important to use safety equipment such as gloves and goggles when using a digital multimeter to avoid injury.