Activity in TLE
Using the Multimeter
Materials:
1 Digital Multimeter per group
AA or 9V battery (for DC voltage measurement)
Resistors (e.g., 220Ω, 1kΩ, 10kΩ)
Jumper Wires
Breadboard
Small electronic circuit or LED with resistor
AC outlet simulator (if safe) or AC adapter (for AC voltage)
📖 Instructions:
🔹 Part 1: Identify Multimeter Parts
Power ON the multimeter.
Identify the selector dial for:
DC Voltage (V⎓)
AC Voltage (V~)
Resistance (Ω)
Continuity (🔔 or diode symbol)
Current (A⎓)
Locate the ports:
COM (black lead)
VΩmA or VΩHz (red lead for voltage/resistance)
10A or 20A (for high current)
🔹 Part 2: Measure DC Voltage
Connect the black probe to COM and the red probe to VΩmA.
Set dial to DC Voltage (V⎓).
Touch the probes to the terminals of a 9V battery.
Record the reading.
🔹 Part 3: Measure Resistance
Remove power from the circuit (never measure resistance with power on).
Insert the probes as above.
Turn the dial to the Ω (resistance) setting.
Measure a resistor’s value (e.g., 1kΩ).
Record the result and compare with the color code.
🔹 Part 4: Test Continuity
Set the multimeter to the continuity setting (🔔).
Touch the two probes together.
A beep confirms continuity.
Test a wire or trace on a circuit board for continuity.
🔹 Part 5: Measure DC Current
Move the red probe to 10A port (if measuring over 200mA).
Set the dial to A⎓.
Break the circuit (open one leg), and insert the probes in series.
Read the current flowing through the circuit.
📝 Parts of a multimeter: Label the parts of the digital multimeter below.
📝 Activity Sheet Questions:
What is the function of the COM port on a multimeter?
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What would happen if you measure resistance on a powered circuit?
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Why do we need to break the circuit when measuring current?
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Record your measurements for:
Materials DC Voltage Resistance Continuity Test DC Current
AA Battery
Resistors
Jumper Wires
Breadboard
LED
Adaptor
