How to use a multimeter like a pro, the ultimate guide

[@akbumi]

If anyone wanna learn how to use a multimeter, this is the only video I'd recommend. You even went over and beyond with the cheatsheet, I really appreciate it. Thank you.

[@richardgomez5008]

Always wanted to learn how to use one. This is the best of anyone I seen. Amazing great!❤❤❤❤Internet knowledge is awesome!❤❤❤❤

[@yoosufmohamed9582]

​@@richardgomez5008😅😅 to

[@jonfreeman9682]

Totally agree. But the only function you ever use is voltage and continuity to check power and fuse. Everything else you never use.

[@antoniolaracuente437]

That is correct brother

[@ILovePie53]

confused with ohm reading

[@danielpohl29]

I just watched 15 other videos on multimeters. HANDS DOWN THIS IS THE BEST ONE OUT THERE! short and to the point.

[@grunerzx]

yeah, agreed!

[@STV-H4H]

I’ve watched numerous videos and most have too much information that’s not needed. This answers the questions in a very simple and straightforward way.

[@annitawatch]

well spoken.... I've watched so many videos and left still not understanding how to use a voltmeter but you explained everything in a simple understandable way ... thank you ... I now completely understand how to use this...

[@PlugConnection]

I love how you immediately jump into the content. Everything is relevant. There's no dead time. I don't have to fast forward through irrelevant crap. It's straight to the point. Perfect for my A-D-D

[@ckjones1]

you forget the H

[@jp040759]

You are the first person to identify what "Hfe" stands for. THANX. Been electrical/electronics Engineer and hobbyist for 58 years. Nice video for newbies on using a DMM. I will definitely be forwarding this video to friends that are always asking me how to use a meter. Good Job.

[@georgedavall9449]

You didnt know? That’s unbelievable! 🤔

[@jp040759]

@@georgedavall9449 I new it was tranny gain but did not know what the actual initials H F E actually stood for.

[@wesman7837]

​@@georgedavall9449I've never known what it means either.

[@jonfreeman9682]

In the 70s and 80s it was common but all circuits now use IC and surface mount components. So there's not much use for this anymore.

[@jp040759]

@@georgedavall9449 I knew it was symbol for gain but I did not know what the letters actually meant.

[@coachsmith50]

I started your content by watching the resistor video. I was blown away at how helpful it was. I subscribed to your channel on that video alone and then watched this one. HOLY COW bro!! Such great content!! Maybe I end up commenting on every video. I don’t know, but so far, with two videos down, I am super impressed with how helpful, concise, and well presented your content is. I have used multi meters before for the VERY basic functions and have even watched a couple of other videos here and there to try and figure out the other features. But this videos is by far the BEST. Thank you for the information and the time it took to put this together. It does not go unnoticed and is very appreciated

[@james_gatlin]

Thanks for the comment, its much appreciated, and it’s great knowing the content is of value, more content underway.

[@JM-mb6tf]

This was the absolute BEST explaining video I have watched. Extremely easy to understand - even for me that have more or less no clue what-so-ever about electricity. Now I know how to measure electricity for home use. Thank you so much for a very good video !! Respect.

[@MrTheHillfolk]

Cheap meters can tell you something, if you know their limitations. I have a nice fluke at woek and at the home shop ,but i got a couple The harbor freight freebies at the house. Sure ,the fluke tells me the outlet has 121 volts ac ,and the harbor freight one says 130. When i turn the power off to replace the outlet ,they both read zero. Not so worried about accuracy with that ,just if its safe being on or off. Still works fine for checking the occasional suspected dead battery for the remote and things like that.

[@jonfreeman9682]

@@MrTheHillfolk I agree. I thought of getting a Fluke but realized for home repairs an el cheapo meter works fine. It only has basic functions with cheap build quality but I only ever use voltage and continuity to check batteries and blown fuses and never found a use for all the other functions. For professionals and electronics enthusiasts a Fluke is worth it for measurement confidence and circuit protection but otherwise these harbour freight meters are awesome.

[@MrTheHillfolk]

​​@@jonfreeman9682to be honest, I'm not that impressed with a fluke, being that I work outside all the time as soon as it gets one raindrop on it, DC volts goes thru the roof. 16v on a 12v system? Nope. Pop the battery out and set it on the trucks defroster for 45 minutes and it'll be fine. It's a real headache and a hassle. Save your money.

[@gsftom]

Absolute best beginner meter demo. I am a beginner and have watched dozens. This one is by far the best. Thx!

[@the1spyderryder]

If you are a beginner, then you Don't know if this is a good video. I know of a few places that it is in error. It seems to me that he too may be a beginner.

[@eagle7267]

@@the1spyderryder Like at 7:43 when he referred to a transistor as a diode...

[@wizardmaster6639]

you watched DOZENS and still did not understand them? Where did you go to school? lol..get a refund bro!

[@georgeclooney6208]

​@@eagle7267fukumean he said transistor 💀

[@MrTheHillfolk]

6:22 well then since you're a beginner I might as well just pop on in here and introduce myself. How ya doin, im Richard Hertz but they call me Dick for short.

[@smartbull6382]

Thank you very much for translating the complex symbols of multimeters, which rarely if ever have instructions on using their functions. I cannot express how much I appreciate this video as an untrained farm/garage fix it myself guy.

[@todd1748]

Ive watched heaps of multimeter vids. Yours is by far easiest to understand and I thankyou James.

[@TheHellfire2000]

a perfect video that explains like ChatGPT, smooth, no time wasted and boring intros and extros. THANK YOU, I learned alot

[@LyonhartZ2]

Congrats. This is by FAR the best introductory video I have ever seen regarding the subject at hand. You are a blessing kind Sir!

[@drrous9917]

I approved this statement and the video.

[@daddyoalcaraz4030]

For years, I have been looking for a "How To" video on using a Multimeter. Your by far is the B E S T I've seen to date. Thank you for your explanation and your cheat sheet!! 👍🏻

[@nico94ar]

this is a level of secondary technician school here on Argentina. Very well explained, not boring, and very complete on the subject. Super nice video.

[@JohnSmith-cm9wo]

I've watched a few of these type videos about multimeter usage. After 36 years as an instrument technician, I can say what is missing is a basic test before using a multimeter. The meter leads must be tested before use. Plug in the leads and short the leads to test continuity on the OHMS setting. Zero resistance verifies the leads are good. Secondly, when testing for voltage use a three point test. First, test a voltage source that is live to verify the meter functions. Now test your target source to verify there is or isn't voltage, then retest the live source. Failure to perform these two simple tests could result in electrocution, or at least getting zapped. A good video!

[@arkantrust]

I don’t know how long it’s been since I watched a video with such high quality like this one, clear, detailed and straight to the point. Great job, James. Thanks a lot.

[@bobbyg4100]

Excellent Tutorial, Thank you so much. I’m a repair mechanic and you taught me things. God Bless you for taking the Time . 🙏

[@MsLeguman]

Excellent short intro for beginners here. Picky addon here, sometimes written K, kilo is officially k, not K, as you can see on the Fluke. K stands for Kelvin.

[@ehdbom]

Also the ”Ol” text when measuring resistance stands for Overload, not open loop. But it basically means the same.

[@azizahmedmuhammad4124]

Open loop or over limit sometimes used by some professionals, sounds close to the concept that the reading is beyond the limit of what the tester is designed by the manufacturer. So overload in this sense is a different concept. But you are also right

[@tomh6477]

Who the heck is kelvin?

[@don4techy]

​@@tomh6477 temperature unit

[@kraftaculousgreekgodofcraf1113]

@@tomh6477this dude from mythology … could see temperatures inside of light… I think

[@SparkHenderson]

Most excellent video. I've been using meters for 35 years and spent a lot of time learning to use them. Wish it only took me 12 minutes to learn how to fully understand all the fetchers

[@scotts4125]

I've been using meters for years and never realized the additional symbols next to a function meant to press the select button. I knew to press the select button for the function I wanted but seeing you do it and pointing it out was a duh moment for me. Never too old to learn something thanks!

[@georgedavall9449]

It takes a real man to admit he can learn something, or admit when proven wrong. 🖐👍

[@DMP2923]

You have been using it for years but never thought to learn how to use it?

[@georgedavall9449]

@@DMP2923 be nice ya spoof

[@scotts4125]

@@DMP2923 Pretty much lol

[@TjimbwayaAugustinus]

😊00q😅

[@scotthanley6035]

Bro, thank you so much, I’m a plumber and have picked up a multi meter to diagnose hot water unit problems, this video is invaluable to help out when buying a multi meter

[@ardentdfender4116]

This was an excellent video for a beginner and I’m not a beginner and I still found it excellent and as a refresher. As I work in the field for industrial process engineering and this was quite helpful. Even saved it to my own playlist for quick reference look up when I need to find it.

[@L0n3S0m31]

You completely blew my mind. I been trying to teach my self how to use a multimeter for years and I saw this video and I was asking my self what could I possibly learn in 12 minutes. You basically thought me everything I been trying to figure out thank you very much for this very fun and informative video.

[@NatalieTaekwondo]

What a great non-beginner overview or refresher for those of us who don’t regularly use our multimeters. To the point and loaded with useful detail. 👏

[@luckycatdad8369]

Great vid. I've been using Multi meters for basic stuff for years but never knew what 2/3 of the other functions were.

[@flipclone]

you just made a 'complicated' device seem so very simple, thank you.

[@debieviceroygomera8394]

I really appreciate this man. I do not have any background in electronics but I love tinkering with my devices so this video boosts my confidence in investing in a good multimeter.

[@Michael-bg7os]

This is the best video I've seen by far of how to use a multimeter. Good job!!!

[@saulgarza637]

I am intimidated by my multimeter but after watching this video I have a better understanding on how I’d use it if not I’ll go back to your video. Thank you for the crash course.

[@bradguerra6313]

Best multimeter video in KZbin history. Great work!!

[@ferris2323]

Thank you for making this cheat sheet, at my job we are supposed to be mechanics with the electrical side taken care of by electricians, but the company does not want to pay one so we have to play electrician. This will help training others in my department greatly!

[@nevinkuser9892]

That's pretty thorough and amazing. Multimeters have always intimidated me. Not anymore! Thank you.

[@elmoreglidingclub3030]

One of the best videos on YT. Very helpful and informative; makes me want more detail from you on the uses and features! You get right to the point so no wasted time. Just really helpful all around. Thank you!

[@MTC-PNT]

I just watched the only multimeter video I've actually understood. Thanks.

[@MD-kk9mq]

Not only your video is good but the continuity function just blew my mind. Holy shit... it's awesome

[@DE4LIFE-k8s]

Best overview of multimeters I've seen to date. Very nice!

[@JP-vs1ys]

awesome. this may be the first of many multimeter videos I've seen that describe with just enough simplicity and repetition to make it clear. thanks james.

[@franciscovilla9203]

I just learned a lot. Thanks for the cheat sheet.

[@james_gatlin]

Glad it’s of value!

[@drewc3651]

I'm a licensed electrician and only use 3 or 4 of the features. Haven't needed the others yet. Great breakdown though 💯

[@jamesrecknor6752]

Best lesson of it's kind I have ever seen, very well done!

[@stanwooddave9758]

Thank You James, now I know how to use & measure with my high-dollar multimeter I scored @ a yard sale. This is what I would call a down & dirty video on how to use & master your Multimeter in under 13 minutes. No B-S, just information you can use, and be confident in using you miltimeter for an intended purpose as needed. Your a great teacher James.

[@thehighwayman78]

Very nice! I knew most of it but repetition especially for the less used settings was great 👍

[@james_gatlin]

Great to hear!, agreed

[@michaelwoolston2926]

I am an R&D engineer that has used multimeters extensively and occasionally an o-scope … but that is a whole other kettle of fish. Your tutorial is well done … and thank you for going over some of the most common safety risks. One safety example you might consider adding is discharging a high capacitance capacitor like found in HVAC units with a high resistance resistor (bleeder capacitor). You could highlight the changing capacitance whilst at the same rendering the capacitor safe to handle.

[@robertg0105]

It's 3 am, and I'm a music major why am I watching this

[@lesterjones9335]

To check your Amp, speakers, etc....

[@iamnode2088]

Same here bud I saw your message and left my version too 😂 It's 3 am and I am pretty sure I don't have a multimeter at home and I am a medical student I have no idea why I am watching this with great attention

[@davidcrtalic9795]

Lol, it's 1:00 and I have to wake up in a bit more than 4 hours.

[@callumsumner7080]

😂 3:14am

[@ZacchaeusNifong]

LOL the algo knew you were soon to be a home-owner.

[@mitrovdan]

This was what I was looking for, straight to the point, no blablabla, exactly what I was searching for a very long time, thank you!!

[@ninjahunter2199]

Makes me feel like am ready to conquer the world with a multimeter

[@Anthony9592]

Thanks a ton. I am jumping from zero knowledge of multimeter to basic knowledge of its functions. Thank you Brother.

[@BobMuir100]

Lovely! So brilliant for weekenders like me! Thanks Bob England

[@captainmort]

James, this must be the go-to video for multimeter use. Thanks for the download.👍

[@TheLusus]

3:55 STOP! DO NOT USE Continuity function to check if a wire isn't broken! A wire can be damaged and still show good continuity. To check a wire for damage use an Insulation resistance tester! For example Fluke 1507!

[@markshepherd8409]

Incredibly informative and well presented. Thanks for a great video James, you're a natural teacher.

[@michaelg.294]

I really wish this video had been available 15 years ago!

[@markk3652]

Why, what happened?

[@gleannemilan9421]

yeah me too. That is why back then I'm afraid of using this multimeter I'm kinda like intimidated using it lol

[@kaneelias]

Great video. I am fascinated with electronics and was given a multi meter as a gift with no idea where to start. Thank you so much for making this

[@RepLicanT00100]

One of the best informative uploads on this particular topic .. Much appreciated and saved for that inevitable moment where my brain 🧠 decides to not work for some silly reason ha! 🙏🏻

[@Puhdeeya]

I'm here James. New subscriber. 11/10/2024. Thank you for this video.

[@acemanmccool]

Enjoyed the video and learned a few things. Going to save it for future reference. Also thanks for the cheat sheet

[@MaryLagunes-k4l]

I knew most of the functions on multimeters but through time and not using one for years you tend to forget. Thanks!

[@bakri99]

Thank you for your effort, very clear explanation 🙌

[@drrous9917]

😊 I watched many videos on how to use a multimeter. Your video is by far the best one I see. Also, you have the attributes and skills of great teachers. Well done. 😊

[@JUKE179r]

KLEIN Tools clamp CL800 FTW!!! 🤓 Cheers from the UK! 🇺🇸🇬🇧

[@shawnknetzer8978]

I own 3 of the 4 multimeters labeled used in this video. Its a good refresher. As well as a great introduction.

[@sephiroth127]

2:05 another reason to use only one hand is that if you touch a live wire, the current goes through your body and that almost instantly triggers the differential switch and saves your life. If you use 2 hands, the current might go from your left hand to your right hand, completing the circuit without current going to earth and therefore the differential switch won't cut off the voltage.

[@spiritualsarver2125]

Hands down, BEST video for multimeter 101. Thank you!

[@SterlingJustin]

K for killa! 😂😂😂

[@alexparty2002]

Killa ohms

[@tim102353]

Thank you so much for your thorough explanation of the multimeter. I've been using multimeters for years and I have always tested for continuity with the ohm setting. I never realized there was a continuity setting. And I always wondered what that symbol meant. And most of the time when I'm thinking I want to check homes. I want you actually check continuity. So thank you once again. Great job!

[@joannknight8610]

Calm, clear and concise delivery of the needed information. Thank you.

[@duncanvincent9106]

Great video. Packed with facts and information. I like that there is no unnecessary talking and no wasted time. Thanks!!

[@BahriaTown-r7d]

No one explains it so clearly as you did. I thank you for helping me understand. Well done.

[@sjpwarren]

This is the BEST video I have found explaining all the options on a Multimeter. Thank you.

[@Glocktologist]

This is a good tutorial on multimeters. Here’s a handy piece of info for anyone with 18-V tools: a fully charged battery without load will most likely measure over 20 Volts over the terminals so use the next higher setting to avoid an error/overload message. P.S. Kilos are definitely represented by a lower case k in the SI system.

[@markk3652]

I own a few different types and brands of multi meters. Each one has its own advantages. I use my auto range Fluke for most jobs, it’s really the easiest one to diagnose and test with. Having one that gives whole and decimal readings is the best one to have. Testing batteries at my house is the most common task I use the meter for.

[@rest5746]

Hey! Just want to let you know this is a good video about learning how to use a multimeter. It just happens that I want to buy one to measure my led lights for my props and I happen to stumble on this video! Keep it up!

[@RemyDMarquis]

Thank you very much for this. I asked my brother to teach me but for the life of me I couldn't understand a thing 😂 This is extremely helpful. Thanks again 🙏

[@blackmangopit]

Best video on how to use these devices for a beginner. I’ve watched several others and this one is the only one that was thorough enough I could understand everything.

[@Mikepet]

Thank you for the Video, i am a Electrician by trade but it never harms to learn or relearn things. I always thought "OL" stands for "Over Load" and not for "Open Loop". We learned it that way back in scool too.

[@steejayk]

2:10 that is indeed excellent tip. I had that once happening closing circuit via chest.. If it was not a colleague's quick reaction I am not sure how that would end, but your muscles are blocked by electricity and you can't let go.. I had burned holes in the skin on my fingers that took months to heal. Please remember : safety first always.

[@solsol1624]

Yes that was a good intro to meters. One small thing that may mislead some, on most meters you don't have to put the red lead into the amps socket for small currents, typically 200 or 500mA. You will get a much more sensitive reading in the mA range. If you are a keen DIY car mechanic, invest in one with the frequency and duty cycle functions, very handy for testing sensors like cam, crank position, abs, and some types of airflow sensors

[@herbertpocket8855]

Great video! Perfect blend of beginner advice and safety warnings

[@Jillygupple]

Best Multimeter tutorial I've found by a mile. Thanks for this!

[@PhillipAllenShio]

Very informative video. I've been using a multimeter for a long time, and I still learned some things. One small thing I was curious about. You called the "OL" reading an "Open Loop" reading. I was always led to believe that "OL" stands for "Over Limit." Either way, great video.

[@Faraday100]

Really helpful and really efficient with no silly stuff. Thanks for doing it. If you redo it -- and I don't know why you would because it is so good just as it is -- maybe a demonstration of how to safely discharge a capacitor to avoid a shock?

[@sandman7160]

Nice and easy explanation from you. Im one of the many that has used a multi meter for years without knowing what all the symbols are for. I smashed the sub button bro

[@Aqualastic]

You did a good job explaining the details. One thing I’m interested in is on bluetooth enabled multimeters, could you make a separate video on this?

[@boomcity4942]

I have been using multiple meters since the 1970s and I find this to be an excellent video.

[@Bizarreparade]

Hi Scott. I am a 117 year old Guamanian woman. We don't have a furnace cause it's hot here. Thanks for your video!

[@smolnoodle]

Concise, precise and straight to the point. Very helpful and decisive knowledge sharing.

[@imumba4321]

Best video on KZbin this one..just wanted to learn about continuity feature on my new meter but learnt alot.

[@djchemical]

I'd to add to the importance and functionality of the continuity feature. As a residential remodeler, it has been absolutely vital in troubleshooting electrical systems and knowing exactly what wires go to exactly what outlets in another location without physically seeing the wire run. I use alligator clips, spare wire and colored electrical tape to be able to go from one end of the house to the other as I frequently work alone and have no one to hold things for me. This is done with the power off so I can freely touch bare wires with no worries. We are also required by law to run a continuity test for new home inspections before power can be turned on to the home.

[@JonKendall-b8i]

Thankyou James, funny my meter is not digital, just old school simple, still trying to get my head around current & continuity testing, but you shed some light for me, cheers & much appreciated !

[@youcanthide004]

Outstanding. Incredibly comprehensive yet in layman‘s terms well done, sir.

[@cheyne3744]

Thank you sooo much for making a super simple video that answered all the questions I had without telling me a bunch of extra stuff!!

[@BilobateDrip]

Greatly appreciate the video man. We have a multimeter at work and nobody that has tried to explain it has a detailed enough explanation to help me understand. Now I feel confident picking it up. Thank you very much

[@Mark622111]

Good stuff, I use my meter all the time as a DIY guy around the house and car but use only what I know not knowing the full capabilities.

[@rsingh.1]

Wow, I've always wondered how to use one, ut nvr git one because I had no idea how to use it . Your explanation is just perfect. Thank you. Now i can get one.

[@treelife365]

Thanks so much for this amazing introduction to multimeters! Your video was really well put together; graphics were such a great bonus 😊

[@mrcarl2588]

Great video. I've just ordered a lap ms8907 pen after watching your video so thanks for posting it I won't be using my see-through screwdrivers anymore on electricity...

[@kennethwood9025]

Im ok with most things mechanical but electrical is very challenging. This was a very helpful video on how to use my new test meter. Thanks.

[@shawnanderson9366]

THANKS FOR THE WALKTHROUGH! Love how quick yet informative your video is!

[@2kool42]

I agree. Most instructional drone on and on to try to fill up the time. It is annoying. I appreciate that each feature was covered quickly. If you miss something you can always go back.

[@oyeibrahim]

This is the most comprehensive and education video on multimeter I came across on KZbin. Thank you

[@Secret-Squirrel4421]

Probably the most helpful video I've seen on the use of a Multi Metre. Thanks, top stuff.

[@ElectricalEngineeringApp]

yeah