How to Use a Multimeter for Beginners - How to Measure Voltage, Resistance, Continuity and Amps

In this video I go through the basic functions of a cheap multimeter, I cover how to measure AC and DC Voltage, how to measure resistance, how to test for continuity and how to measure amps. You can buy a multimeter for $5 at Harbor Freight and it will have these features and be more than enough for a diy'er. They look intimidating at first but once you know how to use the basic features it's very handy tool to have around the house. Whether you are trying to see if you have current at a wall socket or diagnosing sensors on your car or more delicate diagnosis on a circuit board a multimeter essential.
Multimeter Used in Video: amzn.to/2bngr5q
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Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchetsand Wrenches, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. Ratchetsand Wrenches assumes no liability for any property or personal damage that may arise from doing a repair on your vehicle after watching any of my repair video's. Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchetsand Wrenches, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Again Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Ratchetsand Wrenches.

[@arebrec]

No silly music, no waffling. Clear and to the point. Brilliant. I wish all YT tutorials were like this.

[@jackolantern7342]

Couldn't agree more.

[@theHAL9000]

Amen to that!

[@michaelburcham9488]

This video deserves an award and other channels should strive to change their format to be more like this guys.

[@pureintellectualbeing3575]

Agreed

[@Ronnock]

Let this echo through the annals of KZbin.

[@nktwrk73]

It's not what you're being taught...it's HOW you're being taught. This is GOLD.

[@CapTexamerica]

This video has helped me earn the KZbin University Multimeter Merit Badge. Saved for rewatch every time I need to hunt my meter down and use it.

[@SuperHonkyPodcast]

I'm a grown ass 37 year old man and I honestly feel super cool that I just used my new multi meter to test a couple double a batteries. 🤗

[@maxenra]

You and me both brother

[@crownhic6827]

Hell yeah! Learning something new is exciting! Pass it on.

[@davidpriest5253]

And me, and i'm nearly 60 :-)

[@PaddyBoy644]

I’m 41 and in the same position 👍🏻

[@ramm150]

37 here and I approve of this msg.

[@dellicaman]

Didn't have a clue until I watched this. Simple clear and straight to the point...no ridiculous music no unnecessary commentary no crazy camera angles...just downright simple. Many thanks for putting this up.

[@moofushu]

This is the best video on multimeters on youtube thus far.

[@theuniversallion]

Can it electrocute my finger

[@brooKlynKiteflyer]

yes when he said, "horse shoe looking thing" i knew he would be my go to multimeter teacher.

[@scootertramp4355]

Agreed.

[@hjohnstone6921]

Totally agree

[@TheRodrigo806]

Every once in a while, excellent how-tos are made👍

[@safrazhamid4784]

Teaching is an art, and you are blessed with this gift. Thank you, I learnt something today.

[@alongjunor7729]

simple language no technical jargon, direct to the point, with little amount of time. thanks bro. may your life journey become much easier.👍👍

[@andredupuis5432]

The best. Short. Concise, Precise. Perfect for beginners. Bravo!

[@slugbuddy7838]

I understood this more in 8min than I did in an entire semester in my auto class

[@TheFakeyCakeMaker]

Your profile picture disappoints, your name is so funny.

[@sinistai.z.3622]

I'm with you there my instructors can't explain shit without confusing the hell out of you. So simple to explain and he did it in 8 minutes. I need this for electric al engineering. Thank God for you tube.

[@izzyspencer8814]

i love that. seriously tho bro great job

[@slickt7894]

Yes i been looking for this type of content on volt meter for a long time.

[@666kkf]

Same

[@jackolantern7342]

All tutorials should be this clear, organized, and direct -no fluff, no bs.

[@davidwells997]

By far the best introductory video I’ve seen. From clear & concise instructions to using that pick for a pointer to show exactly what on the multimeter he was talking about, this was very informative. Thank you!

[@kristopherdetar4346]

You are a great teacher, thank you for making it painless with no fluff and BS.

[@luigibosco1649]

Ct via BBC I d BBC CV DFS;y C C XX cuz a r def h cut

[@noahway13]

He fooled me, he dresses like a mechanic.

[@MrVeeBlog]

Man, where have you been with this video??? This is the best explanation of how a voltmeter is used than I've ever seen. Well done man. And I'm subbing your channel. Thank you for this.

[@justagrandmathatwantstokno4046]

Ask this old house

[@kenfletcher9620]

MrVegas is

[@jerrycolley9332]

L

[@jamesofoof1232]

This is a multimeter not voltmeter

[@alejandrohernandez3934]

Excellent explanation

[@davidcisneros1429]

Thank you for presenting the information in a straightforward and clear manner! I'm sick of the ones who make videos that go on to bash the in expensive meters that DIY Guys use to diagnose problems that either can be easily fixed at home or need to go to a professional. We don't need a thousand dollar fluke monstermeter!

[@ElizabethSwims]

Thanks, I'm a total nube when it comes to this stuff but i have enough know how that i need to know a few things. This video was perfectly on my level. Thanks for that.

[@edancarrigg7071]

noob*

[@krusher74]

such a noob you cant even spell it.

[@RT-ox8lv]

@@krusher74 Feel better?

[@whimsical2223]

@@krusher74 yikes, mega cringe

[@marksandsmith6778]

@@krusher74 Worst.

[@kennyc388]

Nice video for using the multimeter. No BS, no unnecessary talking and good video and audio quality. Thank you for helping me out! You should be working in our screwed up public school system!!

[@-anonymous6117]

VERY TRUE

[@Morgan-if5zt]

Hahaha that's not acceptable. People would learn way to much. That's unacceptable lol but you are right. At least the teaching mentality. I guess in Canada kids today don't even learn to spell. The school system is dumbing the population down generations at a time. Don't think that public school systems are the only ones affected.

[@tb6651]

When you mentioned the words “screwed up” Betsy DeVos came to mind.

[@vulcanbespock]

You mean Common Core@@tb6651

[@kyhamoge]

🎯

[@Mother_Mia]

One thing I recommend doing when performing a continuity test is to first touch the probes together to make sure you're on the right setting. Touching the probes together should make a beep and that would indicate you are checking continuity properly. Also, a lack of beeping when checking continuity indicates broken wire, NOT a short. This is the opposite of a short.

[@thecyclingcouple4438]

Dont you get short when the wire is broken?

[@keefmad]

@@thecyclingcouple4438 a short (full name "short circuit") is an unwanted connection, like when an exposed wire touches something it shouldn't. if the wire is broken, there is no circuit

[@angelaengle12]

@@keefmad Oooooh, wow, thanks for that clarification. 👍

[@bryanmiller2023]

The opposite of a short is an open which is the same as a broken circuit. There is no continuity in an open circuit. Think of a circuit with an on/off switch in the circuit, with the switch in the on position, power flows through the switch completing the circuit. The same switch in the off position creates a break in the circuit or an open spot that does not allow the electricity to flow.

[@waterboy8999]

@@keefmad thanks!

[@GameTesterBootCamp]

Dude, thank you so much for making this. Nobody ever taught me any of this s*** and I'm almost 40 years old. Thank you for being an educator.

[@rwilliams1709]

You simply explained in less than 10 minutes how to use a multimeter. My uncle is a master electrician and every time I ask him a simple question it turns into a college lecture lol. Thanks for getting right to the point

[@MadeByGod1973]

My uncle like this too.

[@dps6198]

Way better than other videos where the presenter has not organized their thoughts before recording. You're presentation is very easy to follow and understand.

[@vipahman]

That voice has such a calming effect on us clueless DIY electricians! Thanks for the simplest explanation of a multitester.

[@ellenv3381]

Excellent! I watched a few others that were okay but yours Sir is fabulous. Easy to learn and you cover things that are so obviously just a little more than the average homeowner knows! THANK YOU!!!

[@vikramchoudhary8122]

love from india i am shocked that you thaught some much things just 8 min. back on time when yt was really informative

[@MichiganWildcat]

learned more in 8 mins. than I ever did trying to figure it out on my own! Great job and thank you

[@DocScience2]

My first multi meter was the one I built from scratch, resisters, plugs, etc, 40 years ago.

[@CASH-TO-THE-MERE101]

👍👍

[@vms_kt]

Same here 🙂

[@user-mq2ww7ux8z]

www.trisco.com/products/pro-automotive-multimeter

[@kawh8719]

thank you for this breakdown. I normally just stare at my multimeter in confusion, but now I understand more about it and why it was beeping!

[@housebird29]

What a spectacular video. So clear and to the point, made for common users out there. No technicality whatsoever and use of very selective props to make it easy to understand, including all the safety measures… bravo. It cannot get better then this. I had no clue at start of video and but end of 8:00 minutes, I clear on so many things and can confidently use multimeter. Thanks a lot 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@imustbinsane1]

Absolutely brilliant mate, my husband passed last year so I needed to learn this, and I can’t thank you enough! Straight forward to the point and easy to understand 👍 well done

[@keithrogers2295]

This is by far the most simplistic, well explained video of how to use a multimeter! Thanks man! I really appreciate it!

[@dandeleona4760]

I'm a DIY gal and we know we need a meter to work on cars, but it's not always clear why or how to use it. This is great. Thanks!

[@RR-ok4wz]

Quite possibly THE most useful and educational video I've seen all month. Thank you for this excellent beginner's guide.

[@apsiodtu]

Excellent! I have a multimeter and always think I know what I'm doing but really fumble around with the knob and give up. I like how you use the metal pick as a pointer and not finger-pointing that sometimes is vague as to what exactly is being pointed to. I knew exactly where you were going. Clear, concise explanations, and examples on each mode. Thank.

[@scottmitseff]

Thank you for taking the time to refresh what I learned years ago. I purchased this meter recently and needed it for some simple tasks around my shop. :-)

[@zpoedog]

Just bought that same multimeter yesterday. You really helped me understand how to use it. Thanks a lot, John

[@tautliners]

Simple straightforward lesson, without getting too complicated. 👍

[@ramesh0785]

To be honest. U talk less but demonstrate a lot. I just dropped by to say THANK YOU for your short, sweet and effective lesson. Your action speaks louder than words.

[@vatchyo]

Thanks for this very clear and concise tutorial. Very much appreciated!

[@GeorgeMadden33]

This was great - been wanting to take the time to learn how to use a multi-meter for awhile now. Just retired so the "would like to know" list is being attacked and this was great. Just the facts easily explained and shown. Thanks so much. Have subscribed and will look for more from you.

[@julioalcala5479]

The best video I've found so far. Clear, to the point. Now I know how to use my multimeter at last. Thank you, bro!

[@goodamnesia]

Awesome Job!! Kept it simple and understandable for us newbies. Much Appreciated.

[@Craiguuu]

This saved my science fair project. Thank you!

[@DavidJones-ge1mn]

Agree with the other comments that this is the best tutorial, to the point and clear. THANK YOU

[@Latnman101]

Thank you so much I love how direct you are at teaching the use and not go on and on and on rambling to the point we get bored and go to another video that is clear and concise like you.

[@_hopelesscase]

I actually got some good instruction here. Easy to understand with visuals for each step. Great introduction of the basics for the majority of people using a multimeter. This is much easier and safer really than trying to follow the instruction manual without much practical knowledge on electricity.

[@guzman9011]

Thank you so much. I feel like I just sat down for a class. How much do I owe you? lol Quick and easy to understand! Your the man!

[@MrMagsimus]

Best video ever on multimeter I’ve seen on here thanks 🙏🏼 👍🇬🇧

[@thomasbeaman8110]

I’ve been trying to figure out how to use a multimeter for a while now, and every video I’ve watched still left me clueless until I saw this one. Thank you! The multimeter now makes a ton of sense and is simple to use.

[@notSusNugget]

You have a gift in teaching, breaking things down to a basic understandable idea, and presenting the information to learners. Loving your videos that teach the basics. Adequate precaution that can easily be overlooked is covered, etc. 👌

[@ratihoconnor3292]

Best beginner tutorial I've seen so far... Easy for me to understand (except for the resistances part,lol) but others is excellent.. Thanks for giving me the answers, bout to measure batteries

[@chefcomtechmike6303]

that was one of the clearest vids I have ever heard. so precise and straightforward thanks man

[@KatiePerrin]

Best video by far on how to use these and their different settings. Too many videos assume that you already know general multimeter basics. I didn't even know which port the black and red cable were supposed to go in. Very informative video.

[@quedog10pop]

Man i appreciate you! Thanks for taking the time to break this down! I just got my multimeter for car audio and battery testing! You put this in laymen terms so i can apply the knowledge instead of trying to decipher these instructions! Thanks bro! You da man!

[@digitalgraphicexperts9922]

This is the greatest video on power measuring and multimeter usage for beginners, thanks for the video and much Love from

[@KTHKUHNKK]

I'm no electrician. But you sure did explain things clearly on the multimeter. Thanks Keith Kuhn

[@chewytube]

Thank you! First multimeter video I’ve watched that broke it down clear and concise, explains the different symbols and areas of the dial face. Thank you! 🙏

[@iselili2]

What a great video!! I was so intimidated by the multimeter, but even more to watch a video about it… your video is excellent, no music or unnecessary stories or comments. Thanks you!!!

[@danielmcallister588]

Hey man. That was a great video. You were clear and concise on your delivery. You can put that video in a training course for electricians. Good job! 👍

[@mikedrop4421]

Thanks man. Great video. Everything was accurate and straight to the point. I haven't used a multimeter in several years and wanted to make sure I hadn't forgotten everything but as the video went on everything came back to me and I now feel confident I can go diagnose the problem I'm dealing with.

[@cherylthompson492]

The multimeter video was the most clear, "to the point" how-to video I have ever seen. I don't usually comment but that was noteworthy. Thank you!

[@korbendallas9689]

Just because you went straight to the subject without loud music as background, I gave a like to this video without even seeing first. But then a saw this video, very good video. Congrats.

[@harim7342]

Very useful information and great explanation with active style. Correct and simple way of methodology used with examples. Great work...☆

[@hmac2476]

Enjoyed your tutorial, it was easy to understand, direct and to the point. Thank you for sharing. Please continue the good work.

[@exiccopalvino6581]

I am completely Neue to this electrical testing I’m a nurse level, one trauma emergency room, completely different from testing voltages, but your video was on point and straight to it, no long long talks about where you’re from and where you live in your family pictures music in the background just straight man talk… ! Thank you!

[@mistab-nice4933]

Thanks for the clarification made it a whole lot easier!

[@gabrielmedina6939]

Best explanation so far from what I seen. Thank you it helped a lot.

[@carladtidwell7826]

WOW i picked your video for voltmeter testing , because i watched your videos on clear coat restoration and it was so helpful. and this video was so clear and so helpful too. THANK YOU

[@nikitak9628]

This video answered exactly what I needed to know to run my AM-510 multimeter. Thank you very much for the clear explanations!

[@bryanstarke7406]

Simple, straight forward and understandable - definitely the best explanation on Multimeter basics - Many thanks

[@FantaaZtique]

Great and simple tutorial! :)

[@myRatchets]

+Filiph Ivarsson glad you liked it. cheers

[@127films]

Thank you. I just bought a Multimeter and as a visual/ tactile learner this video really helped understand its functions.

[@MrCannonls]

Absolutely Awesome! Clear, concise, no info your audience doesn’t need, no background music. More interested in content than video quality. Excellent. Thank you!

[@jeromedoss8872]

Thank you!

[@johnwahalla5049]

Great video, you are a very good man, thank you for helping others, God Bless!!

[@lectrix8]

Thank you for this very clear and succinct video!

[@trav5614]

Great video. No dumb unnecessary intro, everything was short, sweet, and to the point. Very informative

[@GeoffBournes]

just bought a klein MM300 and learned to pull wire in an entire house this past summer. very informative. thanks

[@manzurmahmood1943]

Brilliantly done, very nice. Keep up the good work 👍

[@Thetrucky69]

Excellent information.

[@BigJoe173]

Dang! Thanks for making a right to the point video!!! Within 45 seconds my question was answered. 🙏🏼

[@geoffc6339]

Of all the multimeter videos I have seen this is the most understandable and informative I have seen and can now use my multimeter efficiently, thank you.

[@TheBasstead1]

Great video! I'm mechanically inclined as an experienced shade tree mechanic. However, the mystical properties of electricity always have me begging for mercy.

[@OMGWUNSIU]

Thanks for taking the time to help us new to multimeters. Subscribed.

[@myRatchets]

+OMGWUNSIU np, thanks for watching.

[@anj.7765]

everytime I put my multimeter to measure the resistance of a transformer is always different. It can vary from 1 to 100ohm, in two/3 different measures... It has happened that when I measure a resistance of which is supposed to be1000 ohms and my transformer 0,9 ohms, then a second time my transformer measures 10ohms and again the resistance it shows 1009.. The craziest value was 100ohms for an output of 12volts - and only 220volts is normally 14ohms - so after that had happened my resistance of only 1000 was measuring 1100ohms... I don't know if it is because the multimeter is bad quality, or that is normal to happen. Mine is not as sophisticated as yours, I can only measure a maximum of 10 amp for example... Here is a link where you can see what type I am talking about...www.google.pt/search?q=multimeter&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiL_o-0r_vMAhVFOhoKHUKECmAQ_AUIBygB&biw=1518&bih=692&dpr=0.9#imgrc=ojkDzYcRzj3p2M%3A What do you recommend me, is that normal to measure different resistances values in the same device? Have you already measured resistance in a ferrite transformer with its primary only? Is that normal to happen?

[@thephilosopher4719]

+Ratchets And Wrenches Good day, I tested my battery today and i have 20A DC instead of 10A in my multimeter. ( Does it make a difference? ) I got a reading of 0.29 I'm a bit confused, does this mean it is 29 mA and i am ok or does it mean it is 290 mA and i have drain? (as normal is 50 mA) Thanks

[@raymondbanas6863]

Anj. I

[@bruceanderson8998]

OMGWUNSIU

[@fletchfletcherson7282]

Straight to the point, no nonsense. Quick overview of the basics. Good job thx

[@ismaelreyes7138]

Best KZbin video out there about a multimeter. Everyone be so extra and take too long. This was straight to the point which is amazing.

[@D-OveRMinD]

Excellent video.

[@poconotrainman]

Excellent, excellent, excellent video, really helped me to fully understand my multi-meter.

[@krakatoainc2809]

Exactly what I was looking for. Thank you so much, very clear and helpful without extra bs.

[@phoenix-walker]

This video is amazing 👏. Thank you for being straightforward and keeping the content slim and not adding a bunch of music and fluff and jargon.

[@christianemaasjost]

Just what I needed, thank you!

[@anuketantakhi2396]

Nice presentation. Made my concepts clear..

[@myRatchets]

+AnuKeTaN Takhi (ਨੈਨੂ) Glad you liked it, thanks.

[@_mr3_]

This is the 2nd time I've watched this in about 3 years. I don't use my multimeter often, so I forget some of the little gotchas. Thanks, this is my go-to when I forget, it's solid stuff.

[@1968Olympica]

Despite the varied facial layouts of multimeters, this was well-done visually + taught concisely. I just bought one after paying a handyman who couldn't fix my 4-year old Kenmore dryer. He said replace the power cord, which proved not to be the remedy. Now I can test outlets and power cords + whatever else I can learn to test.

[@davidhines2825]

Perfect explanation. Thank you for keeping a novice like myself informed and safe!

[@MrDanoconnor]

"Book 'em DanO'" ... The MOST Excellent Video on this subject I have seen. Thank You Sir

[@freechild9159]

I am in General Aviation right now studying electricity and this video taught me a hell of alot thanks a bunch dude!!!!

[@siddaviscomedy]

THANK YOU THANK THANK YOU! Most of us are looking for this, "How to" as opposed to ads pitching, "What it can do". I just subscribed.

[@Moist_yet_Crispy]

Thank you man. I needed this video and you're explaining is very good. You're a great teacher. Appreciate you

[@LongBarrelJoe]

Simple, straightforward and clear. Subbed right away!

[@billyearle8014]

You explained multimeters very well. I thought I knew a little about it, but you really opened my eyes. I will look at your other videos as well. Thank you for sharing.

[@bluerxstandard]

Best conversation I've ever had with someone trying to tell me this info. Thank you.

[@GoldenGateNum9]

*Thank you so much, back in the day you had to pay $200+ for an electrician tutor who could care less for a 2 day course which you covered in a few minutes.*