Benefits of Multimeters in the Workplace

Engineers and electricians have a wide array of different tools that are available to them, many of which are complex and expensive and used to measure a specific quantity. When used in the correct manner these tools can more than justify their cost just in the first couple of times they are used. 

However the instrument that is still the most widely used is the multimeter, which has been around since the birth of electronics and which seems to have an infinite number of uses beyond the basic function of finding faults in live circuits. 

There are a number of benefits that can come with having a multimeter on hand in the workplace. Industries that can make use of multimeters include the likes of any type of manufacturing, lumber mills, HVAC, commercial electrical repair and installation, distribution and processing centres and industrial facilities. 

Current, voltage and resistance measurement

Multimeters can test and measure almost any electrical device and help uncover the cause of problems very quickly. Multimeters can test the measurement of AC current and voltage, DC current and voltage and resistance. 

The steps needed to use the multimeter for the purpose taking such readings can vary on the particular task concerned, but the measurements will be common through all multimeter ranges. Other multimeters may also be able perform additional functions such as capacitance measurements, temperature measurements and further readings besides. 

Basic multimeter devices feature red and black wires. The red cable usually plugs into the mAVΩ port, and the black wire usually plugs into the COM port. The other ends take measurements with the multimeter. 

Multimeter types

There are two types of multimeter – analogue and digital. Analogue multimeters came first while digital multimeters have an excellent reputation for accuracy and their superb automatic identification of polarity. Analogue multimeters come with a scale, while digital multimeters have a display block on them. 

Uses and benefits

Non-professional users can also make use of multimeters in order to carry out basic inspections of electrical components in the workplace. Electrical extension cords are a common example of this. 

It is important to understand that there may be a learning curve involved with the use of multimeters so businesses that wish to include multimeters in their operations should keep this in mind. It is also crucial to remember than in the event that a multimeter cannot perform a task safely, a professional should be called in to ensure the job is done both correctly and safely.

A business that is willing and able to perform extra workplace safety checks will find a multimeter to be a highly useful tool for the likes of floodlights and so on. Once the functions of a multimeter and the capabilities of the device are properly understood a business will be able to successfully incorporate it into their workplace safety plan. 

A well functioning multimeter is vital for those in the electronic industry and is also useful for those who are not, helping to maintain safety in your workplace.