What is a multimeter used for?

A multimeter is a versatile instrument commonly used in electrical work to measure voltage, current, and resistance. This capability makes it an essential tool for electricians and technicians when diagnosing electrical issues and ensuring that electrical circuits and components are functioning properly.

When measuring voltage, the multimeter can be used to determine the potential difference between two points in a circuit, giving valuable insight into whether a circuit is energized and its voltage level. When measuring current, it helps in understanding how much electrical current is flowing through a conductor, which is critical for troubleshooting and ensuring that circuits are not overloaded. Additionally, by measuring resistance, users can determine the integrity of wiring and components, identifying issues like shorts or open circuits.

While a multimeter can help detect short circuits indirectly by measuring resistance, its primary functions are specifically focused on voltage, current, and resistance. Energy consumption calculation typically requires more specific equipment or additional calculations based on the measurements provided by a multimeter, such as integrating voltage and current over time.