Automotive multimeters test car components, with less expensive models checking diodes, batteries, fuses, switches, solenoids, and relays. There are two types: analog and digital. For $50, higher grade models can measure duty cycle, pulse width, RPM, and temperature. Continuity and maximum amplification range are important features.
An automotive multimeter is a handheld meter used to test various components in a car. Vehicles in the 21st century rely heavily on electronics to function, which has increased the functionality of the multimeter.
The consumer medium grade automotive multimeter can check a variety of car functions. Less expensive models check for problems with diodes, batteries, fuses, switches, solenoids, and relays. They are sometimes referred to as “volt-ohm-amp” meters, as these are the three electronic readings they can check.
There are two basic types of automotive multimeters available. An analog multimeter uses a needle to display readings, while a digital one has a display that gives readings. Either is acceptable for use, although most DMMs have a backlit display that allows for more placement diversity during tests. Checking a battery in a dead car on the side of the road at night is probably easier with a backlit automotive multimeter. Analog’s ability to measure in real time makes it most useful when measuring a variable that is changing rapidly, since digital readings have a lag.
For approximately $50 US dollars (USD), a consumer can purchase a higher grade consumer automotive multimeter and add the ability to check additional car functions. The list of additional test functions should include the ability to measure: duty cycle, pulse width, revolutions per minute (RPM), and temperature. The duty cycle provides the percentage of time that the fuel injector is held open. The pulse width indicates exactly how many milliseconds the injector is open. RPM measurements help to time the engine, while temperature is relevant to fluids in the vehicle, such as coolant, transmission fluid, and oil.
A feature that many find useful when working with an automotive multimeter is called continuity. Wires are considered to have continuity when they are connected or continuous. A multimeter that can check for continuity usually has a buzzer that will go off when the two probes touch. This is especially useful for seeing if the cables being tested are connected to each other. If the user connects to a cable that has no continuity, no sound will be produced.
All multimeters have a maximum amplification range. Less expensive models come with a 10 amp max fuse, which means testing a part with a higher output will blow the multimeter’s fuse, usually beyond repair. For this reason, most mechanics will suggest finding an automotive multimeter with at least a 20 amp limit.
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