So I've been using my multimeter wrong for years and only just caught it

I was checking voltage on a 3-phase motor in a factory outside Toledo. My reading was way off, and a guy I was training with asked why I was using the 'LoZ' setting. I told him I always used it for a more stable number. He pointed out that setting adds a load and can give false readings on sensitive circuits. I felt like a total rookie. Has anyone else had a basic tool habit that was actually messing up your work?

3 comments

3 Comments

benflores3mo ago

Ever check continuity with your leads plugged into the current jacks? I did that once and blew the fuse in the meter. Now I always double-check the dial and the lead ports before I touch anything.

umac711mo agoMost Upvoted

Used to think it didn't matter where you plug in as long as the dial was set right. Then I borrowed my neighbor's meter, did exactly that - continuity but leads in the current jacks - and fried his fuse. Felt like a complete idiot. Now I make it a habit to pop the leads into the voltage/ohms jacks first thing, every single time, before even touching the dial. Saves a headache and a trip to the store for fuses.

jennyh553mo ago

Wait, blew the fuse in the meter?