Types of Multimeters: Learn Their Types, Advantages, Disadvantages, Applications

A multimeter can be defined as an instrument that is used to measure the electrical properties of an electrical device. It is capable of measuring the voltage, resistance, as well as current of electronic devices. It is also known as the volt-ohm-milliammeter as it is capable of measuring the voltage, resistance as well as electric current of an electrical device. It is also capable of measuring the capacitance and the temperature of the electrical device in some cases. Based on its usage, there are two types of multimeters– Digital and Analog multimeters.

In this Physics article, we will be learning about different types of multimeters and its applications.

What is a Multimeter?

A multimeter is a type of device that is used to measure the voltage, electric current, and resistance present in an electric machine. In some cases, it is also capable of measuring the capacitance and the temperature of the electric components. It is widely used in laboratories and workshops to measure an electric device’s electrical properties. It is also beneficial in finding faults in the electric circuit as well as troubleshooting those problems which are causing the fault. The image shown below depicts the structure of a multimeter.

Learn about capacitors here.

Types of Multimeters

There are two main type of multimeters which are explained below:

Digital Multimeter

A digital multimeter is a type of multimeter which is mostly used to test different types of electrical equipment. It is mainly used in different kinds of industries due to its wide usage. They generally have a screen that displays the value of the frequency which needs to be measured. It displays the value usually in decimal form. It provides a more accurate and precise value of the required electrical properties. It is also capable of giving an automatic range of electrical properties. The image given below depicts the structure of a digital multimeter.

Analog Multimeter

An analog multimeter is a type of multimeter that works by moving coils to detect the required electrical property. It has a microammeter present inside of it along with a needle which is capable of calculating the electrical properties which are required to be measured. In its display, the needle moves towards the value which is written to indicate the value. This device is mainly capable of measuring different types of electrical properties by making few changes to it. It also provides precise values but it is very hard to read it, and because of this reason it is easy to get errors while using it. The image shown below depicts the structure of an analog multimeter.

Types of Digital Multimeters

There are mainly three types of digital multimeters which are mentioned as well as explained below as follows:

Clamp Multimeter

It is a type of digital multimeter in which one can only measure the flow of electricity. It has a type of clamp feature in it as the name suggests it. This clamp is capable of measuring the current flow when the two probs get connected to the voltage. Whereas, the electric power can be calculated by using it by multiplying the current flow with the voltage. The image shown below depicts its structure.

Fluke Multimeter

It is a type of digital multimeter which is used for several purposes which consists of a big display and is generally used to calculate the voltage as well as the resistance. Sometimes an advanced version of it is also used to calculate the duty cycle, temperature, humidity, frequency, pressure, and many more electrical parameters. This is not used commonly as it has many features in it and only professionals can use it with ease. It also helps in adjusting different types of electrical parameters. It is protected by a transient voltage. The image given below depicts the structure of a fluke multimeter.

Autoranging Multimeter

It is a type of digital multimeter which is quite simple and expensive compared to any other type of digital multimeter. It is mainly used to calculate all the parameters and properties of an electronic device. It consists of a knob in its middle which is used to calculate the parameters. It is generally used by those who are not professional or electricians. It is capable of calculating one electrical property or parameter at a time. The image given below depicts its structure.

Difference Between Analog Multimeter and Digital Multimeter

The difference between analog multimeter and digital multimeter is discussed below. 

Aspect	Analog Multimeter	Digital Multimeter
Display	Analog display with a moving pointer or needle.	Digital display with numeric readout.
Measurement Accuracy	Generally lower accuracy and prone to parallax error.	Higher accuracy and less prone to parallax error.
Resolution	Limited resolution, making precise readings challenging.	Higher resolution, enabling precise readings.
Ease of Reading	Requires interpretation of scale markings.	Readings are directly displayed, easy to read.
Range Selection	Manual range selection using range switch or dial.	Automatic range selection based on measured quantity.
Response Time	Slower response time due to needle movement.	Faster response time, almost instantaneous measurements.
Battery Requirement	No battery required.	Requires battery for operation.
Cost	Generally lower cost.	Generally higher cost compared to analog multimeters.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Digital Multimeters

Some main advantages and disadvantages of digital multimeters are as follows. 

Advantages

• Accurate readings
• Easy to read
• Faster response time
• Greater resolution
• Auto-ranging capability
• Enhanced functionality

Disadvantages

• High cost
• Digital multimeters require batteries or a power source to operate
• Sensitivity to electrical noise

Advantages and Disadvantages of Analog Multimeter

Some main advantages and disadvantages of analog multimeters are as follows. 

Advantages

• Analog multimeters have a simple design and operation
• They provide immediate and continuous readings
• They are generally more robust and less susceptible to damage from voltage spikes or accidental mishandling
• They are typically more affordable compared to digital multimeters
• Wide measurement range

Disadvantages

• Less accuracy
• Limited resolution
• Lack of additional features
• Battery-free operation

Applications of Multimeters

The applications of a multimeter are mentioned as follows below:

• It is used to measure AC and DC voltage and current.
• It is also used to measure resistance.
• It is also used to check the diodes.
• It is also used to measure the frequency as well as the capacitance of an electronic device.
• It is also used to test batteries, switches, light bulbs, and outlets.
• It is also used to determine any faults present in the electric circuit.
• It is used to measure the time and frequency of the electronic device.
• It is also used to check the temperature of the electronic device.

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