A multimeter is the most essential tool for anyone working with electronics, and its most common use is to measure voltage. While it might look intimidating with all its dials and ports, this beginner's guide will show you how simple it is.

Step 1: Set the Multimeter to the Correct Voltage Setting

This is the most important step. Your multimeter has different settings for AC Voltage and DC Voltage.

• DC Voltage (V⎓ or DCV): Use this for batteries, car electronics, and most small electronic projects.

• AC Voltage (V~ or ACV): Use this for wall outlets and household wiring.

Multimeter Settings for Voltage: Turn the main dial to the correct symbol. If your multimeter has multiple number ranges, always choose a range that is higher than the voltage you expect to measure. For a car battery (12V), the 20V setting is perfect. For a wall outlet (120V), a 200V or 600V setting is required.

Step 2: Plug in the Probes

• The BLACK probe always goes into the port labeled "COM" (for Common/Ground).

• The RED probe goes into the port labeled "VΩmA" (or the one with a "V" for Volts).

Step 3: Measure the Voltage

How to Check Battery Voltage (DC):

1. Set the dial to DC Voltage (V⎓).

2. Touch the red probe to the positive (+) terminal of the battery.

3. Touch the black probe to the negative (-) terminal.

4. The screen will display the battery's voltage. A healthy 1.5V AA battery should read slightly above 1.5V.

How to Measure a Wall Outlet (AC - BE CAREFUL!):

1. Set the dial to AC Voltage (V~), choosing a range higher than 120V.

2. Carefully insert one probe into one of the vertical slots and the other probe into the other. The order does not matter for AC.

3. The multimeter should read a value between 110V and 125V for a standard US outlet.

Internal Link: Not sure what the numbers mean? Get a refresher with our guide: What is Voltage? A Simple Explanation.