Newbie's and Multi Meters
 

I have come across quite a few people that are getting into car audio and you mention a multi meter or "MM" and they don't know where to get one or think they are expensive. If your getting into Car Audio and mobile electronics this is a must have and a hugh problem and time saver. There is a half decent one on sale right now at CTC Canadian Tire that is 70% off was like $60 or $70 and now on sale for around $17.99 part number 52-0055 and it seems to have most functions that are needed.

Multi meters are vital. However, call your local ESA office and ask them about accidents involving multimeters... they have some horrific footage of what happens when inexperienced, untrained, or even experienced and trained people who make mistakes... it kills at least one person a year. so if people need a meter, they better learn how to use it.

Yes correct on higher voltage items like household current. Not one reported case of this problem on 12volt automotive systems. Im not saying to plug it into a wall socket. Just for checking 12volts, ohms and continuity. BTW according to the data the odds are more so getting hit by a car. Not trying to make light of the situation and people should always learn how to use tools properly.

actually, a cheap meter will not even protect you against the fault current available in the battery. the tiny glass fuses have a very low fault interrupting rating, something in the neighborhood of 100 amps, whihc any battery can put out in a lot less time than it takes for the fuse to blow.

try putting a meter that is in the mili-amps scale across a car battery... just stand back.

Yes that is true, But like I said for basic functions checking impedence and volts and once the user becomes familiar with the equipment moving on to more complex readings. Just thought if people are looking for there first half decent MM then this was not a bad deal.

That is true... of course, a MM won't check impedence will it?

Why would a MM not check ohms??

A multimeter will check DC resistance (ohms) but not AC impedence (also in ohms just for kicks). Impedence measurement is accomplished with a specialized tool.

Oh ok sorry resistance. Geez so technical :)

Impedance can be calculated using the inductance of the coil, and the frequency as well.