Analog Multimeters

The Definitive Guide To Using Multimeters

What is an Analog Multimeter?

An analog multimeter is a simple measuring device for basic electrical parameters (such as voltage, current and resistance) which contains a dial with numbers and a needle that moves to show measurements.

An analog multimeter is the “old faithful” of the electrical measurement world. While it may not be the flashiest instrument on the planet, it is certainly a workhorse. It can tell you things like how much voltage is in a circuit or how much resistance is in a wire. You just need to connect the right wires to the right places and read the number where the needle points.

It’s a basic, easy-to-use gadget that helps you understand and measure electricity without any fancy digital stuff. Sort of like a tape measure versus a laser distance meter – you know that it will just work.

The Definitive Guide To Using Multimeters

This is the fourth article in our series, The Definitive Guide to Using Multimeters.

This article discusses the analog multimeter and its relative strengths and weaknesses.

In This Article:

1. Analog Multimeter Components
2. How Does an Analog Multimeter Work?
3. Why Use Analog Multimeters Today?
4. Analog Multimeter FAQs

If you missed the start of the series: What Is a Multimeter?: The Definitive Guide to Multimeters, check it out now! You will be able to work your way back to this article quite quickly.

The Definitive Guide to Multimeters: Table of Contents

1. What is a Multimeter?
2. What is the History of the Multimeter?
3. What Does a Multimeter Measure?
4. What is an Analog Multimeter? – CURRENTLY READING
5. What is a Digital Multimeter?
6. Should I Use an Analog or Digital Multimeter?
7. What is the Difference Between a Handheld and Benchtop Multimeter?
8. What is a True-RMS Multimeter?
9. What Features and Accessories Should I Look For in a Multimeter?
10. How Accurate is Your Multimeter and Why Does it Matter?
11. What Are Multimeter Ranges and Why Do They Matter?
12. What Do I Consider When Buying a Multimeter?
13. How Do I Use a Multimeter?
14. How Do I Properly Maintain a Multimeter?
15. How Do I Calibrate a Multimeter?
16. What is the Future of Multimeters?

Key Components of Analog Multimeters

The basic components of an analog multimeter include:

• Meter Movement
• Selector Switch
• Range Switch
• Scales
• Zero Adjustment
• Probes

Meter Movement

The heart of an analog multimeter is the meter movement. It is a mechanical device that consists of a coil of wire, a needle, and a spring. The coil generates a magnetic field when a current flows through it, and the needle moves in response to this magnetic field. The position of the needle indicates the measured value on a scale.

Selector Switch

Analog multimeters have a selector switch that allows you to choose the desired measurement function. The switch typically has positions for voltage (AC and DC), current (AC and DC), and resistance. Some analog multimeters also have additional functions like continuity and diode testing.

Range Switch

Analog multimeters often include a range switch that lets you select the appropriate measurement range for the quantity you want to measure. The range switch adjusts the sensitivity of the meter movement to ensure accurate readings. The available ranges vary depending on the specific multimeter model.

Scales

Analog multimeters have printed scales on the face of the instrument. These scales provide the visual representation of the measured values. Each measurement function (voltage, current, resistance) has its own dedicated scale with markings for different ranges and units.

Zero Adjustment

Analog multimeters often include a zero-adjustment screw or knob. This allows you to calibrate the meter movement to compensate for any deviation or misalignment of the needle at zero when no current is flowing, or no voltage is present.

Probes

Analog multimeters come with detachable probes for making electrical connections. The probes typically consist of a red (positive) and a black (negative) lead with metal tips. The metal tips can be used to touch the circuit points or components being measured. You can also get alligator clips to make testing easier by not having to hold the probes at all times to the circuit you are testing.

How Does An Analog Multimeter Work?

The display on an analog multimeter operates through a mechanical system consisting of a pointer or needle and an analog scale.

When a measurement is taken, the current or voltage being measured is directed through the appropriate circuitry within the multimeter.

This current or voltage then flows through a coil of wire known as a D’Arsonval movement. This coil is positioned within a magnetic field created by a permanent magnet.

As the current or voltage interacts with this magnetic field, a torque force is created. This is because of Ampere’s law:

“The magnetic field created by an electric current is proportional to the size of that electric current with a constant of proportionality equal to the permeability of free space.”

– Andre Marie Ampere, 1820

Attached to the coil is a pointer or needle. As the coil rotates due to the magnetic interaction, the pointer also moves, indicating the measurement value on the scale.

The scale is calibrated with numerical values and units corresponding to the specific measurement being taken, such as volts (V), milliamperes (mA), or ohms (Ω). The farther the pointer deflects, the higher the measured value. The position of the pointer provides a visual representation of the magnitude of the measured quantity.

Why Use Analog Multimeters Today?

Despite digital multimeters’ dominance, analog models have unique advantages:

• Durability: No reliance on batteries for basic measurements, ideal for harsh environments.
• Visual Feedback: Needle movement shows trends (e.g., fluctuating voltage) better than digital readouts.
• Niche Uses: Perfect for restoring vintage electronics (e.g., tube radios) or teaching Ohm’s Law in schools.

Limitations: Lower accuracy (typically ±2%), parallax errors when reading scales, and fewer features like capacitance or frequency measurement.

Analog Multimeter FAQs

• Are analog multimeters still used today? Yes, for vintage repairs, education, and environments where battery-free operation is key.
• How accurate are analog multimeters? Typically ±2%, less precise than digital models (±0.5% or better).
• Can analog multimeters measure AC and DC? Yes, with separate settings for AC/DC voltage and current.
• Why choose analog over digital? For durability, visual trend tracking, or working with older equipment.

What’s Next: The Definitive Guide to Multimeters

Now that we have explored the world of analog multimeters, lets look into the natural evolution of multimeters from analog to digital.

In the next section, we will dive into Digital Multimeters. Lets get started and head to Section 5: Digital Multimeters.

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