CHAPTER 11 ■ POWER ON!- For this measurement, both the red and black probes should have hook adaptors
on the ends. - Rotate the meter dial to the mA, A, or amp function. If you have a manual
ranging meter, you’ll want to choose some number over 20 mA (milli). If you
prefer, you can start at a higher range and work your way down.
Previously, when measuring voltage, the meter test probes always connected on top of an existing
part. You didn’t need to disconnect anything in the circuit to make the measurement. However, to measure
current flow, the meter needs to have all electrical drops pass through the meter to be counted. Think of it
like a subway turnstile. Nobody is allowed to continue through the circuit until they pass through the meter.
- Hook up your power indicator circuit and make sure the LED is lit.
- Now, disconnect the red alligator clip from the positive terminal of the battery
and connect it to the black test probe hook (see Figure 11-9).
Figure 11-8. Multimeter setup for mA current flow
Figure 11-9. Power indicator circuit connection for current-flow measuring
- Connect the red test probe hook to the positive terminal of the battery.