Can I use a multimeter on a multimeter?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility and safety of using one multimeter to test the circuit board of another multimeter. Participants explore the implications of measuring voltage, current, and resistance in this context, considering both practical and theoretical aspects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that it is possible to use a second multimeter to test the first multimeter's circuit board but warns to avoid current measurements due to the risk of short circuits.
  • Another participant humorously compares the act to dangerous scenarios, emphasizing the need to be cautious and aware of the multimeter's ratings to prevent damage.
  • Concerns are raised about the potential for damaging the multimeter or blowing fuses if current measurement mode is used improperly.
  • Some participants speculate about the possibility of creating feedback loops in readings, particularly when measuring across components connected to the display.
  • There is a mention of the potential effects of measurement devices on sensitive equipment, indicating that probing certain components could interfere with their operation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of caution and curiosity regarding the practice, with no clear consensus on the safety or advisability of the approach. Some emphasize the risks while others entertain the idea of interesting outcomes.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of understanding the multimeter's specifications and the potential for damage, but specific limitations or assumptions regarding the multimeters in question are not fully explored.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to electronics hobbyists, those experimenting with multimeters, or individuals curious about the interactions between measuring devices and electronic circuits.

Inventor man
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So I have two cheap multi-meters and I've been going around the house and my parents car testing it on voltage. One multimeter I can take out the circuti board, I can see the fuse, and resistors and the conductive path lines. So what I am wondering is if I can use my second multimeter (they are both digital) to test voltage/amps/resistance on the circuit board of the first multimeter I have.

Will using test leads on the circuit board do any damage to the multimeter?

Thank you in advance
 
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You can. But be careful when probing anything with your multimeter. Stay away from current measurements until you fully understand that process. When you put your meter in current measurement mode there is basically a short circuit between the leads.
 
can you use a knife to open up the packaging of your new knife?=)
But really the ammeter is a dangerous beast it is a good way to blow through fuses in your multimeter.
Just be mindful of what your multimeter is rated to. The fuse should blow first but you could damage the meter itself.

good luck!

oh and try not to scratch the circuit board.
 
Of course. Just remember it's kind of like doing brain surgery on yourself. :)
 
I wonder if you could get it to start looping readings. like measure the voltage across a resistor hooked up to the display. that would be cool
 
I don't know ... it's like holding up a mirror in front of another mirror ... you could rip a hole in the space-time fabric! And don't take a picture of yourself while doing this, either! :eek:
 
Waltr said:
I wonder if you could get it to start looping readings. like measure the voltage across a resistor hooked up to the display. that would be cool

It is possible for any measuring device to affect the thing its measuring. For example its not a good idea to probe parts of a sensitive radio receiver using a voltmeter as the meter leads can (for example) act like aerials.
 

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