Testing a multimeter

[Bigknobby]

Thanks in advance for the help. I have an old Craftsman digital multimeter and suspect it might not be working properly, how do I test all the functions of the meter to determine if it is working. Thanks again.

[Simon]

well most multimters convert any measurement into voltage, so your best bet is to start testing the voltage reference. Do you have a fairly accurate reference to start with ? how accurate do you need to be ?

[Bigknobby]

The meter is a Craftsman 82309 (I don't have a manual, and can't seem to find one on the internet).  When I use it to test AC/DC volts (110VAC source/12VDC source) the readings seem to be accurate. With impedance selected, I just get a "0" displayed regardless of what I check.  The other settings I don't know how to use (lack of knowledge and a manual).

[Simon]

sounds like the ohms side of things may be damaged

[Bigknobby]

Thanks for the help.  Do you have a good source for learning to use all the functions of my multimeter.  I attached a photo of it.

[nanofrog]

Thanks for the help.  Do you have a good source for learning to use all the functions of my multimeter.  I attached a photo of it.

Type in "how to use a multimeter" in a search engine, and you'll get a lot of stuff come up.

Sorting through the good and bad can be a bear, so here's a starting point (from Marton Lorton, aka mjlorton). 



Follow the links to the others in the series he made (2 on current and 1 on resistance and continuity). He's also made an advanced series of videos on diodes and such that will also be of interest. 

Other members have made videos, such as w2aew, might be of interest as well (link = his youtube page).