Ok, I got it now. After reading the comments and re watching the video.
The meter is a 3-1/2 count meter.
To be precise ... 3-1/2
digit or 2000
count. (Don't worry too much - we knew what you meant.)
It can only display 1.99 so therefore the 2x´s number base on the dial. This tells me the capability of the display.
Then just to be safe, in the voltage mode quite illogically it jumps to 700 on the dial.
If you look at the ranges, I think you will see 2V, 20V, 200V, 700V. This shows there is not a 'jump' to 700V, but rather a range that is
less than the
logical sequence of 2V, 20V, 200V, 2000V. This is not related to the counting function, but of the physical design limits of the circuitry. It is quite likely the meter will measure voltages higher than 700V - but DON'T try it. Doing so is risking damage to the meter - and to yourself.
I think I need an auto-ranging multi-meter.
I wouldn't say 'need'. Learning how to use a manual ranging meter has it's benefits - ones I would strongly suggest are worth having.
The first is the general idea of approaching a measurement from the highest range and move down the ranges as indicated. The second is the fact that such considerations force you to
think about the voltages and/or currents you are working with. An auto ranging meter doesn't make you do this but, to be fair, if you don't keep these figures in the forefront of your thinking when measuring circuits, you shouldn't be going anywhere near them.
Having said that, an auto ranging meter is convenient at times. The only negative (sometimes) is the time it takes to find the appropriate range. This delay can be annoying if you want to make several measurements quickly. However, if you know a specific range you want to use, then there is usually a 'range select' feature which will solve that problem
Thanks for your comments.
nico