Analog multimeter + diode bridge - dual polarity current

[atferrari]

I am about to start testing some current sources. Output varies between -1000 mA and +1000 mA. Voltages involved: -5V / +5V.

I will use an analog multimeter. To make it simpler and avoid damages (wrong polarity), I considered using a diode bridge.

I need this not to be fast nor extremely precise, just to allow appreciating if for equivalent control voltages (measured with a DMM) the absolute value of the currents is in the ballpark.

Not sure if the use of diodes requires kind of spectial additional precautions.

Gracias for any suggestions.

[Kleinstein]

With the extra diode the source sees the extra voltage drop of about 1.5 volts. At very low currents just around 0 (so that noise includes 0) this may give a slightly different reading - a parallel cap of maybe 100 nF or so might help. Otherwise the selection of diodes is not critical - something like a bridge rectifier should work.

Analog meters are usually not that sensitive - so even full scale (or even 2-5 times more) signal in the wrong polarity will not damage the meter. Usually they are protected so they can withstand the same current or voltage in both direction. How much is usually stated in the manual - this can vary substantially in between ranges and models.

[atferrari]

With the extra diode the source sees the extra voltage drop of about 1.5 volts. At very low currents just around 0 (so that noise includes 0) this may give a slightly different reading - a parallel cap of maybe 100 nF or so might help. Otherwise the selection of diodes is not critical - something like a bridge rectifier should work.

Analog meters are usually not that sensitive - so even full scale (or even 2-5 times more) signal in the wrong polarity will not damage the meter. Usually they are protected so they can withstand the same current or voltage in both direction. How much is usually stated in the manual - this can vary substantially in between ranges and models. 

Thanks for replying.