Electronics > Projects, Designs, and Technical Stuff

Is it safe to test for continuity with multimeter

(1/6) > >>

c64:
Some multimeters have continuity function together with diode test. Is it actually safe to use it? My multimeter can light up an LED (2V at least) in this mode. I don't think it's safe to apply 2V between any two points in a circuit.

bob91343:
You are right.  A continuity test should be reserved for cables and connectors, and not used on circuitry.  The diode test is on many meters just so they can say they have it but I don't think it's a good thing.  Read the manual and see how much current it supplies and you can judge from that how to use it.

fourfathom:
Yes, it lights an LED, but how brightly?  My meters only put out a few mA in continuity mode and the LEDs glow, but fairly dimly.  I have no qualms about using my meters for continuity and junction testing.  To be sure, use another meter to measure the current sourced by the "continuity" meter.  If it's reasonably low then it's not going to harm garden-variety semiconductor junctions.

Kashif:
I always check continuity when power is removed from circuit and so far i haven’t have any issue.

TheUnnamedNewbie:
Diode and continuity tests can destroy sensitive electronics easily. Keep in mind that the 2 or 3 volts some can generate is 2-3 times more than what high-speed digital circuits are rated for internally.

Will you destroy a power supply with it? probably not. Something like a modern home media player or TV or computer? potentially, yes.

Navigation

[0] Message Index

[#] Next page

There was an error while thanking
Thanking...
Go to full version
Powered by SMFPacks Advanced Attachments Uploader Mod