Electronics > Projects, Designs, and Technical Stuff

Maknig my own DMM leads.

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DW1961:
I want to solder and make some of my own DMM leads. I'm not talking about the part that goes into the DMM itself, just bare wire to clamps, things like that.

For instance, if I wanted to use some stranded wire and solder the ends onto some alligator clamps, which clamps should I use (normal tin, Copper, etc.)?

Also, I'm assuming I should also use the silicon sheathing, and not the PVC for flexibility, and what AWG?

Last, generally speaking,  I know wire is wire as long as we know what type it is, copper, aluminum, CCA, etc, so can I just use the cheapest pure copper wire I can find, such as "speaker wire,"  for general hook up needs, something like:
KabelDirekt - Pure Copper Stereo Audio Speaker Wire & Cable - Made in Germany - 16 AWG Gauge - 100 feet - (For Hifi Speakers and Surround Sound Systems, Pure Copper, with polarity markings)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BBS561C/ref=crt_ewc_title_dp_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AQJ30SX0INWVM

bob91343:
This is not critical at all.  Your main concerns might be test lead resistance when measuring current, and dissimilar metal corrosion where the wire meets the clip.

DW1961:

--- Quote from: bob91343 on July 20, 2020, 10:55:13 pm ---This is not critical at all.  Your main concerns might be test lead resistance when measuring current, and dissimilar metal corrosion where the wire meets the clip.

--- End quote ---

OK thanks. I'll just use the normal alligator clips and solder on some copper stranded wire. I assume 18AWG will be enough for any 10A or less current measurement with my DMM?

notsob:
for short lengths of silicon wire in different colours and AWG sizes try hobbyking
Just check that it is a local warehouse that you order from to avoid extra shipping costs etc.

https://hobbyking.com/en_us/workbench/hardware/wires-leads.html

WattsThat:

--- Quote ---I assume 18AWG will be enough for any 10A or less current measurement with my DMM?
--- End quote ---

Sure, so long as you keep the leads short and you can tolerate some voltage drop at those currents. Of course your mileage may vary with clip quality, stripping practices, etc.

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