What does a multimeter measure?

A multimeter is a versatile instrument that primarily measures three key electrical properties: voltage, current, and resistance.

Voltage measurement allows the user to determine the potential difference between two points in a circuit, which is essential for understanding how electrical energy is distributed. When measuring current, the multimeter helps to assess the flow of electrons, providing insight into how much electrical charge is passing through a conductor over a specific period. Resistance measurement is crucial for understanding how well a component conducts electricity; it indicates how much the flow of current is hindered within a circuit.

The ability to measure these three parameters makes the multimeter an invaluable tool for troubleshooting and testing electrical systems in residential wiring, ensuring safety and functionality.