Digital Multimeter Safety Tips
White Papers
Most engineers perform measurements with a digital multimeter (DMM) as part of their job. Before you grab the nearest handheld DMM next time, make sure you select the right DMM for your task.
Different multimeters are designed for different electrical environments and the risks involved. Some multimeters are designed for testing circuits in an electrical environment that is protected with limited transient overvoltage. There are also some multimeters that are designed to be able to measure and handle higher voltage ratings and higher energy transient environments.
For your own safety and the safety of those around you, choosing the right multimeter can help protect against the electrical hazards you might encounter. Consider the following advice before you start making measurements with a DMM.