Introducing The DVOM
The ability to measure voltage, current flow, and resistance is important in the diagnosing of electrical problems. Without the results of these measurements troubleshooting in an electrical system is a futile process.
The instrument most commonly used to make electrical measurements is called the Digital Voltage-Ohm Meter (DVOM).
Basic DVOM's are capable of measuring:
- AC Voltage.
- DC Voltage.
- Millivolts.
- Resistance.
- Conductance.
- Capacitance.
- Continuity.
- Diode Test.
- Amps/Milliamps.
- Microamps.
Advanced DVOM's add:
- Frequency.
- RPM.
- Duty Cycle.
- Pulse Width.
The DVOM provides for a method of accurate measurements.
Even though accurate measurements are the key to electrical diagnosis, the following four factors determine the effectiveness of the measurements:
- Accuracy of the measuring instrument.
- Correct installation in the circuit of the measuring instrument.
- Ability of the Technician to read the instrument.
- Skill of the Technician in interpreting the results.
As it is clearly seen, only one of the factors depends on the DVOM (e.g. accuracy), the rest will always depend the ability of the technician to read and interpret the results.