Section 2.

6: Applications and Methods of

Using Electrical Measuring and Testing
Instruments Pocket Notes

1. Introduction

This section outlines the professional applications and methods of using electrical measuring and
testing instruments in the workplace.

2. Objectives

Upon completion of this section, the learner will be able to:

 Identify appropriate electrical measuring and testing instruments for specific tasks.

 Describe the correct methods of using electrical measuring and testing instruments.

 Apply instruments in accordance with workplace procedures, safety standards, and

manufacturer specifications.

3. Classification of Electrical Measuring and Testing Instruments

Electrical testing tools fall into several functional categories:

3.1 Basic Measurement Instruments

These are used for fundamental measurements of voltage, current, and resistance:

 Voltmeter – Measures voltage.

 Ohmmeter – Measures resistance.

 Ammeter – Measures current (e.g., Galvanometer, Milliameter).

 Multimeter (VOM or DMM) – Measures voltage, current, and resistance in one device.

 LCR Meter – Measures inductance (L), capacitance (C), and resistance (R).

3.2 Stimulus Devices (Used to Provide Input to a Circuit Under Test)

 Power Supplies – Provide regulated DC or AC power to circuits.

 Signal Generator – Generates electrical waveforms (sine, square, triangle).

  Function Generator – A versatile signal generator for testing circuit response.

 Pulse Generator – Produces short-duration pulses for digital testing.

 Digital Pattern Generator – Creates digital waveforms for testing logic circuits.

3.3 Instruments for Response Analysis

 Oscilloscope – Displays voltage as it changes over time.

 Frequency Counter – Measures the frequency of a signal.

 Logic Analyser – Tests digital circuits and captures multiple logic signals.

 Spectrum Analyser (SA) – Measures the magnitude of an input signal versus frequency.

 Vector Signal Analyser (VSA) – An advanced analyser for digital modulation analysis.

 Protocol Analyser – Monitors and evaluates digital communication protocols.

 Time-Domain Reflectometer – Tests the integrity of long cable runs.

 Semiconductor Curve Tracer – Analyzes the I-V characteristics of semiconductors.

3.4 Connection Accessories

 Test Probes – Used to connect instruments to circuits under test.

 RF Probe – Detects high-frequency RF signals.

 Signal Tracer – Locates signal flow through a circuit.

3.5 Advanced and Specialised Instruments

 Solenoid Voltmeter ("Wiggly") – Quick voltage checks using magnetic fields.

 Clamp Meter – Measures current without breaking the circuit (AC/DC).

 Wheatstone Bridge – High-precision resistance measurement.

 Capacitance Meter – Directly measures capacitance values.

 EMF Meter – Measures electromagnetic fields.

 Electrometer – Measures extremely small voltages or currents.

3.6 Miscellaneous Test Equipment

 Boxcar Averager – Filters and averages repetitive waveforms.

 Continuity Tester – Checks for closed circuits.

 Cable Tester – Verifies cable integrity and connectivity.

  Hipot Tester – Tests insulation by applying high voltage.

 Network Analyser – Characterizes electrical networks.

 Test Light – Simple voltage presence tester.

 Transistor Tester – Evaluates transistor gain and function.

 Tube Tester – Tests vacuum tubes in legacy equipment.

4. Methods of Using Electrical Measuring and Testing Instruments

Each instrument must be used according to best practices, manufacturer's guidelines, and
occupational health and safety regulations.

4.1 Voltmeter

 Function: Measures electrical potential difference between two points.

 Method:

o Connect in parallel to the component or circuit.

o Ensure voltage range is set higher than expected value.

o Observe polarity for DC measurements.

4.2 Ammeter

 Function: Measures current flow.

 Method:

o Connect in series with the load.

o Select appropriate current range.

o Avoid breaking circuits under load to prevent arcing.

4.3 Ohmmeter / Multimeter (Resistance Mode)

 Function: Measures resistance and checks continuity.

 Method:

o Power off and isolate the circuit.

o Connect probes across the component.

o Observe reading, ensuring no external voltage is present.

4.4 Clamp Meter

  Function: Measures current without direct contact or circuit interruption.

 Method:

o Clamp around a single conductor.

o Set to AC or DC mode as needed.

o Ensure jaws are fully closed for accurate readings.

4.5 Insulation Resistance Tester (Megger)

 Function: Measures insulation resistance.

 Method:

o Disconnect equipment from supply.

o Connect one lead to conductor and one to earth.

o Apply test voltage (250V–1000V).

o Record resistance (should exceed 1 MΩ).

4.6 Oscilloscope

 Function: Displays voltage waveform over time.

 Method:

o Connect probe to test point.

o Set voltage/time scales appropriately.

o Trigger the waveform.

4.7 Earth Resistance Tester

 Function: Measures resistance between earth electrode and ground.

 Method:

o Insert auxiliary spikes.

o Connect tester.

o Take measurement (< 5Ω typical).

4.8 Signal Generators

 Function: Provides input waveforms for testing.

 Method:
 o Connect to input terminal of device under test.

o Adjust frequency, amplitude, and waveform type as needed.

5. Safety Considerations

 Always wear appropriate PPE (e.g., insulated gloves, safety glasses).

 Confirm instruments are calibrated and functioning.

 Isolate circuits where necessary before testing.

 Use lock-out/tag-out procedures where applicable.

 Never exceed the rated limits of the instrument.

6. Documentation and Reporting

 Record test results clearly and accurately.

 Use standard forms or digital tools as per workplace policy.

 Maintain calibration certificates and instrument logs.

 Report any anomalies or unsafe conditions immediately.

7. Conclusion

Proper application and use of electrical measuring and testing instruments are essential for
maintaining safety, reliability, and compliance in electrical systems. Mastery of these tools is a
critical skill for all practitioners in the electrical field, and their correct use must always be aligned
with SAQA guidelines, occupational safety standards, and industry best practices.

End of Section 2.6 Notes