Everyone knows Arduino is a powerful programmable controller that helps make things happen, but testing its circuits can be confusing — especially when there are many options available. Before buying any Arduino you must know how it works, how to make and test it, and which is the best multimeter for Arduino circuits testing?
What is an Arduino?
An Arduino is an open-source microcontroller board, which can be programmed to control various electronic devices. You can program it through its compatible free software. There are many online communities where you can put your queries or answer other people’s issues. Moreover, these Arduino boards are equally famous among colleges and industry projects. Although their types may vary depending on user requirements.
Arduino UNO R3
Types of Arduino
Choosing the right Arduino board for the right job is also important. Let's suppose you want to make a robotic car then you can do it with just Arduino UNO R3. But, if you want to make a robotic arm or any other wireless project then AT Mega328 will suit you the most. Some of the most common types of Arduino are as follows;
Duemilanove
The most common model of Arduino was released in 2010. It has six analog inputs and six digital outputs.
Uno
The second most common model of Arduino was released in 2012. It has 16 digital inputs and 16 digital outputs as well as six analog inputs and 12 digital outputs.
Nano
The newest model of Arduino was released in 2014. It comes with an Atmega328 chip that uses the 32-bit ARM architecture. It can be programmed using the C++ programming language or the Arduino IDE software for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.
LEONARDO
It is an Arduino-compatible microcontroller board based on the Atmel ATmega32U4 microcontroller. This board is manufactured by Leonardo da Vinci's followers, Fondazione Leonardo. It is intended for use with the Arduino bootloader, AVRDUDE, and the STK500 or STK3 development boards. Read on fluke 323 vs 324.
MICRO
The Micro-Arduino is a compact Arduino Leonardo-compatible development board with a built-in USB connection and power regulator. The Micro-Arduino was designed for use in embedded systems and robotics. It comes with 1KB of flash memory, 256 bytes of RAM, and a full-size USB connector.
Best Multimeter For Arduino Reviewed - Top 5 Picks
This multimeter is for those who are looking for a handheld multimeter with optimal ranges. You can not measure a high voltage range like 1000V but you can do a perfect measurement of both AC and DC below 750V.
The thing which makes this multimeter perfect for automotive electronics DIY projects is its single-handed operation. The design compliments to place test leads within silicon case. For beginners or students who don’t want to invest too much but need a standard multimeter for normal days, use must check this out. Let’s have a deeper look at its key features.
4.5/5 stars with 7571 Reviews
key Features
- Bigger LCD with backlit display.
- you can measure voltages up to 600v in both AC and DC.
- Current measurement up to 10A
- It is capable of measuring current in mA.
- Reverse polarity protection indicates you about wrong test leads connections
- On-load battery test allows you to assess battery life.
- For beginners, three LED lights are available in the battery load test area.
- Frequency measurement is also Available.
- It has a continuity tester with a beep alarm.
- You can also perform a diode test.
Package includes
- 1x Innova 3320 multimeter
- 1x pair of Cat-IV test leads
- 1x AAA Battery
Testimonial
The budget has always been a priority for students and even professionals. Fluke multimeters are great but they’re way expensive for startups. So, if you’re somebody who only has to work on small electronics or home base DIY projects then Innova 3320 could be the best multimeter to choose. If you like this multimeter very much but its higher version then Innova 3340 is for you with higher ranges and some advanced automotive features.
There is no grudge in saying that being an electronics engineer I am a Klein tools lover. The major reason for choosing the Klein multimeter is that they are highly safe as well as perfect for both electronics and electrical testing. Klein mm600 and mm700 almost look similar but are way different from each other in terms of features. I have also made a comparison between Klein mm600 vs mm400. Hopefully, that can answer all your questions. Coming back to the point Klein mm700 is a potential competitor of fluke 117. Although it’s almost half the price of a fluke in some cases it’s way better than a fluke multimeter. For an extensive look I am writing down sits specifications below.
4.7/5 stars with 465 Reviews
Key Features
- Being an auto-ranging multimeter, you don’t have to select ranges repeatedly.
- 6000 counts bigger Backlit
- It is a True RMS multimeter so provides accurate readings.
- It is capable of measuring voltage in both AC and DC circuits.
- AC voltage : 1000VAC
- DC voltage : 750VDC
- You can measure current up to 10A, but it also has a capacity to measure 20A in case of an overload situation.
- It also has mA measurement, required during Arduino-related DIY projects.
- Auto-shutdown feature in case of inactivity not only saves battery but also enhances safety.
- Low Impedance mode (LoZ) minimizes the effect of stray or ghost voltages.
- Low battery indication makes sure that you replace the batteries timely.
- You can also measure temperature with a temperature probe that comes with it.
- Capacitance measurement up to 4000 microfarads.
- Only 2x AAA batteries required to make this multimeter fully operational.
Package includes
- 1x Klein mm700 digital multimeter
- 1x pair of test leads
- 1x pair of Alligator clips
- 1x multimeter carrying case/ pouch
- 1x magnetic hanger
- 1x spare fuse(10A,1000v)
- 1x k-type thermocouple probe
Testimonial
With the help of Arduino, you can make high-power control systems and even complex robotic arms. So, instead of an analog multimeter, you need digital multimeters for accurate readings. When I talk about digital multimeters then the first thing that hits my mind will be its features and budget. So, keeping in mind both of them I came to this Klein mm700 multimeter. You can consider it as the best multimeter for Arduino projects due to many reasons. It's an all-in-one tool for all your electrical and electronics needs. You can measure mA, High voltages, and even temperature with it. So what you'll need besides this.
Want to test electronics, circuits, or wiring for continuity and perform basic voltage and current measurements? UNI-T's digital multimeter will help you perform that testing with ease. If you're looking for a cheap multimeter with all options then it is a good option. It comes with a red silicone case with a bigger display. The UNI-T digital multimeter has a digital display with high resolution that works well under noisy conditions and is perfect for all electrical components. Additionally, it also offers a wide range of features for testing which I don't think any other multimeter can offer at such a cheaper price tag.
4.6/5 stars with 34 Reviews
Key Features
- It comes with a bigger 6000 counts display with a blue backlit.
- True RMS function allows you to measure values precisely.
- It is an auto-ranging multimeter.
- You can measure voltage in both ac and dc circuits.
- AC voltages range 1000V.
- DC voltages range 750V.
- The maximum current measuring capacity of this multimeter is 10A.
- you can also measure resistance values from 0.1Ω to 60MΩ.
- Built-in NCV mode allows you to detect live circuits easily.
- You can perform both diode and continuity tests.
- You can connect your multimeter with a computer using a data cable that comes with it.
- You can also measure temperature with it.
- You can also measure mA with but you have to measure current in series.
Package Includes
- 1x Uni-t digital multimeter
- 1x pair of test leads
- 1x USB cable
- 1x carrying pouch with zipper
- 1x k-type thermocouple probe
Customer Testimonial
A sleeker and ergonomic design is the weakness of every electronics technician. From measuring high voltages to micro-amps this multimeter is perfect for every electrical job. The thing which makes this multimeter from others is its bigger illuminated display values. You can even connect your multimeter with your computer to store data or calibrate it. To enhance safety Unit multimeters come with cat-iii safety rating test leads and silicon cases.
Unreliable multimeters can lead to costly mistakes that can completely break your business. But when you have Triplett digital multimeter then you don't have to worry. Triplett also offers an analog multimeter. But, being an electronics engineer I have done lots of Arduino projects and among them, I found digital multimeters more precise than analog multimeters. Triplett MM525 can perform jobs of the basic multimeter as well as advanced multimeters. For more details here are some of its prominent functions.
4.6/5 stars with 280 Reviews
Key Features
- 6000 counts LCD display
- Backlit display allows you to work in low lit areas.
- It is an auto-ranging multimeter.
- An analog bar with 31 segments measured values accurately.
- True RMS function eliminates negative reading.
- You can measure dc voltage up to 1000V.
- It is also capable of measuring voltage up to 1000V in ac circuits.
- A current of 10A can be measured in both ac and dc circuits.
- It also helps you in measuring frequency.
- you can measure current in microamps with a current sensor.
Package Includes
- 1x Triplett Digital Multimeter
- 1x pair of cat-iii standard test leads
- 1x Temperature probe
- 1x Carrying Pouch
- 3x AAA Batteries
Customer Testimonial
If you're looking for a good multimeter but tired of using cheap multimeters then it can be the best multimeter for arduino projects. It has an analog bar, LoZ mode, NCV function, and low pass filter, which means no more ghost values.
As we all know fluke is the second name of precision in the electrical tools industry. Fluke 233 remote display Digital Multimeter is the perfect tool for people who know what they need it for. The major advantage of this multimeter is that you can detach its display from the body and use it remotely. Another remarkable feature of fluke 233 is its battery you can use it for straight 400 hours in a single go. Moreover, if it completely drains out you can replace this 9V battery within seconds.
4.8/5 stars with 121 Reviews
Key Features
- Detachable display with a range of 10 meters.
- It's an auto-ranging multimeter.
- You can measure voltages up to 1000V.
- It is capable of measuring voltages and current in both ac and dc.
- A maximum of 10A current can be measured with its cat-iii standard test leads.
- Temperature measurement up to 1000 degrees Celsius.
- You can also measure mV with it.
- You can test diodes with this.
- Option of Continuity test with beep alarm.
- You can measure capacitance with it.
Package Includes
- 1x Fluke 233 digital multimeter
- 1x pair of Fluke Test leads 75
- 1x FLC115 rubber silicon case,
- 1x pair of Fluke AC72 alligator clips
- 1x Fluke TP88 black probes
- 1x Fluke 80BK thermocouple
- 1x Magnetic hanger
Customer Testimonial
If you're thinking that what's the need for a remote display then you might be wrong. Because most of the time specially on industrial projects you can not do electrical troubleshooting in confined places. It can be a motor, an electronic equipment or an Arduino based robotic arm. Moreover, if you're an engineer then you can ask your sub-ordinates to attach the positive and negative leads with instruments. So that you can watch the measured values from a distance. Therefore, for industrial or automotive engineers it is a must. If you're more into automotive then I have also made a list of best multimeters for automotive use.
Conclusion: Start Testing Your Arduino Projects with a Digital Multimeter Today!
In this article, I have discussed the importance of using a digital multimeter. I have also provided a few tips and tricks on how to use it.
Digital multimeters are designed to test electronic circuits in various ways and are used by people of all skill levels. If you're interested in starting your own Arduino project, then you should start testing it with a digital multimeter today! You can also grab the best multimeter for Arduino testing from the above top 5 picks and let us know about your experience.
FAQs
What are the necessary tools for Arduino testing?
You need a screwdriver set with insulated gloves and a good quality multimeter to test the Arduino circuit. In some cases, you might require some jumper wire. But I believe being an electronics technician they are already in your toolkit.
Arduino runs on which supply? AC Voltage or DC Voltage
Almost every electronic circuit runs on a DC power supplies. You can energize your Arduino module with a voltages range of 5v-12v. You can either use a 9v battery or a direct 5V-12v DC power supply to make an Arduino operational.
How to test an Arduino with a digital multimeter?
First of all, you must know about which type of Arduino board you're using and which purpose it serves. Arduino boards have analog and digital I/O pins. All of these pins have rated voltage range and current rating. You can see these details from the Pin configuration chart. Always make sure that you power up your board from a standard and noise-free power supply. The standard voltage range of android boards is 7-12VDC.
