Multimeters are used to measure current, voltage and all kinds of electrical variables. To measure amps in a circuit, however, requires more care and attention. Because it's actually the amperage that gives you an electrical shock. The amperage of any circuit depends upon its voltage sources. There are two types of voltages AC and DC. So, there is a different procedure to measure current in DC and AC circuits.
What are the Amps?
Amp is basically a unit of current and is commonly known as ampere. The amperage of any circuit shows the power or capacity of any electrical equipment.
Now, you know the importance of amps. So, now you’re ready to measure amps in any circuit. Read on how to test an electric fence?
You can measure current with both multimeters and clamp meters. Current in both AC and DC circuits with a digital circuit but the only thing you need to know is that the circuit is energized or dead. I have also made an in depth comparison between clamp meters vs multimeters to make it easier for you to understand their working.
There are two ways to measure current:
Direct measurement:
Direct measurement measures current at the point where it enters the circuit. For this purpose, you can use a multimeter or clamp meter.
Indirect measurement:
Indirect measurement measures current at some point outside of the circuit. This can be done by using an ammeter or voltmeter connected to two different points in the circuit.
Tools required to measure current
- Screw Driver
- Multimeter or Clamp meter
- Insulated Gloves
Read more about: How to check amps in 220V to 240V circuit?
Step by step guide to measure AC/DC current in a circuit
As a first step, you should know what the amp rating of the circuit is. Now you have roughly an idea of the value to be measured. Now you have to select the multimeter. A standard multimeter, can measure current up to 10A (A=amps). So, if you want to measure current in AC circuits above 10 amps, then you need a clamp meter. Using a clamp meter can provide accurate and safe current measurements, especially in higher amp applications. Remember to consider your specific needs and requirements when choosing the right tool for the job.
How to Measure Amps (current) using Multimeter?
In AC circuits you can measure current only in series with a multimeter. For this purpose all you have to do is,
- First of all, Turn Off the main power supply.
- Set the multimeter to (A~) AC measurement as shown in fig.1.
- Now Insert the Positive lead(Red) in the A jack and the negative test lead(Black) in the common jack.
- After inserting the leads, connect the multimeter with load in series.
- If you’re not aware of how to connect in a series then keep reading.
- To connect your multimeter with load in series, attach the one test lead (red) with load and the other test lead (black) with source voltage negative terminal.
- Now turn the power supply ON the results will be shown on the display of your digital multimeter in Amps.
- In the case of analog multimeters, the procedure will remain the same but now you have to see the results through the moving needle.
fig. 1
Measuring DC amps (current) in a circuit
Measuring DC amps in any circuit is almost similar to AC amp measurement. But in DC measurements you have to attach your multimeter in series only on Positive voltage lead. Because the current in DC circuits flows mostly through positive leads and the negative lead is mostly used as common for inner PCB earthing.
So, if you want to avoid any false reading or want to avoid any ghost voltages then choosing the positive voltage lead will be a wise option. Now all you have to do is choose the right clamp meter. I have also made a list of TOP CLAMP MULTIMETERS FOR ELECTRICIANS, which may suit your requirements.
Read more about: Multimeter symbols meanings
How to measure current in a circuit with a clamp multimeter?
Next to the digital multimeter is the clamp meter which simplifies measuring current. No matter which circuit it is, AC or DC, it's possible to measure the current without opening the connection.
A clamp meter is basically a multimeter with a clamp type jaw coil.
Step by Step Guide
- You can clamp any wire with this opening jaw. This coil acts as a secondary coil, and the current-carrying conductor or cable acts as the primary coil.
- To measure current in a circuit all you have to do is select the amp (A~) option and clamp the conductor. But you can clamp only a single insulated or naked cable at a time.
- If you have an insulated cable with live and neutral wire then strip the insulation to clamp on a single wire.
- After this, the clamp meter controller reads and shows the current flow through the cable on the display.
Using a clamp meter can be a convenient and efficient way to measure current in various electrical systems. If you're considering using a clamp meter or interested in learning more about its usage and benefits.
Read more about: Multimeter vs Clamp meter
3 Best multimeters for how to check amps in a circuit
3 Best clamp multimeters to check in a circuit
Conclusion (How to measure amps in a circuit)
Most people do a very common mistake of measuring current like other electrical variables. You may even lose your life by making this mistake. So, if you want to do it on your own then you must have to choose the right multimeter and know how to measure current in a circuit.
If you’re still with me, then you might have a clear idea about how to measure voltage properly without risking your life. Now, all you have to do is choose the right multimeter (see the best multimeters for home use). Furthermore, if you’re still confused, then it's better to call an electrician for this purpose. They can ensure accurate measurements and provide professional assistance.
FAQs-Frequently Asked Questions
How to measure current in an electrical circuit without power?
Current is basically the flow of electron charges in the electrical circuit. If the circuit is off then you can not measure the amps because the net result will be zero and your multimeter will show zero value.
Compared to measuring voltage, how do you measure current?
While measuring voltage, you have to select the AC/DC voltage range and use the "V" and "Com" jacks for test lead insertion. Furthermore, for voltage measurement, you have to connect the positive and negative test leads in parallel. But in current measurement, you have to connect the DMM in series with the load; otherwise, you will see a voltage drop. Another difference between voltage and current measurement is the test lead jacks. In current measurement, you have to insert test leads in the A~ and Com jacks.
Read more about: Best multimeter for milli volts testing
Which measuring device is best for electrical components?
You can either use a digital multimeter, an analog multimeter, ampere meter, or a clamp meter for measuring amps in any electrical system. All you have to do is to choose the right range. The best tool to measure voltage is a digital multimeter, but to measure current, a clamp meter is the best option. Because with clamp meters, you can measure current up to high ranges.