How to use the DVOM simulator

Before any multimeter is used, it is important that you understand how to read it.

Roll your mouse over the parts of the simulation above to understand how the meter works.

• The DVOM uses an LCD display. The display can show a variety of information. In these simulations, the display shows a numeric reading. DVOM's display their numeric readings in Base 2 or Base 4 ranges. That is to say that the values read to a maximum of 2, 2000, 2,000,000 etc, if it is a Base 2 meter, or 4, 4000, 4,000,000 etc, if it is a Base 4 meter. If the value measured is above the maximum for that scale, e.g. 7 Ω then a Base 4 meter will change from the base scale to the 4000 Ω scale and show the value as 0007 Ω.
• An auto-ranging DVOM will change its range automatically to suit the value measured. If the DVOM does not have an auto-ranging function then values in excess of the maximum will be shown as "OL" (Outside Limits) and require the range to be changed manually until a valid reading can be shown.
• Regardless of whether the DVOM is auto-ranging or not, the LCD screen displays values in one of four different scales. The first value is a base number ranging from 1 to 2, or 1 to 4 depending on the meter. The other scales display values in the Mega (1,000,000) or kio (1,000) ranges. The milli (0.001) range can be selected by selecting the mV or mA mode with the rotary dial.
• Mega is the abbreviation for 1 million and is represented by the letter M (upper case). A reading of 7 MΩ has the value of 7,000,000 Ω.
• Kilo is the abbreviation for 1 thousand and is represented by the letter k (lower case). A reading of 7 kΩ has the value of 7,000 Ω.
• Milli is the abbreviation for one thousandth and is represented by the letter m (lower case). A reading of 7 mV has the value of 0.007 V.
• Micro is the abbreviation for one millionth and is represented by the greek letter µ (mu). A reading of 7 µV has the value of 0.000.007 V.
• Using the correct setting and reading the right scale allows the technician to rely on the meter for accurate and reliable diagnosis.
• This course contains several experiments and activities involving the use of a Digital Volt Ohm Meter (DVOM) and various circuits. These experiments have been implemented as an interactive simulation of a Fluke DVOM along with several circuits and components.
• In the experiments, you will be asked to make a variety of measurements and observations using the simulated DVOM and circuits. Completing these activities will prepare you in skills for real life DVOM and electric/electronic measurement.
• The above describes the interactive elements in the simulation. A help screen is available at all times in the simulation with these same descriptions. A legend screen is also available to help you see all the circuit components in the simulation and their corresponding schematic symbols, at a glance.