When it comes to measuring electrical current, a voltmeter and multimeter are two of the most common tools used. If you are reading this article, then you must have some idea of the basic difference between the two. . Go through this article to find out the difference between voltmeter and multimeter and how they differ from each other.
What is a Voltmeter?
A voltmeter is an instrument that measures voltages, either direct or alternating electric current, on a scale usually graduated in volts, millivolts, or kilovolts. A voltmeter can also provide a reading in analogue form by moving the pointer that indicates voltages on a scale, but digital voltmeters generally have a higher order of accuracy than analogue intruments. A voltmeter has very high internal resistance, so there is no current flow through the voltmeter; this allows the voltmeter to record the correct voltage reading.
Types of Voltmeter
Voltmeters are classified into two types based on how they are measured and displayed.
1. Analog Voltmeter
2. Digital Voltmeter
What is a Multimeter?
A multimeter is a combination of different measuring instruments in a single unit. It is a primary quality control tool and is used to measure two or more electrical values. principally voltages, current (amps), and resistance (ohms). An extended multimeter can measure additional electrical properties such as transistor gain, diode forward voltage, capacitance, and so on. Some multimeters have additional specialised features or advanced options. Some technicians have specific requirements and may require a model tailored to their needs.
Types of Multimeters
Each is designed to measure the same basic electrical values but differ in its method of measurement and display. Multimeters are of two types as:
1. Analog Multimeter
2. Digital Multimeter
Voltmeter vs. Multimeter: What's the Difference?
Function:
A voltmeter only measures the voltage between two points in an electric circuit. wheres A multimeter combines the functions of various metres, such as voltmeter, ammeter, and ohmmeter, etc., in a single unit.
Resistance:
In addition to a voltmeter, an ammeter is required to measure a circuit's resistance. A multimeter can directly measure the resistance of a circuit. There's no need to use a separate ammeter for this.
Internal resistance:
The voltmeter has high internal resistance so that no current flows through it. The internal resistance of the multimeter is variable depending upon the function of the metre.
Cost:
Voltmeters are comparatively cheaper. Multimeters are more expensive because they have multiple parts that measure different parameters.
Testing:
A voltmeter is generally not used to test diodes or transistors. A multimeter can be used to test diodes and transistors.
AC and DC measurement:
Separate voltmeters are required to measure both AC and DC voltage. A single multimeter can measure both AC and DC quantities.
Size:
A voltmeter is smaller in size, while a multimeter is relatively bigger in size.
Accuracy:
A voltmeter is highly accurate; on the other hand, a multimeter is highly accurate but varies by quality and design of multimeter.
Application:
The areas of application of the voltmeter are narrow. While in multimeters, they have a wide area of applications for their capability to perform multifarious functions.
Substitution:
A voltmeter cannot substitute for a multimeter. While a multimeter can be used as a voltmeter.
Need power supply:
A voltmeter does not require a device power supply to work. A multimeter (digital) requires a power supply to function.
Circuit connection:
Voltmeters only in parallel to the device they're measuring. In contrast, a multimeter circuit connection that is multiple, depending on what you're measuring.
Versatility:
A voltmeter is not a versatile instrument because it is only able to measure the potential difference between two points. But a multimeter is a versatile instrument because it can be used to measure various electrical properties.
Construction:
A voltmeter has only one circuit for measuring the voltage; therefore, it is relatively simple in construction. As a multimer combines various function in a single unit, its construction is complex.
Scale:
A voltmeter has a scale that is calibrated to measure the voltage in volts, kV, etc. But a multimeter has its scale calibrated for measuring various electrical quantities like amperes, volts, ohms, etc.
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Conclusion:
To conclude, if you need to measure only voltage in an electric circuit, then you need to use a voltmeter, but if you need to measure other properties like current, resistance, and voltage, then you need to use a multimeter. The difference between a voltmeter and a multimeter is quite straightforward.
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