Help me read my multi-meter

[John Zuber]

Just did an "electrical drain" test on a Chrysler van. Using the DCA scale, I'm getting a reading of .002 using the 2M scale. And a reading of .02 on the 20M scale on my meter. So, what does this mean in mill-amps? Also, when I connect the meter I have to wait about 20-30 seconds for the reading to jump down to a steady state. For example, I get an initial reading of 1.66. with it dropping down to .02 (on the 20M scale) after 20 seconds. I know that this is normal, but I'm not sure if the final reading is within spec. So...how do I read the results?

 

[scott degroot]

???? Most multimeters have a amperage reading of 2.5 amps and 10 amps. The scale that you are giving looks like an ohms scale.

 

[John Zuber]

Its the scale within the DCA (direct current amp) area, using the rotary dial.



The lowest reading I get (using the 20M/10amp) scale setting is .02. If I open a glove box (no other dome lights) the reading goes to 1.5something. So would the 1.5 mean 1.5 amps?

 

[scott degroot]

You are correct. 1.5 is 1.5 amps and .02 is 20 milliamps which is normal. Anything over 50 milliamps when everything is asleep starts to become a problem.

 

[John Zuber]

Thanks...