How to Test an Ohmmeter
- 1). Purchase three resistors of known value from your local electronic components store. Choose resistors whose resistance varies by at least a factor of 10; for instance, a 50 Ω, 500 Ω and 5000 Ω resistor.
- 2). Turn on your ohmmeter. Touch the red probe directly to the black probe and ensure the meter reads no resistance.
- 3). Set the switch on your ohmmeter to the 10 Ω setting. Place the 50 Ω, or equivalent, resistor on a wooden table or other surface that does not conduct electricity. Touch one probe to one end of the resistor and the other probe to the opposite end. Check the meter and ensure it reads a value close to 50 Ω.
- 4). Adjust the meter so it will read 100 Ω and larger resistors. Test the 500 Ω, or equivalent, resistor by touching the probes to each end of the resistor and ensure the meter gives an accurate reading.
- 5). Repeat the test for the 5000 Ω, or equivalent, resistor and ensure the reading is accurate for this component as well.