VvoeVale/iStock/Thinkstock
Ecmweb 7550 465261575
Ecmweb 7550 465261575
Ecmweb 7550 465261575
Ecmweb 7550 465261575
Ecmweb 7550 465261575

Tip of the Week: Don’t Blow it on the Measurement Front

July 6, 2015
Digital multimeters typically have special types of fuses; to ensure safety, make sure your replacement fuse is the right kind.

Any good digital multimeter (DMM) has a fuse. It may be annoying if this fuse opens while you’re attempting a measurement. But that fuse may have just saved your life. Follow these do’s and don’ts so you’ll be able to head home in one piece after your shift is complete.

Photo credit: VvoeVale/iStock/Thinkstock

Don’t:

• Replace it with just any fuse of the same rating. DMMs typically use a special type of fuse. The reason? This fuse is not for circuit protection, but for your protection.
• “Just for now” jumper around it so you can complete the task and go home.
• Replace the fuse and then attempt the same measurement in the same way.

Do:

• Consult your DMM manual or the manufacturer for the correct fuse.
• If you really need to make that measurement now, borrow someone else’s DMM rather than use one that’s “just for now” jumpered.
• Try to determine why that fuse blew before you proceed. Were you using the correct test jacks on the DMM? What is the voltage where you are trying to measure? Is the connection appropriate for the intended measurement? Are metal enclosures properly bonded? If you can’t determine why the fuse blew, treat it as the proverbial canary in the mine. Look more closely at the equipment and the environment; the odds that it’s safe to proceed are not on your side.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.

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