Multimeter Tutorial: How to Test a Diode

Step 1: Understanding Diode

Fig. 1: Image of a Diode

Diode has two terminals Anode (+) and Cathode (-). Terminals can be identified by the shaded portion at the end of the diode. Terminal near the shaded portion is Cathode (-) and other one is anode (+).

Diode can be tested with the help of Diode function of the multimeter

Step 2: DMM Connection

Fig. 2: Image showing DMM connection on Multimeter

{C}{C}{C}       ·Power ON the multimeter

{C}{C}{C}       ·Turn the knob towards the “Diode Function”

{C}{C}{C}       ·The Digital Meter will show no reading as there are no terminals connected.

Step 3:Testing Leads Connection

Fig. 3: Image showing crocodile probes connected to Diode

{C}{C}{C}       ·Connect the leads in forward biasing i.e. Positive to the Anode and Negative to the Cathode.

{C}{C}{C}       ·Connections should be tight and neat

{C}{C}{C}       ·After connecting note down the reading.

Fig. 4: Image showing multimeter displaying Forward Voltage Drop of the Diode

The multimeter will show theforward voltage drop between the two testing leads. 

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Filed Under: Tutorials
Tagged With: diode, electronic measurement and testing, multimeter, testing
 

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