How to use ammeter

I. Intended Learning Outcomes

 Understand the function of an ammeter and its role in electrical circuits.
 Identify the different types of ammeters and their applications.
 Learn how to safely and correctly use an ammeter to measure current in a circuit.
 Interpret ammeter readings and understand their significance.
 Apply knowledge of using an ammeter to troubleshoot basic electrical problems.

II. Introduction
An ammeter is a device used to measure the electric current flowing through a
conductor. It is an essential tool for electricians, technicians, and anyone who works with
electrical circuits.
Ammeters come in various types, each with its own strengths and limitations. The
most common types are analog ammeters, which have a needle that deflects across a scale to
indicate the current, and digital ammeters, which display the current value numerically.
Using an ammeter correctly is essential to ensure accurate readings and avoid damage to
the meter or the circuit. Here are the basic steps involved:
1. Choose the right ammeter: Select an ammeter with a range that exceeds the expected
current in the circuit.
2. Turn off the power: Always work with a de-energized circuit to prevent electrical
shock.
3. Break the circuit: Disconnect a wire or component to create an opening where the
ammeter will be inserted.
4. Connect the ammeter leads: Connect the red lead to the positive side of the break and
the black lead to the negative side. Ensure proper polarity to avoid damaging the
meter.
5. Turn on the power: Reconnect the circuit and turn on the power source.
6. Read the meter: Observe the needle deflection on an analog ammeter or the numerical
display on a digital ammeter. Record the current value.
7. Turn off the power again and disconnect the ammeter: Once the reading is
taken, safely remove the ammeter and restore the circuit to its original state.
By following these steps and understanding the principles behind them, you can
confidently use an ammeter to gain valuable insights into the behavior of electrical
circuits.

III. Learning Process

A. Activity: KWL Chart

 Step 1. Write brief statements in the second column (KNOW) about what you know
of the topics listed in the first column.
Topics What I know What I want to What I learned
know
Basic symbol
Current measurement
Unit
Different types of
ammeter
Reading accuracy

Step 2. Form a group where you can share and discuss what you have written in the
second column. Afterwards, fill-out the third column (WANT).
Step 3. After the group sharing, fill-out the fourth column (LEARNED) with what
you have learned after the group sharing.

B. Analysis: Examining Your Assessment Practices

Instruction: Examine your assessment practices with the guide questions provided.
Write your answers in the space provided below.
 Questions Answer
 Both analog and digital
ammeters measure
current, but how do their
functionalities and
limitations differ?

 How can the test leads

used with an ammeter
affect the current
reading?

 Does the ammeter itself

have any resistance that
can affect the
circuit? How does this
impact the reading and
the overall circuit
behavior?

 While turning off the

power is crucial, are there
any additional safety
measures to consider
when using an ammeter?

 Can an ammeter be used

for anything besides
directly measuring
current in a circuit?

C. Abstraction
Using an Ammeter: A Visual Guide
Using an ammeter to measure current in a circuit might seem daunting at first, but with the
right steps and visuals, it becomes a breeze! Let's break it down:
1. Gather your tools:
 Ammeter: Choose one with a range exceeding the expected circuit current. Analog
(needle) or digital (display) – it's your preference!
 Opens in a new window www.eiscolabs.com
 Test leads: These are the "fingers" of your ammeter, usually red and black for positive
and negative.

Opens in a new window www.amazon.co.uk

2. Prepare the circuit:
 Safety first! Ensure the circuit is de-energized to avoid shocks. Disconnect the power
source.
 Identify the break point: Choose a component or wire to remove, creating an open gap
where you'll insert the ammeter.
3. Connect the ammeter:
 Mind the polarity: For analog meters, red goes to the positive side of the break, black
to the negative. Digital meters might be polarity-agnostic, but check the manual.
 Clamp on or insert leads: Analog/digital clamp meters wrap around a wire, while
traditional leads need to be physically attached to the break point. Tighten the
connections for accurate readings.
4. Power up and read:
 Reconnect the circuit and turn on the power.
 Observe the meter: The needle on an analog meter will deflect, indicating the
current. A digital meter will display the current value directly.
 Note the reading: Record the current value in amps (A) for your reference.
5. Wrap it up:
  Safety again! Turn off the power and disconnect the ammeter before closing the
circuit gap.
 Reconnect the circuit component or wire.
Bonus tip: If your ammeter has multiple ranges, choose the one closest to the expected
current for better accuracy. Don't exceed the range, as it can damage the meter.
Remember, practice makes perfect! The more you use an ammeter, the more comfortable and
confident you'll become.
I hope these visuals and steps help you feel empowered to tackle your next ammeter
adventure!

D. Application

Name: _____________________________________________ Date: _______________

Course & Year: _____________________________________ Score: ______________

Activity 1. ESSAY (in 500 words)

Instruction: Write an ESSAY about the importance of how to use ammeter.

4 3 2 1
Criteria Exceeds Meets Needs Unsatisfactory
Expectations Expectations Improvement
1. Organization Clear and logical Mostly organized Lacks clear Disorganized with
and Structure structure; strong with some organization and no clear structure
introduction, inconsistencies; structure
smooth flow, and follows a basic
satisfying structure
conclusion
2. Language and Excellent use of Some use of Lacks consistent Lack of descriptive
Descriptive descriptive descriptive use of descriptive language and
Details language and vivid language and language; relies on meaningful details
details details general statements
3. Character Effective Some Insufficient Characters are
Development development of characterization, character underdeveloped or
characters; provides but could be further development unclear
insight into developed in places
personalities,
actions, and
motivations
 4 3 2 1
Criteria Exceeds Meets Needs Unsatisfactory
Expectations Expectations Improvement
4. Grammar and Strong grammar, Minor errors that do Noticeable errors Numerous errors
Mechanics spelling, and not significantly that affect hindering
punctuation with impact readability readability comprehension
very few or no
errors
Total Points

Activity 2. Quiz
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: _______________
Course & Year: _____________________________________ Score: ______________
Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.
1. You're troubleshooting a circuit with a suspected short circuit. Which ammeter range
should you choose?
a) Lowest possible range (most sensitive) to detect small currents.
b) Highest possible range (most forgiving) to avoid overloading the meter.
c) Range slightly exceeding the expected circuit current for best accuracy.
d) Any range, as the short circuit will automatically limit the current.

2. You're using an analog clamp meter to measure current in a thick cable. Where should
you place the clamp?
a) Around the entire cable insulation for maximum accuracy.
b) Around one of the individual wires inside the cable for best sensitivity.
c) Around the cable connector, as it might have the highest current concentration.
d) It doesn't matter where on the cable you clamp, the current reading will be the
same.

3. Your digital ammeter displays "OL" after connecting it to the circuit. What does this
likely mean?
a) The circuit is overloaded and the ammeter needs recalibration.
b) The ammeter is defective and needs to be replaced.
c) The chosen range is too low for the actual current, exceeding the meter's limit.
d) The battery in the digital ammeter is dead.
 4. You're using an ammeter with test leads to measure current in a delicate circuit
component. What should you prioritize to avoid damage?
a) Using the shortest possible test leads to minimize resistance.
b) Choosing the highest ammeter range to avoid overloading the circuit.
c) Using probes with sharp tips to easily pierce the component's insulation.
d) Handling the test leads carefully to avoid introducing static electricity.

5. You've finished measuring current and are ready to disconnect the ammeter. What's
the safest sequence?
a) Turn off the power, disconnect the ammeter, then reconnect the circuit.
b) Disconnect the ammeter, turn off the power, then reconnect the circuit.
c) Leave the power on, disconnect the ammeter, then reconnect the circuit
quickly.
d) Turn off the power, reconnect the circuit, then disconnect the ammeter.

Answer Key:

1. c) Range slightly exceeding the expected circuit current for best accuracy. Short
circuits can involve high currents, so a low range might be inaccurate or overload the
meter.

2. c) Around the cable connector, as it might have the highest current concentration.
This ensures you measure the total current flowing through the cable, not just
individual wires.

3. c) The chosen range is too low for the actual current, exceeding the meter's limit.
"OL" usually indicates an overload.

4. a) Using the shortest possible test leads to minimize resistance. This reduces voltage
drops and ensures accurate readings without harming the delicate component.
 5. a) Turn off the power, disconnect the ammeter, then reconnect the circuit. Safety first!
Disconnecting with power on could cause arcing or shock hazards.

V. References

 Electricity Safety Foundation International. (n.d.). How to Use an

Ammeter. https://www.wikihow.com/Use-an-Ammeter
 The Engineering ToolBox. (2009, October
22). Ammeter. https://blog.circuits4you.com/2015/07/icl7107-ammeter-
design.html
 Hanson, B. (2019, April 23). How To Use An Ammeter. University of
Manitoba. https://entrada.radyfhs.umanitoba.ca/api/serve-learning-
object.api.php?
id=718&filename=PGME_Assessments_Process_and_Guidelines_for_P
GME_Programs_A%26E_Approved.pdf&community_id=273