How to Use an Ammeter

Summary

This video explains how to use a basic ammeter to measure electrical current in a circuit. It covers the two available ranges: 0-5 amps and 0-1 amps, and shows how to properly connect the ammeter in series with the circuit to measure current flow. The video emphasizes the importance of disconnecting the circuit before inserting the ammeter and provides practical advice on selecting the correct range for more precise measurements. Key tips include ensuring proper alignment of the negative and positive terminals with the battery's polarity.

Takeaways

• 🔌 Ammeter instructions apply to any basic ammeter, but specifically focus on the ones used in class.
• 🔄 The ammeter has two ranges: 0 to 5 amps and 0 to 1 amp, similar to a voltmeter.
• ⚫ The negative terminal is labeled 'negative' and is black.
• 🔴 There are two possibilities for the positive terminal connection: either on the side or the top (using plastic nuts).
• ⚖️ The two different connectors correspond to the two different ranges: 5 amp range and 1 amp range.
• 💡 The ammeter measures current, which is defined as the 'rate of charge flow'.
• 🔗 To measure current, the ammeter must be placed inside the circuit, meaning it must be connected in series.
• 🔌 You need to disconnect the circuit, insert the ammeter between the two disconnected points, and then reconnect.
• ⚡ Start with the 5 amp range, and if the reading is below 1 amp, switch to the 1 amp range for more precise measurement.
• 📏 Always ensure the negative terminal of the ammeter is connected to the negative side of the battery and the positive to the positive side for accurate readings.

Q & A

What does an ammeter measure?

An ammeter measures the current, which is defined as the 'rate of charge flow' in a circuit.

What are the two ranges available on the ammeter discussed in the transcript?

The ammeter has two ranges: 0 to 5 amps and 0 to 1 amp.

How should the ammeter be connected in a circuit?

The ammeter must be connected in series, meaning it is placed inside the circuit by disconnecting a point in the circuit and placing the ammeter between the disconnected points.

Why is it important to connect the ammeter in series in a circuit?

Since the ammeter measures current, which is the flow of charge, it needs to be inside the flow to measure it accurately, making series connection essential.

How do you choose between the 5 amp and 1 amp range on the ammeter?

Start with the 5 amp range. If the reading is below 1 amp, switch to the 1 amp range for a more precise measurement.

What should be the polarity of the ammeter connections?

The negative terminal of the ammeter should be connected to the negative side of the battery, and the positive terminal should be connected to the positive side of the battery.

What is the procedure for measuring current at a specific point in a circuit?

First, disconnect the circuit at the point where you want to measure the current. Then, place the ammeter between the disconnected points and reconnect the circuit.

Why is it important to make sure the ammeter clamps onto metal?

To ensure proper conductivity, the ammeter clamps must connect to metal surfaces when connecting to the circuit.

What does the ammeter measure in terms of charge flow?

The ammeter measures the rate of flow of charge, or current, in a circuit.

What steps should you follow when using the ammeter for the first time in a circuit?

Disconnect the circuit, place the ammeter inside the flow by connecting it in series, start with the 5 amp range, and if the current is below 1 amp, switch to the 1 amp range for a more accurate reading.