An analog volt meter is used to measure the current between two points in a circuit. There are two types of currents, AC and DC, and this an important point to distinguish. AC power comes from the electric company and is run through power lines and into people's homes and businesses. DC power is derived from a battery and is thus limited in its strength and availability.

There are advantages to having a voltmeter with an analog display as opposed to a digital display. You can get a quicker reading with an analog display and you can use them to track unstable voltage fluctuations, which is virtually impossible with a digital display. Consider the different types of voltmeters before you shop for one:

1. Use an analog AC voltmeter to test high-powered AC currents. This is the standard type of current that is wired into a building for use by its occupants.

2. Keep a portable analog DC volt meter on hand for measuring DC voltage. Batteries use DC voltage; this type of current is low-power.

3. Buy a voltmeter that offers the best of both worlds: A versatile meter that can measure AC as well as DC voltage.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Test high-voltage currents with an analog AC voltmeter

AC voltmeters are used to measure the voltage of high-power currents. High-power currents come from power companies and are turned into usable household energy currents by transformers, located on power poles on the street.

I recommend: Purchase a refurbished voltmeter from Valuetronics International. The voltmeter from JMSOnline.net reads from zero to 150 volts.

Check the voltage of battery-powered items with an analog DC voltmeter

DC voltmeters measure the voltage of a current coming from a battery. These batteries offer low-power currents and start to lose their 'juice' over time. A good example is a car battery; it only offers one strength of power, depending on the voltage of the battery.

I recommend: Take a look at the selection of portable DC voltmeters at Fotronic. Check out the analog voltmeter manufactured by Martel Electronics and offered by Digi-Key.

Try out analog voltmeters that can measure both AC and DC currents

You may have a need to frequently check the voltage of both AC and DC currents. Instead of buying two separate meters, just buy one that can handle both.

I recommend: The HP voltmeter from Alliance Test Equipment has a detachable probe to measure AC currents. The meter at TheFind.com is very versatile and has good safety features.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure you know how to read an analog voltmeter before using it while doing a job for customers; you may wish to test it against known voltage sources. Also, determine what safety precautions need to be taken while using one of these meters.