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Originally Posted by jhandy
Thanks for the advise...What is a DMM and where do I get one?
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A DMM is a digital multi-meter. These can be had for as little as $10 or more than $200. They have varying features such as voltage (AC/DC), Continuity (a tone or visual signal tells you if there is a proper electrical path or cicuit), Resistance (ohms) and sometimes a temperature probe, Duty cycle, pulse width, memory store/recall, min/max/avg, etc. Of course, the more features, usually the higher the cost.
See:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multimeter
It's best to get a digital multi-meter because the analog type can damamge some micro-electronics because of the higher voltages they use, also DMMs are usually easier to use (read).
There are many mfrs. of DMMs, with Fluke probably being the best, though Siborg, TPI and Protek are all excellent as well. I have a $10 cheapie which stays in the toolbox and a better Fluke which cost about $60.
You can find them at any lowes, Ace, Menards, Home Depot, etc. as well as many online sources. It's a pretty valuable tool to have for the home, car, stereo, computer, etc.
BTW, you can also use a DMM to check a bulb or fuse using the continuity feature.