Page 182 - Programming the Photon Getting Started With the Internet of Things

Figure A.3 Prototyping board.

Multimeter

A multimeter is a useful device that measures electricity, just like you would use a ruler to

measure distance or a stopwatch to measure time. The best thing about a multimeter is that
it also measures a lot of different things, such as voltage, current, resistance, and much
more. A standard multimeter will have a large dial in the middle, which lets you select
what you want to measure.

Most multimeters can measure voltage, current, and resistance; some multimeters also
have a continuity check, which tests to see if the electrical circuit is complete by
producing a loud beep when two things are electrically connected. This is helpful in
diagnosing problems with a circuit—you can trace the voltage around the circuit and find

which part is incomplete or not functioning the way it should. In contrast to this, you can
make sure that two things are not connected just in case you don’t want a certain part of
your circuit to short, or you may want to test your soldering skills by not accidentally
soldering joints together.

There are some advanced multimeters, which are often expensive, that have certain
additional functions, such as the ability to measure transistors or capacitors. These
functions are more suited for the professional engineers who design and manufacture
high-end products.