Technician's Basic Tools

There are lots of tools that a technician can use on his daily troubleshooting activities. Even a simple paper clip can be use as improvised tool in opening CD-ROM Drives. Below are the list of my favorite tools.


1. Fliers
2. Wire Cutter
3. Screw Drivers
4. Crimping Tool
5. Multimeter


The first four tools that I've said is very common and most of us know how to use it. The biggest challenge among those tools for a newbie technician is Multimeter.

Multimeter, also known as a volt/ohm meter or VOM is a combination of several measurement device in one unit - where you can measure voltage, resistance and current. This tool is very essential in diagnosing electrical and electronic components such as diodes, resistor and transistor. It can also determine whether a circuit is shorted and open. As show below is the example of Multimeter.

Analog Multimeter - courtesy of http://www.thomasnet.com/

Multimeter Basic

Using multimeter is easy as ABC.

A - Adjust meter range to correct settings
B - Be sure to stick the test probe to correct position
C - Check Meter Reading

Below are some tips regarding Voltage, Current and Resistance measurement:

Voltage Measurement

Before checking Voltage rating make sure you identify which type of voltage you will measured. Always remember that there is an Alternating Current(AC) and Direct Current(DC). To measure Voltage make sure you adjust the selector knob in appropriate voltage rating. i.e. If you want to measure 30 Vdc. Set the knob to DC section 50V. Please take note that it is better if you set the meter range one step higher that the actual rating. Another consideration that you need to remember is the meter should be connected in parallel.

Current Measurement

To measure current, Adjust the selector knob to Ammeter Section then connect the meter series to the circuit. Make sure that all current in circuit must pass through the meter and should not alter the behavior of the circuit.

Resistance Measurement

To measure resistance, Adjust the selector knob in the ohmmeter section. Select the appropriate multiplier. The component must be removed from the circuit.