Quick Guide To Common Multimeter Symbols and Abbreviations

Ever wonder what all the symbols and abbreviations mean on your multimeter?  Here is NJ2X's handy quick reference guide to help you decode some of the more common symbols and abbreviations appearing on multimeters.

 Capacitor
Diode
AC Alternating current or voltage

~ Alternating current or voltage
•))) Audible Continuity
DC Direct current or voltage
⎓ Direct current or voltage
V Volts
mV Millivolts (1 x 10^{- 3} volts)
A Ampere (amps). Current
⏛ Fuse
⏚ Ground
mA Milliampere (1 x 10^-3 amps)
uA Microampere (1 x 10^-6 amps)
nS Nanosiemens (1 x 10^-9 siemens). Conductance (1/W)
Ω Ohms. Resistance
kΩ Kilohm (1 x 10³ ohms). Resistance
MΩ Megohm (1 x 10⁶ ohms). Resistance
Hz Hertz (1 cycle/sec). Frequency
kHz Kilohertz (1 x 10³ cycles/sec). Frequency
mF Microfarads (1 x 10^-6 Farads). Capacitance
nF Nanofarads (1 x 10^-9 Farads). Capacitance
- Negative
+ Positive


Good DX and 73, NJ2X


Other related articles on NJ2X.COM:
Using your multimeter: Continuity Test
What is the schematic symbol for a ferrite bead?



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© Michael W. Maher and NJ2X.COM, 2013. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Michael W. Maher and NJ2X.COM with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.