Testing Continuity

Overview

In this lesson, you will use a multimeter to test the continuity of the button. If two points in a a circuit are continuous, there is a direct electrical connection between the two points. For example, the two pairs of pins on the button are continuous when the button is pressed.

Setting up the Mulitmeter

You will need to collect a mulitmeter and a pair of cables with aligator clips as shown below.

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  1. Plug the alligator leads in as shown below. The black lead always goes in the COM port and the red lead generally goes into the port on the right.

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  2. Turn the mutlimeter dial to “multi” symbol, left of OFF and then press the MODE button until you see the sounds symbol in the upper right of the screen.

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  3. To confirm that you have set everything up correctly, touch the two ends (alligators) together. You should hear a beep. This indicates continuity.

  4. Using the breadboard you set up in the previous lesson with the button, connect the multimeter leads to the button on the breadboard using jumpwires. If you set up is correct, the meter should beep when the button on your breadboard is pressed.

TEACHER CHECK _____