What This Document Is
This is a focused tutorial designed to help students effectively utilize a specific piece of laboratory equipment: the HP 34401A Digital Multimeter. It’s a practical guide intended for use *during* lab sessions within the Microelectronic Devices and Circuits (ELENG 105) course at UC Berkeley. The material centers around understanding the multimeter’s interface and proper usage for fundamental electrical measurements. It assumes a basic familiarity with electrical circuits but provides detailed guidance on operating this particular model.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is essential for any student enrolled in ELENG 105 who needs to confidently and accurately take measurements in the lab. Mastering the digital multimeter is a foundational skill for success in this course and in future electrical engineering work. It’s particularly helpful for students who are new to using this type of instrument or who want a quick reference guide to ensure correct operation and avoid potential equipment damage. Access to the full guide will streamline your lab work and improve the reliability of your experimental data.
Topics Covered
* Understanding the Digital Multimeter Interface
* Proper Probe Placement for Different Measurement Types
* Measurement Considerations for Voltage and Current
* Safe Operating Procedures for Digital Multimeters
* Configuration for various measurement modes
What This Document Provides
* A detailed visual reference of the HP 34401A front panel.
* Explanations of key functions and controls on the multimeter.
* Guidance on selecting appropriate measurement settings.
* Important safety precautions to protect both the user and the equipment.
* Information regarding the multimeter’s grounding characteristics.
