Switched multimeter this type of multimeter manually switches between the ranges to get the most accurate reading.
Check solar panel output with multimeter.
While using this multimeter select.
To test solar panel amperage output put your solar panel in direct sunlight set your multi meter to the amps setting.
Solar panel testing for amps.
Some exceptions may apply based on panel type.
You then need to touch your solar panel to the multimeter probe.
To test a 18v solar panel voltage output directly put your solar panel in direct sunlight set your multi meter to the dc volts setting.
A multimeter is a device that you can use to test the voltage and current of any device.
As long as the amp meter is rated higher than the solar panel you will be able to measure the output effectively.
Testing the 12 volt solar panel.
A variable resistance box.
A good quality multimeter that can read voltage and preferably current.
There are two types of multimeters.
For example if your solar panel is 20 volts rated your digital multimeter should be set to a reading of 200 volts for an accurate reading.
Open circuit voltage can vary depending on your solar panel but the readings we are usually looking for are in the range of 15 to 23v.
Don t worry if your mutlimeter lacks a current setting.
We can get by without it.
As most solar panels are 12 volts the solar panel test methods are basically the same.
A solar cell or solar panel to test.
The next step is to connect the black probe to the com labelled port and the red probe to the v ma labelled port.
Go back and check all the connections of your solar cells and all your stringers or check for cracks in the solar cells themselves.
Attach the meter to the positive and negative terminals on the solar panel and make sure the panel is properly exposed to sunlight.
If it s not there is a problem with your solar panel output.
Using a multimeter to test a solar panel.
You will want to ensure that you place the positive to positive and negative to negative when attaching your multimeter to the connection on the back of your solar panel.
Including the solar panels.
This is nothing more than an easy way to vary the resistance to known settings while it is still in the circuit.