The Difference Between Ammeter and Voltmeter: Understanding Electrical Measurements
When it comes to working with electricity, it’s important to have a good understanding of the tools you’ll be using to measure electrical current and voltage. Two of the most common electrical measuring tools are the ammeter and voltmeter.
What is an Ammeter?
An ammeter is a tool used to measure the current in an electrical circuit. It measures the flow of electrical current through a wire or component and displays the measurement in amperes (amps). This allows electricians and engineers to determine the amount of electrical current running through a circuit, which is important for ensuring that circuits aren’t overloaded and potentially dangerous.
Ammeters are often used in automotive applications to measure the current flowing through the battery, alternator, or other components. They can also be used in industrial settings to monitor the electrical current in manufacturing equipment or other machinery.
What is a Voltmeter?
A voltmeter is a tool used to measure the voltage in an electrical circuit. It measures the potential difference between two points in a circuit and displays the measurement in volts. This allows electricians and engineers to determine the electrical potential across a circuit, which can help diagnose problems such as low voltage or faulty components.
Like ammeters, voltmeters are used in a variety of applications. They’re commonly used in automotive settings to measure the voltage of the battery, alternator, or other components. They’re also used in electronics and telecommunications to measure voltage levels in circuits and to troubleshoot problems with equipment.
The Primary Difference between Ammeters and Voltmeters
While both ammeters and voltmeters are used to measure electricity, there is a primary difference between the two tools: what they measure. Ammeters measure electrical current, while voltmeters measure voltage.
Another significant difference between the two tools is their placement in a circuit. An ammeter is connected in series with the circuit, which means that the current flows through the meter. A voltmeter is connected in parallel with the circuit, which means that the current flows through the circuit as usual, but a small amount is directed through the meter to get the voltage reading.
In Conclusion
Both ammeters and voltmeters are important tools for measuring electrical current and voltage. While ammeters measure current and voltmeters measure voltage, both tools play an important role in maintaining electrical safety and ensuring the proper functioning of equipment and circuits. Understanding the differences between these tools will help you use them effectively in your next electrical project.
Table difference between ammeter and voltmeter
| Parameter | Ammeter | Voltmeter |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | An instrument used to measure electric current in amperes. | An instrument used to measure electric potential difference between two points in volts. |
| Symbol | A | V |
| Measurement Range | Measures current in mA to A range | Measures voltage in mV to kV range |
| Connection type | Must be connected in series with the circuit under test. | Must be connected in parallel with the circuit under test. |
| Functionality | Measures the flow of electric current. | Measures the potential difference between two points in the circuit. |
| Usage | Used in series with a circuit to measure the current flowing through it. | Used in parallel with a circuit to measure the voltage across it. |