How to Test a Switch With an Ohm Meter

by Editorial Team
itstillruns article image
Mary K. Lynch

This article discusses how to test a switch with an ohm meter. Photos show how to connect the ohm meter to the switch for testing.

Step 1

itstillruns article image

Verify ohm meter operation. Turn on the multimeter. Select the ohm meter function. Set the resistance range to 'x1.' Skip this step if the ohm meter has 'autorange' capability.

Step 2

itstillruns article image

Insert the leads into the meter Touch the probe tips together to verify that ohm meter is functioning. With the probes touching, the meter should display 1 ohm or less. A high reading or no reading means that is something wrong with the meter. Go back and check the setup or get another meter.

Step 3

itstillruns article image

Connect the red lead to one of the terminals on the switch. Connect the black lead to the other terminal on the switch. Put the switch into the ON position. The meter should display 1 ohm or less, meaning the switch is 'ON.'

Step 4

itstillruns article image

Put the switch into the 'OFF' position. The meter should display 'OL' or a very high resistance, meaning the switch is 'OFF.'

Step 5

itstillruns article image

Operate the switch on and off for a few more times.

If the meter display changes from 'ON' condition to 'OFF" condition, the switch operates normally. If the display does not change from 'ON' to 'OFF' condition, then the switch is defective. Purchase a new switch to replace the defective switch, then throw the defective switch away.

More Articles

article divider
×