How can i check for a curent draw?

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Forum Name: General Discussion
Forum Discription: General Mobile Electronics Questions and Answers
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=18209
Printed Date: July 13, 2025 at 6:18 PM

Topic: How can i check for a curent draw?

Posted By: BD pathfinder
Subject: How can i check for a curent draw?
Date Posted: August 28, 2003 at 5:44 PM

I need to find a power drain on a truck. How can i use my DMM to measure a curent draw on the battery to find out how much power is being used to drain a battery.

has any one ever experienced installing an alarm and haveing it drain the battery??

Replies:

Posted By: xetmes
Date Posted: August 28, 2003 at 6:46 PM

put the DMM on DC current, take one terminal off the battery, connect one lead from the DMM to the battery post, the other lead to the connector you just removed. Note that most DMM can only handle 10-20 A, anymore and you will blow the fuse.

Posted By: BD pathfinder
Date Posted: August 28, 2003 at 7:35 PM

do i need to change the post. it is now on DC v do i change it over to the DC amp.. and also do i use the DC amp setting on the DMM>

Posted By: xetmes
Date Posted: August 28, 2003 at 8:26 PM

usually many meters have 2 current posts for the leads, the fused DC A (usually to 2 A or so) and the unfused usually 10 or 20 A, you want to use that unfused one, but be carefull never try to start the car or anything when using this setting. Be carefull this is UNFUSED, dont hurt yourself, and if you do its not my fault posted_image

Posted By: auex
Date Posted: August 28, 2003 at 9:23 PM

Why are you checking for draw? Also make sure that you don't have the key in the ignition or at least the key in any other position then off.

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