This guide focuses on multimeters. LCR meters should come with a detailed instruction manual specific to your device. ESR meters (equivalent series resistance meters) can conduct tests on capacitors while they are in a circuit, but do not measure capacitance directly.
For small capacitors, use (at least) a 2,000Ω resistor rated for 5 watts. Large capacitors found in appliance power supplies, camera flash circuits, and large motors can hold a dangerous or lethal amount of charge. Experienced supervision is recommended. Use a 20,000Ω, 5 watt resistor attached via 12 gauge wire rated for 600 volts.
If your tool has several capacitor settings, choose the range that fits your best guess for the capacitor’s correct value. (You can read the capacitor’s label to get a rough idea). If there is only one capacitor setting, your multimeter can automatically detect the range.
If your tool has several capacitor settings, choose the range that fits your best guess for the capacitor’s correct value. (You can read the capacitor’s label to get a rough idea). If there is only one capacitor setting, your multimeter can automatically detect the range.
This is only necessary if measuring small capacitors. On some models, this mode disables auto-ranging.
A + or - next to a terminal. If one pin is longer than the other, the long pin is the positive terminal. A colored stripe next to a terminal is an unreliable marker, since different types of capacitor use different standards. [7] X Research source
An “OL” or “overload” reading means the capacitance is too high for the multimeter to measure. Set the multimeter to a higher range if possible. This result can also mean the capacitor has shorted. An auto-ranging multimeter will test the lowest range first, then increase if it hits an overload. You may see “OL” appear on the screen multiple times before you see the final result.
