Voltage Drop

When current flows through a load, the voltage beyond the load drops. This voltage drop is due to the resistance created by the load and also by small resistances created by corrosion at the connectors and damaged insulation on the wires. The maximum allowable voltage drop under load is critical, especially if there is more than one load in the circuit, since all voltage drops are cumulative.

1) Set the voltmeter selector switch to the 20 volt position.
2) Connect the multimeter negative lead to a good ground.
3) Operate the circuit and check the voltage prior to the first component (load).
4) There should be little or no voltage drop in the circuit prior to the first component. If a voltage drop exists, the wire or connectors in the circuit are suspect.
5) While operating the first component in the circuit probe the ground side of the component with the positive meter lead and observe the voltage readings. A small voltage drop should be noticed. This voltage drop is caused by the resistance of the component.
6) Repeat the test for each component (load) down the circuit.
7) If a large voltage drop is noticed, the preceding component, wire or connector is suspect.