Which testing instrument is often used in troubleshooting electrical systems?

A multimeter is commonly used in troubleshooting electrical systems due to its versatility and ability to measure various electrical parameters, including voltage, current, and resistance. This multifunctionality allows technicians to diagnose a wide range of electrical issues effectively.

For instance, when checking for continuity in a circuit, a multimeter can easily provide a reading to indicate whether a path is complete or broken, which is essential in identifying faults. Similarly, it can measure DC and AC voltages, giving technicians insight into the operational status of components within an electrical system.

While an oscilloscope can visualize voltage signals over time, it is typically more specialized and used for analyzing waveforms rather than basic troubleshooting. A signal generator is used to create signals for testing purposes rather than diagnosing existing issues, and a frequency counter is focused specifically on measuring the frequency of signals, which might not be as broadly applicable in initial troubleshooting scenarios. The multimeter’s broad applicability and ease of use make it the go-to instrument for electrical system diagnostics.