Multimeter showing random mV and mA is it normal?

**mini998** · 22nd January, 2011, 12:23 AM

I got uni-t UT203 multimeter .When the probes are not connected to any thing, it shows random mV (AC & DC) and Random mA . Checked uni-t UT50C at maplins ,It does the same too.

Is it normal ? ,I am hoping to buy UT50C and really like the rubbery feeling on it.

thanks in advance

**racin-snake** · 22nd January, 2011, 01:27 AM

hi i think this phenomena is called a ghost voltage
check aes .com for a better description of this but yes its common on most dmm due to the fact they are so sensitive

it also is a good indicator of an open circuit

hope this helps a bit ...also you could try googling teslite ?

http://www.aeswave.com/products/Product.asp?i=662

as for the rubbery feel .....whatever pumps your nads mate

**mini998** · 22nd January, 2011, 10:19 AM

Thanks guys I guess I will live with it, I cant believe I foocked my UT203 because of this. I thought it must be something short circuiting in side so I removed it and sprayed Electrical connector cleaner all over

.Now the darn thing is worse than it used to be. I'm off to buy a new UT50C.

Originally Posted by racin-snake

as for the rubbery feel .....whatever pumps your nads mate

LOL

**talmadge** · 22nd January, 2011, 01:52 AM

I was always told it was reading the magnatic force of the earth, but ghost voltage sounds good.

**Liteace** · 22nd January, 2011, 11:53 AM

When you get your new one and it showing random mV hold the 2 probes together and it should show 0.00 or 0.01, then you know its OK

**Meat-Head** · 22nd January, 2011, 02:48 PM

mains voltage 'in the air' near a socket is possable, meters on HT leads, go wappy

There should be an adjuster pot inside.

a meter CANNOT measure it's own voltage off it's battery.

If you wish to destroy a meter 5000volts dc, does it, goes with a bang, usefull items for this type of voltage are, HF plastic welding machine or overhead projecter, hth meat.