What is Continuity in Electricity | How to Test Continuity with Multimeter

Learn What is Continuity in Electricity, Its Symbol and How to Test Continuity with Multimeter.

Here we will Learn What is Continuity in Electricity, Its Symbol and How to Test Continuity with Multimeter.

What is Continuity in Electricity?

Continuity is UNBROKEN Conductive path for electricity to flow. This conductive path can be an insulated copper electric wire or a Circuit on a Printed Circuit Board.

An Operational Close Circuit is Simplest Example of Continuity in Electricity.

Continuity in Electricity

Continuity Symbol on Multimeter

Continuity Symbol on Multimeter

Uses of Continuity Test in Electrical and Electronics

  1. A Multimeter (Analog or Digital) can be used in Continuity Test Mode to Test and Check if an Electric Wire is Broken or Not, Test Fuse, Switches, Circuit Track, Electrical Connections, Several Electronic Components.
  2. A Continuity Test is used to check if a Circuit is Open or Closed. Remember, only a Complete Closed Circuit will Pass Continuity Test.
  3. Continuity test can be used to measure Resistance in an electric circuit.

How to do a Continuity Test with Digital Multimeter

  1. Insert the Black Test Probe Lead into the COM jack.
  2. Next, Insert the Red Test Probe Lead into the VΩ jack
  3. Turn the Pointer of the Multimeter to Continuity Test mode (See the Symbol Above).
  4. Touch the Test Leads to the two ends of the electrical wire or  legs /terminals of the component being tested.
  5. A Digital Multimeter will Produce a BEEP Sound if the Conductive Path is Close (Continuity PASS).
  6. The Multimeter will NOT BEEP If the Conductive Path or Circuit is Open (Continuity FAIL).
  7. Turn OFF the Multimeter when testing is Done to Save Life of the Battery.

Continuity Test Safety Measures

  • Never perform continuity test in Live Wire or Circuit. Switch OFF and Unplug the Device to be Tested.
  • Make Sure there is NO Voltage in the Circuit to be Tested.
  • Make sure that all Capacitors are Discharged.

Check: How to Test a Transistor with a Multimeter?

FAQs: Continuity

Several factors can lead to a break in continuity, such as blown fuses, tripped circuit breakers, faulty wiring, loose connections, or power outages.

To restore continuity after a power outage, first, check the circuit breaker panel and reset any tripped breakers. If the breakers are fine, inspect your fuses and replace any blown ones. If the issue persists, contact an electrician or your utility company.

Continuity is crucial because many electrical devices, appliances, and industrial processes rely on a consistent power supply. Interruptions in continuity can lead to data loss, damage to equipment, and disruption of services.

To ensure continuity, regularly inspect and maintain your electrical system. Tighten loose connections, replace damaged wiring, and keep your circuit breakers and fuses in good condition. Consider using surge protectors to safeguard against sudden voltage spikes.

Related Posts:

Please SHARE:

Santosh Das

Santosh, founder of this Electronics Tutorial Website, is an Electronics Geek, Blogger and Young Entrepreneur. He possesses vast experience in the field of electronics, electronic components, PCB, Soldering, SMT, Telecommunication, ESD Safety, and PCB Assembly Tools, Equipment and Consumables. Keep visiting for daily dose of Tips and Tutorials.

Also Read:

4 Responses

  1. john says:

    your website is great but I need your help please.

    Ive been learning a lot but I am trying to fix a dvd player pcb.I can see where a few components have burnt,I want to replace them but I’m not sure of their exact details.

    Can I get a pcb diagram/schematic from a number printed on the board?

    please help.

    John in uk.

  2. John Mulindi says:

    This is a useful resource for beginner students in electrical engineering. Easy to follow procedure!

  1. November 20, 2019

    […] What is Continuity in Electricity […]

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *