For all of you who have a multimeter thrown in a drawer or toolbox but don’t know how to use it, these instructions will help in your search for missing voltage.

It's a must-have for any toolbox—but there's a learning curve involved. Learn how to use a multimeter for all of your electrical testing needs.

Battery and charging system testing is another popular use for the multimeter. Batteries should measure 12.6 volts when at rest if fully charged.

If you have a box of old bulbs in unknown conditions, use your multimeter to test which ones are good and which ones are blown. Confirm your meter is set in continuity test mode (see step 2) and ...