Editing Multimeter (section)

=== Probes ===
{{main|Test probe}}
[[File:Multimeter test leads.JPG|thumb|left|Multimeter test leads]]

A multimeter can use many different test probes to connect to the circuit or device under test. [[Crocodile clip]]s, retractable hook clips, and pointed probes are the three most common types. [[Tweezer#Types|Tweezer probes]] are used for closely spaced test points, as for instance [[surface-mount device]]s. The connectors are attached to flexible, well insulated leads terminated with connectors appropriate for the meter. Probes are connected to portable meters typically by shrouded or recessed [[banana connector|banana jacks]], while benchtop meters may use [[banana jacks]] or [[BNC connector]]s. 2&nbsp;mm plugs and [[binding posts]] have also been used at times, but are less commonly used today.  Indeed, safety ratings now require shrouded banana jacks.

The banana jacks are typically placed with a standardized center-to-center distance of {{convert|3/4|inch|mm|sigfig=2|abbr=on}}, to allow standard adapters or devices such as voltage multiplier or thermocouple probes to be plugged in.

[[Clamp meter]]s clamp around a [[electrical conductor|conductor]] carrying a current to measure without the need to connect the meter in series with the circuit, or make metallic contact at all. Those for AC measurement use the transformer principle; clamp-on meters to measure small current or direct current require more exotic sensors, such as; hall effect based systems that measure the nonchanging magnetic field to determine the current.