Crash course on how to use multi-meter

[nrod7]

Will one of you fine members give me a crash course in using a multi-meter.  Since my first victim is a Vendo 475, I could use guidance in how to check a ballast, bulb outlet, and any other parts that have to do the with the light system. Help!  nrod7

[orsd]

Honestly if you've never used one , learning on live 110 isnt the way to go and could get you or the vendo hurt. just hire it out.

Failing that,

First: make sure the damn thing is rated for 120V, and on The correct setting of AC or DC

second, use the correct setting so you dont blow anything

What not to do:

There should be 107-125v to the ballast.

to check ballast itself

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/check-ballast-bad-fluorescent-lighting-39399.html

[HotOiler3]

+1 on hiring it out, household 110 is about the most DEADLY form of electricity.   and parts in circuit boards can still carry a nasty charge days after they're unplugged.     It's not the volts that kill you, its the AMPS,  tasers that cops carry are around 50,000 volts, but very low amperage.  

[AZVendor]

The voltmeter won't help you on the lighting other than to measure for 110 volts in to the ballast as the outputs from it are very odd and in millivolts and odd amperages.  The only other thing is to inspect all the wiring from the ballast to the lamp sockets to make sure everything is connected.  Also inspect the sockets for burning or cracking.  If the visual inspection passes and you have 110 in to the ballast, and you have tried two new lamps that don't light then you will need to replace the ballast.  If only one lamp lights and the other is marginal or not lit that is also a sign of a bad ballast.