Voltmeter

A measuring instrument connected in parallel to read the voltage across a component.

V

How it works

A voltmeter is a measurement instrument used to measure the electrical potential difference (voltage) between two points in a circuit. To measure the voltage across a component, you must connect the voltmeter in parallel with that component.

An ideal voltmeter has infinite internal resistance, meaning it draws absolutely zero current from the circuit and therefore does not alter the circuit's behavior while measuring. In practice, real voltmeters have a very high (but finite) resistance, typically 10 megaohms.

Common Mistakes

Connecting a voltmeter in series with a circuit to measure voltage. Because of its massive 10MΩ internal resistance, it will essentially break the circuit and stop all current from flowing to the load.

Standard Component

This component does not have distinct values or part numbers. The standard version is available in the simulator.