Introduction

Using a multimeter to check if your water meter is providing pulses is a straightforward process. This guide will walk you through the steps to check the pulses using the continuity setting on your multimeter.

Tools Required

• Digital Multimeter (With Continuity setting)
• Water Meter with Pulse Output
• Connecting Wires

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Set Up Your Multimeter

1. Select the Continuity Setting:

   • Turn the dial on your multimeter to the continuity setting. This is usually indicated by a symbol resembling a sound wave or a diode symbol. The continuity setting checks for a complete path for current flow, which is useful for detecting pulses as intermittent breaks in continuity.

2. Connect the Probes:

   • Insert the black (negative) probe into the COM port of the multimeter.
   • Insert the red (positive) probe into the port labeled for continuity (often the same as the port for voltage or resistance).

2. Prepare the Water Meter

1. Locate the Pulse Output:

   • Identify the pulse output which are the black and red wires coming from the water meter (wires attached to the Registers Housing)
     

3. Measure the Pulses

1. Connect the Multimeter to the Water Meter:

   • Attach the black probe to the ground (GND) wire connected to the water meter's pulse output.
   • Attach the red probe to the pulse output wire.

2. Read the Measurements:

   • Turn on water and run through the meter and confirm the meter register is spinning.
     
   •  Identify what the pulse value is for this meter.
     
   • Example: 1 pulse for every 10 gallons. This will let you know how much water needs to flow through the meter between every pulse.
     
   • Observe the multimeter display and listen for the beeping sound (if the multimeter has an audible continuity feature). The pulses from the water meter will cause intermittent beeping, indicating changes in continuity.
     

4. Read the Measurements

1. Continuity Reading:
   • Intermittent beeping or fluctuations in the continuity reading indicate that the water meter is providing pulses.
   • No beeping or a steady reading with no fluctuations may indicate a problem with the pulse output.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Check Connections:

  • Ensure all connections are secure and there are no loose wires.

• Verify Multimeter Functionality:

  • Test the multimeter on a known continuity source to ensure it is functioning correctly.

• Review Water Meter Documentation:

  • Refer to the water meter's manual for specific details on pulse output specifications and wiring.

Conclusion

Using a multimeter set to the continuity setting to check if your water meter is providing pulses is an effective method. By following these steps, you can accurately measure and interpret the pulses from your water meter.