How to Test a Diode Using a Multimeter
Step 1: Switch off the power and disconnect the diode from the circuit if possible.
Step 2: Set your digital multimeter to Diode Test Mode (the diode symbol).
Step 3: Forward-bias test
- Connect the red probe to the diode's anode.
- Connect the black probe to the cathode (the striped end on most standard diodes).
- A typical silicon diode usually reads approximately 0.6–0.7 V.
Step 4: Reverse-bias test
- Swap the probes.
- The meter should normally display OL or an open-circuit indication.
