Do you need schematics/data sheets/ect?

[pnutbutters]

I am starting to get the hang of using a multimeter..

But what I am having trouble comprehending is do I look for patterns in devices or do I have to focus on specific readings..

for example, if I test a capacitor and it should charge and discharge so the number should fluctuate, but should I be paying attention to the number??

Do I need schematics and such to troubleshoot or can I do without them?

And is a 1 always an open circuit and 0 always a short?

[retiredcaps]

Re: Do you need schematics/data sheets/ect?

I am starting to get the hang of using a multimeter..

1) Believe it or not, your manual, even the Chinenglish ones, is pretty good at describing how to properly measure components.

2) Of course, google has ton of videos (which is how I started 2 years ago) including my fellow Canadian, afrotechmods,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bF3OyQ3HwfU

3) If you are serious about this as a hobby or want to learn a lot more, you can do what I did 2 years ago. Start reading every PlainBill post in the computer display forum and let it soak in. PlainBill has been MIA since April 2012, but 90% of what I have learned is through his posts.

[mariushm]

Re: Do you need schematics/data sheets/ect?

See this series on how to use multimeters:

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...3&feature=plcp