What setting should a meter be on to read a circuit status without removing one side of the circuit?

To read a circuit status without removing one side of the circuit, the meter should be set to measure resistance, which is represented by ohms. Using this setting allows you to determine whether there is continuity within the circuit and give a reading of the resistance.

Measuring ohms is beneficial because it allows you to assess the integrity of the circuit while it remains energized. If the circuit is closed and functioning properly, the resistance will show a value that indicates current can flow through it. A reading of zero or low ohms indicates good continuity, while a high resistance or infinite reading would suggest an open circuit.

In contrast, measuring AC or DC volts would require the circuit to be energized, where you are assessing the voltage level present. This may not provide a complete understanding of the circuit status in cases of interruptions. The continuity setting, while useful for testing whether a circuit is open or closed, typically gives a binary signal (on or off) rather than a quantitative resistance value. Therefore, setting the meter to ohms provides the most comprehensive assessment of the circuit status without disrupting it.