Test with a multimeter

Varistor

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Now: Ω range

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Pin 1: Pin 1 (1) Pin 2: Pin 2 (2)

Red probe Not connectedBlack probe Not connected

Hold the probe and drag it to the tip of a leg. Tapping works too: first pick the probe, then the leg.

Set the range to Ω (resistance).

Measure step by step

A varistor is a protection part that starts to conduct when the voltage rises. The multimeter’s test voltage is far below its threshold, so a good varistor shows OL on every range. An open varistor also shows OL; the multimeter cannot tell the two apart.

Varistors work in mains circuits. Before measuring, unplug it and remove the part from the circuit.

  1. 1Ω range
  2. 2Diode range