reading ohm meter

[myclone]

how do i know when using an ohm meter wich circuit is open to supply power and wich is closed for the ground ? thank you

Youre questions are a little cofusing as far as terminology but I think I know what youre asking so Ill give it a shot. What type of meter are you using? An analog meter (has a needle) or DVM (digital)?

If I understand you correctly you are asking which lead to attach to ground and which one to attach to the "hot". If so the black lead goes to a good ground and red lead goes to the "hot" or positive side. If youre using an older cheapy analog meter and the leads are the same color you will need to pay attention to what the needle does when its first connected while measuring voltages. If the needle deflects to the left then you need to reverse the leads as an analog meter can be damaged by reverse polarity. If youre using a digital meter its not a big deal since most all DVMs will read either way without hurting them at all. You will get a - (negative) symbol that shows up if the leads are reversed polarity but just ignore it or you can reverse the leads if it makes you feel better.



HTH