What does a multimeter measure?

A multimeter, historically known as a VOM (volt-ohm-milliammeter), is an essential diagnostic tool in electronics. It combines several measurement functions into one single unit, most notably measuring electrical potential (voltage), current (amps), and resistance (ohms). While some advanced digital multimeters can also measure capacitance or inductance, the standard fundamental purpose of the tool is to measure voltage, current, and resistance. Instruments measuring SWR and power are typically specialized radio frequency (RF) meters, not standard multimeters.