Lesson 5: The Voltmeter :: Curriculum

Engineering Technology (Robotics) Model

In this lesson students will learn how to properly use a voltmeter to check the output voltage of the Jaguar speed controller.

Students learn how to use a multimeter to find voltage
Students learn about the different types of voltage measuring devices
Students discover that the motor controller delivers different amounts of voltage compared to the speed of the motor

Anticipatory Set - Hooks / Set
Students copy down the day's objectives from the board and then turn their attention to the video screen. Students watch the Solar School House tutorial on the use of the multimeter to find voltage.
- multimeter demonstration tutorial [ Watch Video ] [ Download Original Video ] This is a very basic tutorial for you and your students on the use of a multimeter.
Test Jaguar Controller for output voltage - Lab / Shop
Students test the motors leads/ motor controller output for voltage. The multimeter needs to be configured for DC volts. Resources on multimeters are below. Students use the Voltage Test Schematic (File Below) to record the voltage that is displayed on the meters display.
- Voltage test schematic example [ Download ] This schematic is from the FIRST Robotics original 2010 competition wiring diagram with edits for input fields. Use this resource only as an example. There are many places on the bench test that can be tested (not just between the motor and controller). An original of this wiring diagram is found below. You can add sticky note wherever you want the students to take a measurement. You can then scan and copy this schematic (with blanks) and distribute to your students.
- 2010_Robot_Power_Distribution_RevA.pdf [ Download ] 2010 Robot Power Distribution Schematic
- Fluke Multimeter Demo [ Go to Site ] This is a great place to get started on the hunt for a new multimeter