What instrument is typically used to check electrical continuity?

• A. Oscilloscope
• B. A continuity tester (ohmmeter)
• C. Multimeter with capacitance mode
• D. Insulation resistance tester

Answer: (B)

Continuity testing is about confirming a complete conducting path between two points so current can flow. To do this you need a device that detects low resistance and signals when that path exists. A continuity tester, or an ohmmeter, is designed for this purpose. It applies a small test current and indicates a positive result (beep or light) when the resistance is low enough, meaning the connection is intact. If there’s an open circuit, there’s no indication. This makes it ideal for quickly checking wiring, fuses, connectors, and harnesses.

The other tools measure different things: an oscilloscope shows voltage waveforms, not whether a path exists; a multimeter set to capacitance checks how a component stores charge, not whether it forms a complete circuit; an insulation resistance tester tests insulation quality by applying high voltage, which is about preventing leakage, not confirming a simple conductor path.