Ammeter

Ammeter is an instrument that measures the flow of electrical current in amperes.

Symbol of Ammeter

The given below figure shows the symbol used to indicate an Ammeter.

Ammeter symbol

An Ammeter is always connected in series to the element through which the flow of current should be measured as shown in the below figure. It is because the current is common in a series circuit. An Ammeter should have very low impedance else if the ammeter has high impedance it will reduce the current in the circuit in which it connected. An ammeter should never be connected in parallel. As it has very low impedance, if it is connected in parallel it will allow high current and result in short circuit. Hence it must be always avoided.

Circuit for connecting an ammeter