Before measuring current in a circuit, what should the meter be set to?

When preparing to measure current in a circuit with a meter, it's essential to set the meter to the highest range available for current measurement. This approach is crucial because it ensures that the meter can handle the maximum current flowing through the circuit without risk of damage. If the current exceeds the measurement range of the meter, it could cause the meter to blow a fuse or suffer permanent damage. Setting the meter to the highest setting allows for more accurate readings as you can then dial down to lower settings if necessary after determining the current level.

On the other hand, starting at a lower or medium setting may lead to inaccurate readings or even damage if the actual current is higher than the range set on the meter. Setting the meter to off would not allow for any measurement to be taken, rendering it ineffective for the task at hand.