Switched multimeter this type of multimeter manually switches between the ranges to get the most accurate reading.
How to test voltage on a solar panel with multimeter.
The next step is to ensure that you select a voltage range that can display the possible maximum voltage of your solar panel in an open circuit.
There are two types of multimeters.
Open circuit voltage can vary depending on your solar panel but the readings we are usually looking for are in the range of 15 to 23v.
To test a 18v solar panel voltage output directly put your solar panel in direct sunlight set your multi meter to the dc volts setting.
For example if your solar panel is 20 volts rated your digital multimeter should be set to a reading of 200 volts for an accurate reading.
Simply touch the solar panel leads with the multi meter probes matching their corresponding polarity red to red black to black.
You want to choose a voltage range capable of displaying the maximum possible voltage of the panel in open circuit this means that if you have a panel rated for 20 volts you should set the multi meter.