Measuring current using USB 6009 with a Rheostat as shunt resistor

[crossrulz]

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@CoolKiat wrote:
So back to the first question, can I use the rheostat to measure the current. If can, how do I specify the resistor value in the current set up measurement.

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You need a fixed, known resistance in order to properly measure current.  I would recommend getting something line a 1 Ohm resistor (depending on how high your current will be).

[sebster]

This is not making any sense. You started out asking about current from a battery, now you mention a solar cell.

Have you got a diagram of what you are trying to achieve?

How would you connect things using a voltmeter and ammeter?

[sebster · Accepted solution]

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@CoolKiat wrote:
As for why I need to measure the current using a rheostat is because I want to measure the voltage and current of a Solar cell using the 'variable load method'. Therefore a rheostat is necessary.

So back to the first question, can I use the rheostat to measure the current. If can, how do I specify the resistor value in the current set up measurement.

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No, you cannot use a rheostat to measure current. You need an ammeter to measure current OR measure the voltage drop across a known fixed resistor. And your rheostat is not used as the shunt.

This diagram was taken from http://physastro.pomona.edu/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Berkley-Thesis-addendum.pdf:

And this modified diagram shows you what we have all been trying to tell you:

[kiatkiat]

Hi Sebster,

I've now fully understand everything. Really appreciate and thank you so much for helping me.

[billko]

Don't you think you should give credit (kudos) to everyone who told you the same thing over and over again?

[OldCynic]

CoolKiat

What university (or other institution) are you studying at?