With a meter that measures Ohms.
The test equipment needs two test leads to find the resistance in a circuit.
To test for a short circuit in a circuit, you can use a multimeter set to measure resistance. Disconnect the power source, then place the multimeter probes at different points in the circuit. If the resistance reading is very low or zero, it indicates a short circuit.
To test a circuit with a multimeter, set the multimeter to the appropriate setting (voltage, resistance, or continuity), connect the probes to the circuit's components, and read the measurement displayed on the multimeter. Make sure the circuit is not powered on when testing for resistance or continuity.
To test for resistance in a circuit, the circuit should be de-energized.
A multimeter.
Open
To test for continuity in an electrical circuit using a multimeter, set the multimeter to the continuity or resistance setting. Then, touch the probes to the two points in the circuit you want to test. If there is continuity, the multimeter will beep or show a low resistance reading. If there is no continuity, the multimeter will not beep or show a high resistance reading.
You need to disconnect it from the circuit before you test it for resistance.
Since internal resistance of the ameter will increases the resistance of the circuit. Thus decreasing the current giving an errorenous reading.
The voltmeter has an internal resistance, which should be as high as possible. As this resistance draws current from the circuit under test, it will affect circuit operation. This is more pronounced in a high impedance circuit because the current drawn flows through higher resistances.
To identify a short circuit on a lighting circuit, a continuity test or a resistance test can be performed using a multimeter. This involves measuring the resistance across the circuit; a reading of zero or close to zero ohms indicates a short circuit. Additionally, a circuit breaker or fuse may trip, which can also signal a short circuit condition. Always ensure power is turned off before performing any tests for safety.
If there is an electric short, the resistance of the circuit would be zero. So you can use an ohm meter to test it.