Multimeter Probes in an MC4 plug Solar Voltage

[SURV69]

I'm trying to test my 30 watt solar panels with attached MC4 plugs, with the test probes that came with the multimeter.

The voltages jump around and results in a reading of "1".

Sometimes ... for an instant, I'll get a reading of 18+volts, before the meter goes to "1".

If I go into the connection panel on the solar panel, the reading is a constant 18+ volts.

Are MC4 plugs generally hard to get readings from without a special adapter?

[CaptMarc]

Try increasing the scale of the meter (200 volts)
The panel may be above 20 volts

Marc

[barnakiel]

Yes.

Some plugs are not easy to test with plain probes. I had the same problem testing our waterproof plugs.

b.

[smac999]

if you are trying to test things in your system you can get an mc4 Y or splice thing. that will free up one port to stick your probe in. just insert into panel wiring durring testing. not permanent

trying to stick a probe it into the side of a waterproof mc4 doesn't seem to great.

https://www.amazon.com/Vktech-Connec.../dp/B00JGH5AL2

but unless you are trying to trouble shoot an issue in the panel wiring then I would just measure at controller....