[Amps] reading 8-10kv with a digital multimeter?

[Gary Smith]

Hi all,

Not quite related to amps exactly but I need a HV solution someone here might be 
able to help me with.

I need to check diode integrity of some microwave oven diodes. I'm trying to build an 
two electrostatic type filters & need a + & - HV supply. I'm going to get the HV via a 
neon transformer rated at 6.3kv @ 30ma. I've obtained two hv diodes from 
microwaves put out to curb for pickup. The only device I have to check them is a 
Radio Shack digital multimeter cat # 22-812 & it will register a max of 1kv DC & 750V 
AC. I suspect the diodes are a string of diodes and aren't indicating anything  when I 
test them with the ohm meter & "diode checking function" of the meter.

I would like to use this multi-meter to tell me if the diodes are intact and would also 
like to observe the voltage characteristics when this project is under load. I don't 
have a high voltage probe & am thinking that I might be able to get a decent reading 
if I use a resistor in series with the probe.

Might someone have a suggestion of what I can do from here to accomplish this?

Thanks

73,

Gary
KA1J