Current meters are used to create a signal, which represents the current (in kA) flowing though a branch. This signal is assigned a name by the user. To access the signal, the name must be used as a Data Label on a wire or on the input connection of control component as shown below:
NOTE: DO NOT place the Current Meter over top of a Wire. The wire must be 'broken' and the meter placed in series with the wires.
The Current Meter attempts to find an R, L or C branch in series with itself and then measures the current through it. If a series branch is not found, the component itself will act as an Ideal Branch (zero impedance). An ideal short circuit however, adds unnecessary burden on simulation speed and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
Sometimes it may be necessary to add a small resistor is series with the Current Meter to make the measurement more efficient. In situations where you know that there is no series branch available (measuring the current into a transmission line or a transformer for example), you may consider adding a small series resistance with the meter to avoid a forced ideal branch.