Yes, it's for safety. I like the idea of using the microamps range on a DMM, first connecting to the supply and then turning it on. But can a DMM withstand 20kV on the microamps terminal? I know where i can borrow a fluke 87-V, I'd just rather not destroy it.
This voltage generator uses a voltage multiplier which effectively stores a charge on capacitors until the discharge. If I short the supply with the DMM before turning it on, I won't get the peak current since the caps aren't charged to maximum. Is my reasoning correct?
Many thanks!