Buying the first meter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 12:53:43 pm
content: Hi,getting my second toe wet, I am looking to start a small project with an arduino and a couple of motors so i am thinking of getting a meter.I found this cheap:https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005007378052786.html?spm=a2g0o.detail.pcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller.10.6fa21y1T1y1TFK&gps-id=pcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller&scm=1007.40196.366991.0&scm_id=1007.40196.366991.0&scm-url=1007.40196.366991.0&pvid=0d75d7c3-00e3-4aff-bc5b-782d75124fbc&_t=gps-id:pcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller,scm-url:1007.40196.366991.0,pvid:0d75d7c3-00e3-4aff-bc5b-782d75124fbc,tpp_buckets:668%232846%238108%231977&pdp_ext_f=%7B"order"%3A"396"%2C"eval"%3A"1"%2C"sceneId"%3A"30050"%7D&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%219.09%218.39%21%21%2167.38%2162.19%21%40%2112000040490761464%21rec%21FR%214841011536%21X&utparam-url=scene%3ApcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller%7Cquery_from%3Aand this:https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005006873679852.html?spm=a2g0o.detail.pcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller.11.6fa21y1T1y1TFK&gps-id=pcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller&scm=1007.40196.366991.0&scm_id=1007.40196.366991.0&scm-url=1007.40196.366991.0&pvid=0d75d7c3-00e3-4aff-bc5b-782d75124fbc&_t=gps-id:pcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller,scm-url:1007.40196.366991.0,pvid:0d75d7c3-00e3-4aff-bc5b-782d75124fbc,tpp_buckets:668%232846%238108%231977&pdp_ext_f=%7B"order"%3A"483"%2C"eval"%3A"1"%2C"sceneId"%3A"30050"%7D&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%2112.37%2110.89%21%21%2191.67%2180.73%21%40%2112000038586815793%21rec%21FR%214841011536%21X&utparam-url=scene%3ApcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller%7Cquery_from%3Abut for double the price I can get into quality and sturdiness.What is your advice?Thanks,V.Edit: Many thanks to everybody, puts a smile on my face this flow of knowledge thing. I will look into ANENG SZ303 - ... I can feel the rotary knob suggestion - I think it's good.Jolly day and most probably see you soon!!!V.

author: Wallace Gasiewicz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 01:15:01 pm
content: I do not have either of those meters. I have few cheap meters like these that I keep in the car or take to flea markets to check things. They are not great but work OK.At the price You have very little to loose and after you use one of these you will know more about what you want in a better meter like a Fluke etc.....

author: tunk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 01:28:10 pm
content: Looks like the second only has one voltage range,600V with a 0.1V resolution. This may be limiting.

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 01:31:33 pm
content: They are super cheap, but both have no mV ranges and no current measurement afaics.You just need to know what you need.I always recommend this one for low energy work:https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005007244323221.html

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 01:36:16 pm
content: I wouldn't recommend getting a "smart" meter - I think there's a good chance that occasionally it won't do what you want or expect it to and you'll end up wasting a lot of time.I'd recommend one with a conventional rotary selector switch.

author: wilfred
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 01:37:11 pm
content: I couldn't conceive of getting a meter without a switch dial and removable test leads. I wouldn't get a meter with fixed test leads unless it was important to be compact and pocketable. But I may just be out of touch with wanting a switch dial. I have nothing against cheap meters but I'd step up just a little.

author: watchmaker
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 01:37:16 pm
content: Quote from: Verge on February 20, 2025, 12:53:43 pmNot much? For 99 cents the batteries would be worth it. But given you are just starting out with Arduino and likely will be in that universe for some time, I would this to work until it doesn't.FWIW, I just bought a FNRISI DCM 100 at $35 (just because; it's a sickness) and it is pretty competent. Capacitors, diodes, frequency to 10MHz, etc. At least it will be useful if you lose interest in Arduino.https://www.fnirsi.com/products/dmc-100But for getting your toes wet on Arduino, I think the first meter looks good. When it stops working you will know enough about what you want in an upgrade.

author: tunk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 01:40:09 pm
content: There's also the ANENG SZ303 in the same price range.

author: radiolistener
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 03:58:09 pm
content: I suggest to have at least 2-3 DMM. The first one something like DT830, ANENG or other cheap Chinese crap, so you can use it with no scary to damage it during experiments with high voltage and other things. And the second one - some branded and precise one, it will be expensive, but precise.

author: Vovk_Z
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 04:09:50 pm
content: Quote from: Verge on February 20, 2025, 12:53:43 pmBoth options in first post are not normal DMMs, but rather someshitsmart-testers.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 04:34:13 pm
content: For 99 cents? I would say buy them both but then buy a decent one to use.

author: PGPG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 04:41:55 pm
content: Quote from: Verge on February 20, 2025, 12:53:43 pmYou need to measure current almost as often as voltage. In my opinion, neither of these two is good for anything (from electronic point of view).I don't remember when I used the original cables that came with the meter. I always use self-made cables with grippers at the end.

author: Solder_Junkie
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 05:26:34 pm
content: Quote from: Verge on February 20, 2025, 12:53:43 pmConsidering you are posting on the EEV Blog site, why ignore the site owners recommendation to buy a Brymen BM235? Check Dave’s shop for one. Those cheap toy grade meters are plain dangerous if you ever check the mains on the wrong range! You really need a meter that is independently certified and has high rupture capacity fuses (not small glass ones).Anyone who has accidentally probed mains with a meter on the wrong range will appreciate having one that doesn’t explode in flames in front of you! I have done that and nothing dramatic happened with my proper meter.SJ

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 05:36:40 pm
content: Quote from: radiolistener on February 20, 2025, 03:58:09 pmHow do you define precision?In my opinion, with the Zoyi ZT-225 or the AN870 you get a sufficiently precise (for a handheld) multimeter for the price of $30.Unlike others in this price range, it can measure microvolts reasonably well.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 05:59:12 pm
content: Quote from: PGPG on February 20, 2025, 04:41:55 pmSome people especially electricians never used a DMM to measure current.

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 06:50:46 pm
content: Quote from: BeBuLamar on February 20, 2025, 04:34:13 pmThat's the new user promotion - you get a steep discount on your first Aliexpress order so perhaps it's better to buy something more expensive.

author: mwb1100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 07:00:22 pm
content: Some you might consider - reviews can be found all over youtube:-Aneng AN8001/Zoyi ZT-101- $14 shipped to USA-Aneng AN8002/Zoyi ZT-102- $14 shipped to USA-Aneng AN8008/Zoyi ZT-109- $14 shipped to USA-Aneng AN8009/Zoyi ZT-111- $16 shipped to USANote that most of these URLs will open to a different meter - make sure to select the appropriate option for the meter you are interested in(might be far less with new user discount)

author: Laval
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 07:02:42 pm
content: You have to identify your needs and balance that with your budget. Working with micro controllers, you will more then likely have to measure DAC output voltage as well as ADC inputs. With reference voltage of 3V or less, you will need a resolution a bit better then 0.1v. Being able to measure current will also be useful as mentioned which non of these meter can do.If you buy these meters, you will probably realize they are inappropriate and end up buying another one anyway. I'm not going to tell you to buy an expensive meter but you might consider something in the $40 range.

author: PGPG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 08:31:10 pm
content: Quote from: Laval on February 20, 2025, 07:02:42 pmMore than 20 years ago I have bought (in hipermarket) for my young boys two multimeters in the 10 times smaller price. It was probably the same as at this link (only different color case):https://allegro.pl/oferta/miernik-cyfrowy-multimetr-iglowy-pradu-lcd-tester-przeplywu-uniwersalny-11303292268Allegro is a kind of our local Aliexpress (I have never bought anything from Aliexpress and never searched there anything). At Allegro what I buy Monday late evening is (in 90% cases) send Tuesday and at Wednesday I have it. When you buy you have the info when it will be send.Its price is less than $3.5.This has 4 digits so for 200mV range it has the resolution (resolution is not accuracy) of 0.1mV.It measures AD/DC voltage and DC current and Ω. Lack of AC current measurement is not important, I think.The cables are thin, stiff and therefore practically useless, but the meters themselves surprised me with their quality.From my point of view this are much better choice (for such small price) than what were linked in first post.Since 'always' I'm using cables made by ripping the 3 wire AC230V cable. Cables made of many thin wires are soft and durable.

author: Potato
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 08:53:22 pm
content: Quote from: Solder_JunkieHe doesn't.The OP needs a cheap multimeter suitable for arduino type work...so will probably spend most of the time probing for 5V or continuity in order to debug why his circuit isn't working.There's very little need for most people to go around "probing" their house wiring when it is live...you can take it as read that the voltage and frequency will be in spec.

author: mwb1100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2025, 10:03:48 pm
content: Quote from: PGPG on February 20, 2025, 08:31:10 pmYup - the famous DT-832 which has been copied under many different models/manufacturers. They are sold in the US for about $5 at Harbor Freight and are famous for being given for free with any purchase (I don't think they have that offer any more). A surprisingly "good enough" meter with not so great usability (but it works) and probably don't want to monkey with mains using it.Strangely I don't come across it much on aliexpress, but I'm not looking for it and if it does show up in a search I probably just unconsciously skip over it.One other meter that the OP might want to consider is theAN101 (review link)which can be found for less than $10. It won't light LEDs but it is amazingly compact and comes with a case that I think is nearly perfect. Same caveat about using this on high energy circuits. Both an older and newer model seem to be available now, with the newer one adding capacitance, frequency and NCV while removing microamp and a second "off" position.And don't believe any claim to True RMS.

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 12:44:15 am
content: Nice!

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 01:05:22 am
content: I'm doing Ableton, then Resolve, then I turn and carve wood, but in the hailing rainy days, when there's no electricity, I would like to assemble robots ... at candlelight.I remember that I've learned how to use 3 functions when i was a kid but then I forgot.I've repaired my handheld vacuum cleaner thanks to people here: basically someone told me that the letters on the board mean what the holes are. ... ha ha...Now I'm gonna add a h bridge and a controller to my mini lathe so I can use it to make a carving tool. I won't take a step without checking with this place.In the future I would like to build a cone cigarette rolling machine with an Arduino. And I don't know how to code either...... aaaanyway... I bought this one:https://fr.aliexpress.com/item/1005007530336684.html?spm=a2g0o.detail.0.0.2125WzxwWzxwpX&mp=1&pdp_npi=5%40dis%21EUR%21EUR%209.58%21EUR%204.79%21%21%21%21%21%400b5dcc3017400983631085712edd3f%2112000041174773861%21ct%21FR%214841011536%21%211%210&gatewayAdapt=glo2fra#nav-specificationsince i'm gonna blow it anyway....

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 01:14:34 am
content: Thank you.I am thinking my project can fly with 12 volt so this and lower small motors and actuators... 5v stuff... that's that. 220v I check with the desk lamp.I live in France. I can buy it but I'll use it 3 times a year.

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 01:16:58 am
content: And what is your recommendation for this small projects?

author: radiolistener
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 01:26:58 am
content: Quote from: Aldo22 on February 20, 2025, 05:36:40 pmI mean precise that when you calibrate it and test, it shows correct values between calibration points. And can keep valid calibration for adequate period of time. Cheap Chinese DMM's like Zoyi or Aneng cannot do that, they have too high non-linearity, so even if you calibrate it with precise standard, they still will not be able to show precise values.Also keep in mind that Chinese measuring instruments can lie in a special way, for example if they see that the value is close to a round value for example 5.975V, they show round value 6.000V so that when measuring the standard it seems that they are accurate, so they should not be checked on round values.

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 01:42:55 am
content: Quote from: mwb1100 on February 20, 2025, 10:03:48 pm

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 01:47:34 am
content: Quote from: Verge on February 21, 2025, 01:05:22 amSZ308 -> rotate digits gives 830

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 02:07:17 am
content: I think I also need to learn how to match my messages with the users... Even though I click reply to a certain user all my responses seem to be grouped... and on the reply page I've seen some messages not seen on the main page. Is there something I should know?And thanks again everybody.And to regroup:My project max24v 5A220v I check with desk lamp.AN101 - looks fantastic... might be the chosen one. <-------------- reverse that!!! ha ha!Cheers!V.

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 03:21:06 am
content: Quote from: Verge on February 21, 2025, 02:07:17 amUse the Quote button on the right side of the message you want to quote:and then while composing your message use the Insert Quote button from the list of replies below the reply composition area.

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 09:07:57 am
content: Quote from: radiolistener on February 21, 2025, 01:26:58 amThat is not what I see on the ZT-225.All the measurements I have made with the ZT-225 are within its specifications (accuracy), as far as I can check, and are repeatable in the relevant range (precision).Paul Taylor had a look at this(SZ20 = ZT-225).In my opinion, the precision is sufficient for a handheld meter.There is a blind spot below 5µV (microvolts), but that's a luxury problem for a $30 DMM.Also your problem of rounding does not apply to the ZT-225:

author: bigendian
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 09:17:18 am
content: Would not care about precision for your project now. Go with a <=30$ as those suggested, will be good also as a backup when you in case will buy a more professional one (that not always worst the cost).

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 12:00:02 pm
content: Quote from: radiolistener on February 21, 2025, 01:26:58 amI think today it's better to say cheap, poor quality instruments than Chinese measuring instruments. The Keithley are made in China and they are good. Being Chinese doesn't tell anything about the quality of the instrument. It can be very good or very bad. The Chinese makes everything.

author: bigendian
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 12:15:37 pm
content: totally agree on the above. As a cheap tester you can have less precise but generally without importance for repair, but of better usability than more expensive stuff. More than precision, from an expensive one i expect to be really protected from wrong use or overvoltages.

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 12:43:37 pm
content: Quote from: Laval on February 20, 2025, 07:02:42 pmThat is wise.

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 01:32:02 pm
content: FNIRSI DMC-100https://fr.aliexpress.com/item/1005008338933955.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.main.1.30a039d7Wlg1ia&algo_pvid=62c47ce4-8ab0-4694-b56d-159efc1834d0&algo_exp_id=62c47ce4-8ab0-4694-b56d-159efc1834d0-0&pdp_ext_f=%7B"order"%3A"140"%2C"eval"%3A"1"%7D&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%2143.30%2137.79%21%21%2144.35%2138.70%21%40211b807017401441534067373e66a2%2112000044674985869%21sea%21FR%214841011536%21X&curPageLogUid=nWl8k3CmhCVm&utparam-url=scene%3Asearch%7Cquery_from%3Aand this:Aneng an101https://fr.aliexpress.com/item/1005006043724340.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.main.3.4ab4387f6dUHPX&algo_pvid=abc05c3d-49c1-4316-999f-e7959ff779d6&algo_exp_id=abc05c3d-49c1-4316-999f-e7959ff779d6-1&pdp_ext_f=%7B"order"%3A"455"%2C"eval"%3A"1"%7D&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%219.07%218.39%21%21%2167.42%2162.34%21%40211b618e17401445266495730eb1e3%2112000035513332062%21sea%21FR%214841011536%21X&curPageLogUid=j730OqLceFCV&utparam-url=scene%3Asearch%7Cquery_from%3AIs the price difference worth it?I rarely mess with mains but I often burn stuff up...

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 01:57:07 pm
content: Quote from: Verge on February 21, 2025, 01:32:02 pmThe question is whether you need a clamp meter.If so, we can compare the clamp meters.The comparison with the super-cheap AN101 is not so useful.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 02:30:13 pm
content: To save money I would go for an old used but high quality meter. For example my Fluke 8050A which is a bench only meter and only has basic functions but it's accurate. That the kind of meter I would use for low power/low voltage work. I paid $25 for mine.

author: Wallace Gasiewicz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 02:31:56 pm
content: Most of the trouble I have measuring voltage is with the test leads. It is not very often that I need any resolution beyond .1 Volt , 100mV.For small test points I find that the pointy test leads are much more useful.If I need resolution and accuracy, I use one of my HP 3456s.Everyone here is correct about the resolution of these instruments, but in practical everyday non professional use, I think the connections and the quality of the test leads are probably the weak point.For a hobbiest who does not need to measure low millivolts, there are plenty of cheap meters that would suffice but cheap meters have pretty bad test leads and probes and that gets aggravating when you cannot touch the point where you want to test or the test lead falls apart, Cheap leads were already mentioned. Good leads are more money, even if you assemble them yourself.BUT for the equivalent of one dollar, you may want to buy several different meters and see what you like, cheaper than a cup of coffee.....I keep a Harbor Freight meter in my pocket when I go to flea markets....the thing works well enough, and it is small to fit in a jacket pocket. If it had good leads, I would think it would be a good starter meter.ADDED:By the way, Lamar has a good point, perhaps see what is available at some Ham Flea Markets?These old bench meters are pretty darn good and very cheap today.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 02:34:49 pm
content: Quote from: radiolistener on February 20, 2025, 03:58:09 pmQuote from: radiolistener on February 21, 2025, 01:26:58 amPrecision (high repeatability/consistency between measurements) is rarely a problem even on the cheapest of DMMs.Accuracy (closeness to the actual value) is more of a problem with cheap DMMs with analog (potentiometer) calibration and cheap components with high temperature coefficients — like in the typical DT830-style meters. Even so they’re usually pretty decent.By the time we move up to models like the autoranging Aneng/Zoyi models, these issues are basically negligible for most use. (The graph Aldo22 shared above is a good example of this.)Hence why the criticism of Chinese multimeters tends to focus on other things, like robustness, safety, and usability.Quote from: radiolistener on February 21, 2025, 01:26:58 amWhile this is well-known to be the case with Chinese panel meters around 0V, and in things like the displays on Chinese soldering stations, I’ve never heard of this on any multimeters. Do you have examples?

author: tunk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 02:51:42 pm
content: If the OP hadn't already ordered a multimeter, then maybe this:https://www.lidl.fr/p/parkside-multimetre-numerique/p100377731

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 03:03:52 pm
content: Quote from: BeBuLamar on February 21, 2025, 12:00:02 pmI largely disagree with that argument, in that what people actually mean when they say “cheap Chinese ” (or even when saying “made in China” disparagingly) what theyreallymean is “low-quality Chinesebrand”. Keithley, Apple, and many other top-quality companies manufacture in China, but they’re not Chinese brands, much less low-quality Chinese brands. (Associating a product with its brand’s country of origin, not the place of manufacture, is in no way unique to China: people talk about foreign vs. domestic cars, for example. If you buy a Honda in USA, it was manufactured in USA, but it’s still a “Japanese” car. Similarly, if you buy a Ford in Europe, it’s an “American” car even though it was manufactured in Europe.)It’s also well-known that, with some exceptions, Chinese-run contract manufacturers are (in)famous for silently starting to cut corners on your productafteryou sign off on sample lots. So companies that have their products manufactured in China but maintain high quality achieve this by having their own people on-site to keep an eye on things at all times, and/or running their own facilities in China where they have full control.And therearetop-quality Chinese brands, too, like Lenovo. But they’re quite rare. And there are some reasonably upper-midrange ones, too (like Xiaomi and Rigol).I don’t think any of the Chinese handheld multimeter manufacturers so far have actually risen to even that level. Midrangeat best.So Chinese-as-in-company-origin handheld multimeters right now arealllow-to-middle quality only.

author: bigendian
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 03:35:59 pm
content: Yes, correct, project and design (r&d) is important, not only the pcb/asembly manufacturing, where at my opinion chinese area is leader..Probably we could say a low quality chinese-designed-prduced is good as soon as you don't do anything wrong with it, at lest for my experience, was able to damage one.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 03:37:56 pm
content: Siglent and Uni-T are at least decent. Not all Chinese stuff are bad.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 03:54:53 pm
content: Quote from: BeBuLamar on February 21, 2025, 03:37:56 pmI would put Siglent in the same category as Rigol and Xiaomi: “reasonably upper-midrange”. I would put Uni-T in “lower-midrange” at best.

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 04:19:27 pm
content: Quote from: tunk on February 21, 2025, 02:51:42 pmLooks more russian. All my electronics fit in the box the soldering station came with. I would like to fit the MM in that box.

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 04:41:42 pm
content: Quote from: tunk on February 21, 2025, 02:51:42 pmI would make sure it has a diode test mode - that turns out to be very useful for low voltage electronics.

author: temperance
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 05:14:08 pm
content: I found for you The first multi meter ever made:https://hausoftools.com/blogs/news/a-century-of-innovation-the-history-of-the-multimeter?srsltid=AfmBOop3fIBObOyr01B0Ie6zOCAUhUTZxv_nPrLTOb9vQM89gV90Pm_JHowever, the bearded vintage guys driving vintage trucks discovered this meter some time ago. As such prices have gone up.-A dead one goes for $5K-A working one goes for $10K-Expect to pay around $30K NOS in the original shipping crate.Of course they need recapping and resistoring as soon as possible. Sets with vintage high drift high noise resistors can be had for $300.

author: bigendian
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 05:33:09 pm
content: i does not fit in the box

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2025, 05:38:26 pm
content: Yeah, learn all the tiny symbols... I'm pretty scared, It's true...Now I want to customize my lathe, check it out here:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/beginners/reversing-24v-8000rpm-motor/

author: donnyDA
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 07:01:19 am
content: If you're starting out, don't overthink the problem of which equipment to start with.When I bought my first oscilloscope, I spent 2 days stressing about channel rise time.Then I went and bought the cheapest I could find at the time. A Trio-Kenwood single channel 5 Mhz unit.You would be surprised at what one can do with a single channel CRO.Nowdays you are spoilt for choice and missing the fundamental reasons.Don't let modern test equipment think for you.I guess its somewhat like modern cars. Do you buy a car for the dashboard or for the economy ?

author: donnyDA
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 07:07:58 am
content: Quite true about DMM precision if you'd grown up with an analog multimeter when first learning electronics. Bit like using the James-Webb after training on a 150mm Dobsonian.

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 10:18:20 am
content: Sounds commonsensical.I wouldn't have imagined that there are MMeters that don't measure current. I thought these basic functions are included with all Multimeters. .1 error or something like that I expect and don't mind, but to measure consumption one needs current and voltage I thought these are basic functions and are all included in the most basic devices. It's possible my projects will grow in time but for the next couple of years I'll be stalking low DC current.+, ... everybody has burned one... I'm practically buying a death row inmate.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 10:48:01 am
content: Quote from: Verge on February 22, 2025, 10:18:20 amMany professionals in the electrical field never use the current measurement function of the DMM. If your electrical work is not much in electronic and experimental but rather in housing or factory electrical you never use the current measurement of the DMM. Yes there are many times you need to measure current like current of motor, current flowing in a branch circuit, current draw of a heating element but in those cases the clamp meter is much better. Also if you forget and leave the meter in the current measurement configuration and put the probes to a voltage source you would at least blow a fuse in the meter if not something more serious. So DMM without the current measurement function makes sense in some cases. Check out the newest Fluke DMM, the 283 FC, it's quite expensive yet there is no current measurement function built in. You can buy a clamp to use with it.

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 12:01:45 pm
content: I don't think a hobbyist/newbie who doesn't know exactly what he wants, needs a clamp meter.If you want to know how many watts your toaster draws, use something likethis, which is much more convenient.For hobby electronics ("Arduino"), a normal DMM with a current measurement function is much more accurate and sensitive.Maybe you can use a DC clamp meter in your car, if that's what you're planning.

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 12:46:34 pm
content: Quote from: Aldo22 on February 22, 2025, 12:01:45 pmWhat many beginners also don't understand is that you can't simply put your clamp meter around the mains lead of your toaster. You need to split out the line conductor from the rest of the cable. Not straightforward to do safely.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 12:50:04 pm
content: My response to the OP as to why they make DMM without the current function. I don't mean in the case of the OP getting a DMM without current function is a good idea. I just want to point out that in many types of electrical work the current measurement function of the DMM is never needed.

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 01:04:08 pm
content: Very true, I never use the current function on my DMMs, I have built my own set of low burden shunt resistors (https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/my-shunt-collection-(ucurrent-passive)) - much more accurate than is needed for general hobby use though, standard 1% metal film are fine.For Arduino type stuff, you are far better inserting the appropriate low value resistor in series with the circuit and measuring the voltage drop across it using your DMM mV range. This will avoid issues with the excessive voltage drop (burden voltage) which is quite common with DMMs, particularly the cheaper ones. Often you can find a resistor that is already in the circuit that you can measure the voltage across and derive the current using Ohm's law.

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 01:32:01 pm
content: Yes, I sometimes use a 0.1Ω resistor when I want to measure current with the scope.Set the scope channel to 10x and then it is approximately correct if you read V as A.Not super accurate, of course.

author: mwb1100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 02:15:43 pm
content: Quote from: Gyro on February 22, 2025, 12:46:34 pmThese are a big help for that:-Extech 480172 AC Line SplitterI imagine they make them for other countries as well.edit: fixed the broken link pointed out by @bte

author: bte
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 05:09:32 pm
content: Quote from: mwb1100 on February 22, 2025, 02:15:43 pmHere's the fixed link for the product:https://www.amazon.com/Extech-480172-AC-Line-Splitter/dp/B0000YHN9W

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 08:36:06 pm
content: Quote from: Gyro on February 22, 2025, 01:04:08 pm"set of low burden shunt resistors" - Looks tip top.Me, I would like to know for example if my lathe transformer gives what the box says, how much the motor drawsand arduino I haven't even started yet but I imagine that I will have to feed different voltages to different bits, check the flow across the system...... and I don't really need a clamp as open wire is common in this business but I would love something like a peg with 1cm square screen and two antennas one just places around the closed wire ... keyring multimeter for Arduino wires...small simple cheap no big deal. I think the an101 will do a memorable service.

author: wasedadoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 09:16:40 pm
content: Note that there are two versions of the AN101. The newer one is much more capable.Old:https://lygte-info.dk/review/DMMAnengAN101%20UK.htmlNew:

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 10:41:04 pm
content: Quote from: wasedadoc on February 22, 2025, 09:16:40 pmI haven't seen a version mention on ali exp., when I'll become more capable, I'll invest.Thank you for the video, very instructive especially noting that there is no manual. It has Non Contact Voltage

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2025, 11:49:06 pm
content: Quote from: wasedadoc on February 22, 2025, 09:16:40 pmHow often do you have to replace the battery?The CR2032 are a quite expensive here.I think that would be a reason for me not to buy this DMM.AN8008, for example, has two (cheap) AAA batteries and works for quite a long time.

author: wasedadoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2025, 12:10:09 am
content: Quote from: Aldo22 on February 22, 2025, 11:49:06 pmI don't know the battery life. The review of the old model AN101 includes some measurements of its current consumption. 2032 cells are not expensive from places such as Poundland in the UK.I've had an 8008 for about 4 years but the new 101 for just months. The 8008 just feels less fiddly to use. It doesn't have NCV/EF but I think that is not so relevant for the OP. As a pocket meter for occasional use at a great price the newer 101 is a no-brainer.

author: mwb1100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2025, 02:25:42 am
content: For my 2 cents, the AN101 should be considered pretty much only for one of 2 reasons:1. you want to spend less than $102. you want a really compact pocket sized meterFor a compact pocket meter the thing that won me over for the AN101 is the case (!). Many pocket meters (even some pricier ones) come with a clumsy case that gets in the way. The AN101 comes with a case that includes a stand which is actually useful and handy. You can also close the case with the cables outside of it (there's a notch cut into the case for this) and read the meter through a window that is slightly more transparent than the case in general. The readout isn't great, but it's usable even if barely.I never use it in this fashion, but I could imagine some reason for it like if you justhaveto do some work on a car's electrical while the car is outdoors in poor weather. Hey - it could happen!

author: mwb1100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2025, 02:33:19 am
content: Quote from: bte on February 22, 2025, 05:09:32 pmD'oh!I always preview and check my links... the one time I don't because I'm in rush for the door, and I fubar it!Thanks for the assist! I fixed the link in the original post too...

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2025, 10:50:48 am
content: Quote from: wasedadoc on February 23, 2025, 12:10:09 amThey are quite expensive for the capacity they have.Example: The 2xAAA in the AN8008 have a total of approx. 2400mAh and cost approx. 60 cents both together in our country.A single CR2032 costs 60 cents here and has only 200mAh.So the same energy costs 7.20 with CR2032 instead of -.60 with AAA.You may not care, but if you really want a cheap DMM because of the cost, it might be worth considering.EDIT: Not quite right. The CR2032 have 3V.You should actually compare the Wh.Then it looks a little better for the CR2032 (3.60), but still much more expensive.

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2025, 02:48:54 pm
content: Quote from: mwb1100 on February 23, 2025, 02:25:42 amYep!I love my r2d2....and I have crocodiles. I bought 20mm ones... more space for the wire. BTW, how do you guys resolved the connection of the customized probe to the case?

author: mwb1100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2025, 07:48:35 pm
content: Quote from: Verge on February 23, 2025, 02:48:54 pmI don't understand the question. Are you asking how to fit probes other than the ones the AN101 comes with into the case?

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2025, 08:19:46 pm
content: Yes, the original probes have a type of tambours that one sticks into the device. I bought crocodiles and wire... those plugs I will have to source from the original I suppose.

author: wasedadoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2025, 08:38:31 pm
content: Quote from: Verge on February 23, 2025, 08:19:46 pmNo need to butcher the supplied test leads.Ordinary, non-shrouded, 4mm banana plugs do fit.eghttps://cpc.farnell.com/tenma/ten01014/test-lead-set-4mm-plug-croc-clip/dp/IN00770?st=banana%20plug%20lead. For you safety, do not use these above about 30 volts.or buy the plugs and connect your own wire and croc clips. Plugs also used for for Hi-Fi loudspeakers etc.https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/310223698109?chn=ps&_ul=GB&mkevt=1&mkcid=28&google_free_listing_action=view_item

author: mwb1100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2025, 10:48:53 pm
content: An alternative is crocodile clips that slip onto the 2mm probe ends:https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/7113l9dnUzL._AC_SL1500_.jpg

author: Verge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2025, 11:31:46 pm
content: One better be knowing what they want. Nice idea with the crocodiles that slip. I guess I can drill a tiny hole and put a screw in the crocodiles I'll get. On the other hand I need banana plugs. They look like 3.5 jacks.Thank you both for pointing me to the products.

author: mwb1100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2025, 02:56:50 am
content: Quote from: Verge on February 23, 2025, 11:31:46 pmLike@wasedadocsaid, common 4mm banana plugs fit as long as they are unshrouded or have a retractable shroud.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2025, 09:15:11 am
content: Quote from: Aldo22 on February 22, 2025, 11:49:06 pmThey are only expensive if you buy them at non-discount retail (Migros, Fust, etc.).Name-brand ones are available much cheaper from Conrad, Amazon, Reichelt, digitec, etc.You can get cheap no-name ones from Aldi, they keep them above the checkout belt. Lidl sometimes has them, but not always.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2025, 09:18:39 am
content: Quote from: Aldo22 on February 23, 2025, 10:50:48 amWithout a doubt the cost per Wh is much higher.However, those tiny pocket meters are not really intended to be someone’s main multimeter — they’re often kept in a toolbox or car for “emergencies” — so they don’t get used as often, and they’re often kind of forgotten about, which means that with alkaline AAA’s, you run a serious risk of them leaking inside the multimeter. Lithium button cells are far, far less likely to leak, and that makes them ideal for this type of situation.

author: u666sa
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2025, 01:12:50 am
content: Quote from: Verge on February 20, 2025, 12:53:43 pmDon't watch youtube reviews. A lot of these companies send products to youtubers and get reviews, mostly good. Usually multimeter is crap and it has bunch of good reviews on youtube.Bottom line here, cheap multimeter is crap.Buy a multimeter for around $50 to $150, for example UT-61E+ or older UT-61E... Both are good. Older cost $50, newer cost $90, newer is not much better than older. Frankly older is a copy of an expensive Voltcraft VC-890.You live in France, $20 is nothing for you. Save some money. Get an okey multimeter.

author: themadhippy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2025, 01:39:10 am
content: QuoteHow do you know what is and isnt nothing? to me $20 is nearly my total food shop for a week

author: u666sa
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2025, 02:06:35 am
content: Quote from: themadhippy on April 30, 2025, 01:39:10 amIn Britain?I'm subbed to Bald and Bankrupt, by the way. $20 is not money in Europe. Bag of chips and soda.