Greenlee DM-830A or... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dazler
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2016, 03:10:08 am
content: Good afternoon,I am looking for a decent DMM to use around the house and to use on small solar panel controller, the ones that charge 3v lion for the patio spot light LED.I see recommendation for greenlee but no much talk on that specific modelhttp://www.greenlee.com/products/DMM%2540c-TRMS-AC%2540PlusDC%2540cDUALTEMP(DM%2540d830A).html?product_id=17755Is around 240 USD and lifetime warranty.I also looked at the extech MM560A as some say is of good quality, but only have a 3yr warranty.This one look good but no much info TPI 194http://testproductsintl.com/194.html#.VqrW_ZX2bAsI can afford the famous 87v but as I don't make a living measuring I don't see the need to spend the 400 USD.I did saw the 100 shootout but as is been some time since the video that why I am looking at this ones.Thank you.

author: rrinker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2016, 03:36:08 am
content: What about the Amprobe 37XR-A - I thought they were fairly well thought of, and are about $140 on Amazon. I was looking at that one myself.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 29, 2016, 05:00:36 am
content: The meters you mention are Brymen re-badges. They are both great meters and you would be happy with either. I personally think that most people would be perfectly happy with the Brymen BM257S, $135 shipped to your door from iloveelectronics here on the forum. The DM830A is a re-branded Brymen BM829S.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2016, 07:32:06 am
content: Quote from: dazler on January 29, 2016, 03:10:08 amSome comments/thoughts.1) I have two Greenlee (Brymen) meters. I bought both used for about $25 USD each. They are quality meters. Like any meter, it has its pros and cons, but overall I'm happy with them.2) When any company uses the term "lifetime warranty", you should ask questions and check the terms and conditions.3) As you mentioned the Fluke 87V, it has a "lifetime warranty". Fluke clearly defines lifetime in the following screenshot.4) For the Greenlee, you should ask them what "lifetime" means in terms ofconcrete/tangible years. A clearly written statement on the greenlee.com website would be ideal. Verbal promises or statements from Greenlee support are non binding.5) Lifetime warranties are only good if the company stays in business to honor them.6) Presently, Greenlee rebrands Brymen as their own meters, but that could change in the future? The next manufacturer may not be the same quality?7) You should check to see if the lifetime warranty has buying conditions. That is, do you have to buy from an authorized Greenlee dealer?8] If you are open to buying used, you can likely get two 830As for the same $240 USD. Buying used, you may not get the "lifetime warranty" though? A question to ask Greenlee.9) I have seen used 830As, in the past, go for well under $100 USD on ebay. It requires patience and discipline.10) I have no financial gain/affiliation with any test equipment manufacturer. I'm just trying to make you aware of some of the issues when spending possibly $240 USD (or $500 CDN with the current exchange rate) on a meter.

author: dazler
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2016, 09:54:10 pm
content: Thank for the replys,I was not thinking of buying used but i will search for a used meter and get more bang for the $.I will even check for a used 87v but if not i will keep looking for a bryment 829,869 i think i saw one for 150 usd dont remember where.Yep i guess i should not worry to much about a lifetime warranty i will take super care of it. Like i do with all my electronics.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2016, 12:20:57 am
content: A few other options.1) This is a Greenlee DM820A. Right now, I don't have time to research the difference between this and the 830A, but this seller is asking $125 USD + $12 s/h.http://www.ebay.com/itm/151965305240Seller's past history of accepting offers suggests he would take between $90 and $105. You would get a new meter, but probably without warranty from Greenlee?2) Dave has his own Brymen meter, the BM235 (now public information). Seehttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/eevblog-bm235-multimeter-dilemma/3) You can easily get an used Fluke 87 in the $150 USD range. Look at your local craigslist or pawn shop to avoid competition on ebay. Ebay can yield 87Vs in the $100 to $150 USD, but requires patience and discipline.