Multimeter HELP - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2013, 01:37:39 am
content: Well, this years Christmas present will be a new multimeter. So now I need help. I currently have some manual ranging Sperry DM-3500 meter, and am looking to upgrade. I have 4 options:1. Keep this meter, go buy a LCR meter. What I am really missing anyways is just to measure capacitance, however added accuracy + digits from a new DMM would be helpful.2. Purchase a new Agilent U1272/3, or a Fluke 87V (Used), or a used Fluke 189. Basically 4.5 Digit handheld meters, however, I cannot measure ESR and inductance3. High quality 6.5 digit benchtop meter. Agilent 34401A, you get the point. High accuracy. Or the Rigol DM30584. Finally, purchase an Agilent 3468/3478 or Fluke 8840, and then purchase a separate LCR.Please let me know what you think...

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2013, 01:58:29 am
content: I would go for a new Agilent meter. It is Christmas after all.Measuring ESR is great, but it is mostly needed when fixing old appliances or power supplies. So, seldom used, unless you are in the repair business.The Agilent will measure capacitance accurately on a wide enough range, so no much to worry about there.The Rigol would be tempting too, but you would lose the mobility.As for inductance, be patient and buy a proper LCR meter before the following Christmas.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2013, 02:19:03 am
content: OK. Thanks. So an Agilent U1272 it is. What do you think about the 1252 though?

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2013, 02:52:33 am
content: I prefer the form factor of the 1252, but the battery life is poor and will need constant recharge. The 1272, with its 4 AAA batteries will need less attention and will just work when you need it in a hurry.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 19, 2013, 02:55:57 am
content: Wytnucls is just waiting for me to bring up my favorite alternatives. Agilent and Fluke aren't the only good meters. Consider a Brymen BM869. Look Brymen up on youtube and here and maybe save yourself some money.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2013, 03:03:14 am
content: I think we discussed this before, but for someone in the States, Fluke or Agilent makes more sense when you consider warranty and customer service. There is always Greenlee, I guess, but more expensive probably.The Agilent has a battery life of 300 hours with 4 AAA batteries, for roughly the same specs as the Brymen. Hard act to follow.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2013, 03:10:04 am
content: I've looked at Brymen before, but thought, hell, I might as well just spend the money on an Agilent/Fluke and be happy with their supposedly excellent service.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2013, 03:12:46 am
content: Also, if the data logging interface is purchased, the Agilent software looks pretty neat. I must confess I haven't seen the Brymen version though. Could be just as good.