Looking New DMM - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 06:17:36 am
content: I am looking for a new DMM. I currently have a true RMS BK precision meter that is OK, but not great. I am considering the fluke 289/287. I am into electronics and my buddy has the 289, which he enjoys. What I am asking is if the Fluke 289 or Fluke 287 is better for electronics and overall usage (the fluke 289 should have everything the 287 has except for two additional features)?Would it be better to wait for a new fluke meter or get one without the dot matrix display? I have also been considering Agilent's DMMs, but after watching some videos I can tell that cell phones and the agilent DMM's don't get along as well as the fluke (I will be on my phone). I also like the idea of trendcapture, but have no idea how well it works.I just bought a very nice Agilent MSO3014A so a nice DMM would be a great addition to my test equipment.Any input would be greatly appreciated.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 06:48:48 am
content: Didn't you ask this question before ? It's battery life is pretty short

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 07:49:24 am
content: the trendcapture on the 289 is great and useful, you can record with it in every second 1 sample, if you connect it to the pc software it can record 8 samples /s only tested this for a few minutes but i doubt it would decrase do to the pc has enough space to record, well for battery life get 6 2500mah eneloops the blackones and it will be solved. i suggest if you buy one 1 of the 28x series buy it in kit cos you get much cheaper a case, data cable, software, and the hanger which is great.i cant comment on the agilent cos i do not own one, but i would love to see 1 in my hands

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 07:54:55 am
content: Will this be for bench or field work?I ask, as battery life is more important in field work than bench IMHO (stuck in the middle of nowhere without spare batteries is more than a minor nuisance; dead batteries on a bench isn't that big a deal comparatively speaking).That said, both Fluke and Agilent make good meters for both types of use.I own the U1252 and am happy with it's performance. Better cost/performance ratio than the Fluke. I don't hold a phone next to it, but I don't recall that even being an issue (do recall cell phones and the 87-V weren't best friends though, and the IR data port on the 287/9 units can cause issues if it's not covered with electrical tape when the cable is not plugged in).Make a comparison of say the U1252/3 with the 287/9 and see what appeals to you for your specific needs.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 08:12:16 am
content: Sure you aren't mixing up the cell phone issue? The Fluke 87V is the one that had the cell phone issue. Never heard of Agilent having an issue.The Agilent U1272A is not a bad alternative if you want better battery life and better day to day usability IMO.Dave.

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 08:16:15 am
content: Quote from: nanofrog on May 29, 2012, 07:54:55 amhmm thanks for remininding that issue, i gonna check mine its made few months ago wonder they fixed it or not

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 08:25:56 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on May 29, 2012, 08:12:16 amOnly thing the U1272 was not really intended for electronics, rather field workU1252 is a slight bit more expensive but it's more accurate and 50,000 counts.OR the U1251 which apparently doesn't have the AC+DC measurement capability

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 09:13:56 am
content: Quote from: DaveXRQ on May 29, 2012, 08:25:56 amEssentially only because it has the Low-Z capability really. Apart from that, I'd say it's certainly and "electronics class" meter.Dave.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 01:11:56 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on May 29, 2012, 09:13:56 amBut yeah, apart from the lower resolution it's certain electronics class material ...

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 01:44:10 pm
content: Quote from: DaveXRQ on May 29, 2012, 01:11:56 pmUmm, it's 30,000 count, and dual display to boot, what's the problem?The Fluke 87V is only 20,000 count, and it's the industry standard meter in this class, and IMO has the basic specs that define what a professional "electronics class" meter should have.Yeah, 50,000 count is better, but not by a huge margin. Certainly doesn't put it into another category.Dave.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 03:06:54 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on May 29, 2012, 01:44:10 pmYeah ... dual display? Woot ! Didn't noticeBut it's alright, self preference

author: zaoka
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 03:38:43 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on May 29, 2012, 08:12:16 amIf the serial number is greater than 19470148 is will have the GSM fix (Fluke 87V)

author: zaoka
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 03:43:13 pm
content: Z_LOW I use to discharge large capacitors, it really helps))

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 04:48:24 pm
content: Quote from: zaoka on May 29, 2012, 03:43:13 pmDidn't know that ... very handy with a LCR meter but nothing beats a big phillips screwdriver

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 06:05:44 pm
content: What about the new Agilent U1273A vs. the U1272A? I don't really like the OLED screen (ugly), but nevertheless if it has any benefit other than being new and gimmicky then I will consider it.Regardless of what I get I am going to get a second DMM so if I were to get the 289 then I would get something with a little better battery life for day to day use while keeping the 289 for large tasks or bench work.Also if I were to buy the agilent would it be better to go through mouser, newark, or...?

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 06:11:39 pm
content: Quote from: zopsi on May 29, 2012, 06:05:44 pmThey are the same ain't it ? Go for the 1272

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 08:45:21 pm
content: Quote from: zopsi on May 29, 2012, 06:05:44 pmI've not used the OLED screen versions, but Dave and at least one other member have, and made reviews of the screens (as well as the rest of it). I've the impression they'd be great for bench work (not so wonderful outdoors, as they can be hard to see/read), but they also suck battery power, causing a notable reduction in battery life (why I skipped it).The standard screen on the U1252B is fine, and the backlight is quite good IMHO, so I'm not feeling buyer's remorse at all skipping the OLED screen. Pics of the U1272B display seen quite good too, so I don't think you'd be disappointed.If you're fixed on getting a 287/9, then the U1272B would be a good meter to have (as Dave mentioned, 30,000 count dual display is quite good, and more than suitable for general electronics). Better accuracy is nice, and if you do so, probably isn't needed in more than a single meter (cheaper too, even if not significantly so).As per where to buy, go for the best price (considering the companies you've listed). I got mine through Future Electronics, but they are no longer an Agilent Distributor (as of Jan. 1, 2012).Quote from: DaveXRQ on May 29, 2012, 06:11:39 pmOLED for sure, and perhaps a minor feature as well (can do a comparison on Agilent's site last I looked).

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 29, 2012, 10:26:37 pm
content: Quote from: nanofrog on May 29, 2012, 08:45:21 pmThe OLED screen is gorgeous (presumably the same as the U1253), but does not work outside at all, totally useless.The reduction in battery life is massive, 30 hours vs 300 hours.http://cp.literature.agilent.com/litweb/pdf/5989-7340EN.pdfApart from the screen and battery life, no difference.QuoteI concur.The OLED is very nice, but only if you can live with the reduced battery life and no outdoor use.To me it's not worth it, LCD is by far the better option, but OLED might be a better option for some people (visually impaired, unique indoor environments, longer distance viewing etc).I copped a lot of shit over that U1252 review!Dave.

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 02:12:36 am
content: So the comparable fluke model would be the fluke 87-v or some other? How would that stack up against this? Better for electronics, better battery life, better construction, better feel, etc.By the way I absolutely love this forum you guys are extremely helpful. I have never bought this level of equipment before and am a little lost in terms of buyer experience which you guys have supplemented with your experience and knowledge.Thanks guys!

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 02:40:37 am
content: Quote from: zopsi on May 30, 2012, 02:12:36 amHave you seen my U1272A review? that is discussed.The 87V does not have the features anymore to compete head-head in the current market in any bang-per-buck shootout. The 1272A beats it on that. But the 87V is better built, and has the best reputation in the industry, plus the lifetime warranty, and better battery life. The U1272A is new and hasn't proven itself, indeed it has had firmware issues.They are hard to compare really.Dave.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 06:24:49 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on May 29, 2012, 10:26:37 pmAccording to the link (I had forgotten the exact numbers), it's worse for the U1252B (36 hrs) vs. U1253B (8 hrs). As a test, I found mine makes it to ~20% remaining before it gets flakey (display cut in and out). But I keep spare batteries at the ready, so it shouldn't be a major issue. For someone else though, that could be a real problem.The U1272B vs. U1273B fairs better at 300 hrs. and 30-60 hrs. respectively.Quote from: EEVblog on May 29, 2012, 10:26:37 pmIt wasn't me.Quote from: zopsi on May 30, 2012, 02:12:36 amSee Dave's post on the 87V vs. U1272/3B.As per the U1252/3B, the 287/9 is the right one to compare it with.To me, the Agilent offers a better cost/performance ratio than the Fluke (I compared the 287 v. the U1252B). The Agilent can be had cheaper and it included a calibration with data in the box with very similar features and specs. But Agilent's HH DMM's haven't been around long enough to have the reputation Fluke does, and there are a few very minor complaints (i.e. the feel isn't quite as sturdy <can be twisted a bit with effort>, 9V instead of AA's, rubberized coating could peel, and battery life). It's not junk though (see Dave's video on the U1253A if you haven't already). But the Fluke's you're looking at are not perfect either as already mentioned.In terms of warranty, Fluke's is longer (up to 10 years; read the fine print on their site), while the Agilent's only have a 3 yr. warranty. But most problems usually occur in that time anyway in my experience. And who knows; something better may be along by then anyway.Either brand would make a good choice in the models you're looking at IMHO, but it's up to you which way you want to go.Hope this helps.

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 07:20:34 am
content: In terms of cost effectiveness of the fluke 287 vs 289 which one is better? Are the added features of the Fluke 289 worth it for electronics?I watched your review of the U1272A and I like it a lot, but it seems like you encountered a lot of firmware issues that would be of significance for me. Example, measuring low valued caps would be nice. Also did they ever release a firmware update to fix the beep delay? That would be a big concern of mine. Another concern is the overloading issue.Do you know of Fluke releasing anything anytime soon? Any applicable models to replace the 87-V or the 289/287?I apologize if I am being repetitive, but I want to be sure before I spend this much money.Thanks again!

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 08:20:45 am
content: Quote from: zopsi on May 30, 2012, 07:20:34 amNo firmware update for the Agilent last I checked.Fluke rarely release a new meter, let alone a follow-up to their best selling lines. They are the masters of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". I think you'd be waiting many years a minimum. But I have no inside info.Dave.

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 08:37:33 am
content: Quote from: zopsi on May 30, 2012, 07:20:34 amhope they wont replace anytime soon the 28x series that would mean only 7 years left from my warranty on mine.the extra fatures on the 289 is nice to have even if you wont need it but who knows when it will come handy. and for electronics measuring low value resistors or cable resistance the low ohms function is nice on the 289. if you dont have a bench meter with 4 wire resitance measurment.as for the agilent meters with oled displays, i would definetly get a spare battery cover and wire the thing up to AA batteries or bigger, if its only for bench. if i remember correctly there is a slight data logging difference between the 1252 and the 1253, 100-to 1000 readings to the benefit of the oled version

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 06:12:14 pm
content: I would be buying the U1272A not the U1273A as this would be my mobile meter. I am buying two meters the Fluke 289 for bench work or advanced field work and some other more mobile meter.I feel like I shouldn't be spending that much money on a meter that hasn't been put through the ringer like the 87-v. I would feel much more comfortable about buying it if it didn't have so many firmware issues. If anyone owns one of these and feels differently please chime in because I would be happy to hear your input.I recently bought a MSOX3014a from the recommendation of the users on this forum and love it, but I feel like the agilent dmms have not caught up with their oscopes.I will be buying a Fluke 289 and hoping it doesn't get replaced within the next 2-3 years. I will stick with my cheap BK Precision meter for mobile use until the Agilent has proven itself or Fluke releases a newer model with better features.On a side note I bought one of those µCurrents and they sound brilliant. Thanks Dave.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 06:26:31 pm
content: Wait ... they did fix issues you know, the U1272A has been out for quite a long time already

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 06:34:56 pm
content: Little over a year right? Did they fix the beep latency?

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 06:49:37 pm
content: Quote from: zopsi on May 30, 2012, 06:34:56 pmYeah. Ask DJ, maybe he knows

author: StubbornGreek
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 07:56:34 pm
content: I have the Agilent u1253b and I've played with the Fluke 289 plenty. Here's my take:I use this meter solely for my home lab so I thought I'd be fine hooking it up to a pc for log data (it not a big deal really) but I wish I just had a 289 handy sometimes due to its native log representation (graphing, etc.).The battery I felt would be fine, as I said, this is for home use. Unfortunately, it is a bit frustrating sometimes and charge time isn't a couple of minutes (nor can you use the meter while charging).That said, now that I've owned the u1253b for a while, there's no freaking way on the planet I would ever give it up! I have really grown to love this meter (in spite of some initial buyer's remorse - I really felt like I purchased into the OLED gimick).Hope this helps.

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 08:14:35 pm
content: the fluke 289 could have more fatures in the software. and hardware functions. a real time trend would be good to have in standard mode there is enough space on single display mode and even for a smaller version of it in 2 display mode. etc ohh and much faster trending at full lenght data view

author: grenert
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 08:34:51 pm
content: Yeah, the total lack of firmware updates/new features in the Fluke 289 is a disappointing, given its potential. Especially when they tout "field upgradeable and expandable" as one of the features.The one and only update was back in 2008

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 08:49:20 pm
content: Quote from: zopsi on May 30, 2012, 07:20:34 amThey're essentially identical, but the 287 is aimed at electronics, while the 289 is aimed at industrial plant use. So there's a few additional features in the 289 not available on the 287.Fluke has a comparison page (http://www.fluke.com/Fluke/usen/products/ProdSelGuide-DMM.htm).289 has the following the 287 does not:Motor Drive MeasurementLowZ2 wire low ohms measurementAnalog BargraphStand-alone loggingThough these can be nice (particularly the bargraph), it's not critical, and adds ~$50-100USD to the cost of the unit.Quote from: M. András on May 30, 2012, 08:37:33 amThey're identical in terms of logging depth. OLED and Smoothing Function is all the U1253B adds.Software is free (download from their site), and the cable is only ~$30USD, which makes it a far better value than either the 287 or 289 in FVF kit form.Unlike the U1272 (which still isn't bad IMHO, even if the firmware issues still remain; not sure if there's an update or not as I don't own one), the U1252/3B doesn't seem to have any significant firmware issues (I don't recall running into any).Seen one complaint by another member here that there is no visible or audible alarm when AC is detected on DC range on a U1253B (probably need to test mine just to see). Though this would be nice to have, it's not absolutely critical IMHO as it is well built in terms of protection and it also has an AC+DC range.Might be a variance between the two different models though, so it may only affect the U1253B.

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 09:06:46 pm
content: If they released a new update to the fluke 289 or came out with a new series I would buy it in a heartbeat. Love the quality of fluke products.How old are the U12552B and U1253B? Will they be replaced within the next 3 years? Is the OLED really worth it if I am not going to be carrying it around?The idea is to get a larger meter with crap battery life to go on my work bench (Fluke 289 or U1253B). Then I will get something that I can carry around (Fluke 87-V, U1272A, U1252B?).I want something that will last a minimum of 2 years without something substantially better coming out (at least for the big bench meter).You guys are really helping. I am starting to lean towards the agilent stuff.

author: Baliszoft
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 09:28:18 pm
content: I would not get the U1253B with the OLED (and crap battery life). I am happy that i went for a U1252B instead (though Fluke 87V was the other candidate). It is a perfect bench (!) meter and i love its 5,0000 resolution. I do mainly low power measurements (uC and stuffs) and the readings go from 0,0000 to 5,0999 so i can just verify my 5V rail(s). Not mentioning its precision (which is a lot better than a 87V).

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 09:46:56 pm
content: Quote from: zopsi on May 30, 2012, 09:06:46 pmThey started with the A series, and the B series came out in 2009 I think. I can't be sure as to the next revision or model, but if they're following the usual course of A & B releases, it's likely going to be around awhile yet (never seen a C revision, but B tends to stick around for a good while).Quote from: zopsi on May 30, 2012, 09:06:46 pmThis is fine, but how often will you need one vs. the other?One meter can do both if you don't get caught up in gimmicks/marketing. For example, the 289 is aimed at field work (industrial plant = big electric motors for example). The U1253B would be horrible in outdoor conditions, so the U1252B is a better choice (quite good on the bench too; display is very easy to read, and the backlight is very good too; no washout). It survives a fall from the bench (too chicken to try any higher). With some care, it would be fine in field work as well (don't drop it 4 stories sort of thing).At the time I bought mine, Agilent was running a Rebate program ($100 back on the 125xB series), so the meter, data cable, and shipping was ~$310USD. Compared to the 289FVF kit, it was an outright bargain, even if it didn't include the calibration with data cert.. Still is IMHO.As per long-term reliability, we don't know, but so far, it seems to be doing just fine. The quibbles/complaints are quite minor overall on this series (seems to have a bit more substance with the U1272B, but even that seems to still be a great value vs. the 87V, even if it is one of the units that do not have the GSM phone issue).Of course, you will certainly want, and likely need, more than one meter anyway.But there are some very good ones in the shootouts Dave made, so take a look. You don't need to have say 4 Flukes, Agilents, Gossens,... on the bench when BK or UTi for example will serve you very well for 2 or 3 of them @ around the $100-130 mark per.Quote from: zopsi on May 30, 2012, 09:06:46 pmI don't think this is going to be a problem. Fluke takes forever to release new models, and I don't think Agilent is going to do new ones every 3 years either (i.e. B series fixed issues with the A series, but they're still nearly identical; board revision of the same fundamental circuits <fixed/improved things in areas such as protection>, perhaps some firmware changes, and cosmetic changes <orange instead of blue cases, but the key layout is the same>). It certainly wasn't re-inventing the wheel.

author: StubbornGreek
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 10:09:24 pm
content: Since this thread is all about top-end handhelds, has anyone played with the u1401b (looks tasty - not to mention fast)?Here's a link:http://www.home.agilent.com/agilent/product.jspx?nid=-34618.920239.00&cc=US&lc=eng

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2012, 10:17:06 pm
content: I considered that one, but I don't really need the calibrator functionality. Anyone have any experience with it though? Same with the U1272/U1273 or U1252/U1253.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 03:34:29 pm
content: Many people spend as much on a fluke as they spend on their scope.Ask yourself, do you need to blow that much on a 3rd or 4th meter?You can very well buy 2 scopes for the price of a 287 or buy a BK-P or a UT61E and save that cash for a spectrum analyzer

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 04:12:43 pm
content: Oh man. If only I could have a spectrum analyzer. My BK Precision works fine, but I have an ego the size of a Hummer and always want the best.

author: Kilroy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 05:24:14 pm
content: Quote from: Zopsi on May 30, 2012, 09:06:46 pmNot to put too fine a point on it, but...that OLED screen is pure marketing bling. This is what happens when you give some marketing ponce too long a lease.No reasonable designer puts a display like that into a professional tool when there are no redeeming qualities to be gained by having it there. And, in this case it has exactly zero redeeming qualities...zero. It adds zero functionality...in fact, less than zero insomuch as it actually detracts from the usefulness of the meter by contributing a grossly unacceptable battery discharge profile. It's a totally illogical design choice from every imaginable sound engineering viewpoint, made even more illogical by virtue of the fact that implementing a better solution was not an elusive exercise in the first place.And it's insulting. I mean just look at it...it just screams girly man.QuoteJust to make your decision even harder, why not look at something completely different. The UEI DM397 is a much less expensive meter, is very accurate, huge easy to read 50,000 count dual display, has loads of features for both industrial and electronics applications, is rugged, has a good warranty period, comes with rudimentary logging software and cabling. Should be able to find one for a little over $200. Buy two. Made in South Korea with love. I have had nothing but great performance from the one I own and would buy another without hesitation if/when this one gets lost/stolen/trashed.

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 05:54:30 pm
content: How is the battery life on the UEI DM397?

author: Kilroy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 06:10:59 pm
content: Rated at 150 hours typical if you lay off the back light.Never done any real life discharge tests, but I would say 150 hours seems about right. Not as good as a Fluke 87, but then, the display is much larger.

author: StubbornGreek
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 06:13:07 pm
content: I must say, the UEI DM397 is a lot of bang for the buck. Very attractive for someone on a budget that needs a lot from their meter.

author: Kilroy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 06:32:16 pm
content: For sure.I'm no UEI evangelist or anything but I have to say, based on my experience so far, I would be hard pressed to pay the considerably more dosh for an equivalent Fluke when I can get the same performance and save the extra to put into anything else.There's no disputing Fluke's track record and I would never deny them a profit based on that reputation, but there are alternatives out there that give a guy some of the same mojo for less money, and I'm all for that, especially in these not so awesome economic times.

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 07:32:44 pm
content: I got a formal quote for the U1401B and they will give me ~$150 off plus I can use my nice 20% off voucher. For the U1272A they will give me ~$40 off plus the voucher. I will look into the UEI DM397. Sounds great. Is it durable?

author: StubbornGreek
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 07:42:06 pm
content: Quote from: Zopsi on May 31, 2012, 07:32:44 pmWow, so the U1272A for just over $250 or the U1401B for under $500 - fantastic, really.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 08:12:39 pm
content: Quote from: Kilroy on May 31, 2012, 06:32:16 pmUEi does seem to make decent meters that offer a better value for the money vs. other makes, particularly against Fluke (I'm fond of the DM393, which is a DM391 with TRMS).I was fortunate though, that Agilent was running a Rebate at the time I bought mine ($100 back, which is what ultimately prompted me to buy the U1252B). That brought the price down to $250USD, which is about what Amazon sells the DM397 for. I did have to buy the data cable, but it wasn't a big deal for $30, and of course, there was shipping on both it and the meter.At everyday prices, UEi has the edge in cost/performance over Fluke and Agilent.But I've seen an educational discount on Fluke products, which may make them more of a viable option for those that qualify (15% off IIRC - not sure if this is actually done by Fluke, or the retailer, but I saw it listed on tequipment.net). Agilent seems to be more willing to run special offers/rebates from what I've seen. So those practices may help out buyers that can wait for such offers to become available.Just a thought anyway.

author: Kilroy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2012, 09:04:47 pm
content: Quote from: Zopsi on May 31, 2012, 07:32:44 pmVery durable, so far. It's a bit of a brick, over 650 grams...so it's no gilded lily, to be sure.It certainly needs to be. I'm not an unusually careless person, so this thing doesn't get a ritual pounding every time it gets used, but I work in a mix of electromechanical, PLC, and analog/digital bench electronics, so I'm sometimes nine feet in the air checking an elevator motor on a large radial drill press, or some such thing. Stuff falls all the time...sometimes into the coolant reservoirs. I don't like seeing anything drop in the coolant, but I would like it a whole lot less if it were a $400 DMM.So yeah...survived it's share of nail biting encounters with no worries.I haven't tried chucking it off an overpass, though...

author: mike_kawasaki
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2012, 12:53:45 am
content: Quote from: Zopsi on May 30, 2012, 09:06:46 pmZopsi, I've been watching this thread and glad you're leaning toward the Agilent stuff. I am a Marketing Manager at Agilent, having worked closely with our handheld DMM division for many years (they are in Penang, and I just returned from 4.5 years in Singapore).This forum post has been very helpful for me.To show you my appreciation have an offer to make you:Buy the Agilent multimeter and if dissatisfied in any way I'll guarantee a full return within 60 days!I'm that confident that you'll love the Agilent DMM.Before everyone asks me -- don't have authority to make this offer to everyone.This is a unique offer to Zospi for creating this post and allowing me to understand the critical decision factors for the different forum users.Zospi, I'll send you my personal information if you want to follow-up. I'm in Silicon Valley.Mike Kawasaki

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2012, 01:21:52 am
content: I sent you a PM. However, you might be getting two as the first one and the second one for that matter did not show up in my sent messages.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 02, 2012, 01:41:58 am
content: Quote from: DaveXRQ on May 30, 2012, 06:49:37 pmLast I checked the firmware is still 2.00(?), which is the one I used in the review.Dave.

author: Joshua
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2012, 02:50:42 am
content: Zopsi,Just to let you know, I have for sale a brand new Agilent 1252B WITH the IR-to-Bluetooth Adapter for sale in the Buy/Sell/Wanted section. [size=78%]https://www.eevblog.com/forum/buysellwanted/brand-new-agilent-u1252b-dmm-w-ir-bluetooth-adapter/It is truly brand new. Never made more than two measurements just to prove in pictures that it actually works. Other than that it is straight from Agilent. I'm only selling it because I do not need it. You can read the thread and reply or PM me for more details. I feel that you could come out with a pretty good deal on a great meter plus the adapter. A couple of others have mentioned some details about the u1252b, such as the better accuracy than the Fluke 87V and the Agilent U1272b. It is also the LCD version, not the OLED.Good luck on your search.-Joshua

author: mike_kawasaki
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 04, 2012, 02:41:40 pm
content: Quote from: Zopsi on May 30, 2012, 07:20:34 amZopsi, confirmed with the Division: The beep delay was fixed in Revision 2.0 firmware.If anyone has an older version, you can upgrade athttp://www.home.agilent.com/agilent/editorial.jspx?cc=US&lc=eng&ckey=2055659&nid=-34618.956189&id=2055659

author: Zopsi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 04, 2012, 04:15:04 pm
content: Awesome, just placed my order for a U1272A. Thanks Mike.

author: mike_kawasaki
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 04, 2012, 06:15:46 pm
content: Quote from: Zopsi on June 04, 2012, 04:15:04 pmGreat!! Think you'll love it (I guarantee)