Fluke 289 - yet a good investment nowadays? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: arturmariojr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 10:07:01 am
content: Hi, experts!After decades I could buy one pre-owned Fluke 289.A big meter and I was workin and trying some measures on it's main characteristc, as I thought: the trend graphic and data logging.I have to say I'm quite disappointed with its performance.I put my function generator on step mode (just 8 steps) and at 1Hz (so, steps were at 1/8 s), and other frequencies, up to 10Hz. This shoild be much less faster than aquisitiion rate stated on manual (I believe 100ms).But the trend graphic can't repesent the real signal.On Burst mode, for simulating spurious signal, It can't detect them too (VDC, 10v pulse, 0.1s).Beyond such bad real results, display just't can be read without back light.Using constantly backlight will consume faster the batteries. I really don't worry about this, as I can adapt a LiIon battery and charge circuits and never more will need to replace batteries.I'm wondering: nowadays, we have tens of multimeters with oscilloscope function, even Fluke has their scopemeters. They shine with color LCDs, rechargeable batteries too.Is Fluke 289 still a good investment, considering it's high price? And for a datalogging tool, it lacks the connection adapter, sold for high prices too...What are your opnion? Could a multimeter-oscilloscope like Owon HDS2202 - 200MHz do the same tasks?Thanks for sharing your comments with me!Artur

author: pcbcrew
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 10:44:26 am
content: For me, reliability is crucial.Around 4-5 years ago, I spent several hours troubleshooting a PCB I had designed. It wasn't functioning properly for some unknown reason. When I attempted to measure the VCC voltage of the microcontroller using a multimeter, I found that it was reading around 2.5V instead of the expected 3.3V. It made my time wasted a lot, until I found that the multimeter reading in 10V range was incorrect.I was only measuring some DC voltages with it. I didn't think I had put some surge on it in anytime since I'd bought it.Following this discovery, I decided to assess the accuracy of the readings from the handheld digital multimeters (DMMs) I owned at that time. I had models from Uni-T, Owon, Victor, and Fluke. Only Fluke and Owon consistently provided accurate readings for all DC voltage ranges.As Fluke's interface was simpler than Owon, I've been using the Fluke multimeter for my daily tasks ever since.In my opinion, investing on Fluke 110 multimeter was worth enough for my daily use of 3.5-digit multimeter.And if I need 4.5-digit multimeter for daily use, I'll choose Fluke 289 (or similar) without any reservation.

author: kripton2035
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 10:48:44 am
content: I don't like the display of the 289 at all. and I read here on eevblog that they empty their batteries very fast...I don't have one, so I can't argue more, but I have a 189 for years that I really like.I also bought it second hand for a lower price than a 289.I also have a fluke 867b that I really like too, and I use it for the trend measurments.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 10:56:13 am
content: I tend to agree with the OP. I have the 189, 287 and 289. I like the 189 a lot more. I didn't have to buy either the 287 or 289. I don't know but I think I can only get the 289/287 to log about 1 reading per second.

author: arturmariojr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 11:17:58 am
content: Hummm, It seems It does measures between the minimal 1s interval. It is dificult to affirm this, but moving on measurents on graph It stops on intermediate points. So, the real signal can be aproximated. But It shows out data to seconds only, so, this is my conclusion.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 11:41:55 am
content: As for reliablility the reason I have the 287 because the company I worked for has a number of them. 2 of them got the dials just broken off for no reason. They were to throw it away and I asked the boss to give one to me and I sent it to Fluke. Fluke gave me a new 287. The company bought the 289 for me to use and they gave it to me when I retired. They also gave me an 87V and I used that one much more often than the 289.Besides from the low contrast display. The 287/289 are slow to boot up. They also autorange in the resistance function slowly. Also the power on/off button is located at about the same place as the backlight button on other Fluke so I tend to turn the meter off when I want to turn on the backlight.

author: luudee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 11:44:48 am
content: I bought mine very long time ago 10 years+ or so ...I am very happy with it, and just recently had it professionally calibrated by the local cal. lab.I have not needed for my 289 to perform that particular task you are trying to do.I have other instruments for that ..But I am extremely happy with my 289.Yes it is true that it is a bit power hungry, depending on usage I have to replace the batteriesabout every 6 months. It's very annoying, but such is life ! ;-)Good Luck,rudi

author: AndyC_772
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 11:49:53 am
content: I have a 289, which I refer to as my 'travel multimeter'.If I need to go to a customer site, it's the one I take with me, knowing it can do anything at all that I'll need it to do. It's accurate, capable, and reliable - all the things that really matter on site. It's never 'wrong'.Back in my lab, though, I rarely use it, for the same reasons as many others have mentioned - slow to boot, battery life not great, display contrast not as good as it could be. Instead I use my Keysight 33465A, or sometimes my Fluke 89 IV.

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 12:52:34 pm
content: IMHO the Keysight U1272A is about the best handheld for an electronics engineer, certainly an upgrade from my previous Fluke 87V.Sometimes you can get the OLED version U1273A or AX for cheap when the display fails and fix it yourself.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 08:27:54 pm
content: Olá Artur,Sorry if this was mentioned before, but page 53 of theuser's manualmentions the data recording interval goes from 1s to 99m59s. In this case, measuring an 8Hz signal will not yield an accurate reproduction of the waveform.I don't have the 289 but one thing that annoys me with the Fluke datalogging is indeed the requirement for using their adapter and software.I did a review of the Owon VDS1022I on my channel and it can do quite a long data capture at a very reasonable price, but it does not have the accuracy and voltage range of a multimeter and it requires a PC.Quote from: arturmariojr on October 09, 2023, 10:07:01 am

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 09:21:52 pm
content: Quote from: arturmariojr on October 09, 2023, 10:07:01 amFor what price?

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 09:50:45 pm
content: Quote from: arturmariojr on October 09, 2023, 10:07:01 amAny disappointment is likely due to misunderstanding its actual capabilities. It is not an oscilloscope in any sense of the word and its logging capabilities are best used with a PC and software, the on-screen displays make a nice advertisement but are really only marginally useful. The only thing where I think it actually has an issue is the very slow and somewhat vague settling when using the LO-Ohms mode to measure very low resistances. The HDS2202 is a different instrument and I haven't seen one, but if you need an oscilloscope feature it probably is a better (and less expensive) choice. However, I've heard a lot of disappointment expressed about OWON in general, so perhaps consider that.As for being a good investment, nowadays the Fluke 289 is extremely expensive especially outside the US. You need a kit with the cable and the software to really use the features properly and those kits are $1000+, 1200 Euros and god-knows-what in Brazil.

author: Martin72
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2023, 09:59:23 pm
content: Sign this.We (at work) have one 289 since a couple of years as an exchange for our broken Fluke867B (because of the lifetime warranty).Basically said it´s a very good meter with a rare to find high capacitor measure range up to 40mF.But in practice it overwhelms you with it´s tons of functions and the boot-time is annoying.New it costs about 900€ and more, used I´ve seen some for about 400€.

author: coromonadalix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2023, 12:04:21 am
content: meh for now any other good brands are ok tooi have 189, still a reference for mei have brymen and an Amprobe meters, pretty darn good for the money, based on the same chipsetsi have gossens wich are a niche meters but slow display refresh is a killer ... no parts and expensive to calibratesome friends have the high end hioki, they love ittried the 289, bof i think it should be upgraded, slow as hell, very big for nothing, display view as other said is so so / blemishUni-t in some models have upped their game ...Really once again depend of your needs, fluke in some models are way overpriced, even the used onesand uni-t seems a clone of the 189, and a Victor or Vichy, i cant recall, is a pure knock off of the 189, even the blue button loll same case layout etc ... and costly ??

author: Veteran68
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2023, 02:04:10 am
content: Quote from: bdunham7 on October 09, 2023, 09:50:45 pmOwon can be hit or miss, but I really like my HDS2202S. It's my go-to portable scope although I'd say I don't stress it much. It also has a 20,000 count DMM for use in a pinch -- not that I use it as a DMM, it's strictly a scope and occasional siggen for me, but it's there if you need it. Far better IMO (and more expensive) than the el-cheapo toy scopes.I also like the Owon VDS1022i as a USB-based scope. Owon makes some decent stuff for the price, I'd put it in the same class as Uni-T (some junk, some a great value).

author: jchw4
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2023, 05:30:00 am
content: I have two of these Fluke 289 meters that I bought for parts and repaired.You asked about "Good Investment" and I would say that "probably yes". Investment-wize buying used Fluke 289 makes sense. It does not drop in value as much as other meters. But buying 87V is probably even better until Fluke makes 89 VI.Is it useful? Sometimes.DMM in 2023 is a computer first. And then a meter. The measurement part is pretty good even in cheap Aliexpress multimeters. So let’s look at the UI features:Its screen is horrible. I don’t know how they managed to find a supplier of such a crappy panel in 2023. They probably had to put a lot of efforts into avoiding modern alternatives.QuoteKind of. Until you realize that you can only plot saved data after you stopped logging! It’s incapable of plotting data while measuring. Even Protek D620 (https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/protek-d620-100-000-count-forgotten-multimeter/) can do it! Shame…What are the features of a graphical multimeter in 2023? Siglent, Hantek (let alone the Keysight and Keithley) have histograms, statistics, FFT, etc.Does 289 offer anything from this list? No, nothing.So I store my both meters in the far corner of the storage pile unpowered. Leaking batteries are still the worst enemy of this meter. (This problem has been known for 30+ years and still Fluke does not care? No protected battery compartment in 2023 for the $870 meter?)Having said that, when is it useful? It’s extremely useful to impress contractors. I used it 3 times to demonstrate that the mains socket did not have power even though it was claimed “fixed” 3 times in a row!Is it worth spending a lot of money to speed up the “is it powered” debate? You need to decide for yourself. For me it was well spent $100.Quote from: arturmariojr on October 09, 2023, 10:07:01 amI don't have this meter. But in my opinion the best data logger is probably a Mooshimeterhttps://moosh.im/. It's $135 now on Amazon.It has its own (serious) issues, but the logging part is definitely the best I have seen. I would not directly recommend it but it's just an example that for data logging you may want to look in the other direction. There are other alternatives too.YMMV.

author: trp806mo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2023, 06:17:43 am
content: I (at work) looked in the past for a portable DMM which could memorized and displayed long trend of measures in the field.When i tried the 289 I didn't like it's display and I choosed a Metrix (or chauvin arnoux) MTX3293B model. Real (good) display for a real industrial DMM. They have different type (3291/3292/3293 /with BT or not/ -last revision A or B is important as it changes the spec).You may look at the specs in order to know if it fits your needs.

author: arturmariojr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2023, 11:09:41 am
content: Well, thanks a lot for precious comments about Fluke 289.I read the application note by Fluke about the datalogging on this meter. They say, clearly, it's not a scope and uses a different approach to get less data for long sessions of capturing data.There isthe intervaldata logging, you can set from 1s up to 1h31 minutes, and the meter will take a measurement at that rate; but there is the concept ofevent. When the measured signal changes above a selectable valueu, it takes the measument and takes note If stabilized or not. What is "stabilized": from manual, onAutoHoldexplanation, if the signalchanges(threshould is selectable in percentage on Setup) and keeps its valuestable for at least 1s. Events may occur at any time.The meter can save 10000 interval_data and up to 15000 interval + events.The session can take up to 94 days!!!Also there is the response time: 100ms - so, signals shorter than this may not be captured. I've tested and is true. Even 50ms events are detected, but amplitude can be less than real one.There is another funcion to monitor spourious sinals, but online (you keeping your eye on data) :Peak monitoring, with response of 250us or 4000 Hz sinal !I have tested this too. Really amazing feature!It's a great logging meter, not an oscilloscope, for industrial applications and long sessions of data capturing.My comments that follows keep their significante, but It is actually a great equipment and very valuable for detecting transient and problemat signals.It is not s scope and the its power is adjust time capturing according the session lenght. If you will take a session of 24h of monitoring some circuit, don't put an interval of 1s, there's no sense on doing this. Don't mind, the events will trace any annomally between the normal time acquisition.As many said here, for a 2013 multimeter, it was a king... nowadays, I don't believe so.But Fluke should keep one eye on concurrence and their fast evolution.Having a certificate equipment, as chinese aren't at all, is expensive; make good manuals, in many idioms, calibrating and taking care on production lines are too expensive, but if Fluke wants to keep their place on market, I believe it would be a good approach to revitalize their line of meters, incorporate the bluetooth or even better for this kind of equipment: internet capabilities.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2023, 02:02:03 pm
content: Quote from: arturmariojr on October 10, 2023, 11:09:41 amIf you think that then you aren't part of Fluke's target market and you don't understand it. Very long product cycles are what their customers want, not the latest, greatest flavor of the week at a bargain price.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2023, 02:25:29 pm
content: Quote from: arturmariojr on October 10, 2023, 11:09:41 amI thought the 289 was release long before 2013. I remembered in 2004 just after I bought the 189 Fluke came to me and demonstrated the 287/289 so I think it should come out 2005 or so.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2023, 03:29:43 pm
content: Quote from: BeBuLamar on October 10, 2023, 02:25:29 pm2007. Mine (the old one) was from 2010. New version (respun board, no supercap) was 2016 IIRC.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2023, 04:23:31 pm
content: Mine 289 has firmware 1.16 but I think it was made after 2016. My 287 which was made 2022 has firmware 1.41.

author: arturmariojr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2023, 11:15:57 am
content: I parcially agree with you...Having equipments that will last is important, more even they are expensive. So Fluke 289 meets this point.But, see at your pocket... you don't have iPhone 1.0 in it, do you?Even if Apple would insist it is a great hardware, innovative at 20 years ago and that works up today, you bought new phones because new features and market pressure, isn't it?Is the same in the case of Fluke, and worst yet! Fluke is (was?) the king of test equipment. Very well planned, done and with great support. Fluke is at top.What happend to the ones that are at top? They can take two simple ways: keep their position or drop down. Very simple.Processors of nowadays are not the same of 15 years ago. Their prices also are relativelly lower than theis counterparts from 15 years ago, if you consider power consume, speed, memory, etc. The same for ADC or DACs. You must agree.So, for a giant of measurement industry, it would be a mandatory slogan: keep products ahead of competitors. Fluke has this capability, for sure. For us, costumers of technology, is the price to pay for - upgrade, upgrade, upgrade... but there is a conscience relieve: donnate your old Fluke or HP meters, oscilloscopes, great calibrators to poor people in Brazil, like ME!I like my old B&K 190 analog meter, but for serious work, a modern one is preferred.Just my thoughts. Please, don't be offended (and sorry for my poor english!)Best regards!Artur

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2023, 01:33:22 pm
content: Quote from: arturmariojr on October 11, 2023, 11:15:57 amArtur, as you are probably aware, DMMs are not consumer products like iPhones, thus the pressure for HW and SW upgrades/updates/new features is not as critical.Moreover, the device is self-contained and therefore does not become obsolete with the passing of years - it still performs its functions as long as it is calibrated and functional.Over the years it has been quite clear that Fluke's strategy for portable multimeters is to maintain consistency, reliability and quality control to stay ahead of the competition - naturally they fight hard to keep unblemished their brand recognition and perceived value as well (they are not stupid). Innovation and adventurous departures from their established designs, howerver, happen in many areas other than portable multimeters.Quote from: arturmariojr on October 11, 2023, 11:15:57 am

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2023, 02:38:16 pm
content: I don't think a good DMM will get obsolete. I am still using my Fluke 8050a.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2023, 02:51:02 pm
content: It's all down to the price/condition, which is still a secret.Would I buy a 289 for full price? Never.Would I buy a 289 for $350? Nope.Would I buy a 289 for $250? I'd think about it, but probably not because I know I wouldn't use it much.Would I buy a 289 for $100? Yes, but only if it's not too beat up and dirty. I know I won't use it much so it has to look pretty at least.YMMV.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2023, 03:55:15 pm
content: If I never had a chance to use the 289 I might buy it by just reading the specs. But since I have used and own (not having to buy) it I wouldn't buy it. If it's cheap I would buy to resell, I wouldn't buy one for use. I really don't like to use it. It has a few features better than the 189 but I would rarely need it. In fact I can't think of any right now. Yes I do use the low Z feature but then I can do it with the much cheaper 113. Lo Ohms sounds good but I don't think I get the accuracy being only 2 wire ohm measurement. As far as logging I tend to do it with a PC and Fluke View software so the limited memory of the 189 isn't a drawback.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2023, 05:15:27 pm
content: I own a Fluke 187 (same as 189 but no internal logging) and a Brymen BM857 (159 Euros).The abilities are about the same. Same counts, same accuracy.... and they agree with each other to within a count or two. The only thing the Brymen doesn't have is dual display.If I could only keep one of them I think I'd keep the Brymen because the display is so much better. The 187 display is more cluttered (dual displaysoundsnice but if you hardly ever use it then it's just constant screen clutter) and it's much less contrasty.The Fluke 289 is notorious for lack of contrast so I'd probably hate it for that. It doesn't seem like a good trade-off just for having the Fluke name.If you need the 289's features then that's another matter but I have an oscilloscope for when I need graphs or higher frequency signals.

author: Veteran68
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2023, 07:01:57 pm
content: Quote from: rsjsouza on October 11, 2023, 01:33:22 pmExactly. Fluke is not a consumer goods company, under market pressure to innovate the latest social media or gaming advances in their products. You cannot compare them to iPhones or any other consumer good, especially those dependent on external influences like carrier support, app store and OS support, security vulnerabilities and fixes, etc. Like a shark, those things must keep moving or else they die.Professional test equipment in general and DMMs especially are almost the opposite. Fluke in particular services a huge industrial segment of the population that demand consistency and reliability over form and function. New features means new bugs to work out. New user experiences means that thousands of people have to be re-trained, and millions of pages of manuals have to be changed and republished -- this is especially true in the government and military sectors which still publishes hardcopy manuals by the millions and have to train a constant influx of new people.Both Dave and Eddie from Kiss Analog (who has worked and still works for government contractors) have videos explaining that's why Fluke has a near monopoly on those contracts -- for the exact reason that they rarely change their products. The test procedures for a manual written in 1990 are still relevant because the Fluke 87V it was written for can still be bought and it works exactly the same. They make far more revenue from those customers than they do consumer/hobbiest users. Our interests are definitely not their interests.Brymen is maybe a bit more progressive in terms of their product features and technology, but if you want a pace that's similar to smartphones, you're best served by the cheap gimmicky Chinese brands like Aneng and Kaiweets. Which BTW make some great little meters for the money. They're just not in the same league as a Fluke.

author: BillyO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2023, 12:03:51 am
content: Quote from: coromonadalix on October 10, 2023, 12:04:21 amSure they make some neat stuff at attractive prices, but they offer ZERO support or service. If it dies or has issues, bin it. Their warranty is not worth the paper it's printed on.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2023, 12:47:32 pm
content: Quote from: Veteran68 on October 11, 2023, 07:01:57 pmWell said overall. Interestingly enough, Brymen has been keeping good quality for at least 20 years (my BM857 meter was built in 2002) and naturally is paving a great road towards long-term reliability and stability. Sure, they are innovating more in the portable DMM arena but it is their core business. I think they are a great contender to Fluke. Older brands such as Mastech and Uni-T are probably as old or even older than Brymen but had a lot of hits and misses that keep being repeated even in modern units.The cheaper brands, naturally, benefit greatly from the immense manufacturing capacity of China and can take more adventurous routes with very little NRE. My biggest pet peeve is the sheer lying on CAT specifications - otherwise it is as you said: they are great meters for the money.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2023, 02:55:26 pm
content: Quote from: coromonadalix on October 10, 2023, 12:04:21 amInsome, sure, but it's hit and miss. For every good model there's a really bad one.I wouldn't buy Uni-T myself because they're neither one thing or another.eg. If you're buying Uni-T because they're "better than Aneng" then you're doing it wrong. Their safety/robustness is borderline, joesmith has killed many Uni-Ts with his most basic tests.Save up a few more $$$ and get a Brymen.Quote from: rsjsouza on October 12, 2023, 12:47:32 pmJust accept it.Treat them like CAT I meters and they're fine for working with Arduinos, batteries, other 5V/12V stuff.It's much better to buy a $20 meter and use it while you're saving up for a Brymen than to buy a Mastech or Uni-T, IMHO.(and in the end you'll have two meters for measurements that need that)

author: PartialDischarge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2023, 04:13:48 pm
content: I got a UT181A only for the standalone logging capability, but its also *very* accurate.However I wouldn't choose it for everyday use (neither a Fluke 289), daily I use a 87V and a Brymen BM839

author: arturmariojr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2023, 06:03:23 pm
content: After reading all comments and thinking a lot, I decided to keep the Fluke 289, as it is really an excellent meter.My unit is an old one and doesn't get newer firmware versions.Does anybody know the differences on hardware (on usability too) between both versions of it? I read some post here and there, but nothing conclusive.Thanks a lot for your precious comments!Artur

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2023, 06:22:37 pm
content: Quote from: arturmariojr on October 18, 2023, 06:03:23 pmHaving gone from an earlier version to a current version due to a warranty replacement I don't see any substantial differences. Here are a few minor ones:1. Battery life in storage seems much better with the newer one. They've eliminated the supercap and some related stuff and I think the normal power off drain is less, let alone what the drain of the ones with issues. I use Eneloop rechargeables and I can take it out after 2-3 months and the batteries are still good. It will log for over a week on the NiMH cells.2. I think the LCD looks better on the new one, but perhaps that's because it is new. Still, I don't recall that the old one faded or changed, so perhaps they've improved it.3. The AC ranges don't have any residual counts on the new one, the old one had 200+. With my sample size of 1 each I don't know whether that's random luck or perhaps the newer firmware zeroes out at low readings.The long settling time and instability in the LO-OHMS range has not changed.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2023, 02:59:14 pm
content: I have the 289 circa 2017 and 287 2022. The display is no different from each other. I don't use either of them much but for battery drain when not in use they are both OK.

author: jchw4
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2023, 06:06:18 am
content: Quote from: voltsandjolts on October 09, 2023, 12:52:34 pmI love my U1272A. Clearly the most useful meter that I have.But it's in a different league. 289 is a graphical one. I guess this allows 289 to have some disadvantage as a daily meter just to shine as a graphical one. Which is not its strong side either.

author: Black Phoenix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2023, 04:54:51 pm
content: Well I have to check in: Owner of a 289 from the first batch in 2007, supercap replaced under warranty (and motherboard from what it was told me by service) in 2014.It is a good DMM? Yes it is.It is the DMM I recommend anyone to get if as their most used DMM? No.At the time when it was released it was a powerhouse, the replacement of the 189 with a bigger screen who let's you see logs directly in the DMM without downloading to the PC. After all this years owning one I can say that if possible get a 87V or an old 187 or even the 189 if logging is really essential.It is slow to boot, the screen viewing is not that great, the big advertised function, although useful for fast troubleshooting, is a PITA to use and basically easier to connect directly to the PC and download the data instead of trying to zoom 2 or 3 times the data saved while not being able to see the rest of the data at the same time.For the price I paid back in the day I would had bought the 189 with the software plus a 87V (I paid, back in 2007, 1400€ for the full Fluke 289 FVF Kit). Pesonally if it could go back I would had instead choose the 189. Heck I would trade my 289 today for a 189 without second thoughts.Currently I use more my 87V that I got in 2019 than the 289.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 21, 2023, 02:15:28 am
content: Quote from: Black Phoenix on October 20, 2023, 04:54:51 pm

author: Black Phoenix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 21, 2023, 03:46:41 am
content: Quote from: bdunham7 on October 21, 2023, 02:15:28 amYup. Although since it was company money were I worked for I basically got it for free when I quit later on.But yes that was the release price for that kit via AresAgante Lda (the authorised seller/distributor for Fluke in Portugal).

author: arturmariojr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2023, 06:21:48 pm
content: Well, playing a bit with my new multimeter, I have to admit:Fluke 289 is a great meter, although it should have been updated by Fluke for new hardware nowadays available.Many said it is slow... whow, are they comparing it to HP-3458?Comparing to my meters: other Fluke, Yokogawa TY-720 (great meter!), it is by far the fastest. Its capacitor measuring functions, even for high capacitances is ultra fast!Low ohms is also fast. I can't see where it is not the champion!At home, some few days ago, I could see the energy fluctuating a lot. Yesterday I put the Fluke to logg for 07h30, taking the measurement each 1min and events threshold on 5% variations.My Yokogawa is a data-logging multimeter too, but it takes measures at the interval you program it. Others meters act in the same way.Fluke, on other hand, will take the measures at the intervals you programmed it, but, in an event that goes beyond the threshould value, it takes the measuring too.And this is not the only difference: the display is turned off and only the power button blinks every 1 ~ 2s.So, after 7h turned "on", its batteries are just like new.Comproving my suspects, the graph bellow. At 00h30, aprox., one suddenly drop on voltage, and on second picture, some fluctuations. Very good!

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2023, 12:28:13 am
content: Quote from: arturmariojr on October 26, 2023, 06:21:48 pmWhat firmware version do you have?

author: arturmariojr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2023, 11:00:22 am
content: Myne is 1.16. As Fluke states, it can't receive the newer version of firmware.Thanks!

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2023, 11:54:51 am
content: Quote from: arturmariojr on October 26, 2023, 06:21:48 pmIt takes longer to turn on than say an 87V or 189. If you turn the meter to Ohm and leave in in autoranging touch the probes it would take significantly longer to show 0.xx than others (Fluke 87, 189, 114 etc..).

author: jchw4
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2023, 06:43:48 am
content: Quote from: rsjsouza on October 11, 2023, 01:33:22 pmMaking a lot of money in sales does not make the product great. Finding a way to sell 20-years old design is a huge deal for business.“Pecunia non olet”. Money does not stink.But the product does. It rots with time and stinks.Doing nothing "strategy"? Sure, it helps to make money."Let all the engineers go, hire contractors to make another product and sell it for 25 years" - a huge number of products in the world are made like this. There are a many companies that basically consist of CEO, CFO and legal.Does it make the company great? Sure! Does that product stink? Yes, it does.

author: J-R
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2023, 10:13:33 am
content: Not sure what the logic is behind expecting a company to not want to make money. They are supposed to lose money and be charities?The demand and margins are not really there for Fluke to make something different, otherwise they would. Furthermore, I don't see anything similar to the 28x from Brymen or Hioki for example, so let's go bash them as well and cry about their laziness and corporate greed, yes? I'll gladly join in and say Brymen is a huge offender here as we still have zero Bluetooth support and a 20 year old Windows app.Plenty of people use the Fluke 289 as-is, otherwise they wouldn't be selling on ebay for $350+. Also, older test equipment is still extremely popular for various reasons. That is actually a slight issue for many companies like Fluke and Keysight. People aren't looking to replace their gear as soon as something new and shiny comes out because the older product is still great. So sales are harder to come by.But as mentioned, there is the UT-181A, but also the CEM DT-9979 & DT-9989. So they should dry those tears just fine, no?

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2023, 11:29:19 am
content: Quote from: jchw4 on October 28, 2023, 06:43:48 amIf your definition of a product that does not "stink" is something that has continuous updates for the ultimate "features" and "technologies" and has a yearly rebranded/reworked user interface, then you couldn't be living in a better time than now. Zotek, Mestek and other OEMs will be able to feed your frantic chase for the novelty.Also, if you think the product "rots" just because it keeps living in its original form (or with minute changes) over the decades, and can still be valuable and in full operational condition after the terrible state that several units can be found in many eBay and other used marketplaces, then I can imagine that you never had to support a product with such long production run. Do they need the same amount of engineering as a brand new product? Surely not, but that doesn't cast them to a state of decay as you suggest.If you have not paid attention, Fluke has innovated in some of their other product lines (thermal imagers, for example) and, AFAIK, features the only DMMs with detachable screens for specific environments.So your reasons to disapprove their strategy (without quotes) lack substance.

author: jchw4
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2023, 10:32:21 am
content: Quote from: J-R on October 28, 2023, 10:13:33 amI did not say that. I just said that the fact that a company is making money does not always mean that their product is not outdated.Their money is good for them. Why is it relevant to the 289 model?QuoteMy little understanding about how a market economy works is that they won't until they really have to.QuoteYou get the idea.If it looks like a duck ...If we believe that "the longest selling model is the best" then everybody should go get Simpson 260.How many years have they been making it? 70? It looks more like 80.(I am pretty sure you would consider it a joke.)QuotePeople weren't looking to replace their phones with touch screens until there was an iPhone.Actually it's not exactly true. I remember that I dreamed of a mobile Palm computer. So did others around me. There was a feeling that the phones "stink".QuoteI have never seen any of these and I cannot comment whether they are modern meters in any sense.Quote from: rsjsouza on October 28, 2023, 11:29:19 amNo, this is not my definition.Product is definitely outdated if you can find other products that have features for 1/10 of the original price.https://www.bestbuy.com/site/motorola-moto-g-play-2023-32gb-unlocked-navy-blue/6525883.pMotorola Moto G Play (2023) (Unlocked) $109.99 .Specs:https://www.gsmarena.com/motorola_moto_g_play_(2023)-11957.phphttps://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805783498187.htmlCubot Note 21 Smartphone 12GB+128GB 6.56"HD+Screen $89 (Free delivery!)Specs:https://www.gsmarena.com/cubot_note_21-12544.phpA portable computer for $874.99 (https://www.fluke.com/en-us/product/electrical-testing/digital-multimeters/fluke-289) should have one of them inside. No excuse.QuoteAre you talking about Simpson 260? It can be repaired basically in any condition. Probably even after being hit by a railway car. (I am not sure a railway car has any chances of surving after this collision.)Much better than 289!QuoteI feel that you did not pay attention to what I said. I am totally fine with their strategy. They are making money and God bless them.Why does this make 289 a modern meter? Why do their thermal imagers make 289 any better? Maybe It could be used as a souvenir to remind somebody that they also make good thermal imagers.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2023, 11:42:01 am
content: Quote from: jchw4 on October 29, 2023, 10:32:21 amOutdated is of little importance for products that still perform their original function. Obsolescence is what happens when the original function is not required anymore (or is deliberately forced to cessation of existence).Also, price and value are two very distinct things. A common mistake is to restrict features to tangible aspects and assume they are the only aggregator of value. Features of a product, especially on the B2B sector which where most of the T&M players are, can also be reliability, track record, documentation, warranty and serviceability (which indeed these meters barely have but that is not exclusive to Fluke).Quote from: jchw4 on October 29, 2023, 10:32:21 amNo, it shouldn't if the existing hardware does the job. That does not make the product "stink", it only makes it overpriced for some, a right price for others.Quote from: jchw4 on October 29, 2023, 10:32:21 amI fail to get where Simpson was mentioned in my post, but they are another example of a product that, although quite durable, perfectly meet your exact definition of a product that "stinks" - no "feature updates" and incredibly expensive.And that is where you reveal that you have an axe to grind with Fluke and its 289 product: I am not defending Fluke, but instead simply pointing what it seems to be their strategy for portable meters, which differs to what we were conditioned to believe is the mark of a quality product: constant flow of new versions with features, timely software updates, quick replacement and obsolescence and so on.Quote from: jchw4 on October 29, 2023, 10:32:21 amYour prior post hints of contempt for their strategy, so you seem to disapprove of it. Apologies if that was not your intent.Quote from: jchw4 on October 29, 2023, 10:32:21 amAgain, I am not discussing if the 289 is modern or not. I am talking about their strategy for portable meters.Mind you I am not a Fluke fanboy - I like some of their meters, despite others, and recognize that their position in the current marketplace is not of a bleeding edge of portable DMMs.

author: jchw4
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2023, 12:43:20 pm
content: Quote from: rsjsouza on October 29, 2023, 11:42:01 amSimpson 260 still performs its original function. Is is an outdated meter? How many users would agree to swap their current digital meters with Simpson 260 today?I am pretty sure that majoity of users would disagree with your statement. Users needs and users expectations is what metters.QuoteI am not a B2B. I am just an engeneer looking at what some companies offer and at what price.If I really need legal papers required for licences, insurance, etc. I might have to buy that meter at the price they want.But it won't change the fact that it is 20+ years old design. It performs well to the specs of a lawyer and their dog. And they are happy. I will probably just feel robbed.QuoteThis thread was specifically about 289. Company strategy is probably irrelevant to whether a particular product is outdated.Promoting a 20+ years old electronic design as a top product is a shame.We can discuss why they are still doing that. But at the end the answer would be "because they can". It's still irrelevant to a particular model.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2023, 03:30:16 pm
content: Quote from: jchw4 on October 29, 2023, 12:43:20 pmIn what way do you feel that the 289 does not measure up as as 'top product' when it comes to handheld DMMs and what competitive products do you think are better?As for why they are still producing the same product, do you think every product needs to be continuously updated and every customer wants "the latest" as opposed to the tried and true? How about the tree trimmer getting a new Stihl chainsaw to replace his 20-year old model that has been overhauled 3X. Do you think he wants a "new and better" model that he is unfamiliar with?Company strategy is not irrelevant. Very long product cycles are a Fluke feature, not a cynical ploy to avoid paying engineers. They did respin the main PCBA on the 289 without changing the model number. They may have to revalidate the product when they change suppliers for certain parts and over a time period like 20 years parts availability becomes an issue. Keeping a 20+ year old design in production isn't all that easy when you play by the rules.

author: JoeRoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2023, 04:12:24 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on October 11, 2023, 02:51:02 pmWho cares about your price range?! There is a 0.0001% probability of finding an excellent Fluke 289 for $100 and your "good heart" needs to rape someone naive that doesn't know the correct price.I have 2 Flukes 289 and 3 Flukes 189 (which I'm selling), the Fluke 289 is one the best DMMs, and is Superior to the Fluke 189 in Everything, the only disadvantage is the screen for the outdoors, but it works fine indoors in a proper lighting lab. The 189 also consumes a lot of battery, isn't more efficient than 289.Using a Fluke 289 in Electronics projects, tests, troubleshooting, etc is an excellent choice. The Return on Investment can be paid quickly, mostly if the work requires several logging measures.If logging is not so important, I really recommend the Agilent U1272/3A, U1282A, or Brymen 869s.People who choose tools, mostly based on low price is because can't earn enough to justify the purchase, this happens in ALL Fields: computing, photos, mechanics, chemistry, automobile, music, etc.https://lygte-info.dk/review/DMMFluke%20289%20UK.html

author: JoeRoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2023, 04:20:38 pm
content: Quote from: arturmariojr on October 27, 2023, 11:00:22 amWhen I wrote to Fluke about these firmware versions, they said the difference between 1.16 and 1.41 was just because they changed the PCB. And they guarantee that the Accuracy and everything are the Same on 1.16 and 1.41.I also bought another 289 1-year ago and I realized they changed the Display, I wrote to Fluke and they confirmed that the new Flukes 289 comes with this new display.

author: JoeRoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2023, 04:24:36 pm
content: Quote from: BeBuLamar on October 11, 2023, 03:55:15 pmI tested measuring 1, 2, and 10 mOhm and matched with my LCR. I use Low Ohms (up to 55R) a lot, very useful.

author: jchw4
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2023, 04:08:42 am
content: Quote from: bdunham7 on October 29, 2023, 03:30:16 pmYou do not need working alternatives to see that an item is old.We need an example. Say we see a horse-drawn railway. I would say that it's clearly outdated. Does it have a direct alternative? No locomotives of a specific gauge, not enough money to totally wipe it and rebuild, a local authority requires a certified cab to work on hay, "This is our strategy!", etc. A zillion issues!Does it make it modern? No. It's an old stinky unreliable transport. Literally stinky. You know that because you drive your car. You are aware of internal combustion engines and other railroads. Your nose smells the poop.Getting back to 289. A graphical multimeter. Just look at your phone.Businesses want their employees to work faster. Slow boot? Not welcome. Slow auto-range? Never. Basic functions require pressing several buttons? It could be a bad joke.A "fast" 20 years ago just became slow.Oil companies do not care? Government? Military? They are all slow, but they do care.QuoteHe does. His customers want him to use an electric trimmer. The old stinky saw is not welcome anymore in any neighborhood.QuoteShould I pay $900 for a multimeter because their strategy suggests that they will make a beautiful IR camera next year? The product is already there. The warranty and support is what matters. It's all in the product papers, not in the strategy. Strategy is for investors. Customers only have terms of contract.If their own rules prevent them from offering modern products I have bad feelings about their future. But it’s also irrelevant to a particular model.

author: JoeRoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2023, 01:05:41 pm
content: Quote from: jchw4 on October 30, 2023, 04:08:42 amFluke, Keysight, Tek, R&S, and many other good-brand instruments, like Scopes, SA, AWG, and even PSUs have a "slow" boot because they have software to be loaded and (maybe) re-calibrated.My xineze stuff just turns on immediately. Should companies throw away those good brands to avoid losing 10 seconds per day? (I turn my instruments just once a day, and most go to standby if not used)I never complained about 289 boot time (which is faster now, since 2022 when they released a new version). When I turn it on, I use it for a long time.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2023, 02:16:39 pm
content: I do have something I don't like about the 289 but not because it's old. Slow boot? I feel it's slow 20 years ago. But I do think it's a good meter.

author: coromonadalix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2023, 02:39:02 pm
content: When you see the 187 and 189 going for more than some 287 289 it's getting ridiculous lolll Not totally bashing the 289 "slowness" of "bulky size"If i have to use it i'll use it loll

author: TELCO
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2023, 04:41:25 pm
content: I own the 117, 87V and 289 from Fluke. My daily basic measurements DMM is the 117, when I go out in the field, I take the trusted 87V and the 289 it is mostly for electronics lab work. IMHO, I think that each DMM has its position in the workplace and Fluke has that statement 100% covered. I.E., if you are an HVAC person there is a specific meter for you, if you work industrial environment then the 87V is your flavor. Every meter from Fluke has been adapted for the specific tasks at hand. As far as other brands of DMM I have tried the OWON DMM/Oscilloscope combo and they are OK, I am currently thinking of buying a UNI-T UT181A. But in the end if you value reliability, accuracy, stability, and accountability of measurement Fluke is the way to go. Not to mention that if you value metrology calibration equipment everyone from here to the moon will calibrate Fluke gear, I am not so sure about the other brands. Then there is the factor of "flavors" you consume what you like: Coca Cola or Pepsi, Ford or Chevy, Toyota, or Nissan? for me personally I trust Fluke. I hope my opinion helps a bit, best regards to all.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2023, 06:30:10 pm
content: Quote from: coromonadalix on October 30, 2023, 02:39:02 pmI don't know if that is going to happen but I was a little pissed off back in 2004 when I just bought the 189. Fluke came to see me and asked me for opinion on their up coming 289. They showed me their simulator on a laptop. It looked good and I felt bad for not waiting for the 289. Now that I had the 289 for a few years now I think the 189 is my favorite.

author: JoeRoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2023, 08:56:44 pm
content: Quote from: BeBuLamar on October 30, 2023, 06:30:10 pmI guess the Fluke 189 II was released way before the 289. What do they ask for you that they didn't already know?

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2023, 10:20:57 pm
content: Perhaps it was the 189II. It was early in 2004 or so. I didn't remember the model number. They did the research on customer's opinions. They asked me for 1 hour interview and gave me a $100 gift card for my time. They knew I just bought the 189. They asked some questions like do I want to see the temperature in both C and F at the same time. I said no. I would like the choice but don't want to see them both. The simulator on the laptop looked good. It didn't show the problem of poor contrast LCD of the real meter nor the long boot up time. Besides I couldn't tell how big the meter was going to be. The meter is too big as handheld DMM and obviously not a bench top unit.

author: jchw4
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2023, 02:04:33 am
content: Quote from: JoeRoy on October 30, 2023, 01:05:41 pmThis is not how it works. I see a lot more Rigols around me than KS, Tek, R&S.Why? Because if a software engineer needs to check whether there is a signal on a the test point once a month they have two options:Take their test stuff to the lab 30 feet away (OK, 100ft and there is a distracting coffee machine on the way) to the $ $ $ $ lab scope and poke around waiting for it to become free.Get a 1054 on their bench. Maybe 1202 these days.For $300 it's a no-brainer. Fits the limit on your corporate credit card? Just buy it and don't disturb lab people doing serious staff!You need something more serious? Rigol 7000 fits your credit card limit? Go for it. Amazon will deliver it next day.Alternatively you can go ask for a PO and persuade some n-level up boss that you really need it. And wait. And wait.Would your boss prefer spending your work time working or waiting?They really do care about time.

author: arturmariojr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2023, 07:54:48 pm
content: As I told before, after working a bit with Fluke 289, I must give the credit to it! Fast and reliable. Some itens I blammed Fluke as outdated, maybe a question of energy saving, like display. LCD consummes less than the always backlighted colored Tft. If you need long periods of logging, this is the way.Comparing It to Extech GX900, it is superior, although Extech presents a beautifull colored display. ACtually, it seems like a copy with some improvements. But has no events on dataloging, only timed register.Well, at least it has a newer display and bluetooth connections ready to use.Fluke has some new meters with bluetooth connection. So, a good improvement would make Fluke 289+ FC. The rest, I can't say if there is a newer processor (the datasheet ofMSP430F488dates from 2002its user guide is only 990 pages!) with faster ADCs. Probably yes.Maybe, the last version of 289 already has some hardware improvements (I believe they may had used the MSP430F489, with 20K more memory) - who knows?As many here stated, improvements are not the focus of Fluke, as their main client seems to be a heavy navy which does not change its way faster too. I hope this keeps as is for many years for Fluke healthy.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2023, 08:56:45 pm
content: I have the IR3000FC adapter. When you attach it to the 289 (or even the 189) IR serial port it can connect the Fluke Connect App.

author: arturmariojr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2023, 09:16:15 pm
content: This adapter is the dream! But it is so expensive!Yesterday I was trying 289 with Uni-t bluetooth adapter. But the distance between diodes is bigger.For USB, the Agilent U5481B IR to USB worked very well with Fluke 289.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2023, 03:39:13 am
content: Quote from: jchw4 on October 29, 2023, 12:43:20 pmExactly. You are assuming that all users needs and expectations must meet your expectations and desires for new features, updates and bling. Otherwise a product rots, stinks, is outdated/obsolete, the company that manufactures them must have malicious intent, etc. Oh well, your frustration with the success of a company/product that does not fit your wishful dreams is duly noted.

author: RolandK
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2023, 08:00:39 pm
content: For me it is clearly visible, that the Fluke 187 and 189 came first with a very good usability:+ only one button press to get to the secound function, e.g. set to DCV and press the blue button: VDC + VAC in 2nd display.+ Quick Autorange in Ohm-modeThen came the 289 and there were some very handsome improvements:+ 2nd to 4th display with 60000 counts like the 1st display, not only 6000 (eg. DCV + ACV or min/max/avg dto. with peak)+ better DC A, AC V and AC A accuracy+ new 50 Ohm range with 0.001 Ohm resolution+ new 100 Hz , 0.1 ms, 1 ms, 10 ms ranges, duty cycle 1 % to 99.00 % (was 10% to 90%)+ new LoZ ACV 1000V range with 3,2 kOhm input inpedance against ghost signals.+ 1kHz low pass filter for AC V + frequency+ storage from 995 intervalls (707 can be event-driven) to 15000 events (only in the technical data, not in the specification of the user-manual)Others remained or are only a bit different:o same ranges for AC + DC V + Ao same burden voltage in A ranges.o same or nearly same resolution and accuracy for DCV, resistance, capacitance, diode, frequency(-) AC crest factor from 3-6 (full / half range) down to 3-5+ but you can measure the crest factor in the AC ranges(+) frequency counter sensitivity for AC A defined (but may be the same for 189)+ frequency counter ranges doubled at same resolution (eg. from 50.000 kHz to 99.999 kHz)(-) frequency counter accuracy is worse (from 0.005% + 1 digit to 0.005% + 5 digit)(+) Max Capacitance increase from 50mF to 100mF(+) VDC: CMRR from 90 dB to 120 dB,- VDC: Normal Mode Rejection from 90 dB to 60 dB- VAC: CMRR from 90 dB to 60 dB- bigger size with 6 instead of 4 AA batteries- display reading angle is as with most LCD display not good. Illumination is good for dark, but eats battery.- weight from 528 g to 871 g(-) size from 20x10x5 cm to 22x10x6 cmand they introduced a menu with 4 function and 4 arrow keys and all that modern things.This had some side-effects, which everybody who is using them dislikes:slow bootinstead of one button for 2nd functionyou must press the menu button andselect what you want with the arrow keys andthen press "save"min. 3 Buttons and you have to look where you are.The worse for me is the autorange: Autorange is microcontroller-software, slow like hell, eg. measurement of resistance or voltages in a circuit is annoying.So while the measurement technology improved nearly everywhere from the 189 to the 289, the addition of the menu-driven microcontroller with software-realized menu and autorange is a pain in the ass.I think it went this way:Marketing: We need graphical display and modern menu driven user-interfaceDevelopment: Ah what you mean?Controller: We take a cheap youngster from university and let him make the software.Greenhorn with no experience in multimeter-usage or embedded software programming makes the software.Use cases and "design follows function" were unknown, software was probably not modular, sparcely documented and when it works it was shipped.This was the standard with the introduction of GUIs in embedded realtime systems in the 80's, not fluke specific.Nobody got ever the standing or money to improve it.So one of the handheld mutimeters with best features, accuracy and resolution has at the same time one of the worse user interface and autorange speed.The reality is: there is no "best", everything has pros and cons. Therefore some multimeters with some aspects (here only hp and fluke, others have other aspects) :fluke:12 (size)45 (2nd display)179 (speed, easy to use)87 V (field, if 12 to small)189 (range, accuracy, autorange speed)289 (features, range, accuracy, 2nd display DC + AC)8060 (audio, 1 GOhm Rin)8800 (20 V range with > 1 GOhm input resistance (std is max 10V with 1GOhm), nixie, just for fun)hp:3480a with 3484a (20ms autorange speed in ohm / DCV mode, nixie, just for fun)34401a (accuracy, resolution, no fan)34411a (accuracy, resolution, autorange / measurement speed, con: fan, price)3446xa (accuracy, resolution, user interface, con: price, boot time, the 289 is fast boot against that, Windows CE, buildin µC flash ECC error for white front)3457a (ranges, resolution, no fan, con: slow)3458a (accuracy, resolution, con: size, price).

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2023, 09:59:28 pm
content: Of the Fluke you listed I am glad I have most of them.I don't have the 179, 8060 or the 8800. I think I will pass on the 179 which I gain about nothing as compared with the 87V. Also the 8800 as this is a bit too exotic for me as well as cost. I think i would get the 8060 as I found I like the bench top 8050 a lot.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2023, 12:23:36 am
content: Interestingly, I disliked the 8050 back in the day but loved (and still love) the 8060. Regarding more modern models, the 179 is incredibly well built and very sturdy - I had one but sold it as it was very limited for electronics. The 87V is of the same breed as the 179: incredibly well built. I have one as it is a bit better for mixed use (electronics and electrical systems). I have an 189 and, despite excellent for electronics, it has a lacklustre display (too much empty space with small digits) and it does not feel as sturdy as the other two (which also have excellent displays IMO).Despite all that, my most complete and favourite meter is the Agilent U1273A - on the shop due for an OLED replacement, though (its Achilles' heel).

author: J-R
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2023, 01:05:19 am
content: Although perhaps not always the case, a singular, niche aspect of a product could be the difference between loving it or hating it. Or keeping it vs. getting rid of it.