Most compact high quality Multimeter? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: slipjointed
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 06:30:22 am
content: Hi all,I hate that my first post to this forum is starting another multimeter thread, but hopefully this is enough of a different vein that it may have some actual use.I haven't purchased a multimeter since I bought my Fluke 83 brand new quite a few years ago. I recently had to liquidate my entire workshop due to some personal issues, and am now working from a desk and a small toolbag. Every tool I own is now stuffed into this bag. Unfortunately, "the brick" just isn't cutting it any more.The market is absolutely saturated now compared to the last time I was shopping, and quite frankly, it's a bit overwhelming.Budget isn't particularly an issue, but I did have to liquidate my shop to pay medical bills, so I can't go completely insane. Most of the truly compact DMM's I've seen are getting dangerously close to the garbage zone, if not sitting squarely in it. The best option I've seen so far seems to be the Fluke 115, but I'm not sure if there's a better option. I would like Temperature, but it's not a deal breaker, more of a convenience.This meter will be used for occasional light industrial equipment maintenance, and simple troubleshooting and hobbying. I've gotten out of circuit design, so my function needs are pretty basic. I would prefer AC RMS measurement, but I can get by without, as most of the time I'd need it, I would probably have a loaner meter available.Any suggestions would be welcome.

author: IanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 07:28:27 am
content: Just to throw a random suggestion at you, the Innova 3320 is the most compact meter I've come across that still has a "quality" feel to it. It weighs only a few ounces and will fit easily into a shirt pocket. The main downside from your perspective is that it is targeted at automotive use and it is definitely a low end meter (for instance you can find it in WalMart). However, if you want small and compact it fits that niche:http://www.iequus.com/Product/Diagnostic/digital.html

author: amspire
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 07:41:34 am
content: First thing you have to realize with the people here is that they are passionate about brilliantly engineered test equipment.if a company brings out a new generation of multimeter based in diamond semiconductor (it is possible) that will operate up to 200degC without a problem, true RMS flat to 1Ghz, etc, then suddenly the best Fluke meters will become a piece of "junk".If you are not working with mains, even many of the $10 meters are very useable.Next step up is probably the Vichy VC97 (about $27 delivered) and the VC99 which both include a temperature probe. These are getting to be decent in features and accuracy, but again, I am not sure about regularly sticking it in the mains socket. If you do, it will probably be OK, but if the meter did fail, it could explode. Definitely not unbreakable, but very useful. Around about the $40 - $50, there are a few fairly decent meters, many of which have been extensively mentioned in these forums. Definitely some meters with much better construction then the Vichy. Some have features like USB/RS232 data logging which can be pretty cool.Now to put things in perspective, if you look at a $50 meter today, it is probably way safer then most of the meters available in the 1980's that cost hundreds of dollars.At $100, you start to get to the fairly safe meters with mains with the proper fuses, etc.If you are using the meter every day, and you want something you can really trust, you will go for something like the high end Flukes, Gossens and Agilents. If you are a professional out in the field and your $50 meter dies, or gives an erroneous reading, the consequences could easily cost more then the price of a top end Fluke just in that one day. Just not worth messing around with the cheap stuff.If you choose to get a cheap meter now, it can still remain extremely useful in the future as a second, third or 4th meter. So look at your budget and your expected usage and know that even $27, or even $10 gets you something that works and is useful, even if it feels a little junky. You can get two or three if you like. If you want to invest in something that is as safe as you can get, and that you will very likely be using in 20 years, invest in a good high end meter.Richard

author: slipjointed
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 09:35:37 am
content: Thank you for your replies.I don't really necessarily have a problem with the cheaper meters, but I haven't had the greatest reliability with them. They tend to die out within a year for me, and I'm pretty gentle on my equipment. The Innova 3320 posted above looks about right as far as form factor, small body with nice sized display.Regarding the comment made about choosing a high end meter for use every day, that is what I felt I had in my Fluke 83. The problem is, it's a rather large meter physically, and just doesn't suit my needs any longer.What I really need is a Fluke 87 class meter, in the form factor of a Harbor Freight special. Unfortunately, I don't believe that exists. That leads me to this thread; I'm trying to find the meter that is the best compromise between professional class quality and features, and el-cheapo meter compactness.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 10:26:09 am
content: It's no surprise that the two meters that won my two shootouts were the smallest of their groups.Not that that was the major reason, but I do value a small and compact meter.The Extech EX330 is pretty small, and a handy toolbox meter. CAT III rated, so no slouch in the protection department for that class meter.Good question though, just what is the best "small" meter money can buy?Dave.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 12:17:14 pm
content: As an aside, in a search I found this rather curious meter:http://www.usinenouvelle.com/industry/chauvin-arnoux-2190/-count-digital-multimeter-p16446.htmlWow, Extech have a CAT IV rated pocket meter:http://www.extech.com/instruments/product.asp?catid=49&prodid=294Any interest in a pocket meter shootout anyone?Dave.

author: PetrosA
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 12:41:55 pm
content: The AEMC/Chauvin-Arnoux is the first that came to my mind as well. They start at about $500http://www.tequipment.net/AEMCMTX3281B-COMCM.html

author: thilo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 01:17:58 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on October 05, 2011, 12:17:14 pmDefinitely! I've been looking for one for quite some time now, but what good is a cheap meter that I cannot trust. And all pocket meters I've seen lately didn't inspire much trust in me :-(Thilo.

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 01:21:22 pm
content: I hate compact sizeProbably every one will hate them after getting older than 40.

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 02:52:16 pm
content: Quote from: PetrosA on October 05, 2011, 12:41:55 pmBut I wouldn't regard the MTX series as pocket meters. They weight 400g and are more like a brick. They always had this funny carrying case accessory, doubling as a belt clip. You can see someone wearing it on page two ofhttp://www.chauvin-arnoux.com/display.asp?9816With that one attached the meter is even more out of the pocket range.I never liked their menu system, but maybe this has changed with the recent series. It is some time ago that I touched a Chauvin Arnoux.

author: Balaur
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 03:15:18 pm
content: I'm quite unhappy with my low-cost (50 euros though) pocket Chauvin-Arnoux CA703 (which was quite sexy on paper:http://www.chauvin-arnoux.fr/produit/Famille_detail.asp?idFam=1948&idPole=1)While I'm fully aware that they have different product lines and design teams, the fact that they decided to market such a questionable item under their own brand is extremely unfortunate. None of their +100 years history and experience is reflected in this product.But again, this is an isolated case that should not be considered by itself. However, I will never consider to buy a C-A product again.

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 03:35:39 pm
content: Would be interested in a Dave review. In the pocket class, Amprobe, Extech, and Greenlee are among the better brands in the USA, the first 2 have unique offerings. Many are typically under $50, often far less.Some of the Greenlee look pretty much like rebadged Amprobe's :

author: ciccio
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 03:36:55 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on October 05, 2011, 12:17:14 pmI know that meter: it's been on the market for several years. An interesting instrument.See attached data sheet and manual.It is not very small (44 X 85 X 180 mm) nor lightweight (400 grams), but it is expensive (from 526 to 712 euros plus VAT depending on the fitted options, from a good supplier).EDIT:The datasheet and manual are too large to be attached.You can download them from here:https://www.distrelec.it/multimetro-digitale-d-f-i-e/chauvin-arnoux/mtx3281b-com/919043Regards

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 03:49:13 pm
content: Quote from: Balaur on October 05, 2011, 03:15:18 pmIt looks very similar to the Extech DM220. Both probably come from the same workshop in Asia.

author: ciccio
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 04:01:18 pm
content: Quote from: Balaur on October 05, 2011, 03:15:18 pmAS Balaur writes, it seems the twin brother of the EXTECH cited by DAVEQuote from: saturation on October 05, 2011, 03:35:39 pmI have one of those Amprobe, in fact labeled with the old Meterman logo, model PM53.It is really small and lightweight, with simple automatic operation and autoranging and no-contact voltage detector, plus a really long life battery, but it has some drawbacks:1) it does not measure current2) it will not light-up any non-red LED (because of low 3 V supply value)3) it is only 450V CT II and 300 V CATIII rated4) last, but really annoying: the probes are fixed, very small, and this makes impossible to use custom or special cables, with longer probes to reach uncomfortable points. Sometime I fear electrocution when I put these probes at a mains level point, because I do not feel well insulated...Sometime I think that a meter like the cheap UNI-T I review in another post is more "usable" :https://www.eevblog.com/forum/index.php?topic=5023.0Regards

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 04:18:21 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on October 05, 2011, 12:17:14 pmI think you'd need limit it into 'real' DMMs. i.e. with current ranges (even if only up to an amp or two) , and enough CAT rating to survive 240V mains on any range.There are plenty of cheap voltage/resistance only ones out there, and safety is sufficiently easier to implement on these that build/design quality is probably less likely to be an issue than those with current ranges.

author: Balaur
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 04:57:24 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on October 05, 2011, 12:17:14 pmQuote from: ciccio on October 05, 2011, 04:01:18 pmThanks to pointing that. Indeed, the CA703 and the DM220 are twins.I would really love to hear Dave frustrated with the sluggishness of the multimeter, the poor case design, the stupid AC default choice when selecting anything, the extremely hard plastic on the back that will shred the test leads when lodged in the back, the nonsensical inscription that will instruct you to remove the leads (!!!) when changing batteries (IIRC) and so on.

author: slipjointed
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 06:07:49 pm
content: Thanks again for the replies. The DM220 and EX330 both look interesting. The EX330 is a definite possibility, but I want to make sure I've "seen it all" so to speak.I just found this one on tequipment.net, looks like I had overlooked it before. Sort of looks like an egg, but I guess I'm not going for looks. BK Precision 2407A Mini-Prohttp://www.tequipment.net/BK2407A.htmlIt is downright tiny, has CATIII protection, and seems to have the features I need. It isn't cheap, but it's not expensive either.edit: The Amprobe 15XP and 35XP look pretty reasonable as well, they're only about 6" x 3" x 1"

author: gdeg
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 06:36:52 pm
content: Quote from: saturation on October 05, 2011, 03:35:39 pmI think both are rebadged, made by Brymen in Taiwan:http://www.brymen.com/product-html/cata20/Bm20s.htmI have one rebadged by ELMA (http://www.elma.dk/_da-DK/v:1385;130070?visma5.prodno=5706445410224). It has brymen.com written on it.I like it a lot, it can do the things I might need from something small enough to carry around in my laptop bag (I'm a programmer, not an EE).

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 06:57:18 pm
content: I concur ciccio, many pocket DMM often don't do current, and have fixed leads. I do agree the Uni-T you reviewed offers more compelling features for price. I just hope it holds up. Thus, it would be good to make a review of many offerings. It sounds like the Amprobe/Meterman DMM has held up.I've had a clone of this for 10 years, but its accuracy is really in the 1-2% range for DC and AC.http://overseas.sanwa-meter.co.jp/index.php?pm7aQuote from: ciccio on October 05, 2011, 04:01:18 pm

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 06:58:03 pm
content: Thanks for the links! A pretty mundane website but they seem like a well established DMM maker.Quote from: gdeg on October 05, 2011, 06:36:52 pm

author: alexwhittemore
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 07:24:13 pm
content: Dave, I'll throw in my request for a pocket DMM review. I was seriously looking for one a while back but all the good ones are a tiny bit too big, and all the small ones are just a tiny bit too janky.

author: slipjointed
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2011, 07:28:13 pm
content: Quote from: alexwhittemore on October 05, 2011, 07:24:13 pmThat is precisely my problem right now.It would be nice if the review could combine pocket and sub-compact meters, I would maybe define sub-compact as under 10 cubic inches of volume (basically a bit over 25mm x 75mm x 150mm)The only thing I've found that is very small and looks reasonably legit is the BK2407 I linked above... it's only 5" x 2.25", that's really, really small for a reputable multimeter.

author: slipjointed
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2011, 05:51:30 pm
content: I went ahead and purchased the BK Precision 2709B from the shootout, I wish it had Temp, but that's not really that big of a deal, as I carry an infrared thermometer with a type K jack on it.I know it doesn't really fit my "compact" requirement, but it did seem a good bit more compact than most of the full size, full function meters. I originally was going to pick up the Fluke 115, but the BK seemed to be a lot better value, and to be totally honest, I don't really hold Fluke in as high a regard as I did, now that they're just another Chinese meter stamped with a random American brand name.I'm not saying they aren't still very high quality, but I do really question whether I'm getting more value in a Fluke 115 that costs 50% more and has less functionality than this 2709B. I tend to be a big "made in the USA" guy, not necessarily because the USA is better, just because I like to support workers in my country. I'm willing to pony up the cash for a brand like Fluke, if I'm getting a USA made unit, like I did with my old 83.Since it is retirement time for my 83, I sold it to a friend that just needs a meter once in a while, and just about covered the cost of the new meter.It turned out that when I thought about it more, I really would miss having a full size meter to do bench work, so I think this BK is a good compromise. I also liked it's internals the best out of the others in the shootout.

author: FenderBender
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2011, 04:13:01 am
content: Extech MN42 small as hell. Good quality. I have 2 good quality DMMs right now, but I'm considering getting a 3rd. That would be the one I get.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 10, 2011, 05:14:49 am
content: Quote from: slipjointed on October 05, 2011, 07:28:13 pmI put them in two separate categories."Pocket" meters are ones you should literally be able to slip into your pocket, and of course they almost always (or should) have some form of way case/pouch etc to fold the leads up into.The other ones would simply be any other compact meter that you couldn't slip into a pocket.Dave.

author: FenderBender
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2011, 02:32:32 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on October 10, 2011, 05:14:49 amSo the review is a go!? Should we expect a video soon?Thanks.

author: zaoka
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2011, 02:45:59 pm
content: I recommend HIOKI 3804-50Its very accurate, faster than Fluke 83, best display contrast and angle view from all meters I have seen, thick protective rubber cover, and it cost $119. You can get one of eBay for $75 new.Hioki is Made In Japan.Again its so fast!I will review one this week.

author: slipjointed
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2011, 10:45:34 pm
content: That Hioki above looks pretty decent.Quote from: EEVblog on October 10, 2011, 05:14:49 amI think that makes sense.As far as my OP, I'd be open to either as long as they are good quality. I'd greatly prefer replaceable leads though, but that's probably a no-go for most true pocket meters.I ended up cancelling my BK 2709 and going with the EX505 from Extech, they had a promo for a free non-contact tester (which I actually find handy sometimes), and I couldn't resist the waterproofing and the carrying case.That said, I'm still definitely in the market for a compact meter.

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2011, 11:02:21 pm
content: Hioki is a good brand, don't know this meter per se but it looks well made; but is it compact? Looking forward to the review!Quote from: zaoka on October 10, 2011, 02:45:59 pm

author: sonicj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2011, 11:08:09 pm
content: i loved my Fluke 12 before i got my 87V. it did temperature with a ad-on thermocouple dongle. no current though.-sj

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 11, 2011, 04:33:53 am
content: Quote from: FenderBender on October 10, 2011, 02:32:32 pmErr, no. I haven't even approached anyone about getting meters yet...Dave.

author: slipjointed
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2011, 07:34:18 am
content: Dave,When the EX505 comes in, I'll pop it open and see if they managed to clean up that mess of a board inside. If there's anything different from the review, I'll be sure to post some pictures.It originally was a problem for me, but then I thought about how some of my designs have ended up looking in the past, and they worked fine. I guess I really don't have any room to speak.

author: MBY
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2011, 07:41:02 pm
content: Yes! A pocket DMM shootout would be fantastic!I'm on a endless quest for finding my dream pocket DMM. What I found so far is that higher brand DMMs are more frustrating, idiotic, non-working than lesser known brand and cheap Chinese stuff.For many years I have own "noname" brand pocket DMMs from "Biltema" a Swedish car parts retail store. They do not sell anymore so I haven't found a picture, but they are similar to Extech DM110http://www.extech.com/instruments/product.asp?catid=49&prodid=291The chassis is exactly the same but the functions differ. The DMMs don't have a 400 mV range so I tried to replace them with a new beast. Edit: For clarity: The Extech DM110 _does_ have a mV range on DCV!I have so far tried:Amprobe PM55. Its sucks. Hard. First of all, they missing a mV range as well. It has only ONE button, no data hold, no rel mode, no range lock. It eats battery and have so much problems with freezes and other acting up that they have a system reset function (hold the button for 6 or 10 seconds). The current mode is a joke with a burden resistor of 3k! Freq measurement is not reliable.The continuity mode is really slow. All in all, the meter is useless.Then I tried the APPA iMeter 5 that actually have a mV range. But it is also really slow on the continuity mode, again having a burden resistor of 3k, can only measure freqs up to 40 kHz (in my case that is completely useless) and it beeps constantly when pressing a button or changing mode.Then I was curious about the UNI-T pocket meter UT10A, but it also only measures up to 100 kHz.My $15 "Biltema" DMMs is still the champion of pocket DMMs in my toolbox. It has a ok continuity mode, measures freqs _above_ the specs (10 MHz) and is really sensitive and can measure really small Vpp on freq or duty mode. It has a non-retarded layout with a real range switch with a real off position and do relative mode measurements, have a hold and an range switch for disabling autorange. And the cap and diode modes are really good too.The "brand" DMMs from Amprobe/Meterman is a totally PoS and the APPA (with is somewhat of a brand) sucks as well. The UNI-T is far better but I consider the freq measurement a big fail.I value usability, fast continuity mode, mV measurement and freq measurement up to at least 10 MHz as the most important properties of a pocket DMM. The typical use of a such meter is to test continuity, check voltage over small SMD components and check for a freq on a bus (like a clock signal). Duty cycle is also important.I can live without a current range on a pocket DMM, but if its there I don't want a freak 3 kohm burden resistor! My next pocket buy might be the Extech DM110. It seems like a real killer. It even has a real 400 mA current range! If Dave doesn't find any big flaws in it, of course in the hopefully upcoming shootout!Edit: In fact, I will buy a Extech DM110 as soon as I can find one in Sweden or a seller that ships to Sweden!

author: FenderBender
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2011, 10:29:03 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on October 11, 2011, 04:33:53 amWell start sending them emails!All joking aside, it would be a very cool shootout since it's category most people don't pay attention to, but really can be quite useful.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 17, 2011, 11:55:48 pm
content: The more I look in this category, the more meter I find.I have kinda started a list that has:Extech DM110, DM220Sanwa PM3IDEAL 61-605UEI DM5BAMPROBE PM55HIOKI 3244-60 CARDIn addition to a couple already have that are often rebaged.But the list seems endless, but it would make for an insane shootout!Dave.

author: alexwhittemore
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2011, 01:31:36 am
content: I'm getting even more interested in this. The thing is, with full-size handheld meters, you can get most of the key points online. It still helps to get someone's first-hand impression, but I can look up specs, I can see what it looks like, I can find out how accessible the fuses are, etc all online. On the other hand, the one key aspect of a pocket meter is how big and easy to handle it is, which is something you cannot in any way get a sense of without watching someone handle it.If it helps a company reading this send you a review unit or two, I AM making a buying decision and it IS contingent on seeing a few of these guys go head to head in the same person's hands!

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2011, 03:32:26 am
content: Quote from: alexwhittemore on October 18, 2011, 01:31:36 amWhat Fuses ?The pocket ones all that they do, are ohms /continuity / and voltage measurements !!They are simple and tiny devices.Yes some people are interested about them, but there is no much to talk about them other than comparing exterior quality and basic accuracy.You can not even expect large digits !!

author: alexwhittemore
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2011, 03:50:02 am
content: Yeah, that's my point! I sure as hell can't compare exterior quality or size by looking at pictures of them with no size references and in the best possible light.And, irrelevant though it is since i didn't mention it in reference to the small meters, you didn't look at any of the models dave neatly posted in a list; a couple have fused current ranges.

author: MBY
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2011, 09:10:49 am
content: Quote from: Kiriakos-GR on October 18, 2011, 03:32:26 amA few of them actually do current as well. The DM110 measures up to 400 mA, and the UEI DM5B up to 300 mA. I know that a DM110-like unit has a fuse (I'm not sure about DM110, but I guess is does) and the shitty Amprobe and Appa I listed above do current up to 2/4 mA. They are not fused, but rely on a 3 k shunt resistor (resulting in a completely ridiculous 6-12V of burden voltage!).

author: MBY
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2011, 09:22:44 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on October 17, 2011, 11:55:48 pmYes, there is almost endless rebadging when it come to pocket DMMs. Your idea of separating small DMMs in two groups, those who actually fit in a pocket and those who don't, is very good. The DM220 and for instance the UNI-T U20 (a really cute toy) are small but thick meters and don't fit in a pocket. My hint is that you should not worry about rebadging and only test unique instruments and then let the public figure it out witch DMM is corresponding to witch in a store. It does not have to be perfect, I think your list are almost complete already. Maybe include UNI-T U10 (pocket) and U20 ("toy"). Some of the meters (Amprobe PM55, etc) comes in different styles with different capabilities (PM53, PM54(?), PM55). Skip all variation and just take randomly one of them (they all sucks, but that is my own opinion).Or, do a "pre-shootout" on the forum. List all meters you can find and let us vote on a few for a video shootout!

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 18, 2011, 11:04:52 am
content: Yes, I wouldn't bother trying to sort out the rebadged ones, just get one of each type that looks decent.The list so far is:Extech DM110, DM220Sanwa PM3IDEAL 61-605UEI DM5BAMPROBE PM55AMPROBE DM78C (very similar to IDEAL, but screen slightly different?)HIOKI 3244-60 CARDWavetek DM78A (got it) (BK Precision 2700 + others)Digitek (Jaycar) QM1544 (got it, but discontinued?)UNI-T U10That's 10 already, and there are probably another half dozen on the market, crazy.When you have that many units, 1 minute saying someone about a feature of each one really ads up!Dave.

author: MBY
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2011, 12:47:11 pm
content: Yes, I can see the problem!Quote from: EEVblog on October 18, 2011, 11:04:52 amHmm. That got me thinking. This is almost the same as Appa Imeter 3 or 5, and on Appas homepage, the specs is freq measurement up to 4 or 5 MHz, but mine does clearly not go beyond 40 kHz. Not in real life, not in the manual. I bought mine on DX. Maybe I have a counterfeit meter? The build quality is very good (metal insert screws, good plastics, good looking PCB, excellent probes. Unfortunately the meter is really crappy anyway, but no quality issue.

author: gdeg
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 18, 2011, 01:15:01 pm
content: Quote from: MBY on October 18, 2011, 09:22:44 amThey don't suck equally, the two other versions of the Amprobe PMxx don't pretend to measure current and therefore don't suck at it. They also use less current. I think the middle version does the things it can do very well, having 6000 count and higher accuracy (0.5%) than the Extech. It is better for checking Li-ion batteries, for example, while the Extech might be closer to the functionality of a real DMM.

author: MBY
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2011, 01:42:00 pm
content: Ok, that's nice to hear. But none of the Amprobe/Meterman PM5X series has a mV range as far as I know. And the user interface is quite horrible with one button to do it all.How is the continuity test speed on the other models? And the lock ups/acting up (as I say earlier the PM55 has a reset option by holding the button for 6 or 10 seconds)? A meter that need a "ctrl-alt-del" option was unheard of to me before I fooled myself buying one!Well, I can rant more of the PM55 (and the Appa i Meter 5) but this is maybe not the right thread for this...

author: gdeg
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 19, 2011, 08:40:03 pm
content: The continuity test is not too slow for me. I don't think I have seen lockups or acting up.

author: Bobson
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2016, 03:45:32 pm
content: There is interesting compact model by some BST Caltek company, BST BS2903P (and lower models from BS2900 series also).http://www.bstcaltek.com/catalog2/index.php/bs2903p.htmlIt has milliamps, and even True RMS!

author: ZeTeX
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2016, 05:40:58 pm
content: I got pocked sized meter, its the Fluke 107.it has big HRC fuse, isolation slots, all the protections devices, tested mains on ohms and it survived,got for over a year.pretty good multimeter and extremely small, also comes with TL-75 leads.got mine from ebay, dont remember how much did it cost.

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2016, 03:54:49 am
content: Well heck, why not find the smallest multi meter possible? I want to see one you can strap to your wrist. Perfect for the EE on the go.

author: dexters_lab
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 21, 2016, 03:47:42 pm
content: Quote from: ZeTeX on March 20, 2016, 05:40:58 pmthe fluke 101 is even smaller, slightly less functions but very pocket sized

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2016, 01:10:30 am
content: I was thinking about testing some pocket meters. Some are so small, I bet they would cut loose with a pretty good bang.Agree on the two low cost Flukes. The 107 was about $108 and the 101 about $50. They don't have a lot for features. The 101 does not even have a back light. But they both appear to be very electrically robust.

author: ZeTeX
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2016, 04:57:18 pm
content: Quote from: joeqsmith on March 22, 2016, 01:10:30 am108$? what?http://www.ebay.com/itm/Fluke-107-F107-Palm-sized-Portable-Handheld-Digital-Multimeter-Tester-than-17B/311203362741?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D35624%26meid%3D1145568a766c448b867b76cedefd5b4f%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D3%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D311203365772

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 02:54:40 am
content: That's a good price. I had checked Amazon just after 5ky sent the meter. Checking now, $118.

author: dannyf
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 11:23:55 am
content: Since "high quality" and "compact" are quite subjective, I have to say that my go-to multimeters have been those lovely 830s - i have been using them since the 1980s.

author: frenky
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 11:35:33 am
content: I am very happy with really compact UNI-T UT210E.Topic:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/a-look-at-the-uni-t-ut210e/Specs:http://www.uni-trend.com/en/product/2014_0717_650.htmlIt is way more precise than Extech EX330 and Fluke 17B (which I also have) on all ranges...

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 11:42:28 am
content: Quote from: joeqsmith on March 22, 2016, 01:10:30 amThat reminds me I have a box of about 8 pockets meters for review. I think I wanted about 10 or so.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 11:46:50 am
content: As for the most compact high quality meterThe new EEVblog BM235 would have to be a contender (biased), and maybe this one *cough* (double biased)

author: hayatepilot
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 02:29:08 pm
content: Ohh, is this the first picture (for non-contributors) of the custom EEVblog meter?That looks REALLY nice! When will the official reveal be?

author: AlxDroidDev
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 02:47:53 pm
content: The Fluke 117 is quite compact when compared to other Flukes, and it is True RMS.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 10:17:46 pm
content: As a compact and high quality True RMS meter, the Fluke 115 (140$), if 1mA max resolution is acceptable.Next, the Hioki DT4252 (140$), for the same reasons and caveat.In third place, the Brymen 257 (135$), good all rounder, but 1 year warranty only, which doesn't inspire confidence for a high quality meter.Next, the Brymen 235 (100$), low RMS bandwidth, but acceptable if price is the overriding factor.For immediate buying:BK Precision 2712 reduced at Amazon, 80$. Not the highest quality, but perhaps a good deal for some.http://www.amazon.com/Precision-2712-Digital-Multimeter-42-5mm/dp/B005G5MEHG

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 01:58:51 am
content: Quote from: frenky on March 23, 2016, 11:35:33 amI have saved only two of the seven UNI-T meters I looked at. The UT90A because it can play music and was not totally damaged during my evaluation of it and this one.IMO, this is one of the most useful products UNI-T offers. It's cheap. Really cheap for what it does. It works fairly well as a standalone probe and in a few weeks, maybe we can add an output to drive a scope with it.

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 02:12:23 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on March 23, 2016, 11:46:50 amI am waiting on the second one to become available and looking forward to seeing how it stacks up.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 02:16:52 am
content: Quote from: joeqsmith on March 24, 2016, 02:12:23 amSo am I

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 02:26:00 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on March 24, 2016, 02:16:52 amAny idea on a time frame? Are you taking orders?

author: IanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 02:32:17 am
content: Quote from: joeqsmith on March 24, 2016, 02:12:23 amWell it had better stack up better than this one:https://youtu.be/hz5F1cpZCG4?t=2m48s

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 12:53:29 pm
content: Quote from: joeqsmith on March 24, 2016, 01:58:51 amIt can play music? I have to see that :pI have a UT 71C and it was worth every penny, yeah they aren't the best, but bang for buck, I think they are pretty darn good contenders. I spent a long time looking at affordable ones that wouldn't be used for mains, and uni-t seems to pretty much be the most feature packed brand that isn't crazy expensive.

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 04:45:32 pm
content: Quote from: XOIIO on March 24, 2016, 12:53:29 pmI personally am not too concerned with using hand held meters on the mains myself. Even in the rare cases where I am on mains with a hand held, it's CAT II and below. But I do my fair share of playing with low energy high voltages.Here you go.

author: YU2
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 05:42:18 pm
content: joeqsmith.......so you just hook it to an audio source and it can play it? What is the lowest signal amplitude it can reproduce?

author: Bobson
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 08:50:02 pm
content: Ok, what is the smallest available TRMS meter? I guess all 0660L-based meters have AC-only TRMS, so my first guess it would be some HIOKI model lacking any current range, which is really sad. There were some analog TRMS meters in the 60-ies (electrodynamic), but they unobtanium now and have rather bad sensitivity, and I've never seen really compact ones.

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 10:19:16 pm
content: Quote from: YU2 on March 24, 2016, 05:42:18 pmI had measured the minimum pulse width required to get the meter to beep and the maximum frequency it could detect. The audio is first filtered, then fed to a zero cross detector. This then drove a one-shot the then drove the meter's input. The one-shot had a shorter pulse time than the minimum width required to make the meter beep. Basically, this would cause the meter to click. So what you are hearing are these clicks. My choice of music was not random. Low frequency is a problem using this technique and I needed something with a lot of high frequency content.

author: frenky
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 25, 2016, 08:37:04 am
content: Quote from: Bobson on March 24, 2016, 08:50:02 pmUNI-T UT210E is TrueRMS and has dimensions: 175mm × 60mm × 33.5mm