DMM Choice - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Nuno_pt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2013, 11:28:39 am
content: Hi all,I've been reading the forum for long tome but just register today.I'm an hobbyists.I'm in the process of buying a new DMM for my work bench, I've read all about the UNI-T 61E including all the mode and calibration with the DMMCheck Plus.This meter in Portugal it's 90.50€ or $123.80 at current rate, I know if I buy from Franky it will be around $60.My question is, could I get a better DMM for $150 handheld or bench, I've a big work bench.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2013, 12:37:35 pm
content: In Europe, on eBay, you can get a good second-hand Gossen MetraHit 25s for 150.00 €, including delivery. You just need some patience.

author: Nuno_pt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2013, 01:09:00 pm
content: There is on ebay in Europe one HP 3478A both in working conditions, one for 149€ plus 28€ for shipment.I don't know if it's calibrated or not and where to send it in Portugal for calibration and the price.I'll see what show up in the next days.

author: Dave
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2013, 02:40:54 pm
content: If you are buying from outside the European Union, be aware that your customs are likely going to slap you on your pocket. I got burned many times that way. They tend to look for heavier/bulkier packages, though. A handheld meter might just slip through their system.If you only need it for personal use (which I am guessing you do), you could just try to find someone with a calibrated meter and compare the measurements, so you get the feel if your meter is giving you correct values, or it needs a cal. Maybe you know any electronics hobbyists that live nearby? Or maybe there are tech companies in your vicinity, those have their instruments calibrated on a regular basis. I bet they would let you visit and use their meters, if you asked really nicely. Perhaps bring a bottle of wine along with you, to help you find common ground.If you are going to get a 3478A, know that you are going to need another meter. Now don't get me wrong, it's a great meter, but it can only measure amps, volts, and ohms. You are probably also going to need a continuity buzzer, temperature measurement, diode test, and frequency measurement. Oh, and a null button. A second handheld meter with these functions would be nice.

author: Nuno_pt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2013, 02:59:43 pm
content: Hi Dave,Yes I know that customs generally here they tend to put there hands on everything outside EEC, but specially from Asia.Orders till 50€ including shipment will pass, all others will stop, after that value it's pure luck if you don't pay anything, normally 23% VAT on the value of the invoice, plus customs TAX..You're right the DMM it's for my only use, the HP it's the one that I saw first, I'm trying to find the best DMM for 150€, the price here in Portugal it's to high to buy one here, so my chance is from Asia and deal with customs or from EEC on eBay because from stores with shipment to here it's almost the same price from here.So moving on my quest.