Good multimeter for general purpose electronics repair, etc..? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Acecool
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 04, 2020, 10:41:13 pm
content: So I'm looking into which one to buy and so far I've just been using sub $20 meters. The most expensive meter I have is the DER DE-5000 but I want an actual multimeter for voltage, etc... with protection..I have an open budget but I'm hoping to spend under $200 or so..I would like temperature to be a part, I do want a high accuracy and a bar graph would be nice with faster update speed than LCD ( ie: not a gimmick version )etc... A backlight would be nice. I would prefer to not have the new style LCD gimmick going around ( the black ) as if I ever do decide on using it outside, they are hard to read and I do plan on building my own backup generator solution along with solar, wind and water power generation - battery storage, etc...So:+ Temp+ Backlight+ High count / high accuracy+ graph+ min / maxany more features which may be useful for my use-cases...It will be used for electronics, repair, ranging from small to large ( PCB stuff to home energy solutions ).I am more of a software guy, but I am getting into hardware with what little time I do have available to me when I'm able to move around. I have worked on a few projects - mostly software and I have built a few things. I have done a lot of repairs - I can usually diagnose and repair an issue pretty easily... I have only had 1 issue with my APC 1300 but I haven't spent a lot of time looking into that just yet....I would rather buy quality once than buy cheap things over and over again, so if it is a big more, that's fine. A lifetime warranty would be ideal.I was looking into a few such as the Fluke 17B+ but that comes with 0 warranty outside of China. EEVBlog Brymen units, etc.. but I'm unsure on those warranties and they've been hard to find in stock.What do you recommend?

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 04, 2020, 11:02:34 pm
content: I'd look at the DMMs from Keysight for your use case. Well respected A-brand and reasonable prices.

author: DaJMasta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 02:05:43 am
content: Look at the Brymen BM869s. Right price range, a bit on the large side, though. I think the 869s comes with a temp probe, I've got the 867s which is specified a bit lower and has fewer accessories, don't think it will do temperature.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 09:49:55 am
content: Put a bid on this new Fluke 87 V.https://www.ebay.com/itm/Fluke-87-V-True-RMS-Industrial-Multimeter-with-Temp-New-Open-Box/224105908821?epid=4032705507&hash=item342dc0ca55:g:V14AAOSwjLFfKeON&shqty=1&isGTR=1#shId

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 10:09:17 am
content: Remember: One meterisn'tenough. You need at least two. One of them can be cheap (eg. There's plenty of very capable Chinese meters for $25, they're just not CAT rated).Brymen are the best bang/buck for "serious" meters, they're sold under the Greenlee brand in the USA (and are green in color).

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 10:10:36 am
content: Quote from: Wytnucls on August 05, 2020, 09:49:55 amToo late, I just got first bid on it!Edit: Oh, no, I've been outbid! Come on, who was it...?

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 09:31:40 pm
content: If you want a long warranty, I believe Fluke may be your only choice. If you care about warranty, e-Bay is not the right place to go, as most manufacturer (probably all) do not honor an e-Bay sales receipt from a private party. You also may not know how old the meter is and when it was calibrated last (if that matters to you).I have the 179 for about a year, very happy with it. It does not have the uA range like the 87V, but it checks all the boxes you specified. If you need to deal with small current measurement, the 87V is a better option.Personally, I would buy one good meter. Since you are dealing with various power generation system, you don't want a cheap meter that could pose as a danger. Or having to make the decision of which meter to grab, or which to trust. That is unless you have the need to do multiple point measure simultaneously. Once you have experienced with a good meter, my guess is your second meter will also be a A-brand model.Good luck, I hope it helps.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 09:44:44 pm
content: Quote from: NoisyBoy on August 05, 2020, 09:31:40 pmI agree. When dealing with high energy / power (not just high voltage but also high current!) having a meter from a trusted brand is a good idea. At least there is a company with money your relatives can sue if something goes terribly wrong.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 10:01:00 pm
content: If you want to stay in or near your budget, look at the Fluke 115/116/117 family--each has different options. The 117 is specifically for electricians, but I would prefer the 116 if I was buying. TEquipment has a special a bit over your budget for a combo kit with the 116 and an IR temp gun.If you are willing to bust your budget a bit, go for the 179 and look at the EDA-2 kit, it comes with some nice probe-like test hooks.If you are willing to bust your budget a lot, look at the Fluke 289. TEquipment has a special combo with the i400 current clamp, but you don't get the Type K thermocouple, a problem which can be remedied by busting your budget even further and buying the TLK289 industrial lead set. This may seem extravagant, but I think having proper leads and hooks for high energy systems is actually more important than having a high CAT-rated meter.Or, there's this:https://www.tequipment.net/Simpson270-5RT.asp?Source=googleshopping&utm_source=Criteo&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=Dynamic%20Remarketing

author: wizard69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 07:59:39 am
content: Quote from: Acecool on August 04, 2020, 10:41:13 pmFrom what you describe in this message you really want to buy a meter that meets the Cat safety specs. So I'd immediately narrow your lists to those vendors that have a reputation for solid meters.I'm a big fan of Fluke meters mainly due to being treated well in the past for service needs. That was some time ago but I still believe they provide the same high level of service. Of course Fluke isn't the only company making quality hand held meters but they are always high on my list when questions like this pop up.As someone already suggested there will be times when you will want or need two meters, it doesn't hurt too much if one is "low end" but you really should have a good "high end" meter. It doesn't have to be excessively high end but should have good specifications RMS conversation of AC measurements and be battle tank rugged. As a result I'm going to suggest going a bit over budget. For example the Keysight #U1241C has a whole host of features you might find useful for the things you have expressed interest in. Yes I know it isn't a Fluke but it popped up high on a list of meters I just did a parameter search on.QuoteYeah I'd prefer to see you go to $300. Mainly because you can get a instrument that covers a lot of the use cases you described below. It also handles temperature differential measurement that might come in handy for your alternative power interests.QuoteA backlight should be mandatory.Quoteit should be noted that some of your interest imply buying extras for your meter. For example high current measurements in a battery system would require some sort of DC current probe or a shunt. Temperature measurements may require buying range of probes.By the way almost any DC meter can be turned into a temperature probe with the right adapter. You don't need an advanced meter to take simple temperature readings. More so in many cases it makes sense to buy off the shelf temperature displays.QuoteI'm not sure if a lifetime warranty is even possible in the electronics world. At work one of our old Agilent meters went on the blink and Keysight just offered to sell us a new one. The industry changes fast and sometimes you just can't easily get parts. I'd rather know tht I can get good service than to expect a lifetime warranty.QuoteWell for one stay out of China!The second most important thing here is safety, you want confidence that the meter isn't going to the be the reason you get fried in an arc-flash event. Which brings up an important point, the battery systems in a home power system can generate significant currents at high voltage, that can be extremely dangerous. How much depends upon the battery system but we can easily see currents well over 1000 amps in a sort circuit event.The third issue is that you are interested in things that might not be mainstream electronics so meter features that is helpful working AC power systems is an advantage.The fourth issue is Alkaline batteries which suck! Most manufactures have moved to either AA or AAA batteries for power and these pieces of crap leak terribly and can ruin your heft investment in a meter. It is this singular concern that would have me looking at a meter that doesn't use or can run with alternatives to alkaline batteries if I was to buy one today. So look for a manufacture that has at the very least validated that their meters work with rechargeable AA or AAA battery tech. I bring this up because DMM's often live a life where they get used one day and may be put away for days or weeks to be used again. In other words enough time for the batteries to leak and ruin your nice new meter. There are whole threads on this subject but my personal experience is that the risks are real.Fifth most meters come with a pretty basic set of probes. You will almost immediately need a better probe set. The sets differ a bit between "electronics" and "electrical" which could put yourself into needing to supplement one kit with the probes, alligators or whatever that are missing from the other. This means a significant outlay for fancy wire. Due to your interests you really want to be buying the fully shrouded stuff. This just highlights that you will be adding to the expense of the meter to completely outfit it. You however don't need to do this all at once.Sixths don't underestimate the value in big backlighted characters on the screen of a DMM, especially when used in the field. Ideally the screen would be readable 10-20 feet away in a dark room.

author: Shock
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 03:37:21 pm
content: If i was buying new value for money I'd probably go for the Brymen BM869s. It has some unique features for the price like dual display, dual temp, resolution and logging. But one thing that is missing on the Fluke 87V and the Brymen BM869s is a LoZ feature. Aside from that both meters are chunky monkeys with the Brymen being larger, since I use meters on the bench it's a non issue.The only two Fluke meters I'd consider new are the Fluke 117 and Fluke 87V. The Fluke 87V makes the Fluke 117 a bit obsolete but it has LoZ and portability going for it. Despite the Fluke 117 lacking temp and low current ranges they really aren't missed if just doing repair and hobby electronics.I have most of the Brymen BM869s features covered already on other meters so I've not felt the urge to buy a couple. I think it's about the best electronics engineering option for the home user in that price range. If you were going secondhand I'd say Fluke 87V should be plenty but you will be still paying around the same price as the Brymen BM869s for less features.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 03:47:47 pm
content: Quote from: Shock on August 06, 2020, 03:37:21 pmThere's also the 859s which has about the same features but is smaller, slightly cheaper and has a square, industrial look about it that I kinda like. I actually own the 857s which is a cut down version.The main differences are that it doesn't have the dual display and it's "only" CAT IV 600V. Apart from that... almost identical.

author: duckduck
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 09:57:38 pm
content: Another vote for the Fluke 179. They are around US$300 new, but can be found on evil bay for sub-200. I bought a new one about 8 years ago and I have been very happy with it.You should also be keeping a very close eye on this for when our Dear Leader finally gets these in:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/us$150-class-multimeter/EDIT:Here are the sold listings in evil bay for "Fluke 179":https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=fluke+179&_sacat=0&rt=nc&LH_Sold=1&LH_Complete=1

author: Acecool
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2020, 08:53:20 pm
content: Thank you all for your replies... I already have several meters... a junk Harbor freight freebie ( quite a few of these actually.. probably 3 or more different models which are usually only used for light car checks, continuity checks, and 5v / 3.3v light electronic checks. ), a Sperry DM-210A which has been my main multimeter for a while now ( not a fan of the 9V and the cheap leads, or the fact that safety leads don't fit all the way in so I have to use bare ones ), the DER DE-5000 true RMS which I use for specific tasks and I am working on modifying to make it quicker to use, easier... also adding in a cap discharging circuit which will either be put inside the housing with metal contacts and / or a place to plug cap leads into to discharge them if I can't make a circuit which can be plugged into the main circuit, or plugged in between because charged caps will apparently blow this unit up and I would love for there to be a circuit I could plug between, or something which would prevent this from happening so I can just check caps without having to worry... ie: building in the cap discharger would simply make discharging caps quicker because I could plug it into one socket, up near the power button or the top right... then check them... and I also have an old analog multimeter too. actually a few of those...None of my multimeters are over $10 or $20 I don't think.... The DER DE-5000 is about $100ish with all of the accessories ( USB adapter, the carry case, 2x T22 tweezers, 1 modified for GX16, 1 not, 1 box modified for GX16, 2 sets of $20 alligator clips BNC, BNC removed from one in favor of GX16 connector so I can plug in 1 thing... etc.. all of this works quite well except I'll likely be taking someones advice and going with the XLR high quality gold plated audio connectors with lower resistance... etc... much better... either the 4 pin, or the 5 pin with a jumper to ground instead of the GX as the GX connectors aren't really high quality for precise measuring - but they do pass calibration on the unit when some other things I have tried have failed - such as an el-cheapo banana plug tweezer, and other things... )I may get the $25 Aneng 2008 or whatever it is reviewed by Dave as a replacement to the Sperry because the leads will fit and he had good things to say - and as an el-cheapo just to have for quick things it is good enough... then for serious things, or where more accuracy is needed I'll be looking through all of your recommendations and picking one... This way I have a slightly better el-cheapo instead of the Sperry with more features... in addition I'll get something really nice.I would love for it to be calibrated, but I'm sure Fluke, etc.. will likely hold the calibration for a while - and for me, right now, it doesn't need to be pinpoint razor-edge accuracy... but close would be nice just because I am meticulous.. From what I've read Fluke does do software based calibration apparently so there may be a way for me to calibrate it later??? If so I'll probably get a set of those calibration kits with the resistors, and all that jazz - or at least a few different values just to check to see how close it is and if it moves over time.I would love for this meter to last - that being said, I have yet to have a meter blow up on me, or fail.... even the el-cheapos... but then again I never used those for anything other than 12v car stuff and 5v / 3.3v electronics... basic stuff. or for for checking shorts.A warranty would be really nice - but it isn't a dealbreaker especially because of how well built most of the higher end units are - but then again if something does go wrong and I can't fix it... it would really be nice to just have it taken care of...I also just ordered 3 separate temperature sensing units ( 1 for soldering irons, and 2 other types of stand-alone units for sensing temps which aren't expensive but for just sensing temp it shouldn't be that pricey to do anyways ) so that being built into the multimeter isn't a requirement anymore, but would be nice just to have another reference point.I am going to be buying the 8000 series probemasters... likely thge $50 kit with 2 or 3 addon pairs plus the attachment for the 9000 series attachments which can be quickly plugged in / released... or I'll just get the 9000 series attachments and the 8000 series probes... will see...So I will read through everything that each of you has posted here and check out all of the links you've posted and go through all of that before deciding on a multimeter....Thank you to each and every one of you for responding, it is a big help to get your feedback on meters that have worked for you, or that you believe will work for me for my use-case... so thank you for taking the time; I will review everything.Edit:Probemasters kit:https://probemaster.com/8000-series-test-lead-master-kits/is $53.90 but if you add the stuff up individually it is $77.65 so $23.75 saved... unless the pincer hook is red and black together - but the others are all bought individually so I added that up separate and it is almost $8... (* the link is broken...https://probemaster.com/4956-pincer-hook/is the correct one andhttps://probemaster.com/4956ph-pincer-hook/only shows BLACK so they need to fix that on their site - will let them know. )Plus: 8056 Banana Tip Adapter- 8000 Series Test Leads black and red9156 Alligator Clip 1/4" black and red9157 Alligator Clip 1" black and red.I may even decide to just get the base probemaster 8000 series, the bnc adapter, then the attachments in 9000 series and the box... it would be more expensive but then I wouldn't have to worry about screwing things in... although having a firmly screwed clip could be beneficial in certain situations so I may buy that what I have listed, and a few additional things as needed later or before I place the order... so far it is $90 before tax and there should be free shipping with the order amount... but this way I'll have quality leads for a good meter.I may even buy an extra set of the 8000 series leads so I have 2... Right now I have 48" set for the lead length - 3 feet may be too short so the 4 footer may be better... also the 10 footer doesn't seem to cost any extra but I think that is overkill... especially as it doesn't look like the wire comes apart so I can't just get that, disassemble it and make the wires shorter - or it would be the length to go with because of the free high quality cable...Any thoughts on this would be nice... will use for everything from cars to electronics, smds, etc.. First major thing I have to work on is my UPS - have to fix that as the charging circuit keeps flipping but the batteries seem fine. monitors are easy to fix - have a few shorting out so that'll be easy. although monitors, good monitors, are around the $80 mark for 1080p so it is coming to a point where it isn't even worth it... it's like just salvage parts and scrap it... or strip it and sell for parts.

author: MosherIV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2020, 09:09:53 pm
content: QuoteYes, modern Fluke dmm are calibrated by sw.It is not advisable to attempt to adjust the calibration of a dmm unless you have a full dmm calibration instrument. To properly adjust the calibration of a dmm, you need to supply 80% full scale for each range and then adjust the dmm to read 80% full scaleEg on 20V dc range apply 16V and adjust the dmm to read 16.0VThis must be done for all ranges and all function ie dc V, dc Amps, resistance, ac V, ac Amps etc.Most home hobbiests do not have this ability.In addition, the calibration must be done in controlled enviromental conditions, ie 22celcius and between 30 to 50% relative humidityWhen you send a dmm for calibration, they mainly just check the dmm readings are within specification and supply a report. They will only adjust it if it is out of specification.By all means, collect stuff to check the calibration yourself (live a voltage standard) but that is not enough to perform a calibration. I have plenty of equipment to check dmm calibration myself but I would not attempt to calibrate it myself.

author: Acecool
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2020, 09:32:44 pm
content: @MosherIVThank you for the clarification - So you wouldn't be able to just recalibrate one section... ie: if the resistance is off, but everything else is spot on... If controlled by software you'd think that would be possible - but if you send it in yeah... I'm sure they would check and redo everything just to ensure it doesn't come back...So yeah - I'll just collect some verified / calibrated test components which I'll use just to verify but not to calibrate... I highly doubt it'll ever need to be recalibrated for my current use-cases - maybe in the future if they slide too far out of true. But how common is that? I mean, everything ages, so I would assume it would happen, but it would likely be over the course of years - and it would only be something major if one of the chips onboard or resistors or something onboard failed or whatever... replacing a broken or messed up chip with an original would put it within an acceptable margin of error...I saw an almost complete kit of calibrated components on eBay for around $900... 1 sec:ARCO SS-32 Precision Standard Capacitors Kit. Very Rare Unit -https://www.ebay.com/itm/ARCO-SS-32-Precision-Standard-Capacitors-Kit-Very-Rare-Unit/124116961975?_trksid=p2485497.m4902.l9144It is missing a few pieces.... but it seems like if you were to buy the individual components, it is about $200 + higher... however the value lies in the fact that it has the container, and is quite complete... Maybe someone is interested in it. I don't do enough to warrant myself purchasing such a kit - and it is BEST OFFER, so....

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2020, 06:10:04 am
content: Quote from: Acecool on August 16, 2020, 08:53:20 pmI'd get the 860B+ or 870B+.(I've got an 8008 but the 8008 goes unused next to the 860B+)

author: Corner
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2020, 07:00:13 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on August 06, 2020, 03:47:47 pmI'm going to have to disagree on this one.I have 857s and 869s. 857s seems to be using a different processor or something, it takes longer for readings to stabalise especially in 500,000 count voltage mode (usually over 5 seconds), and ohms range takes over 10 seconds or more to stabalise for small resistances (try shorting the leads and wait for it to give you a stable reading). Looking at a friend's 859s, it exhibits the exact same behaviour. The 869s doesn't have such problems and readings all feel confident on 869s.If he's spending that much on a meter, may as well go for the BM869s.

author: Zucca
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 17, 2020, 07:37:37 am
content: Quote from: Wytnucls on August 05, 2020, 09:49:55 amAmen!

author: MosherIV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2020, 07:43:06 am
content: QuoteFor good quality dmms, they almost never drift out of calibration.I have bought a number of used dmms off ebay and they are all within specification.Since I work with electronics, the dmms at work are calibrated (checked for within specification) and I check one or 2 of my dmms against the calibrated ones at work to get an idea of the calibration of my dmms. So far none have been out of spec.Bear in mind that your test references will drift with time as well. So which is correct, your dmm or your reference?Test houses that perform calibrations check their calibration equipment against their own test references which is calibrated against national references, which in turn is calibrated against international test reference.Yes, if the dmm needs fixing, it can affect the calibration but if it has been repaired by yourself would you trust the CAT rating after the repair?With sw calibration, you may not be able to just calibrate a single range. The sw may guide you through a preset routine where you have to calibrate each range.Also bear in mind that there is a charge for the sw, it is normally quite expensive for hobbiest, so only test houses will buy the sw.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 17, 2020, 07:51:51 am
content: I have new sub $150 class meter coming out fairly soon. 50,000 count, nominal 0.03%+2Think of the BM235 but with more resolution, accuracy, bargraph, and AutoHold.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2020, 09:53:51 am
content: I'm also a fan of Keysight meters, very well designed and made; better than Fluke IMHO.There's a new U1233A listed on the Keysight eBay store right now for $211 but you'll have to add your state's tax to that. They usually have a 'make offer' option and I've found will accept a 90% bid. $211 is the list price for this meter on the Keysight website. I own 3 Keysight multimeters and have a 34461A as my main calibrated bench meter, they are all great meters.https://www.ebay.com/itm/Keysight-U1233A-True-RMS-6000-Count-Handheld-Digital-Multimeter-/182427211642?hash=item2a7982577a

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2020, 01:34:22 pm
content: Quote from: Corner on August 17, 2020, 07:00:13 am??I just shorted my leads in Ohms mode and it took about 2 seconds to stabilize, exactly the same as in Dave's video:https://youtu.be/tXu0lsOjvDs?t=734I grabbed a 1.5V battery and it takes about a second for the voltage reading to stabilize in 500,000 counts mode.nb. If you're watching that video in 2020: The backlight has beencompletelyfixed since then (in the model with a 'S' at the end of the name - "BM857s")

author: Corner
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2020, 11:18:11 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on August 17, 2020, 01:34:22 pmWow, maybe it's our batch that has this problem. My 857s serial # is 191110835. What's yours? I need to get into contact with my seller...My backlight is fine. It's orange and it looks pretty good.

author: mansaxel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 18, 2020, 03:44:45 am
content: I coaxed a friend into buying a Gossen METRALINE DM41 (around 85 € in Germany). I think highly of Gossen; very safe meters, and good quality. Let's see if this one is as good.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 18, 2020, 06:00:13 am
content: Quote from: Corner on August 17, 2020, 11:18:11 pm181061100

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2020, 12:53:22 pm
content: Quote from: Corner on August 17, 2020, 11:18:11 pmAny news? I really don't understand how you can have a batch of meters that's much slower.(and did anybody else ever see this...?)

author: Corner
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2020, 04:17:32 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on August 22, 2020, 12:53:22 pmBrymen got back to me with a video recording in which the meter shows exactly the same slow reading. They say this is normal due to what they had to change in some of the circuit design going from 857a to 857s. There's nothing I can do.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2020, 04:44:34 am
content: Quote from: Corner on August 23, 2020, 04:17:32 amMine's an 857s, and it's fast.

author: wizard69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 24, 2020, 09:56:21 pm
content: Quote from: Acecool on August 16, 2020, 08:53:20 pmConsidering the number of meters you already have of questionable quality and utility, I think buying another cheap meter is a big mistake. In fact it seems to be foolish especially if you have suitable budget. I will not specify a specific meter but would suggest looking towards the well regarded manufactures and get a meter that will be good for you for the couple of decades.Please understand I have and have had my share of cheap meters, but any tech should have one high quality, dependable meter. You will want a meter that you can go to with confidence.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 09:16:31 am
content: Have a look at the new UEi DM525.Slightly above your budget at $225.00, but it comes with a 2 year warranty.It has decent specs, lots of functionality, high protection and is ETL listed.https://www.ktool.net/copy-of-uei-dm393-multimeter-trms-temp-cap/

author: MiroS
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 09:21:56 am
content: Quote from: wizard69 on August 24, 2020, 09:56:21 pmI agree, personaly I am keeping myself away from them , especialy from aliexpress/chinese for three resons, but not only them. There are like 200USD mutimeters feture reach which are not worth of time and money too:1/ This is not economical - they fail often for stupid reason, e.g. dead after simply laying on shelf, week mechanical construction - failure after a few batery replacements ... (long lost), one better / more expensive will last long and will be cheaper in long term2/ Capabilities - cheap multimeters have a lot of 'attracive' features which are addition and never will substitute autohold, wide AC bandwith, fast bargraph, reliable ac+dc , current puses and so on.3/ I am keeping away from anything fresh / new - multimeter must be proven , LOCAL support , LOCAL saler to guerantee to folow EU law for guarantee. That is pain if you will need to pay shiping cost to the other continent, wait weeks or months or there will be not official support rules , but good /bad will , long term support like 10 y.or moreActually I am thinking about buying a new multimeter, at this moment no 1 on my selection list is HIOKI DT4282 .

author: MiroS
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 09:31:46 am
content: Quote from: Wytnucls on August 25, 2020, 09:16:31 amI am keeping myself away from UEI , DM525 was never on my short list, not experience on this, but there quite a few review of UEI multimeters on YT ... just look at this.Other than that - no review at all , not mentioning by trusted/skilled tester, no way to get impression how it will work.In such situation trusted saler, protection by local law, local support looks very important.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 09:50:06 am
content: The Hioki costs $520.00. The budget is $200.00

author: MiroS
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 10:03:27 am
content: Quote from: Wytnucls on August 25, 2020, 09:50:06 amI knowIn my home country people say - 'if you do not have many to loose , buy only good quality things' , it is hard for me to translate this right way.I would also consider other alternatives SDM3045X or one of CEM multimeters e.g. DT-9979 or even DT-9929.Anyway HIOKI is no 1 on my list at this moment.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 11:13:31 am
content: Jeśli nie masz wielu do stracenia, kupuj tylko rzeczy dobrej jakościor also Kupuj tylko to, na co Cię stać (Only buy what you can afford)

author: MiroS
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 11:33:02 am
content: Quote from: Wytnucls on August 25, 2020, 11:13:31 amTranslation is giving strange results

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 12:04:11 pm
content: Quote from: MiroS on August 25, 2020, 09:21:56 amFor a <$200 multimeter I wouldn't be that concerned with local support or warranty. Most meters are going to last well beyond the warranty period unless you are very unlucky.

author: MiroS
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 01:49:25 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on August 25, 2020, 12:04:11 pmThat may diserve for separate thread. In short in EU I can simply send back multimeter at no cost for me and saler is charge for money back, just like that at no any explanation from my side. If I will find a bug producer has to follow strictly law e.g. lack of prompt reaction means producer is in charge for complete replacement or full refound ... Imagine you open the box and find that multimeter is too slow or colour is not as you wanted, just anything ... Law is giving 2 years protection, no matter what is producer saying and prompt reaction is required by law, so seler may say I am giving one yesr full stop, but law is build that way that seler cannot limit law, so no matter what is writen by seler, law enforce law itself:)All that may look like a challenge , but actually it is not neither for seler , nor for producer - refound or sending back is very, very rare case, but has really significant positive impact on customer service and products quality. According to EU low saler is in charge to send form to fill if you will decide to send back product to sellerThey even usually are sending it in addressed envelope for customer convinience and to shorten processing time and minimize communciation effortAs I said that all diserve a separate topic, EU law and local PL law is on customer side. I think that law is required also if saler is located at any place, but acting on EU market.

author: Acecool
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 03:32:35 pm
content: Yeah, most are fairly simple and they do typically seem to last forever... however a lot of modern stuff doesn't seem to last long but multimeters seem to be one exception..My budget is open, I am hoping to spend under $200 but I would spend $500 on something really good. But the problem is, the more you spend, the less return you get per dollar spent as you increase in valid which is why I suggested the under 200 as that seems to be ain a good ballpark of good feature-set, quality meters, without starting to increase the amount of money you have to spend for a tiny extra QOL feature, or something like that. While they may be cool, it may not be worth it.Still reviewing a lot of stuff..Also - the Fluke 17B+ - there is supposed to be an international version but aside from a single Youtube video, I can't really find anything about it. The Chinese version you don't get a warranty with it, but the international is supposed to come with one and also have slightly better specs ( but the fuses seem to look the same so probably just meh )....I was thinking that one as a mid-range throw in bag one which can be had for around $90 instead of the $25 to $30 Aneng 8008 or whatever it is. but it is only 4000 count so I may stick with the cheap aneng as the whatever meter and the other. But yeah, if I get the Fluke I'd still get another.... so a bag meter for < $100 probably and a really good one for $300, or whatever... It is an open budget.I don't like skimping on quality on guns or tools... well, technically they're both tools.I am likely going to make the purchase today...

author: MiroS
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 03:45:25 pm
content: Quote from: Acecool on August 25, 2020, 03:32:35 pmI have Fluke 17B+ , but this is not TRMS multimeter, if you are looking at that range then Brymen is actually no 1 for features / money category.I use this very rare due to its limits. FK17B+ is solid like a tank, but not TRMS and missig several features. It is solid basic mutimeter.It it not very precise (in spec of course), and not fastest one. If you are in need to measure like 1mOhm or AC at 15kHz, or TRMS and so n than FK17B+ should be rather avoided.I have BM869s and I am very pleased. I think most Brymen mutimeters have really good reputation and are widely used.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 04:02:05 pm
content: Quote from: Acecool on August 25, 2020, 03:32:35 pmNope.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 04:16:03 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on August 25, 2020, 12:04:11 pmNot that I necessarily disagree, but doesn't that also remove the case for buying new? If you aren't getting support or warranty due to your local circumstances, why not get a better, perhaps better brand, used meter?

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 04:18:51 pm
content: Overall, it sounds like you might have mild (but persistent?) case of TEA in which case you should think ahead to what the next bout(s) will bring you - you can always take a quick dose of an Aneng 8008 (very nice meter for what it is) but you might want to be prepared to take a strong dose of something else to keep the TEA at bay. Just kidding, sorta.More seriously, it's a little hard to say given your budget seems to have a pretty wide range (less than $100? to comfortably 200? to maybe $500), but given your pretty strong preference for "quality" I think you have a Fluke in your future - it might just a matter of which one. Could possibly be a 11X (they are solid meters), but given your preferred specs it seems more likely to be a 179 or maybe (probably?) a 87V.If it isn't a Fluke the other two meters that come to mind when reading your posts are a Brymen (pick whichever one corresponds to your Fluke of interest), or maybe (maybe?) a Siglent 3055. Of course, if you are doing outside work you are going to want/need a handheld DMM but when reading a lot of your specs/preferences the 3055 might be something that would check a lot of boxes. If you are likely to keep going on the journey an 87V plus a bench DMM might be the ticket.PS, read bdunham7's tag line.... TEA is pretty contagious...

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 04:19:09 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on August 25, 2020, 04:02:05 pmChina, Singapore, Vietnam onlyhttps://www.fluke.com/en-vn/product/electrical-testing/digital-multimeters/fluke-17b-plus

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 04:48:45 pm
content: Quote from: Acecool on August 25, 2020, 03:32:35 pmHere the perfect meter for you then:Bonus: 5 year warranty.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 05:25:44 pm
content: Quote from: Acecool on August 25, 2020, 03:32:35 pmAs others have said, when you are looking at a combination of featuresandsafety you will be above the US$200 mark. IMHO the BM869S aggregates the most features and safety per buck, but to get warranty in the US you would need to spend considerably more for its local OEM Greenlee DM-860A. That puts it dangerously close to Keysight's U1272A/U1273A, the most uncompromised and closest to a perfect meter that I know (I have a U1273A). These two Keysight models are fast, accurate, safe and quite packed with features covering somee gaps of the BM869S/DM-860A (autohold, multiple logging triggers, LowZ, 300M ohms, 30mF, etc.).Keysight has an even more accurate model (U1281A/U1282A) but it is a tad slow for my liking.Quote from: Acecool on August 25, 2020, 03:32:35 pmIf it is important to you, the Fluke 17B+ does not have True RMS and some folks reported it as being a bit slow despite feeling quite sturdy (I don't have one).Quote from: Acecool on August 25, 2020, 03:32:35 pmIf you want a throwaway on the bag only for electricity or work around the house but very safe, I would look at the Fluke 101 (also only with warranty in China) and a more expensive one for electronics (if you are looking for features and long term stability) or a cheaper but still quite featured alternative such as the AN870 or the UT61E. I have the three of them and, despite I find the 101 a bit lacking on features, you can't fault its sturdiness and very small size (I have the version with the magnetic hanger - highly recommended as it doubles as a stand). Between the AN870 and the UT61E, I tend to like the latter for its features (bargraph, ranges) but there are too many reports of it lacking long-term stability (mine is four years old and still going strong, but it may be a one-off). I only have the AN870 for a couple of months, but it is a decent meter with some compromises (the stupid weak tilting bail is the most annoying one).Quote from: Gandalf_Sr on August 17, 2020, 09:53:51 amI am a fan of the Keysight meters as well. I had a U1233A and it was quite well made and it had more features than the Fluke 179 - although the 179 is built like a tank like the 87V.Quote from: Fungus on August 23, 2020, 04:44:34 amInteresting development regarding the BM857. Mine is a bit of an off pre-production unit but it is quite fast in all ranges except capacitance.

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2020, 05:48:55 pm
content: I have the Aneng 8008 and Probemaster probes. Both are excellent, but... they don't work the best with each other:The Aneng sockets are not deep enough the for the probes and I've encountered several disconnects using them. My next meter is going to have deeper sockets.

author: MiroS
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 29, 2020, 03:48:25 pm
content: Quote from: mansaxel on August 18, 2020, 03:44:45 amI think this is multimeter made in India.

author: connectTek
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 29, 2020, 06:42:47 pm
content: You can never have enough.

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 03:44:59 am
content: Quote from: connectTek on August 29, 2020, 06:42:47 pmExactly - where's your DC current clamp meter???

author: connectTek
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 07:40:31 am
content: Never had a use for it, 10 amps is plenty , but when I do need one you can be sure I will buy one.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 07:44:57 am
content: Quote from: connectTek on August 29, 2020, 06:42:47 pmEveryone is an amateur compared to ExcavatorEE!

author: connectTek
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 08:12:49 am
content: Faaaaaaaark.Fetish?

author: connectTek
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 08:15:17 am
content: Hurry up Dave, looking forward to your new meter.

author: mansaxel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 08:16:53 am
content: Quote from: ledtester on August 30, 2020, 03:44:59 amHere:

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 10:00:03 am
content: Quote from: connectTek on August 30, 2020, 08:12:49 amMore expensive habit than crack!

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 11:08:59 am
content: Unless some of the boxes are empty, I counted 81 Dave

author: AVGresponding
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 11:16:55 am
content: Quote from: Gandalf_Sr on August 30, 2020, 11:08:59 amI make it 87, which is quite an amusing number for it to be. I think you missed some lying down, partly hidden.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 11:31:14 am
content: Well, at least we're in the same ballpark.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 12:09:18 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on August 30, 2020, 10:00:03 amTo be fair.... most of them are Fluke 25s (or 27s?) which can probably be picked up for $20 in the USA.What are those big yellow boxes with the meters stuffed in the front? What do they do?

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2020, 12:39:58 pm
content: Quote from: connectTek on August 30, 2020, 08:12:49 amOnce in a while you should visit the ->TEA... temple.

author: Corner
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2020, 04:55:05 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on August 30, 2020, 07:44:57 amHoly mother effing god! That's dedication. I respect this man.

author: Trader
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2020, 10:20:41 pm
content: RuoShui 9808+ / Vici 9808+Strong point: Inductance MeasuringWeek point: only 2000 counts

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 02, 2020, 05:10:12 am
content: Quote from: Trader on September 01, 2020, 10:20:41 pmReally week point: manual ranging. It's so 1970's

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 02, 2020, 05:11:06 am
content: Quote from: Corner on August 31, 2020, 04:55:05 am

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 02, 2020, 05:12:24 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on August 30, 2020, 12:09:18 pmNever seen those before. Some sort of giant accessory box for the Fluke 87?

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 02, 2020, 05:14:58 am
content: This guy has a boat load of Fluke 27's available for $38, bargain!https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Fluke-27-Multimeter/382616480372

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2020, 06:46:21 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on September 02, 2020, 05:12:24 am

author: Shock
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2020, 09:11:11 am
content: He doesn't have a transparent Fluke 87v so it's an incomplete collection.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2020, 09:54:15 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on September 02, 2020, 05:14:58 amPlus another $100 if you live outside the USA.(very solid/reliable meters... grab 'em while you can)

author: MiroS
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2020, 12:11:58 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on September 02, 2020, 05:10:12 amManual ranging is a way better than slow autoranging. I think you know what I mean

author: wizard69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2020, 12:28:19 pm
content: Quote from: MiroS on September 02, 2020, 12:11:58 pmThis is so true!!!!! Thankfully meters are much better these days when it comes to auto ranging.

author: Trader
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2020, 07:53:00 pm
content: Manual ranging is so charmingHow do you measure inductance in your DMM?