Choosing bench multi-meter/PM2525 experience? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: iampoor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 20, 2015, 10:59:43 am
content: HiI am looking for decent used bench multi-meters from 100-200$. I do not need a particularly high resolution or accurate meter, but I do need to measure up to 1000 DC/AC volts. I would like a good AC measurement function (20-20khz??), and preferably a continuity tester (this is not a deal breaker however). I work on tube circuits and low voltage electronics, all audio work and some minor digital stuff. So far the best option seems to be the phillips/fluke PM2525.Are there any known issues with these meters? How is the LCD? It doesnt appear to have a backlight? My largest concern with it as of now is how easy it is to read in low light situations.Does anyone have any other recommendations?

author: Shock
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 20, 2015, 01:24:07 pm
content: No it doesn't have a backlight. I'd be more inclined to get something like a HP 3435A or something with an easy to read display, it doesn't have shrouded sockets but. Check out the specs on it. You could possibly pick up 2 good ones and two parts boxes for that price just make sure the battery pack has been removed or is not going to be an issue.The Philips has a motorized function selector on the inside, and custom probe connector in the front. Parts and ease of repair might be a problem, I think it also has a potential backup battery leak issue on the PCB. I don't like them for some reason, perhaps it's because the Flukes have the vacuum fluorescent displays and look so much easier to read and operate.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 20, 2015, 06:59:22 pm
content: Keithley 191 goes to 1kVAC or 1.2kVDC. Pretty interesting, accurate and can be had inexpensively.Keithley 197 is a big higher in price and a bit more modern, but it can also reach your desired specs: 1kV AC/DC

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 20, 2015, 08:30:13 pm
content: I have a Keithley 197 and I am very happy with it. It still is within spec. What don't I like about it? No continuity test. That's it.

author: iampoor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2015, 11:32:20 pm
content: Quote from: Shock on November 20, 2015, 01:24:07 pmI think another potential issue with the PM2525 is the glass reed relays. I dont think they are unobtanium unlike the function selector switch however. Thankfully the custom connector is just for 4 wire measurement and the temperate probe....Might be able to hack in some banana jacks for 4 wire measurement.Is it possible to change the battery on the HP3435A without loosing calibration? Looks like a pretty nice meter. Doesnt appear to have any unobtainable parts either!Quote from: rsjsouza on November 20, 2015, 06:59:22 pmIs the ac volts measurement option on the 197? If I could fin a deal on one, I think it would be great to have one just for the ultra low measurement ranges.Quote from: Lightages on November 20, 2015, 08:30:13 pmWhat do you like abut it? Seems to be well built and not have any unobtainable parts. I like it.