Just bought a 'used' Agilent U1242B Meter from Keysight on eBay - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 09:36:56 am
content: I've been so happy with the quality, accuracy, and usability of my U1252B that I thought I'd get what looks like its baby brother to replace the Fluke 117 meter I just gave to my son; I owned the Fluke for a while but wasn't using it as it has no uA range and is better suited for house electrical work.The Keysight listing said 'used' but it's tested, guaranteed for 30 days, comes with a set of test leads, and the pictures (assuming they are of my actual unit) look like new. It has basic DC accuracy of 0.09%, some thermistor-related features and a 4-20 mA function too.I was going to make a 90% offer but the eBay system told me there were 2 counter-offers pending so I hit the [buy it now] button and paid full price which was $141 (+ 6% tax in Michigan so $150 total).Any thoughts, comments, or advice on this meter?

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 09:48:38 am
content: Quote from: Gandalf_Sr on September 10, 2019, 09:36:56 amJust don't "rub"too much on the printed label at the DMM's body. see for your self at below close up photos of my U1242B.Even my cheap decades old 2 bucks DMMs don't have this kind of paint quality.Its never exposed to any liquid nor solvent or any nasty chemical, only normal usage using various and "quality" test leads that have normal shrouded banana plug, no cheap test leads ever plugged on it.Oh .. I don't have sweaty fingers either.

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 02:20:19 pm
content: I think that this DMM has a bad access for fuses, it is not easy to replace them. Am I right?

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 03:47:31 pm
content: There are two youtube videos which demonstrate some odd behavior of the meter. Any comments if they are anything to be concerned about?

author: fanOfeeDIY
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 04:01:14 pm
content: I have u1241b.The fuses are not easy to replace as it is in my video.I have not checked the odd behavior but it is fine dmm for me so far.https://youtu.be/sffTKC8Vn-4

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 11:19:20 am
content: In a world where I can click on the [Buy it Now] button in Amazon on a Saturday for an electronic item and have it appear on my doorstep with no shipping charges the following day - on a Sunday! - it's slightly frustrating to have to wait for Keysight to even ship a used item I paid their asking price days ago. To be fair, their listing did say..."Estimated between Mon. Sep. 30 and Wed. Oct. 2 - Includes 10 business days handling time after receipt of cleared payment"But the listing details also says "Ships within 5 business days after payment from Roseville, CA, USA" so what exactly is happening at Keysight in Roseville? Are teams of white-lab-coat-wearing Keysight technicians hooking my used U1242B meter up to $1 million worth of fancy test gear and ooohing and aahing at the results?The eBay listing specifically says "Full working condition. 30 days warranty. Tested or calibrated" but points out that, if there's no picture showing a Cal certificate, (there wasn't one) then it's not calibrated. So what does "tested" mean? If they tested it on the volts range and found it reported 11 volts when testing a 5 volt supply, what would they do then?OK, this post is a bit of a whining vent on my part and maybe theyarethoroughly testing my used meter. I ordered and paid on 9/10 so Keysight are still within their stated timing but they need to ship by 9/17 to stay compliant.But hey, like Kevin Bloody Wilson, that bastion of Australian culture would likely say, Keysight yer c%#$s, where's me f#$%ing meter?

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 11:58:19 am
content: Quote from: Hydrawerk on September 10, 2019, 02:20:19 pmBad fuse access is a punishment for those who don't use their meters correctly.(Seriously: if "bad access for fuses" is an issue, you need to look somewhere between the meter and the chair for the problem)

author: rvalente
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 12:01:47 pm
content: Great piece of equipment, the only thing I cant stand is how ugly it is. Other than that i would own one.Sent from my LG-H870 using Tapatalk

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 01:07:10 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on September 15, 2019, 11:58:19 amI agree that fuses blow when people don't use the tool properly but having to take the whole thing apart and remove the PCB is pretty extreme action to change a fuse. All my use is on low power stuff so I'm unconcerned.

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 01:20:01 pm
content: Minor but important, don't use alkaline, use LSD NiMh cells instead, they should be more than enough and probably will last very long time.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 04:03:35 pm
content: Quote from: BravoV on September 15, 2019, 01:20:01 pmWhy not?

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 05:00:08 pm
content: Looks like a nice meter, congratulations.With regard to the shipping, if they clearly state on the sale that you will receive it on 9/30 - 10/2, then there is little else you can say. It does not make sense to compare it to Amazon's one day shipping, which is only for certain items. It is like complaining my car does not accelerate like a Tesla Model S. If you don't get it by 10/2, then it is a different matter.I looked at the same DMM at Amazon, it is $437 new, and "usually ships within 2-3 weeks". So I guess $141 is a really good deal, and you don't get it any faster via Amazon.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 05:32:38 pm
content: Quote from: Gandalf_Sr on September 15, 2019, 01:07:10 pmThe pain you feel is just carelessness leaving the body.PS: Don't those things at least have some sort of input jack alert?

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 05:59:57 pm
content: Although I don't have the same models as you, I really like my handheld HPAK meters - well featured, accurate in the years of service and, save an annoyance or two, do the job with quite the excellence.I don't use rechargeables on my meters, but I switched to Lithium non rechargeables simply because I am afraid of having a battery leak. My U1273A draws quite the power, thus the concern is not too pressing. However, the U1282A is extremely low power and the risk of leaving batteries that become old and leaky is higher.Regarding fuses, I always ran into accidents that required the occasional fuse replacement. Having to open the entire meter is not an issue in my opinion, but having to remove the PCB is quite extreme.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 06:09:47 pm
content: Quote from: NoisyBoy on September 15, 2019, 05:00:08 pmI think you must've entered the wrong part number, a U1242B is listed at $277 on Amazon and the Keysight website says typical price of $236.I was being whiney, I can't complain on the actual dates as long as it come by when they say it will; I was just asking why does it have to take so long to ship?

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 10:44:07 pm
content: My bad, I thought it was a 1252B and did the wrong lookup.I think this is always a challenge with working directly with large companies that rely most on distributors and retailers to serve the general public. The direct channel (new or used) may not be the fastest.I agree with you that if you mostly work on low power circuits, the odd for blowing fuses is pretty low.I like the orange LCD, but the slanted button reminds me of some HP calculators like the 33S.

author: Keysight DanielBogdanoff
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 16, 2019, 05:22:27 am
content: I'm going to hijack the thread a little bit - a couple comments on the questions about Keysight shipping time, eBay/refurb, and the Roseville site.1. Shipping time - yes, I 100% wish it were faster and there may or may not be some initiatives that are exploring options. Shops like Amazon, etc., make the bulk of their income because of their sales volumes, product diversity, and availability (quick ship times, things are in stock). An OEM like us (Keysight) loses very little business due to a slower shipping time. We do, however, save $ by doing it, which directly translates to pricing decisions. It takes FOREVER to get stuff we order internally, so I feel your pain. That being said, often our authorized distributors DO have faster ship times if they've opted to stock an item.2. eBay/refurb - I'm a huge fan, and wouldn't hesitate to spend my $ on a Keysight refurbished product through eBay. Our overhaul process is pretty extreme and the warranty backs up any rare latent problems that might pop up. The actual process can take a lot of different forms depending on the product, and it's not uncommon for multiple hands in multiple countries to touch a refurb product or board. Which brings us to Roseville, CA.3. Roseville is the main service center for the USA & North America (and maybe South America?), there are other hubs around the world that are roughly equivalent. If you (USA) drew the short straw and had a scope with a bad acquisition board, it'll end up in Roseville, where they'll put in a new (or reman) board and ship the scope back. Your board then gets evaluated and possibly repaired to be sold in a refurb scope. So, it's not crazy for a place like Roseville to be the last place a refurb scope ends up before it lands on your bench. The situation varies with the complexity level of the equipment in question, but this is a general common situation. At the same time, your item could ship out of our place in Malaysia, which would account for the longer ship times.

author: windsmurf
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2019, 06:08:10 am
content: Quote from: Gandalf_Sr on September 10, 2019, 09:36:56 amI think you would've been fine just doing an offer. If that one sold, then that seller would have listed another refurb for sale immediately.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2019, 10:36:19 am
content: Quote from: windsmurf on September 16, 2019, 06:08:10 amYeah but the asking price is/was only $141 and my experience that Keysight don't usually accept anything less than 90% of that, we're talking about $14.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2019, 10:06:38 am
content: Well the U1242B finally shipped and is supposed to get to me by 8 pm tomorrow via FedEx

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2019, 10:59:47 am
content: Is that complete with all accessories, box & document as like new one ?If it is, the standard U1242B also came with a calibration certificate too as below example.Yes, I got two, don't ask.

author: Berni
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2019, 11:07:14 am
content: The official Keysight ebay store is indeed a good place to get like new gear for quite a bit less money.Not all of Keysights handheld meters come with full measurement calibration certificates even when new. But the used scope i got from the ebay store came in a original new box and with a fresh calibration certificate, but did not include accessories like probes. It also shipped from Malaysia.It looks like the ebay store is just a way for Keysight to push out of gear that they can't quite pass off as new, but they try to get as close as they can by fixing up the gear if necessary. Im guessing this is also where the gear that is hauled all over the world to show off on trade shows ends up after a few years.They also have another ebay store where they flog off other non Keysight brand gear. Im guessing its things they got as part of some tradein promotion or stuff they got long ago to see what there competitors are doing. The last time i looked things there ware not that great of a deal since a lot of it was pretty old stuff that could be gotten for a better price elsewhere.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2019, 12:06:26 pm
content: Well the one I bought was described as "used" and the listing said this...Keysight UsedU1242BKey FeaturesFull working conditionTested30 days warrantyOptionsNo Options includedThe description said that, if no Cal certificate was shown in the pictures, then it wasn't Cal'd but, like I asked before, what does 'tested' mean? And what do they do if they test a used piece of used gear and it doesn't come in spec? And why would a meter that's being sold new by them be sold as used? In the latter case I could guess open box/return so maybe the meter I get will still be in Cal? I think it's possible to look up Cal certs from the Keysight website by serial number.I bought a used scope off them a while back and it stated 'calibrated' on the eBay description but they were telling me that it wasn't going to be calibrated but that, if they did calibrate it, it would take longer to ship (like they were trying to discourage me). I pushed back and it was then calibratedeven though it took a week longer to arrive.Who knows, maybe I'll get 3 calibrated ones with all accessories? We'll find out tomorrow

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2019, 06:35:42 pm
content: Well it arrived but I only got oneBeen testing it out; it's the one on the right but you can see that the U1242B is clearly related to the U1252B. All seems well but there's no clip to hold the U1117A onto the back although, if I hold the U1117A against the back of the U1242B, the Keysight Meter Logger App on my iPhone sees the meter. How is that supposed to work if they don't hold together?Readings seem ever so slightly low but within 0.07% so I can't really complain.

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2019, 09:12:29 pm
content: Excellent, I am glad you got the DMM early.I presume you are feeding a 5V reference voltage in your picture, so a 0.04 error is well within spec, very good for a handheld DMM with a 6000 count resolution, it is a great buy.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2019, 10:40:53 am
content: Quote from: NoisyBoy on September 18, 2019, 09:12:29 pmThanksAmong other stuff, I have a Keysight 34461A that was bought new in Dec 2015 (not calibrated since but thinking about it) and a DP832A that was bought in Mar 2018; I used the 34461A to 'calibrate' the DP832A soon after I got it. The DP832A was set to 5V out and the 34461A was reading 5.00182 connected in parallel with the U1242B.I've got a DMMCheck Plus on its way to me in the mail so more accurate tests will soon be possible.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2019, 01:57:25 pm
content: I figured out how the U1117A Bluetooth Adapter is supposed to attach to the U1242B meter, it needs a U1179A plastic bracket which I just ordered from Amazon for $12. It's a kind of kludge in that the plastic bracket fits into the squidgy test-lead holders on the back. I was thinking of designing one in FreeCAD and then 3D printing but it's not worth my time and effort.

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2019, 06:45:54 pm
content: Quote from: Gandalf_Sr on September 19, 2019, 10:40:53 am

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 20, 2019, 09:20:32 am
content: @NoisyBoyThanks, I'll let you know what the meters read from my DMMCheck once it gets here. Just out of interest, what is the cost of a Cal for the 34461A?

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 20, 2019, 12:59:25 pm
content: It varies by the certification level you need, it starts at $240 and goes up to $458 with guardbanding. I only use the basic cal since it is just a hobby lab.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 20, 2019, 05:19:19 pm
content: $245 seems pretty reasonable.

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 20, 2019, 07:55:19 pm
content: I thought so, there are cheaper alternatives out there for 6.5 digit DMMs. But many cannot handle the 34461A, however they can do 34401A NIST traceable cal for around $100.Despite the higher cost, I personally thought all my interactions with Keysight, whether it be will new equipment sales, parts, repair or cal to be truly exceptional. I have never encountered anyone who is not friendly and top tier professionals. I can have everything billed on one account, they are super easy to do business with.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2019, 09:53:34 am
content: Well my DMMcheck Plus arrived and I did a quick test on some of my meters. My U1252B is really good and my 34461A reads 5.00001 Volts when the DMMcheckpus cal sheet says 5.0000 Volts; rats! That's only 0.0002% accurate/s

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2019, 08:45:47 pm
content: Excellent, you are probably in the clear.One thing to be aware of its behavior at different voltage range, it is the biggest limitation for DMM checkers (and frankly, that's why I have not bought the DMM Check+). As 34461A has a separate gain correction for each of the 5 ranges in DC, and 11 performance verification checkpoints in DC alone. It is complex enough that I have considered buying a Fluke 5720A at some point.My 344461A is back at Keysight Rossville for cal as we speak. While it was within tolerance for up to 10V DC, they found it to be out of tolerance in DC (not sure what voltage range, I will find out after I get the report back).I may need to get over my accuracy OCD someday and spend some of the annual cal budget in more new test gearsChallenge is Keysight is so easy (and a pleasure) to do business with, which makes breaking the habit hard. They come and pick up my gears with their equipment van, do the cal, and return the equipment to me. Everything is billed to my account, I liken it to having a tap at the barBut it gives me 100% confidence in my test gears when I need to use them, so I suppose it is still a small price to pay to keep the OCD at bay.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2019, 08:57:29 am
content: You're right; I should just send it in to Keysight for Cal, it's my best meter and I paid $1,000 for it 4 years ago.Unless you have a waaaay better meter than mine (the 344461A eh?), you may want to send your keyboard in for Cal too

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2019, 04:39:25 pm
content: You still on the old gear? You really need to upgrade to the KKeysight 344461A, I am waiting for the even newer 3444461A, it is coming out any day nowThis reminds me of the TI calculator from the 70's, I had a TI 30, the key bounces all the time creating double/triple digit entries, terrible defect in a calculator. Their higher end models were much better, but none came close to a HP with RPN.Back on topic, the recommended cal period is 1 year, with a max of 2 year per recommendation from Keysight. So I would say a cal for your best meter may be a good investment, you can use it as a transfer standard for your other meters across all voltage ranges and measurements. It minimize the curse of multiple versions of truth when you own multiple DMMs. Back in the old days, I had one analog meter, I never questioned its reading. The arrival of my second meter was perhaps the beginning of my OCD.As the meter ages, the drift reduces, as evident in my two almost 10 years old 34401As, those are rock solid meters and a joy to use. But for a new meter, a cal after a few years of use, though may not be necessary, could be a nice treat for yourself.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2019, 06:08:08 pm
content: Quote from: NoisyBoy on September 26, 2019, 04:39:25 pmFunny how you mentioned that issue with the TI-30 calculator; it seems your keyboard is doing the same...As for the calculator itself, mine started doing this when the batteries dropped below 7.5V or whereabouts. Brownout protection circuitry didn't exist at the time.

author: 2N3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2019, 06:35:18 pm
content: If you look at a curve of how they settle, for home or non formal work, good practice is after you buy new, calibrate after 1, than wait for 2 then 3 and then 5 years... After 11 years they are pretty much flat afterwards...If you need it for work, you will calibrate to satisfy paperwork.. Some people keep it at 3 months intervals to be able to use 90 days specs..

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2019, 10:38:07 pm
content: Do you think there will be any pushback from Keysight if I send my 34461A in for it's first Cal at 4 years old?

author: 2N3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2019, 10:50:39 pm
content: Quote from: Gandalf_Sr on September 26, 2019, 10:38:07 pmWhy? What do they care.. But there is a big chance that it will need adjustment if it was never adjusted since bought..And most likely it will be quite stable from now on..

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2019, 11:22:07 pm
content: Quote from: 2N3055 on September 26, 2019, 10:50:39 pmNo, they don't care. Call them and they will give you a quote, you will then call back and give them your credit card number (or have them bill it to your account if you have one). The cal is $240, plus $35 on return shipping. You will have to make arrangement to get the meter to their cal lab, so the original shipping box and foam would come in handy if you plan to UPS or Fedex it. If you live close to one of their service center, they can pick it up from your home and do all the packing for you if it needs to be send out (they take responsibility for any damages, you just give them the bare meter without cable or probes), or they will do the cal at the local lab. If you have over $300 of services, the courier service is free, otherwise it is $100. I usually batch all my Agilent/Keysight gears into groups for cal, so I can get the free courier service.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2019, 11:37:13 pm
content: Thanks guys. Does 'adjustment', if needed, cost more than a straight Cal or is it all part of the $240?

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2019, 06:47:28 am
content: This is what's included in the basic cal (the lowest tier):Tests all product specifications using manufacturer-developed procedures and softwareIncludes certificate and full measurement reportIncludes all adjustments and as-received data for any out-of-tolerance instrumentComplies with ISO 9001:2008

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2019, 11:12:19 pm
content: Sorry to be a pain but, what's the difference between...Keysight Calibration Agreement $228 andKeysight Calibration Per Incident $240?I tried to look it up but it's as clear as mud.

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 03:38:13 am
content: I never got quoted that price. I believe that was for people with annual cal service over $10,000, I could be wrong though.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 09:31:54 am
content: You're probably right, that would make most sense. When I mouse-click the little (?) bubbles to the left of each item, the exact same pop-up text comes up with the 5 bullets the service includes...- Tests all product specifications using manufacturer-developed procedures and software- Includes certificate and full measurement report- Includes all adjustments and as-received data for any out-of-tolerance instrument- Complies with ISO 9001:2008- Displayed price is total for one calibrationI guess I'll have to call them on Monday and check unless Daniel is around and can clarify?

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 10:33:15 pm
content: Hey, look what I found on eBay! Is no one going to bite?

author: Keysight DanielBogdanoff
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 30, 2019, 06:42:12 am
content: @Gandalf_Sr - I have no clue what the difference is! I'm sure the work is the same, but it probably has something to do with the way service contracts get setup, especially for enterprise folks.

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 01, 2019, 10:44:46 pm
content: Ah, I see the seller much have also read about the upcoming KKeysight 3444461A and try to sell his 344461A before the announcement.My meter just finished its spa treatment at Keysight Roseville and it should be on its way back to me soon. It passed all tests except one test point: -100V DC, it is just slightly out of the spec by 0.00013%. Everything is now back in spec and good for another year or two.DC alone, there are 11 separate cal points, and AC has 20 cal points. When you consider all the other functions that needs to be calibrated/adjusted, the price Keysight charge is very reasonable. As it will take many hundred cals to justify owning my own Fluke 5730ADaniel, thanks for another superb Keysight experience.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 01, 2019, 11:43:07 pm
content: Guys, I set up a service agreement with Keysight today for $228. It's VERY unclear but that agreement allows me to send the covered meter (the 34461A in my case) in at any time in the year for calibration which I've requested to happen immediately. Apparently this save me money as I only pay for the shipping to their nearest service center.

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 02, 2019, 12:00:26 am
content: Hey, great to know. I will use that option for my future calibrations, sounds like a no-brainer.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 02, 2019, 08:49:05 am
content: Yeah, that was the first option on the list I copied earlier. I called in and spoke to a very helpful Keysight Rep who told me that it was cheaper to set up a service agreement for which there is no fee (that's what she told me and I think she's right so far) and then I get free shipping on the return leg of the Calibration that comes free with the 1 year Service Agreement; I suspect they will try to invoice me in a year's time to pay another $228 which I may well allow because it's important to have at least one calibrated meter in my lab and this is the obvious choice.

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 02, 2019, 04:06:11 pm
content: Completely agree, glad you looked into it as I never bothered to ask, because return shipping is another $35 that you saved.I have the repair service contract on my meter but not cal service, I added 3 additional years when I bought the meter a couple years ago. Given my 34401As has been superbly stable due to their age, I think I will move them from annual to a 2-year cal cycle (but rotate them so they get cal on alternate year). But for the 34461A, I will join you and move it to a cal service contract next year when cal is due.Yes, I have worked with over ten folks from Keysight on new purchases, cal, service & repair, parts, equipment pick up etc..., every single one of them have been superbly professional, helpful, and friendly. That's why it is my go-to brand and make up 95% of my equipment purchases, as that support experience is important to me.Enjoy all your toys, glad we both learned something new in our Keysight journey.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2019, 07:04:04 pm
content: Well I managed to get my 34461A sent back to Keysight for calibration but the experience was less smooth than you'd expect from a high-end OEM like them. Here's some info.1. The first link in my picture above is for a year's service agreement that costs $228 for the 34461A2. Once you buy that 1-year service agreement, you are entitled to send the meter back for calibration once during the covered period3. Under the service agreement, you pay the shipping to send it to Keysight and they pay for the return to you4. Under the service agreement, they will test and adjust the meter to bring it within specification, issue a calibration certificate and full test test report5. The calibration is done to ISO 9001:20086. If the instrument fails Cal because of a defect, Keysight will quote for the fix and, if you decline to go ahead with the fix, they will charge you 50% of the Cal feeTrying to call them up and following their menu system seemed always to end up with someone who didn't know answers to simple questions like "what does the Cal include?". After several periods of hold music, and one call where I was disconnected, I eventually got to speak with a customer service rep from the Cal department called Neal who gave me the above information.There's a cost saving to go with the first option - Keysight Calibration Agreement - for which I paid $228 plus the $30 cost of shipping the meter to California - a total of $258. If I'd taken option 2, I would have paid $240 for 1 Cal plus the cost of shipping both ways - about $300.I am happy with the decision to Cal the 34461A, it was probably pretty good but the point of owning such a meter is to do a bit better than pretty good.

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2019, 08:15:59 pm
content: Sorry to hear about your experience, Neal has been very helpful with getting my latest cal order placed, nice guy. Hope the rest of your experience go smoothly.My meter just arrived this afternoon, after a warm up, I did some quick DC V test against both 34401A I have (both had been cal in the last 5 months, and both had been so solid that annual cal had not discovered anything out of spec in the last four years). I did four voltages, and the meters all agree to the last digit in 6.5 digit mode in each reading.That, to someone with accuracy OCD, is like sipping fine wine in a French Riviera resort.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2019, 08:21:49 pm
content: "Accuracy OCD" LOL!Neal was great once I got to talk tohim. The first thing I did was get his extension so I could get straight to him in future calls.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2019, 08:44:00 pm
content: Well my 34461A is on the way back to me after calibration which was a 3-day turnaround. The calibration report shows that, although it appeared to be in-spec under the pre-adjustment section, they adjusted to achieve improvements that, in some cases created an order of reduction in the errors, e.g. DC offset with 0V input on the 10V DC scale, was 1.0 uV pre adjustment and -0.1 uV post adjustmentI'm happy I had it done

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2019, 01:20:25 am
content: Great to hear, for something like a 6.5 digit meter, it is pointless to own if one does not bother to calibrate it professionally on a regular basis. It is like buying a Ferrari but not giving it regular service.Now, you can measure with full confidence on the result.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2019, 09:29:28 am
content: @NoisyBoy You're right, thanks for nudging me in the right direction. Let's hope that the FedEx plane flying my 34461A from Memphis to Detroit today isn't a 737 Max and the truck it rides on doesn't fall down a Michigan sink hole.

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2019, 08:57:49 pm
content: Along with the DMMCheck Plus you got, now you have a set of stable source and transfer standard to do the basic calls for your other DMMs.May the meter travel safely back to your home.And thank you for figuring out the cal contract, I will put my meters on contract when they are up for cal next year.Have a great afternoon.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2019, 10:15:47 pm
content: May your meters make it safely back to you after calibrationMay your tests always fall within specMay your component orders always all be tariff free;your silkscreens miss all your pads and until we meet again,may god hold you in the palm of Her hand

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2019, 04:45:42 pm
content: Well my prayer worked and the 34461A is back in my lab with a full Cal. I let it warm up and it seems pretty close...

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2019, 04:50:54 pm
content: Excellent, he Keysight service has always done excellent work in all my equipment. I am glad you get to experience it as well.