Agilent U1272A Review By Kiriakos Triantafilloy Greece  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2011, 11:26:14 pm
content: Kiriakos Triantafillou – Greece July 18, 2011Agilent U1272A review – By the eye of the Industrial electrician.It was a true surprise the email that I received from the Agilent HH marketing organization before 45 days or so, in was an invitation about to use - test and evaluate an Agilent HH DMM.I am a Greek industrial electrician, forty-two years old, and I do both electrical and electronic projects, currently I own one wide range of tools, capable for a wide range of measurements.How Agilent found me?I am sharing my experiences about multimeters and measurements with my friends in the EEV Blog forum for about fifteen months now, I am helping them, and they helping me too, about the understanding of electronics and technical terms.Up to a point I feel very lucky because in this community I found well educated technicians with lots of experience in the field, and one of our favorite subject of conversation are the handheld multimeters.I thought as interesting the idea about writing small tutorials with subjects like: Multimeter accuracy / reference sources / restoration of old bench type multimeters/ AC-DC clamp probe functionality/ HV 40KV probe operation/ Test leads and test lead accessories.The main idea or concept was to present pictures of measurements by the use of professional tools to the young ones, just as one piece of information.The most recent multimeter from the seven that I own, are the Fluke 28II,I got so excited with it and probably I did make more buzz about it than the usual, and so I got detected.And so I did accepted the challenge, as I do love comparisons, that’s how I had select so far all the tools that I own, made from major manufacturers from all over the world.By getting the demonstration unit, the first impression was positive.The unit is large, feels good in your hand, large LCD display easily viewable from a distance.No problems by viewing it on bright daylight or in low light conditions.The back light is very effective, and transforms the multimeter in to an object of desire. (I love that Orange tint)Some older in age electricians they will found the secondary display line as hard to see, but with the back light on, the contrast gets higher and even those smaller digits becomes visible.The range switch is smooth enough, but I did find a small annoyance on it.The internal perimeter of the knob it is curved in a way that my large fingers they have to grab it and hold it exactly from the center of it.I would prefer to was not curved = more space for the fingers.The battery compartment contains four AAA batteries, and the battery cover has on it some tiny cross type screws.The small screw heads can cause some annoyance, if you do not carry with you such small screwdrivers.I would prefer non cross type screws in there, or even better, screws with large plastic heads, which you can turn them with just your bare fingers.The selection of the AAA batteries, for such an instrument with Data logging capability leads me think, that this unit was made for people who will occasionally use this function.The supplied test leads are well made.The cables haves this new modular design that you can hook on them test probes of any diameter, or large Alligator Clips, or even cable extensions.On the 2mm Test probes you can add one range of smaller accessories for example Alligator Clips / SMT Grabbers / fine tips, they are Anti-slip with nice finger guards, in the bag there is two sets of probes, fully isolated for electrical work and standard 2mm for automotive – electronics etc.Among the standard accessories there is also and one K type thermocouple.Extra accessories: (That it I would recommend to get.)The soft carrying case part code U1174A.Fine Tip Test Probes part code U1164A. (Automotive work or electronics)And the IR-USB cable for PC connectivity, part code U1173AAgilent offers one wide variety of temperature probes, among them the surface temperature probe U1182A that it looks to target industrial applications, I am positive in the idea about having the chance to test it too, in to a later time.Part – 2U1272A – Evaluating the additional featuresBy reading the 161 pages of the User’s Guide,I realized that this unit it’s not just a shiny DMM for generic use.The U1272A was designed so to serve in a wide range of measurements.But in this review I will focus on the ones who work best for electricians.At the page 83 (User’s Guide) they are the additional features.Making Relative Measurements (Null)Making Scale Transfers (Scale)Capturing Maximum and Minimum Values (MaxMin)Capturing Peak Values (Peak)Freezing the Display (Trig Hold and Auto Hold)Recording Measurement Data (Data Logging)Performing manual logs (HAnd)Performing interval logs (AUto)Performing event logs (triG)Reviewing Previously Recorded Data (View)I did explore them all, and I found the one that I do favour the most, and this is the Scale Transfers (Scale).It does a Scale conversion of the output in mV of one Hall type (AC/DC) clamp probe, in to Amperes.I own one such (AC/DC) probe, with dual ranges for 40A or 400A.0.4 – 400A = 1mV/A0.1 – 40A = 10mV/AThe 10mV/A output it is very confusing to watch and converting it by naked eye … you are always close to mistakably evaluate the reading.The U1272A converts the scale by it self, and in the screen I get an easy to read scale of amperes, in the rich 30.000 counts resolution.I like to publicly thank the designer’s team of the HH department at Agilent technologies, their simple in concept idea it does help about accelerating measurement tasks.With the U1272A I can remain focused on my work, no more confusing digits on the display of my DMM, and this translates to more speed and effectiveness.The next interesting feature is the Data logging (Auto) it was a missing feature from my current set of tools.As soon I learned how it works (with a small learning curve) I feel much better now, with it I can expand the methods that I was using so far about troubleshooting, finally I am able to monitor anything with out the need to be physically present.With the (Auto) Data logging, the stored entries could be from 1 to 10.000, and so definably you will need one computer as aid about reviewing it.If you do data logging with the DMM connected on the computer, the Agilent software (Data logger GUI) offers time and date stamps, and your life gets allot easier with it.If you do data logging (Auto) with just the DMM, by keeping few notes in a paper like the starting time, you can detect the time that its event had occur, by few simple calculations with the help of a pocket calculator.The manual logging (Hand) it is very easy to do and review the stored logs.100 entries (Hand log) sound more than enough.Any of the additional features, it is an extra tool for the right task.Personally, I found most of those features as useful, probably because I do both electrical and electronics maintains and troubleshooting.Part – 3U1272A – Exploring the basic featuresZ-Low:low impedance modes to eliminate stray voltages.By reading the Agilent Data sheet about this feature, commonly known as detect ghost voltages.My mind traveled back to the elder experienced electrician’s who was teaching us small useful secrets of how to detect ghost voltages and many more tricks, with the use of simple practical methods.The Z-Low on the 1272A it is a much modernized approach and it is combined with voltage measurement, I like it.Smart Ohm:It is smart I can verify it too.Smart Ohm is a mixed mode, resistor measurement and testing continuity.Continuity test mode:The U1272A comes with a laud beeper and activates the illumination of the back light display simultaneously.In the advanced menu settings, you can adjust the beeper volume under your personal taste, plus you can disable the backlight activation (A-bLit) menu option.Continuity test mode Part 2:Did you ever have to verify the condition of one stopper switch?Those little stopper switches they can be wired to trigger the control circuitry with open or close contacts, with the U1272A there is no worries, by pressing the Dual/Exit button, the DMM adjusts it self according to your needs.And so you get both warnings for open or close contacts.Part – 4U1272A – Combining the power of basic & advanced featuresBy combining The Smart Ohm + Auto Hold + Trigger logYou can transform the U1272A in to acounterthat can measure how many times one stopper switch got activated. (Open or close contacts)The U1272A stores the logs with an accenting order, and what I managed to do was to trigger with the continuity mode the trigger log.By this trick I managed to succeed one combination of triggering and instant logging.Every new logged entry gets the next available number in an accenting order, by inspecting the last recorded one we know the sum of the events.Example E00106 = 106 times got triggered.The Triggering interval time it can no be less than one second per event, but there is no limit about larger intervals.Who would ever expect that the U1272A it can act as one industrial counter?That’s amazing.

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2011, 11:32:23 pm
content: Part – 5U1272A – Just another one DMM, with Industrial profile?About single phase and three phase motors troubleshooting, the U1272A simply performs with an excellent manner.The bright LCD back light offers a significant assistance in the dark engine rooms, the laud beeper is another strong point, which was missing from any DMM up to date.Tasks like: Shortcut detection, measurement of coils - voltage – current – temperature - capacitor testing, everything is possible with the U1272A.The new interesting add-on called as high voltage Alert, by setting the trigger voltage value, you can be alerted about over-voltage or spikes.The only missing feature on it, it would be one phase rotation test about finding the correct phase sequence.And I will speculate that it’s not that hard to be added, it does have on the display the symbols about positive and negative slope and it can use those two.Note:I am afraid that I will disappoint the fellow electricians who work exclusively with VFD controllers and variable speed motors.I do not have access in such systems, and I am unable to test the quality of the Low-Pass Filter, or the accuracy of the U1272A about measuring voltage or current on variable speed motors.Frequency / Duty cycle / msAbout Frequency and Duty cycle, everything works nice, and you have full control on measurements about PWM motors or Inverters, or any type of wave forms, up to 100 kHz.I have to admit that themsfunction is something that I had never seen before.It measures the active cycle of a wave form in microseconds.I test a common 220V mains plug and it was 9.50mS at 50Hz.In theory by having as known thefrequency / voltage / msI think that I am able to draw this wave form in a paper, and possibly will look identical with the screen of one oscilloscope.(I call this one as scientific function, good for students and scientists)AC/DC Mixed mode:Yes impressive, the least that I can say about it.I would think that this is useful more for electronic engineers, and complex designs.If I detect mixed DC in one AC mains socket, the first that I would think would be that I am hunted by evil spirits, or that a troublesome DC/AC inverter is very near to me,AC/DCMixed mode +AC/DC True RMS= I like it !mV DC mode:My favorite one!By connecting my Hall type AC/DC clamp probe (PAC 12 Chauvin Arnoux) on the U1272A, the DMM becomes a true Swiss army knife.The fast measuring rate and those 30.000 counts of resolution, expand the total resolution of my clamp probe in to a further level, the added gain helps the most in the low current measurements.Those AC/DC Current probes usually cost much of cash, but you can test even the charging current of batteries, and it is more than handy to be able to measure AC/DC amperes, especially in our days that in the name of Green-Energy, the Inverters and the batteries had become such close friends.Part – 6U1272A – Accuracy? How it feels on common tasks? Easy to use?Resistance / capacitance / Diodes / DC-volts /Agilent is a very respectable brand name about accuracy and measurements world wide, and I feel too small about challenging them in this area.But I am crazy enough so to try it, even if they use the latest Fluke calibrators, or even offer a calibration report with its U1272A right from the factory.I did my own accuracy tests, even by comparing U1272A side by side with the Fluke 28II (Brother of the 87V), or even by using some basic Precision Reference sources that I own.Portable voltage and current calibrator:1030 MicroCal(Time Electronics U.K.)And my Home made resistors decade box:Resistors DALE USA 0.1% , 10 micro Ohm to 999K ohms.Silver plated switches by JANCO California (airplane cockpit parts)Plusone DC Precision Reference LT1021 10Vby Linear Technology Corporation in California.After the end of my testing cycle, I can only say that I have lost my chance to find something wrong with it, and I ended up with a large smile on my face, even if had lost in this specific challenge.The U1272A and the Fluke 28II and my testing gear, looks as one properly tuned orchestra.The U1272A is a bit faster, and in the ohms range it is a pleasure to watch it.The extra speed has also and one small downside, when you measure mV and the source is not that stable, the digits on the LCD will update in a high rate, which makes it a bit troublesome to watch the readings.Thankfully Agilent added to it one function called as (Smooth), it can be automatically or manually activated, and adjusted by the user.By adjusting the samples to about thirty, I did solve the problem in the specific measurement that I had a problem with.There is many ways to deal with rabidly changing voltages, (Max/Min) it can assist too.The Fluke 28II haves the same function, but it is a fixed factory preset.The (Smooth) mode on the U1272A it’s totally customizable.Basically this is the key point of the U1272A, everything is totally customizable.With a minimum of effort you can adjust it so to fit in, in your specific need.Easy to use?In the beginning when I got the unit, and I realized that I had to get in those menus and sub menus, and I started to dislike it.I am 42 years old, and I do need good quality and easy to use tools.I do not have any more so many free brain cells, as I was had when I was twenty years old, so to memorize all those extras, that Agilent loaded on the U1272A.And even my vision, had just start to play games on me, about reading tiny letters in close range.I changed my mind about it, as soon I discovered how useful the U1272A can become with all the extra tweaking.By thinking the digital menu, as to was another one round range switch,I found my balance, and now I can get in the menu and adjust anything in seconds.Part – 7U1272A – Robustness Test - Back light durability – battery consumptionRobustness Test:I never had an Agilent DMM or another Agilent product in my life, and some how I needed to find out how robust the U1272A truly are.The good part of participating in such testing events are that you have the Agilent HH organization on your side, and its like having an endless warranty plan, and so my hands was free about stressing it, with no second thoughts.I loaded on it, my fresh rechargeable Ansmann 1100mAh batteries (930mAh nominal), the most powerful NiMH AAA up to date.And I set it to run for hours on (Auto) data logging with small intervals like 1–5 seconds, so to be always busy.I repeated those stress tests lots of times, in some of them it was running continuously for 30 hours.In total it did about 14 days of data logging.Back light Durability:The planwas to find out:1) If the back light circuitry are durable enough?2) If those LED’s are durable enough?3) How the DMM behaves with extremely discharged batteries?My NiMH was at 50% of charge at the beginning of this test, confirmed with the Ansmann digital (Professional battery tester).Everything was ok at the first 12 hours, and I let it run for even more.At about 14 hours in total, the batteries had lost all their charge and the back light was still on, but the LCD digits were fading to the point that you could not see them any more.I turned off the unit, loaded fresh charged batteries, and it booted up ready again for even more action.Results:LCD Back light circuitry = ImmortalLED durability = ExcellentExtremely discharged batteries = No problemBattery consumptionBy my measurements:9-10 mA: at every AC mode = Active RMS converter.3-5 mA: other modes.+1 mA: Active data logging.0.03 mA: sleep mode (Not uA so to keep it simple)56 mA: AC Mode + Back light High45mA: the back-light alone (There is four active LED in it).I could not resist testing the Fluke 28II against the U1272A.About 14 months back I got one Fluke 87V I was happy with it for about six months, even so I did get the Fluke 28II at the end, because this has IP67 and is more suited for what I do.The first thing that I did notice on the 28II, was the less bright back light in comparison with the 87V, it looks to have only two LED as display back light, but it does have back light for the key pad. (I love the back light on the key pad)28II :2.0 mA: at every AC mode1.8 - 5 mA: other modes.0.07 mA: sleep mode13.6 mA: AC Mode + Back light low33.5 mA: AC Mode + Back light High31.5 mA: the back-light alone (There is two active LED in it)Well if I remove the back light consumption from the equation, the Fluke looks to handle better the battery consumption.From the other hand, the specific Fluke has only two LED on the display = 50% brightness in comparison with the four LED on the U1272A = a very bright display.Personally I will give my vote to the bright display and I will move on.One battery set of four alkaline in a year time it is not a big deal.And there is no need to say, that if you get rechargeable batteries, you will be able to do endless (Auto) Data logging with out thinking about batteries.About running the DMM with NiMH, and according to my rough calculation, if my AAA NiMH can truly deliver nominal 930mAh I would had 93 hours of continues operation ( Auto data logging)+ (AC mode = 10mA) = 4 Days.On any other mode with an average consumption 2-4mA, on another rough calculation it will probably run with NiMH for about 310 hours (13 days).With high quality alkaline the duration in hours will probably increase.Dave L. Jones is master on such calculations I will accept his word as fact, about the average battery life with alkaline.Part – 8U1272A – LCD display – Multiple functionsThe dual display serves best the AC + DC capability, and the Data logging.The main display has nice shaped digits, they are large enough, and you will not have any trouble even by watching them under angle.I hate the LCD displays with the fat bold digits, the U1272A has elegant fonts and symbols, but I need to nag a bit for the symbols around the range switch I would prefer them to were a bit larger.About the second line with the smaller digits, I like to watch the thermometer in the top of the display.I would probably expand the functionality of it by using my own ingenuity, as personal reminder about getting a hot or cold coffee, according to the weather or season.Part – 9U1272A – Front and back panelI would not change anything on it, or almost.The DMM it’s not bulky or over-weight, the rubberize body of it, it does protect it against impacts and offers the anti slip characteristic.The probe holders at the back works nice, the probes get in the holder with a gentle move, and they stay securely in place.The addition of the hang hole it does help allot too.Easy fuse and battery access, yes it is easy, I just hate the tiny screws on the battery cover. (I will not stop nagging about that)About the IR-USB slot on the DMM I would prefer to have a rubber cover, so to be protected against dirt.And if this rubber cover was connected with a rubber ring, I could possibly pass it thru from the IR-USB cable (when the slot are in use), and it could stay there secured on the cable, until to finish the job.The body of the DMM it is very well balanced, by having in mind how stably it stays with the tilt stand open.I do not know how I will feel if I see any damage on the rubber body of this multimeter, caused by a small accident like a burn or damage from a sharp object.My suggestion to Agilent would be to make easily available all the external replacement parts of the U1272A, in a friendly pricing, so to stop thinking about it.About the key pad, I am a bit skeptical or I worry too much about those symbols on it, and the possibility to fade in long term. (I love to press those buttons!!)Part – 10U1272A – Testing under extreme temperaturesI love my tools and I do babysit them allot, and so I am always careful with them about to not exposing them to extreme temperatures with out a good reason.But because of this review, I took advantage of the hottest summer days in the hart of July in Greece, so to perform the Extreme temperature test.The plan was to find out what happens with temperatures above the 40C.And because I love comparisons, I set the U1272A and the Fluke 28II under the direct sunlight for 45 minutes.As soon the internal K probe of the Agilent stabilized in the temperature of 45.5C,I took both units instantly back in my work shop, and I tested their accuracy at 10V DC, and the Ohms range.Both units were spot on.Other observations from the extreme heat test:No problem with the LCD at such high temperatures, like fading digits, or no digits at all.The orange is a bit darker color than the yellow Fluke holster, and so the U1272A it did run a bit hotter internally by +3C.The paradox was that at 45.5C = 113.93F the Fluke holster started feel as very sticky in my palm, I got motivated to check and the U1272A, and I found that the rubber body of it was very hot as expected but no sticky.Part – 11U1272A – Build to last & ConclusionEven 30 years back the DMM industry was capable to create well made DMM, and some of them are still alive.I got my first semi professional DMM before 22 years with my first toolbox and it was made in Taiwan (Pros’-Kit with Mastech PCB), still have it, and the accuracy is still good enough.Some others were made 25 years back or more, and I got them at 2010 as second hand cheap and still accurate for simple tasks, like those old Fluke bench top 8010A 8012A 8050A.I am also happy even about finding this old analog BBC Metrawatt MA4S (Industrial version of 1987), silver plated PCB / easy to read / 25A range,I needed one true needle to be on my work bench for special purposes.And I have even in good use my tiny UT30D from Uni-Trend Group Limited, as I can easily hide it in my toolbox.Nice made tools, some of those were made with excellent craftsmanship, but they do not belong in the category of the main tools by having in mind the modern needs of 2011.Modern CAT directives, New safety rules, Inverters, square waves, variable speed motors, Pulse With Motors, Duty cycle, and many more demanding measurements, leads the modern technician so to upgrade and select new and modern tools, capable to handle the modern needs.My latest upgrades were the Fluke 28II as True RMS, and the UNI-T UT15C volt-tester with phase rotation test.Excellent tools made by respectable brands, respectable for different reasons, but still respectable at list by me.Conclusion:The U1272A is an excellent modern multimeter, my answer to the Agilent HH marketing organization would be that yes, the U1272A it did managed to empresses me, and so I am suggesting the U1272A for advanced troubleshooting on the field and bench work, it is a features rich DMM at 30.000 counts.The teardown video of the U1272A, presented by Dave L. Jones electronics engineer, and owner of the EEV Blog. (Episode #171)Revealed high quality in manufacturing and high quality parts from respected parts makers like the DALE resistors, and IC’s.The latest firmware 2.0 improved the software of this mini computer by allot.Not to say that the easy firmware update method with the use of the IR-USB cable, raises the expectations about adding on the U1272A even more options in the secondary functions.My personal wish list would be:1) Low voltage warning (I need that, I really do)2) Temperature: High/Low warningI would predict that soon enough the U1272A it will get one large market segment, every modern professional appreciates and builds confidence, by having next to him one company who responds back and solves any issues in just few weeks.Those new DMM uses lots of software in them, they are complex to build, and we are aware of it, we are professional’s technicians too.This is why the active link between us and the manufacturer, it is so important to us.The U1272A it is a modern tool for experienced technicians and the experienced technicians are few and picky.We feel good about our investment in tools, when there is proper availability of spare parts, at reasonable prices, and with world wide coverage.Agilent needs only to improve the spare parts sales on their website.With one well organized E-shop, I would have fewer second thoughts about to become an Agilent customer too.I like to thanks the Agilent HH marketing organization, for the opportunity that they offered to me, about reviewing the U1272A.It was a major technical & educational experience for me.And I feel wiser all ready.KIRIAKOS TRIANTAFILLOUGREECE

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2011, 11:39:41 pm
content: One set of pictures for thePart – 10 U1272A – Testing under extreme temperaturesMy proofs

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 17, 2011, 11:56:19 pm
content: 11 parts + conclusion, awesome work!Dave.

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2011, 12:44:20 pm
content: Let’s hope that the Agilent CEO will continue to have normal blood pressure after reading it.I did take it seriously, and stop to watch the clock for it, so to give my best shot.It is so much work behind this review.Other than discovering the DMM features, I did discovered and the true trouble about making a worthwhile review.From today, I will never nag to you about delaying one review.Never - Ever!Thanks Dave.

author: Fox
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2011, 02:07:38 pm
content: Awesome review Kiriakos.Agilent has made a good choice selecting you for a review.

author: Kibi
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 18, 2011, 10:28:09 pm
content: First of all, congratulations on being selected as an official Agilent reviewer.Secondly, thank you for spending your time on writing up such an in depth review. It is very informative.

author: Joshua
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2011, 11:59:17 pm
content: This is in my list of best reviews I've seen. Wonderful job!

author: PetrosA
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2011, 01:49:46 am
content: Excellent work Kiriakos! One of the interesting points for me was the rubber reaction in high temps. Here we get the same heat as you but with much more humidity so I am curious how the 1272 will react to that. I may have a chance tomorrow to be in a very hot attic to test... I still haven't had the chance to upgrade my firmware though - we came home to a broken DSL modem.

author: Rutger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2011, 08:18:23 pm
content: Efcharisto Kiriakos for the extensive review. Wow that was a hot day in Greece, where in Greece do you live? My wife and I love to go to Greece and have many happy holidays in the Islands.Rutger

author: deephaven
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2011, 08:41:52 pm
content: Excellent review Kiriakos. Trouble is you've made me want one!

author: Kibi
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 19, 2011, 10:31:09 pm
content: Quote from: deephaven on July 19, 2011, 08:41:52 pmMe too.

author: pablo
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2011, 07:27:27 am
content: very informative.I enjoyed it.

author: Jimmy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2011, 09:06:00 am
content: Awesome work Kiriakos sounds like you did a full product compliance test before you wrote the review which is how it should be done.

author: mzacharias
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2011, 10:47:25 am
content: Great review, K! It's obvious you put a great deal of work and consideration into it.

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2011, 08:55:58 pm
content: Great job m8!Alexander.

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2011, 04:30:36 pm
content: Quote from: Rutger on July 19, 2011, 08:18:23 pmHi Rutger, its not a secret that I live in Volos - Magnesia - Central Greece (mainland).It is the city of Jason and of the famous Argo ( The boat ).There is no need to say that any one who likes to meet me, his is welcome to contact me.And the most important, there is still time the summer is still here.To all :I am glad that you found this review useful.I got plenty of positive messages in my mailbox too, about this review.It looks that my name it will be printed on the next marketing campaign of Agilent.It is a good start .My plan is to write one follow up review, about the U1272A later on,when I would had gather enough experiences, of every aspect of it.RegardsKiriakos.spell check LOL

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 27, 2011, 09:25:11 am
content: I just got a email from the headquarters of Agilent, they translated my review in the Chinese language (Mandarin),and they had publish it all ready.I have add one attachment of it, for every one who likes to have a copy.Thanks.

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2011, 12:10:44 am
content: I just discovered on Youtube a fresh made video, by Agilent, about the use of the menu of the U1272A.It is worth watching it, even me that I know the functionality of it as my own palm, I did download it, so to have my own copy of it.Enjoy !!

author: SgtRock
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 29, 2011, 03:40:53 am
content: Dear Kiriakos:--Great review. Great follow up. I give it five electrons. *****"Evil deeds do not prosper; the slow man catches up with the swift."HomerBest RegardsClear Ether

author: robrenz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2011, 04:15:43 am
content: Nice job Kiriakos!

author: Adrien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2012, 06:04:03 am
content: Great review, awesome details!I just wanted to ask one thing. I am an Electronics Engineer in the industrial maintenance field, mainly working on power devices such as power supplies and drives and I have always thought that the Fluke 87V was the most suitable DMM I could get, but like many I suppose; the price was a problem. I now see that Agilient have managed to build a robust meter for less and that happens to be just as good?My question therefore is would you get a U2172A or a 87V purely based on performance and price.

author: ilikepez
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2012, 06:54:29 am
content: I guess its a different price in New Zealand. I own both right now and both are great. I guess I would choose the agilent over the fluke because of the low-z and data logging mode.

author: Adrien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2012, 08:46:17 pm
content: I heard the continuity test response with the Agilient is very slow?

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2012, 10:57:16 pm
content: Quote from: Adrien on February 08, 2012, 08:46:17 pmIt's not as fast as a Fluke (literally as soon as the probes make contact with one another), but in real-world usage, my U1252B is fast enough (time it takes to get good contact with probes, it gives a beep if it's not an open loop). So maybe a second per test, and it gives an accurate reading.Granted, it's not the same exact model, but both seem comparable based on watching video reviews of the U1272A.Hope this helps.

author: Adrien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2012, 11:36:47 pm
content: Thanks Nano Frog.I find the continuity (beeper) function very usefull when you are looking for tacks on a PCB. Usually I do it relatively fast by making contact with one pin or point on the PCB and randomly running the other probe across the board. I use a Fluke 175 at the moment and I never had any problems doing so with it. I was just wondering if on that particular application the U1272A was slower and perhaps a real pain in the neck?

author: samgab
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2012, 11:51:37 pm
content: For some good info, I suggest you watch Dave's video about a problem he had:and teardown, if you're interested in that:I'm in New Zealand, and when faced with the same decision, I got the 87V and I'm really glad I did.Regarding price, the official NZ RRP has reduced by nearly half over the last year or so.Currently in NZ, RRP on the Agilent U1272A is about NZD$600 and on the Fluke 87V it's about NZD$660.Also, I emailed the 2 official suppliers (element14 and RS components), requesting a quote for the best price they could do.I went with the best price offered, which was RS as it turned out.Try emailing Deepak at RS, he gave me a good discount.Dee.Sharma@rs-components.com is his email address. He is in NZ.

author: Adrien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 12:32:59 am
content: Hi samgab,I have indeed watched those videos before I started posting and apart from the tear down video which was very detailed and helpful the so called "FAIL" video didn't really go into too much details and certainly not compare the two meters. I would like to know why do you sayQuoteCould you please explain?I see Agilent has been very good to address the firmware issue and fixed it.

author: samgab
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 01:08:48 am
content: Quote from: Adrien on February 09, 2012, 12:32:59 amYes, you're right; I saw that Agilent offered the firmware update to that problem, that is good. When I first posted that, I'd forgotten that the teardown was done, but Dave doesn't seem to have gotten around to doing the actual full review on the U1272A.I just meant that I'm happy with the 87V; it doesn't have any fancy features, but it's a simple, no-nonsense tool that just works, and it works really well at what it's designed to do.I saw the bugs in the first video (which have been sorted out in the firmware update) and I saw the problems Dave had uploading data from the U1272A in the resistor averaging test video, and it just didn't seem to... I don't know... be mature in the market yet or something. Just a general feeling of a lack of confidence in it. But that might be unjustified.I must say, I would really like to have a data logging function though, but the Fluke 289 was out of my price range.Also, the use of AA cells in the U1272A is preferable to the 9V battery in the 87V.So there are some advantages to the U1272A I suppose.The continuity seems fast on the U1272A too, unlike on their OLED model; was it the U1273A that was slow?I suppose, writing about it now, both are good meters, and the U1272A has several advantages over the 87V (AA cells, data logging, 2 part display, 30,000 count, fuse access via door...)What I guess I mean about being glad about buying the 87V is - not in comparison to the U1272A - but just in general I'm happy with it; but I'd probably also be just as happy with the U1272A.I like that the 87V is made in USA and has a lifetime warranty. I don't know where the U1272A is made, and it has a 3 year warranty.Accuracy of both on the DCV range is 0.05%, but it's ±1 count on the 87V (in 6000 count mode) vs 2 counts on the U1272A (in 30,000 count mode on some Voltage ranges). So hardly any difference there, although the Agilent wins by a nose.Dave said that Agilent put the U1272A out to compete head to head with the 87V. I'd love to see an in-depth video review by Dave directly comparing those two side-by-side!PS: another advantage of the U1272A: Current defaults to DC!

author: Adrien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 01:24:56 am
content: Hey sambagQuoteME TOO!I guess I was hoping for someone to say, "look here is the comparison" Fluke has the name and reputation, but it is in my opinion way too pricey. The U1272A is about $100 cheaper than 87V at the moment on E14. So this is why I am asking. All that really matters is longevity, accuracy, price(of course) and robustness. And what about the continuity test, anyone out there own a U1272A How good is it? Fast enough?

author: samgab
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 02:42:31 am
content: Quote from: Adrien on February 09, 2012, 01:24:56 amDid you see this video:Looks as fast as the Fluke in that video to me. But I haven't used the Agilent first hand.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 03:33:24 am
content: Quote from: samgab on February 09, 2012, 01:08:48 amNot sure if it helps, but there's a newer software version out now (current revision is 1.5.0.0, released on Oct. 18, 2011). I never tried the older version (got mine in Jan. 2012), and I've not played around with it that much.But it's also possible to export the data in a .cmv file, and use it in another application, such as a spreadsheet. Getting the data from the meter was rather easy, as was exporting it to a .cmv file. So YMMV, but I don't think it's that big a deal, especially when compared to what Fluke charges for the FVF software + cable kit (presume it's even worse in NZ).Quote from: samgab on February 09, 2012, 01:08:48 amI was looking at a Fluke 287 for electronics use on a bench (don't work in industrial settings, so features like ZLow aren't important to me). Amazon offers it here in the US for a bit over $400USD ($406?), which is for all intents and purposes, the same as the MSRP for the U1252B ($410).But the fact that the Agilent throws in a calibration with data, and they were offering a $100USD rebate at the time I purchased it (I even got it for a little less than MSRP), it made a better deal. And that's before considering the cost of using the software, which only adds the price of a cable in the case of the Agilent ($30USD IIRC), vs. the cost of the FVF kit.In terms of Bang-For-The-Buck, the Agilent made better sense for me.I've no idea if the Agilent will hold it's calibration or will drift over time, making calibration necessary in order to trust the readings (if you can't trust it, it's useless IMO, save as a fancy paperweight). I don't expect this to happen, so if it turns out to be a bust in terms of accuracy over time, that would force the purchase of a 287 (I will probably still get one at some point, but there are other purchases that I will make first).Quote from: samgab on February 09, 2012, 01:08:48 amThey're made in Malaysia.Keep in mind, Fluke's warranty isn't what most would consider a lifetime warranty though. It's between 7 and 10 years according to Fluke's warranty page. Bit confused myself as to the details, as I'm under the impression it depends on a combination of the date of purchase, when it goes EOL, and available spare parts (i.e. if it dies 7 yrs + 1 day, and there's no spares to repair the unit, will they give you a new meter or tell you "sorry, it's no longer under warranty"). I don't think it's a major issue, but it's what you don't expect that can take a big bite out of your wallet.Quote from: Adrien on February 09, 2012, 01:24:56 amOverall, the U1272A compares really well from available information (specs and video reviews). What we don't have, is sufficient history to base long term reliability and accuracy on, as Agilent has been absent from the handheld segment for some time until they bought Escort.So in that regard, I and others that have bought them, are taking a gamble (why I suspect they offered the rebate in the first place, as they need to get their products out into the field since their standard MSRP's are too close in order to gain a market presence). Particularly when comparing the U1272A and 87-V.

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 01:28:38 pm
content: I also did a detail review of the 1272a, its somewhere on eevblog and in the net. Bottom line,price being equalthe 1272a is a better deal vs the 87V as it offers the same accuracy, while providing far more functions.I've used Flukes since the 1980s and its hard to beat a lifetime of experience. That said, the 1272a is a worthy competitor, and the 87V typically sells for about $330, delivered, check Amazon.com pricing as example.The only drawback I find in the end, is ergonomics. The LCD's smaller digits, and more annunciators on the screen make for a cluttered appearance, and after stress testing it for almost a year, is does get annoying.If you need a logging DMM for field use, the 1272a is clearly the winner as the 87V has no such feature.

author: Adrien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 07:07:27 pm
content: Thanks so much guys, your posts are very helpful!I decided to go with the U1272A and will shortly buy one. I will of course keep you posted on any good and bad experiences I encounter.

author: mjlorton
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 15, 2012, 10:01:52 am
content: Hi Folks,I'm keen to see how well the Agilent U1272A performs so I'll have one in a few days time to review on my YouTube Channel.www.YouTube.com/mjlortonSolar Power and Electronic Measurement EquipmentCheers,Martin.P.S. Thanks to SamGab for bringing it to my attention.

author: samgab
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 15, 2012, 12:16:10 pm
content: Quote from: mjlorton on February 15, 2012, 10:01:52 amOh fantastic! Can't wait to see your side-by-side comparison of these two... They're both excellent DMMs seemingly, I know the 87V is... But the U1272A is a bit cheaper and brings a few extra features to the table...

author: mjlorton
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 15, 2012, 02:58:11 pm
content: Yup, I'm keen to see how well the U1272A does in comparison to the Fluke 87-V. I've just completed the review of the 87-V and it'll be up tomorrow.Cheers,Martin.www.YouTube.com/mjlortonSolar Power and Electronic Measurement Equipment

author: Adrien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2012, 08:07:01 pm
content: Anyone could tell me what comes in the box when you order the U1272A on Element14? I see they sell the U1171A Magnetic Hanging kit separately?

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2012, 12:52:39 am
content: Quote from: Adrien on February 16, 2012, 08:07:01 pmAccording to the Quick Start Guide (http://cp.literature.agilent.com/litweb/pdf/U1271-90000.pdf)MeterOne pair of red and black test leadsOne pair of 4 mm test probesOne K-type thermocouple lead kitFour 1.5 V AAA alkaline batteriesPrinted copy of the U1271A/U1272A Quick Start GuidePrinted copy of the Certificate of CalibrationFor a picture of the leads, take a look at the U1169A set (http://www.home.agilent.com/agilent/product.jspx?cc=US&lc=eng&nid=-536902470.892751&pageMode=OV). You might get lucky, as this may actually be the set in the box (would give you 19mm probes as well), even though the Quick Start Guide doesn't list them.This was the case with the U1252B I picked up anyway, which is why I mention it (included Alligator's too, but those were listed on the Quick Start Guide for that model, unlike the 19mm probes).As per the quality, they're decent. Much better than the stuff I usually see on eBay or come with lower cost meters, and the wire used in the leads is 16AWG silicone insulated rather than PVC. They don't have the "wet noodle" sort of flexibility that Fluke/Pomona leads do, but I'm hoping that will work out with additional use (not horrible by any means, but a bit more flexible would be nice).Hope this helps.

author: samgab
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2012, 09:43:49 am
content: Quote from: Adrien on February 16, 2012, 08:07:01 pmYou could also check this review:http://tronixstuff.wordpress.com/2011/04/01/review-agilent-u1272a-true-rms-digital-multimeter/which shows the items in the box. I'd say it would be the same in NZ.