DMM GIVEAWAY CONTEST FOR BEGINNERS - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 05:17:12 pm
content: *** CONTEST! ***This is a contest for a free reconditioned and calibrated (by me) Tektronix CDM250 benchtop DMM. Since it is being offered free and I'm shipping it free, it's only for residents of the Unites States (sorry). The meter will come with a set of leads and power cord. Forum member Excavatoree has agreed to contribute two additional Fluke 27/FM handheld DMMs for the two runner-ups. These will be shipped free and will include test leads in a separate shipment from member Lightages. So there's 3 prizes.Because this is not a drawing, I will limit the number of member entries to the first 12. To claim a spot, just make a post in this thread stating you will be submitting an entry evaluation and you will be in the list - no third party help please. First come first served. As soon as I get 12 spots claimed that's it. You will have 5 days (after today) to submit your full entry post so take your time. However you can ask questions, and it's also OK for the non-beginners reading along to help as long as we stay on-track. So we'll have three winners - First place wins the Tek DMM and 2nd - 3rd place wins a Fluke DMM.Again, this is not a random drawing, so you can't just say "I'm Pooky Bear in for the DMM!" and not follow up with your entry post. You will have to convince me that you are really a beginner and need a free benchtop DMM (i.e. you are not the kinfolk of a millionaire who would not need help procuring equipment). Millionaires can be beginners but they don't need free DMMs.Rules:A. You must have been a member of the EEVblog forum prior to the date/time of this contest posting. No new signups just for the purpose of this contest will be accepted. (but join anyway because I think there will be more giveaways coming up hint hint).B. You would be able to post a picture of your work area showing where the DMM will be used and also of the DMM in use when you get it. If this is a problem explain why.C: Convince me you are a beginner that needs a free DMM. Pictures would probably help. It's up to you how.I reserve the right to choose the final winner for the CDM250. I will ship free to the Unites States. The other two winners will be chosen by Excavatoree or by both of us.Any non-beginner members are free to comment and ask questions, as long as they are helpful to the final determination. I will keep track now until I get 12 beginners claiming a spot and post a notice of the 12, then we'll just wait for the entry posts over the next 5 days, which should be written to convince me that you are a beginnerANDneed a free DMM.Disclaimer:No warranties expressed or implied, equipment provided as-is and is not being offered as suitable for any specific application, all responsibility for use and operation of supplied equipment remains the sole responsibility of the user, calibration not guaranteed, EEVBlog forum cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss related to misuse of supplied equipment. By accepting this equipment you agree to these terms.Manuals available -Tek CDM250 -http://www.calstatela.edu/sites/default/files/groups/Department%20of%20Electrical%20and%20Computer%20Engineering/labs/cdm250.pdfFluke 27/FM -http://www.fluke.com/fluke/inen/digital-multimeters/Fluke-27.htm?PID=56055First Prize -

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 05:22:40 pm
content: May I suggest that 3 days might not be long enough for some people to respond?I will throw in test leads for the 27s, but it will take a while for them to arrive from Chile.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 05:25:31 pm
content: Quote from: Lightages on March 20, 2015, 05:22:40 pmOK, I had it at 5 days at first, but perhaps your right, I will change it back. Thanks for helping with the leads.

author: Shock
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 05:44:54 pm
content: LOL

author: alank2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 05:58:03 pm
content: xrunner and the others donating in this thread, you guys are great. Good on you for helping others out!

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 06:11:21 pm
content: Quote from: Shock on March 20, 2015, 05:44:54 pm

author: jobog
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 07:56:14 pm
content: I will be submitting an entry for evaluation.Thanks for doing this.

author: TrunKate
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 01:20:07 am
content: I will submit an entry as well. Thank you!

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 01:21:40 am
content: Great!We now have:jobogTrunKate

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 08:04:54 am
content: Fix the prize descriptions so that all will include test leads...

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 08:10:57 am
content: Good ;luck to the entries, I see that there will be good use made of the prizes.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 12:34:45 pm
content: Quote from: Lightages on March 21, 2015, 08:04:54 amOK done.

author: 22swg
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 01:24:15 pm
content: Great Idea guys , What is it you want contestants to post ? I read OP 4 times still not sure

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 01:27:56 pm
content: Quote from: 22swg on March 21, 2015, 01:24:15 pmYou have to try to convince me that you are a beginner and need free DMM. If I just held a lottery I guarantee you I would be getting people who didn't need the DMM. How you convince me is your challenge.

author: 22swg
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 01:48:50 pm
content: Now the penny dropped... When I began there were no meters , Just frogs legs...

author: cowana
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 04:54:27 pm
content: Quote from: xrunner on March 21, 2015, 01:27:56 pmI'm not a beginner and don't need to enter - but that sounds like a good way to pick a 'winner'. There are always so many people wanting to jump at the chance at 'free stuff' without having a real need for it - this seems like the best way of ensuring that a bit of unused test equipment can go to a beginner with a real need for it, and to make a big difference to someone's hobby!

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 05:10:48 pm
content: Quote from: cowana on March 21, 2015, 04:54:27 pmThanks. I'm not perfect and there may be better ways, and anyone else can do their own donations however they want, but at least this presents some way to get it to a needy person. I still might get scammed by a creative non-needy person, but at least they are going to have to put some effort into it.So to date we have -jobogTrunKateThis might be easier than I thought, if we only get one more we'll have a prize for every entry no matter what they post!

author: 22swg
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 05:13:13 pm
content: Perhaps only 2 beginners in the USA

author: Fred27
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 05:40:43 pm
content: Going by all the begging posts recently, beginners seem to think they need and deserve a free scope. One guy who I challenged on whether he really needed a scope said he couldn't be bothered explaining what he'd do with it. Too much effort. You've got a tough crowd if you're just giving away a DMM.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2015, 05:59:42 pm
content: Quote from: Fred27 on March 21, 2015, 05:40:43 pmYa, well if it's too much trouble to write a few sentences and post one picture then so be it. I'll just give all my extra stuff to my nephew.But at least we have two people interested, and I know from interacting with at least one of them they are either a scammer extraordinaire or a genuine person interested in electronics. I think it's the latter.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 12:51:48 pm
content: We have three participants. Shock had sent me a PM, when he posted "LOL" that was his indication he would try to win one.jobogTrunKateShockContest ends Wed, Mar 25 2015. Remember - all participants still need to show they are beginners and NEED a free DMM.

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 01:29:51 pm
content: Quote from: xrunner on March 22, 2015, 12:51:48 pmAlright, guys, make it count. This is a very generous thing xrunner is doing, even if it is ONLY for a DMM. I have a military surplus 27FM. Accurate and built like a brick house. It would probably make a good blunt force weapon. Xrunner, for blessing others the way you are, you will be blessed 10 times over. You get!

author: Tallie
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 03:30:58 pm
content: Quote from: Fred27 on March 21, 2015, 05:40:43 pmYour post has added nothing but a bit of negativity to this thread... Good job, xrunner... we could use more folks like you around here... and fewer cynical curmudgeons.

author: iamdarkyoshi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 04:17:59 pm
content: I dont have a picture of my workspace at the moment, but my best DMM is a 5$ cheapo that doesnt even have a continuity buzzer. It has never worked correctly, and has ruined many projects from incorrect readings. However, if someone else needs it more than me, go ahead!

author: dannyf
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 04:31:16 pm
content: QuoteMine is a DT830, one of those free-to-$5 clones.

author: iamdarkyoshi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 04:47:14 pm
content: Quote from: dannyf on March 22, 2015, 04:31:16 pmMine is a lower end version of this:http://i01.i.aliimg.com/wsphoto/v1/32225401281_1/Digital-multimeter-font-b-DMM-b-font-font-b-electronic-b-font-universal-meter-DVC-ACV.jpgNo backlighting or transistor testor. Also no fuses.My other one is one of these:http://www.triplesmileplus.com/Shop/images/_Electronics/RadioShack_22-179_Pocket_Digital_Multimeter.JPGUsed to work great but has fallen way out of spec. its my only autoranging meter, and the upper ranges are too low. sweeping 0-3.5 volts reads 0-3.35, and then it ranges higher and reads 3.1. Derp. Fantastic beeper though.

author: rexxar
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 06:07:30 pm
content: I'm a beginner, but I don't need another DMM, just want to say thanks to xrunner for doing this!

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2015, 01:00:00 am
content: Bump ...Do we really have only 3 beginners that need a DMM? If so I think they can just claim their dog ate their DMM and we can be done.

author: edy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2015, 01:17:19 am
content: Kudos to the OP... nice of them for doing the contest. I have a few DMM's but not bench top or "precision", just the $10-20 ones that look like Fluke knock-offs.I have some suggestions to get the beginners thinking. Ask how does an old analog meter actually work to check voltage, resistance and amperage. What simple circuits are actually in place to convert each type of measurement into a needle deflection.The other question is how does a bench DMM differ from a handheld one and why use one or another? And what is a common way to blow the fuse on a DMM that is often a trap for beginners (I fall into that category).I'm curious as well to see the answers. I'm a beginner hobbyist but I think others would appreciate it more so I don't want to enter (I do have a US shipping address as my parents live in Jersey). Good luck to everyone and great on the OP for doing this!

author: Fred27
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 23, 2015, 12:00:25 pm
content: Quote from: Tallie on March 22, 2015, 03:30:58 pmI also think xrunner's doing an excellent job. Not just with the giveaway but also checking who actually would make use of a meter.Quote from: Tallie on March 22, 2015, 03:30:58 pmYou're absolutely spot on.

author: iamdarkyoshi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2015, 06:41:47 pm
content: Like others have said, the OP is doing something awesome here. I hope whoever this meter goes to enjoys it. I know I would.

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2015, 08:34:37 pm
content: I am a begginer who has been looking for test equipment to be able to use. I am a hands on learner and I am currently in high school. I can send either a text or a pm of my workspace as I am on my phone for this. I do not have a laptop that currently works. My mother had an old Windows 7 laptop that no longer works and I have a few ideas of what may be wrong but other than that I can't get any precise tests on it to see what's wrong.this benchtop multimeter would be very useful for me. And to prove I am a higschool student I can send pictures of my world geography homework or even my schools noodle page Where it shows what classes I am enrolled in.

author: radix
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2015, 10:01:43 pm
content: Sorry to go all off topic on you...I'm a bit confused; isn't the Fluke 27 actually better than the Tek? The Tek is just a multimeter built around the ICL7107. It isn't even true RMS. Neither is the Fluke, but it has 3200 counts. A handheld multimeter also seems infinitely more convenient than a big box connected to the mains...

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2015, 10:04:52 pm
content: Quote from: radix on March 23, 2015, 10:01:43 pmWell start your own contest and do it the way you want.

author: MattHollands
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2015, 10:53:26 pm
content: I would like to enter pleaseWill update soon!... I'm in the UK, do you have any idea how much postage would cost, and could I enter if I were willing to pay

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2015, 10:55:54 pm
content: So we have four so far -jobogTrunKatezerorisersDudeGibbsMattHollandsNo interantional shippingSo far only zerorisers has attempted an explanation of why he needs one under the rules.P.S.: Shock was going to speak for another person, but we decided to work on a solution for that other behind the scenes. Remain calm - it doesn't involve any of these prizes.

author: jobog
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 02:26:32 am
content: Okay, I'm going to plead my case here and hope for the best. I can't say the dog ate my meter because I don't have a dog.I think I know how an analog volt-ohmeter works. The meter has a very high resistance coil rotating between the poles of a magnet. Various other resistors are switched in series with the meter winding to change the voltage range and this combined resistance is placed in parallel across a load. The meter movement acts as an electromagnet and rotates against the pull of a spring based on the current flowing in the coil. For resistance the meter has a battery which puts a current across the resistance being measured and the meter responds to the voltage drop across the unknown resistance.I have been interested in Electronics since a young age and built my first Knight kit, a volt-ohmeter, back in about 1963. You can see this meter on the shelf in my work place photo behind the lamp. After high school life happened and college, 2 kids, and 7 years in the Air Force took up pretty much all my time. In 1975 I did a correspondence course in Electronics from NRI and built an analog meter that has since bit the dust and an analog oscilloscope that I still have and it still works. I tried to devote as much time as I could to keeping up with the changes in Electronics over the years but with a family and working full time I've pretty much forgotten everything I once knew. Now that I am retired and turned 70 I am trying to relearn the basics and get into the digital world. I have enrolled in an Electronics course at our local Community College and I'm sure the DMM would be very useful while taking this course. I do have an old Ideal meter and a hand held Radio Shack meter that I purchased a couple weeks ago at a very good price since our local store is one that is closing. I also recently purchased a Siglent SDS1052DL scope and was very lucky in winning their review giveaway and took the SDG1025 Function Generator. I also recently bought a Yihu YH305D DC power supply off of Ebay.While I'm certainly no beginner in terms of age I feel like an infant when looking at our digital world and the rapid advances being made. I never progressed beyond some basic transistor knowledge so I'm looking forward to relearning the basics and then into ICs and the like.Joe

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 01:55:42 pm
content: OK jobog, looks like you're doing pretty good with equipment but we'll see. Contest ends tomorrow, Mar 25 at 1700 UTC.

author: DudeGibbs
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 03:08:31 pm
content: I would like to apply for this meter

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 03:59:00 pm
content: Quote from: DudeGibbs on March 24, 2015, 03:08:31 pmOK, go to the first post & read the rules.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 12:43:55 am
content: Quote from: MattHollands on March 23, 2015, 10:53:26 pm^^^ I just saw your edit. Matt - I appreciate your interest but I don't want anyone to pay for the meter or shipping. If you have the money to pay for international shipping you really don't need it as much as some other people might. I'd just go on Ebay and find one. But thanks for your interest!

author: DudeGibbs
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 12:54:55 am
content: Quote from: DudeGibbs on March 24, 2015, 03:08:31 pmI posted a question about the readings I was getting from my DC powersupply project; With the DMM in the attached picture. With a 64 volt dc output i was also reading 140vac when i switched to ac mode. I wondered what was happening and asked here. A gentleman from Lithuania told me it was my meter giving the false reading. I checked later today and he was correct. I get an ac reading from a 12volt battery(please see attached image).post here:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/beginners/ac-readings-on-dc-supply/The next post i viewed was this one. A perfect opportunity to receive a proper meter. Im going to spend more time with electronics to avoid destructive habits and I believe in being in the right place at the right time(if it suits the universe).Thanks for reading. O0

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 01:04:56 am
content: ^^^ DudeGibbs noted. I will be considering your entry.

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 02:41:53 am
content: As I will be at school the time this contest is over would you be able to text me the results? I can send my number via pm.

author: miguelvp
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 09:33:14 am
content: Quote from: DudeGibbs on March 25, 2015, 12:54:55 amYou should stick to DC readings if measuring DC, but I feel your pain, I endured my GB GDT-200A for more than I could stand it, but now I have something better even if everyone says it's a danger with probesBtw, keep the GB for when in doubt as a sacrificial tester, that's what I do.Edit: also it looks like you left your meter in subzero temperature by looking at the strange LCD pattern that shows in yours.

author: iamdarkyoshi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 01:31:21 pm
content: Quote from: DudeGibbs on March 25, 2015, 12:54:55 amAt least you GB meter isnt as derpy as mine. I have yet to get 2 consistant measurements from the damn thing. Have I mentioned that it has no fuses?

author: TrunKate
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 01:51:54 pm
content: As a youth my stepfather owned a computer repair business. I worked with him every day and he taught me much about their components and problem diagnosing. That is when my love for computers developed. I married a man who had his first computer at the age of 7. He got me interested in vintage hardware. Recently, after watching EEVBlog for more than a year I worked up the courage to crack open my Chromebook. Her left speaker had stopped working a year or so previously. After replacing it with one I had salvaged from an older laptop I proceeded to take apart the laptop the rest of the way. It was so enjoyable! I began taking apart any broken or out of date electronics. Which we had 10+ years of laying around. Soon my son Thomas began helping me. We started by making a fan using parts from an old DVD drive and some electrical tape. We experimented with LEDs, resistors, batteries, solar panels out of calculators, whatever we could find! On order we have an Elenco 150-In-One kit for Mama and Tom to really have fun with! I have been learning the basic fundamentals of electronics. For now I am saving him from those complex theories. Keeping him interested with real world application is my goal. In the picture I am posting you can see him taking apart our old See-N-Say. Just like the one Ben Heck modified and sent in to Dave. It was fun seeing him realize what made the toy work! Now he understands all those fancy moving parts were just a complex mechanism to push a few buttons on a little circuit board. We will be happy with a win, but are keeping our fingers crossed for one of the Fluke 27’s! He thought it was pretty cool looking when I showed him a picture online. He gave himself a new nickname, “The Electronics Kid” he must always have his rubber boots on for safety whenever we are experimenting together! No matter who wins what, this is an awesome community of people and we are lucky to have it!Thank you for the consideration,Thomas AKA The Electronics Kid & Lacey Coyle

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 03:57:13 pm
content: Quote from: TrunKate on March 25, 2015, 01:51:54 pmI think it is cool that you are teaching your kids electronics and how they work. It brings tears to my eyes knowing that there are parents out there who are able to relate to their kids, teach their kids, and give them a hobby they love. Crossing my fingers for you, and your son. You are a great parent from the looks of it and I envy you. Hopefully when I am a parent I can teach my kids, and relate to them the same way you do now.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 05:13:30 pm
content: The contest is now officially over.I wish to thank everyone for their participation and for the EEVBlog / Dave for allowing me to run this contest.I will now carefully consider the entries, noting what equipment you have and also that some people have been lucky enough to have already been donated items from other EEVBlog members. But I'll take that all into consideration. I will announce the 1st place winner later this afternoon, and either I or Excavatoree will announce the 2nd and 3rd place winners.

author: DudeGibbs
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 07:17:22 pm
content: Quote from: miguelvp on March 25, 2015, 09:33:14 amIts bizarre to see another person with this same meter. This meter has been pretty faithful working with electronics on my work bench. Although one time I used it to troubleshoot a boat lift at a rich man's estate. Checking to see if the breaker switch was faulty I tested a 220volt rail to see if was hot, it was. The meter didnt see that. Thankful I wasnt feeling stupid that day.

author: jobog
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 09:00:07 pm
content: If it's not too late I would like to withdraw my name from consideration in order for Trunkate to receive the meter she wants. I'm another Hoosier from South Bend, IN and feel that she needs and could use the meter down there in Indy.Go ND

author: alank2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 09:36:31 pm
content: Quote from: zerorisers on March 25, 2015, 03:57:13 pm+1, it is awesome to see parents invest in their children.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2015, 10:12:28 pm
content: Quote from: jobog on March 25, 2015, 09:00:07 pmThanks for that jobog.Here are the winners!1st prize - DudeGibbswins the Tektronix CDM2502nd & 3rd prizes - Zerorisers and Truncateboth win a Fluke 27/FMCongratulations!Please send me your full names and addresses in a PM, and I will arrange for my shipping and forward this info to the other shippers. I will be sending the CDM250. Excavatoree will be sending the Flukes and Lightages will be sending the test leads for the Flukes (from Chile!)Again, congratulations to the winners and please show us a pic of the meters in use when you get them.Perhaps we can do another contest in the near future.

author: mtdoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2015, 12:16:29 am
content: Kudos xrunner and well done!

author: iamdarkyoshi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2015, 03:03:20 am
content: Quote from: alank2 on March 25, 2015, 09:36:31 pmMy dad got me started in electronics when I was 5. He was one of the guys who worked on the JBL Toon Truck if anyone remembers that... When I was about 12, I collected almost every Snapcircuits upgrade kit... 3 times. Might do a givaway if I can find them... My first intro to transistors was with these kits, and I uploaded a video to youtube. Same username as my username here. I was surprised to see how many views the video got. I want to change the audio to some soundtrack and annotate the video because my young voice is annoying, but I am too lazy. Anyway, I am 16 now, and as I am writing this, I have a big fat grin on my face because I just succesfully repaired a reciever with an exploded .65mm pin pitch SMD amplifier chip. First surface mount repair ever! Thanks to my dad and this great forum for continuing my hobby in electronics, and I encourage parents to do the same!

author: jobog
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2015, 09:34:45 pm
content: Congratulations to the winners. Great job xrunner.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 27, 2015, 12:00:04 am
content: To those winners of the Fluke 27s, there will be a bit of a delay for the test leads. The area of Chile where I live has been hit with record rainfalls and this has caused major flooding and quite a bit of damage to the infrastructure here. I will send the leads as soon as I can but it may be a bit of a wait for them to arrive in the US.

author: TrunKate
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 27, 2015, 03:17:51 pm
content: Thank you to everyone for the support. I really look forward to using our Fluke 27 with Thomas! Last night we tore down an old Stereo together. We put it back together and attached a couple of speakers that originally were a part of an USB set for our PC. It worked even with a few left over screws! Now Tom has his own radio, and is very proud.

author: iamdarkyoshi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 27, 2015, 03:33:29 pm
content: Quote from: TrunKate on March 27, 2015, 03:17:51 pmNice work! I really hope you guys enjoy the meter!

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2015, 04:41:30 pm
content: According to what I see on another browser tab, somebody might be getting a DMM delivered today (maybe tomorrow).

author: 22swg
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2015, 05:02:44 pm
content: Give yourself a pat on the back xrunner

author: DudeGibbs
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2015, 10:47:53 pm
content: Quote from: xrunner on March 28, 2015, 04:41:30 pmPlease see attached image. I am a happy boy. Just now opened the box and plugged it in. This is definitely the nicest piece of equipment I own now. Feels like i've leveled up. Thanks again for the support. One day I hope to help out a stranger like you did xrunner.This isnt the final resting place for the meter. I'll build a shelf for it later. AWESOME!

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2015, 10:53:53 pm
content: Sweet - but either the meter arrived malfunctioning or that battery needs charging.

author: DudeGibbs
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2015, 02:17:01 am
content: Quote from: xrunner on March 28, 2015, 10:53:53 pmHaha. I have the meter set to AC in the photo to demonstrate I have a proper meter now.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2015, 02:30:02 am
content: Quote from: DudeGibbs on March 29, 2015, 02:17:01 amLOL -Whew!

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2015, 05:54:39 am
content: Thanks to xrunner I also have another TEK bench meter slowly swimming across the Atlantic to me. Nice to see the new home of that one though.

author: pickle9000
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2015, 06:18:52 am
content: @xrunnerThis has to be one of the better ways to give a multimeter away. Very well done.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 29, 2015, 06:27:58 am
content: Plesae don't forget to thank Excavatoree for his contribution people. He supplied two Fluke 27s!

author: pickle9000
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2015, 06:33:00 am
content: Quote from: Lightages on March 29, 2015, 06:27:58 amSorry, I didn't, your right. Thank you Excavatoree

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 30, 2015, 11:16:48 pm
content: Well it seems that the Fluke 27 winners will be getting leads shipped from Hong Kong. It turns out it would cost me 5 times more to ship from Chile to the US than buying leads from Franky and having them shipped to the US. So Fluke 27 winners, look for a package from Franky (iloveelectronics here on the forums) in the following days. There will be new Digitek gold plated leads and a couple of extra things.

author: MasterSnipes
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 30, 2015, 11:32:33 pm
content: I guess I'll enter too! I hope I win!

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2015, 11:33:38 pm
content: Quote from: MasterSnipes on March 30, 2015, 11:32:33 pmThe contest is over now, but I bet we have another ...Stay tuned!

author: MasterSnipes
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 30, 2015, 11:59:50 pm
content: Quote from: xrunner on March 30, 2015, 11:33:38 pmo damn sun

author: LEDAero
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2015, 12:45:31 am
content: It looks like I lucked out - although given its a US-spec DMM, it is probably the wrong voltage anyway

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2015, 12:52:38 am
content: Quote from: LEDAero on March 31, 2015, 12:45:31 amNo - the CDM250 has configuration switches on the back allowing it to run on mains up to 240V

author: iloveelectronics
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2015, 04:46:42 am
content: Quote from: Lightages on March 30, 2015, 11:16:48 pmThe packages will be shipped out to the winners within the next hour orHopefully they will receive them in the next week or 2.

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2015, 02:57:04 pm
content: Quote from: iloveelectronics on March 31, 2015, 04:46:42 amThanks for helping out! I was watching the Fedex truck pass by yesterday hoping it was the fluke 27. I am so excited. and i wonder what the extra things are that you send. guess i will have to wait to see and hopefully be able to pay it forward and help out another inspiring begginner in the future. Again thank you very much for contributing to this, and I hope that TrunKate and her son have a great time aswell and even maybe learn more. yesterday Precision technologies inc. was kind enough to give me a tour of their manufacturing lab. they taght me all that goes into it. all ESD flooring, coats, matting, etc.they went through and told me how the xray inspection of BGA solder joints go through and i loved every minute I was there.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2015, 05:46:07 pm
content: Having dealt with Frankie I can assure you that the extras will be well worth it as well. I know he only keeps things in his store that he uses and likes, and that are good value for money as well. Cheap and good.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2015, 06:25:29 pm
content: Quote from: iloveelectronics on March 31, 2015, 04:46:42 amOh I see things in your store I want - I'm going to give you some business.

author: Excavatoree
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2015, 06:31:40 pm
content: Both Fluke 27/FM meters have been shipped. My post office is in the sticks, so it may take longer than usual.

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2015, 07:08:48 pm
content: Quote from: Excavatoree on March 31, 2015, 06:31:40 pmIts all good. I have noticed that the post in the US has goofed up a bit.

author: LEDAero
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2015, 07:31:36 am
content: Quote from: xrunner on March 31, 2015, 12:52:38 amThat makes me feel much better

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2015, 07:05:50 pm
content: Quote from: LEDAero on April 01, 2015, 07:31:36 amSometimes the truth hurts.

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 12:22:28 am
content: Is there any chance we would be able to get a tracking number to see where the package is in shipment? Just don't wanna be able to tell if I should put this plasma fpickupdumpster dive in the closet until it gets here or if I can leave it on the floor for a few more days.

author: Excavatoree
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 12:44:32 am
content: Quote from: zerorisers on April 02, 2015, 12:22:28 amI sent your tracking number by PM.

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 12:48:12 am
content: Thank you very much.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 12:52:59 am
content: Quote from: zerorisers on April 02, 2015, 12:48:12 amDid you get a tracking number for the PM he sent you LOL.I have another giveaway ready for the next contest, but I'll let somebody else run it next time. I just keep getting good deals off Ebay.

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 01:27:16 am
content: Depending on if I actually need what's in the giveaway contest I may enter. The way you run it and pick the winners seems pretty nice to me. Maybe one day if I have something cool for a young newbie that I no longer need I will put it into the contest.

author: TrunKate
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 02:35:18 am
content: Our Fluke 27 came in today and Thomas loves it! He thinks he is something really cool with that huge rockin' Fluke 27. We also received a smaller Fluke from a forum member who wants to remain anonymous. We really do appreciate it! Check out his excitement:https://imgur.com/a/enX4Y#mMNZ5A4

author: mtdoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 02:46:54 am
content: Nice pics! The Fluke 27 is bigger but the great thing about it is that it is nearly indestructible. It will survive dropping from table heights and immersion in water. I have 6 and 8 year old boys so I know how important this can be!Have fun.

author: Excavatoree
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 02:55:43 am
content: Thanks for the pictures.

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 11:44:44 am
content: I will see what i can do to attempt to post pictures. May use google drive. Thinking it will come in today around 4-5 CST. We will see!

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 07:18:01 pm
content: I thi k I got it to stretch from my phone. It made it into Dallas so it should hopefully make it tomorrow.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2015, 11:19:42 pm
content: We're all on meter watch ...

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2015, 02:34:22 am
content: Quote from: xrunner on April 02, 2015, 11:19:42 pmeven when I'm at school I switch to the tab to see what's happening. I know mail doesn't get to my house til 4-5 but I'm always curious if it's updating. I really should do my work. I had to do a staar test and I didn't get one assignment done. Almost done with 3rd quarter of biology and I'm sitting there. Staring. And reading the forums. I think the teachers believe I'm doing stuff for physics xD they look right at my screen when I'm on the forums and don't care. And I'm listening to the amp hour. Need to reach my goal of 4 assignments a day but the anticipation is making me so anxious xD so excited. Adhd doesn't help much huh? Yet somehow when I'm on hydrocodone i can focus. It's weird.

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2015, 08:16:28 pm
content: Got the multimeter. Now to wait on those probes. Thank you very much for holding this generous competition.

author: TrunKate
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2015, 10:00:23 pm
content: Congrats on finally receiving your meter Zerorisers!!

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2015, 03:44:11 am
content: Quote from: TrunKate on April 04, 2015, 10:00:23 pmThanks. Now I am just waiting on the leads for it.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2015, 12:18:58 pm
content: Quote from: zerorisers on April 05, 2015, 03:44:11 amGet an old wire coat hanger and cut it in two. Sand off the ends to remove the enamel and use those until you get proper leads.No.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2015, 12:33:48 pm
content: What is wrong with 2 6p nails and some ripcord? If you want insulation then use tape.

author: TrunKate
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 06, 2015, 03:46:05 pm
content: As a mother I can say none of that sounds particularly safe to me! Though I am not entirely sure if it is or not....

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 06, 2015, 03:48:35 pm
content: They were joking.

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 06, 2015, 04:21:26 pm
content: Quote from: TrunKate on April 06, 2015, 03:46:05 pmpfffft. motherly instinct thinks nothing is safe. 120v touching both prongs all you feel is a tingle in your hand. ( I have done this multiple times when I was a kid unplugging my gamecube) My body is either very resilient to electric shock or its safe enough!EDIT: Twas never on purpose... It was really hard to unplug.*I do not endorse inducing yourself to electrical shock... EVER!

author: TrunKate
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2015, 03:29:55 pm
content: @zerorisers, I remember when I was perhaps 9 or 10 and connecting my SNES to the tv/wall. Put the power supply cable in my mouth to have both hands free...it was already plugged into the wall! I never did that again, gave me quit a shock! Even at that age I felt like I had performed a 'homer'! "DOH!"

author: iloveelectronics
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2015, 03:58:57 am
content: @TrunKate - I forgot to send you the tracking number for the package with the test leads but I checked today and it was indicated as "delivered". Let me know if you didn't receive it.@zerorisers - Yours seem to have just arrived in your state, hopefully it won't be long until you receive it.

author: TrunKate
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2015, 04:11:37 pm
content: Oh, no we received it! Please forgive me for not getting back quicker. I have been so busy the last few days at home. We are really setup now for sure! I will update my picture gallery tonight with some pics of us and the leads! Thank you again!

author: iloveelectronics
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2015, 04:49:30 pm
content: Quote from: TrunKate on April 10, 2015, 04:11:37 pmThank Lightages, he paid for most of the content

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2015, 04:58:05 pm
content: Quote from: TrunKate on April 10, 2015, 04:11:37 pmI hope your forum signature isn't applicable to the leads."You may find that having is not so pleasing a thing as wanting. This is not logical, but it is often true." -Spock

author: zerorisers
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2015, 10:53:34 pm
content: Got the test leads today, the just smell like high quality. They are amazing, and I would definitely provide the link of your store to any electronics enthusiast I meet. Yesterday I went to a meeting at precision technologies and they are allowing me an internship so I get to learn a whole bunch more! Just need to finish my fafsa application so that I can go to college over the summer to take some core credit classes. Thank you all for everything. This is helping me so much. Taking apart this old plasma screen TV. I'm thinking of converting it to something less of a power hog. Also need to see why it doesn't turn on when i press the power button. standby power works tho. there is a strange noise from the board tho and it changes in pitch with flexing. Maybe ill figure it out later today.

author: iamdarkyoshi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 11, 2015, 01:27:11 am
content: Quote from: zerorisers on April 10, 2015, 10:53:34 pmWow! Glad to hear that you are getting good use out of it! I have two plasmas to fix. Watch out for those capacitors though, then can really bite!!

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 11, 2015, 02:59:31 am
content: I am so glad to see that people have good and safe equipment in their hands to learn with. The Fluke 27s should last a good long time. The bench meter is also a nice thing to have, no batteries to replace!