If you only had one meter? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Axtman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2022, 07:36:39 pm
content: This has probably been asked many times before.....If you only were allowed to ownonemultimeter what would it be?For me, I would choose a Fluke 87V.

author: Specmaster
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2022, 07:48:07 pm
content: I'd go with the Brymen 867s.

author: Excavatoree
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2022, 08:09:13 pm
content: Those are definitely English words, but I just don't understand the phrase "one meter." LOLSeriously, I don't know. I'd probably choose a Fluke 87 as well, but when I'm knocking around under the hood of a car, or on top of an excavator or bulldozer, it's nice to have a "beater meter."

author: Specmaster
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2022, 08:46:23 pm
content: Oh, I'm well covered in most conditions I think, car use, mains use, electronics use what with my collection of something like 20+ meters, DMM and analogue, handheld and bench meters, can never have too many meters.

author: yo0
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2022, 09:30:29 pm
content: Fluke 87v for me.best regardsPio

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2022, 10:01:52 pm
content: When I have to work in tough environment I want the Fluke 87V Max. I don't want a cheap beat up meter in those situations.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2022, 11:10:29 pm
content: AVO 8 Mk5.What it won't do my scope does better.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2022, 11:38:05 pm
content: Who's going to 'allow' me one meter? You can have my multimeters when you pry them from my cold, dead hands...However, if I had to go someplace and do some as-yet unknown mystery electrical or electronic work and could only pack one meter, it would be one that I don't use much--the Fluke 289--simply because it has the largest feature set and thus the greatest chance of getting whatever job done.

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 12:30:32 am
content: Quote from: Excavatoree on October 23, 2022, 08:09:13 pmIt's 100cm, isn't it?

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 12:32:10 am
content: Quote from: Axtman on October 23, 2022, 07:36:39 pmOh...Them's fightin' words!!

author: nightfire
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 12:35:15 am
content: Hypothetically, if i only would be allowed one meter, I would opt for something that seems fit to cope with my electronics stuff I do- and my Agilent U1272A comes quite close to what I would like as a featureset.Probably a Brymen 786 or Hioki DT4282 could do similar or better, but at the moment, I don't have the money to find out ;-)

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 12:44:26 am
content: Quote from: tautech on October 23, 2022, 11:10:29 pmYeah, I hardly use my meter when I have a decent 'scope.That said, although I'd love an AVO8 just for old time's sake, I'd go with my Fluke 77, because that is all I had for long periods of time.I brought it to one job, where its beat up appearance was sneered at, till I proved that their "you beaut" new UNI-T was lying to them!That model UNI-T seemed to give large resistance reading errors as the battery voltage dropped with discharge, from a point well before the "batt" symbol appeared.

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 12:47:56 am
content: Quote from: Brumby on October 24, 2022, 12:30:32 amThe late, great, Metrication Board would insist that ametrewas 1000mm!cm were not in their lexicon.

author: Black Phoenix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 02:40:58 am
content: Definitely the 87V, the 189 or the 289.Currently I own both the 87V as the 289, just need to get a 189.

author: Excavatoree
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 02:59:10 am
content: Quote from: Black Phoenix on October 24, 2022, 02:40:58 amBe careful. That's how it starts.

author: Black Phoenix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 03:56:54 am
content: Quote from: Excavatoree on October 24, 2022, 02:59:10 amI'm already balls deep, so... I should also add the 54-II and the Scope meter that I sold before moving (that I regret now). So nothing to be careful, it is going according the plan...

author: DavidKo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 08:30:07 am
content: What functions you need?I would buy one quality meter and one cheap (<USD10, removable cables).Quote from: nightfire on October 24, 2022, 12:35:15 amMaybe Yokogawa TY720 can be also fine. Compared to Hioki it has OFF position on both sides and you can turn off multimeter on amp ranges (Hioki can be turned off only when you remove cables form amp inputs).

author: J-R
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 08:50:24 am
content: What are the rules to this game? If I'm not paying then surely the new black Keysight 3458A...

author: hgjdwx
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 09:20:01 am
content: After my research, it seems that the UT195DS is relatively perfect

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 09:44:45 am
content: Does it have to be handheld?Me? I'd get the most expensive meter possible then sell it. I can't do electronics with only one meter so I might as well have the money.

author: robert.rozee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 10:32:44 am
content: fluke 23 (ie, a yellow 77)reasons: safe, simple, reliable, long battery life.cheers,rob :-)

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 10:50:10 am
content: Of every meter I’ve owned so far, my favorite is the Keithley 2015.

author: David Aurora
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 10:50:35 am
content: Years on I'm still pretty damn happy with choosing a Fluke 28II. Takes an absolute beating, does everything I need, simple as that.

author: jonovid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 12:26:04 pm
content: the jaycar analog multimeterfavourite range audible continuity

author: Electroplated
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 08:20:38 pm
content: From my collection of meters it would be the Brymen BM789orAvo8Sorry I cant pick just one

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 08:44:09 pm
content: If I was going to be shipwrecked on a desert island, I would probably go for a Fluke 25 or 27. Firstly they can swim (or at least not drown), they would probably withstand crashing on the rocks, and of course the 10k hours battery life would hopefully last me until rescue or death!

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2022, 09:38:24 pm
content: I owned the original 87 but not the 87V but I use it a lot at work. I own the 189, 287 and 289. The 287 and 289 offer functionality not found on the 87V but it's a pain for quick measurement. Slow start up and slow autoranging in resistance mode. I think if I can only have 1 meter I would choose the 189. I own it for a long time but not using it much. I am now semi retired so I do stuff at home more often and I found I like the 189 a lot.

author: Excavatoree
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2022, 12:55:42 am
content: Quote from: robert.rozee on October 24, 2022, 10:32:44 amOne of my favorites.

author: Xandinator
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2022, 09:05:09 am
content: You can live pretty good with only one multimeter, e.g. the87V: The 117 counts as voltage checker, 289 & U1282A are loggers, DAQ6510 is a daq, 34470A & DMM7510 are digitizers, 1507 is an insulation tester, 789 is a calibrator, B2987A is an electrometer, RTH1004 is a scope. Apart from that they of course all can do voltages and other stuff.

author: ci11
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2022, 11:05:11 am
content: My "Desert Island" choice would be the Fluke 867B.It's my pick over a 289 because it has the same 0.025% DCV accuracy but it can be AC-powered for extended logging. The waveform display (to 1,000V!) and graphical component tester (like a mini-Huntron) come in pretty handy too. It will soon be supported by Shimazaki-san's fabulous Ts Digital Multi Meter Viewer software for real-time monitoring and extended logging on a Win 10/11 PC, much better usability over the DOS-era FlukeView 860 that can only be run under WinXP or earlier. What's not to like? Its "lots-to-love" size, having been discontinued for sometime and not cheap on the used market.Plan B would be the Gossen MetraHit 29S.Made in Germany, 310,000 count, 0.02% DCV accuracy on a 1-to-3 line LCD in a smaller package than the 867B with all the high-end bells and whistles. It can also log to Gossen's MetraWin 10 PC software and can be AC powered. The LCD is not backlit although its current version, the MetraHit Energy, is. Runs on 2 AA's for a long time. Although discontinued for some time, they can be found but definitely not cheap due to its popularity smongst thecognoscenti.

author: TopQuark
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2022, 11:22:29 am
content: Fluke 87V for sure.Have a BM869s on my desk next to the Fluke 87V, and the BM869s is objectively better in most if not all ways.But if I can only pick one, I'd still go with the 87V, because it is Fluke yellow

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 28, 2022, 02:05:51 am
content: I have way more than one DMM, but my daily go to is a Meterman 35XP even though Agilent U1252A is right next to it..

author: rfclown
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2022, 03:44:23 am
content: Quote from: vk6zgo on October 24, 2022, 12:44:26 amI might also choose my Fluke 77. The desert island thing kind of falls apart... If you pick a hand held, the battery runs out. If a AC plug in, no AC. So forgetting the desert island scenario, if I had to choose one meter I'd have to choose between things I've actually used. Reviews don't count like actual experience. I'm an old man who's gone through piles of cheap meters (low price too tempting to pass up). My free Harbor Freight things have been great for working on the car, but I wouldn't pick them for my one and only. The reason for quoting this other reply is the mention of bad resistance readings on crap meters. If I squeeze my ANG8008s (I have two), the resistance reading changes because it's a large function of the battery and battery contact resistance. Choosing from what I have, the question would be bench versus handheld. For bench, I'd take the Agilent 34401A. I don't question the readings. That's my criteria for picking "only one" meter. Features don't matter to me as much as trusting the V,A,R measurements. That's what I use a DMM for. That's also the reason I'd probably pick my Fluke 77 for a handheld. I've had it a LONG time, and I don't question the readings. Ever. I did clean the elastomer once to make the display more readable. I have an Agilent U1242A, but for whatever reason don't usually use it. My most recent acquisition is a Fluke 189 that needs calibrating. I don't think my Fluke 77 will ever need calibrating.

author: unknownparticle
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2022, 10:41:44 pm
content: Good grief, I've tried to ignore this thread, I really have, but I can'tSo, I'm now thinking about it, I have more than several and it must be like trying to choose your favourite child, even though I don't have any!

author: srmahaffy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2022, 12:42:10 am
content: Without a doubt, I would choose a Fluke 87 V as well!!

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2022, 03:02:25 am
content: I have no complaints about my Tektronix DMM916, which was a competitor to the Fluke 87.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2022, 03:27:04 am
content: Is this the one Tektronics got sued by Fluke for infringed their trademark color scheme?Tek and Fluke later became sister companies so the lawsuit was settled. Tek no longer makes handheld DMM. And Fluke I think now stops making bench top DMM to leave the market to Keithley which is a division of Tek.

author: Ed.Kloonk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2022, 04:23:14 am
content: Quote from: jonovid on October 24, 2022, 12:26:04 pmIs the question If you only had one -type- of meter?You might get 10 good years out of a whole crate full of those awful things.And when we say one meter, can it be a Fluke with the leads from a Agilent?Or did I just blasphemer some great metrology deity?

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2022, 02:19:58 pm
content: Quote from: BeBuLamar on November 08, 2022, 03:27:04 amThat is right, although mine came with a blue sleeve so I think it was made after the lawsuit.I think APPA actually made these multimeters for Tektronix, but unfortunately they are not available in the US.

author: Finderbinder
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2023, 10:58:11 pm
content: Quote from: ci11 on October 27, 2022, 11:05:11 amNot 30M (with 1,200,000 count) is/was the top?

author: Finderbinder
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2023, 11:02:43 pm
content: And if benchtop and more functional? Would it be Keithley DAQ6510 ?BTW is there any reason to choose DMM6500 when DAQ6510 is available?

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 07:54:42 am
content: Quote from: Finderbinder on February 28, 2023, 11:02:43 pmThe $900 difference in price comes to mind…

author: Electro Detective
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 09:45:57 am
content: "If you only had one meter?"Where and under what conditions?Lab job, home, shed, under car, dead boat and radio in gale force wind waters,suspect non labelled 3 phase mains switchboard,PCB with bloated and 'normal appearance' monster caps,rich no-life scum cheapass clients hassling you to find problems left by the last tech/s who 'worked cheap' etcAt this point it's 2 meters/meters/? (200cm/2000mm/78.74 inches) of decent quality or nothing for meWhy risk it on one meter that may fail, get dropped/driven over/drownedor batteries go flat?That said two AVO8-mk5 analogue needle pointers in a briefcase won't let you down(especially if shipwrecked on Earth, or spacewrecked on Moon or Mars)and don't need batteries,passive features only,and up to 3kv if you like livingterminallydangerouslyActive features can be handled by digital Fluke beaterswith 'installed and removed on the day of use' batteries,assuming there is squeeze room for them in the briefcase,and no one at interstellar flight control checks the weight

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 09:53:19 am
content: Only 1 meter, hmm.. can probably fit 10-15 multimeters alongside each other within your 1 meter requirement.That should be plenty.

author: M0HZH
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 09:53:58 am
content: I guess I'd be happy to have my Fluke 287 as the only meter. It is slow and eats through batteries, but it does everything I need.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 09:54:55 am
content: Quote from: M0HZH on March 01, 2023, 09:53:58 amI'm picturing a skeleton sitting at a desk waiting for the 287 to start up.

author: AndyC_772
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 09:56:21 am
content: My 'travel meter' - the one I take with me to customer sites when I suspect I'll end up measuring something but aren't sure what - is my Fluke 289.It lives in its case, with a dedicated set of probes and accessories, so I know all I need to do on a field trip is grab that case and chuck it in the back of the car. When I get to site, I know I have everything I need, and won't ever find myself in a situation where I could have measured something useful if only I'd brought a different DMM.I don't really use it in the lab at all, though - partly because it's slow to boot which is a pain, and partly because I have a Keysight 34465A on my bench.

author: armandine2
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 11:01:29 am
content: PROVA 903 comes to mind as one to have, maybe not if you've got one

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 11:04:20 am
content: Quote from: Electro Detective on March 01, 2023, 09:45:57 amAVOs need batteries for the ohms ranges & things like Fluke 77s last for up to years on a 9v battery.Your "use & remove" batteries would probably not last much longer, as they would run into "shelf life" problems.

author: coromonadalix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 11:49:58 am
content: The prova dual meter is interesting, but it share a ground between the 2 channels if i recall, to me it become a no noThe Fluke 189 is by far a good contenderI have the Gossen 28-29 and yes they are a high end meters BUT the display refresh is a bit "killing them" for a day to day use, but they are tough to beat, even the auto detection input mode , ac-dc or ohm mode is by far the most practical ever seenThey are expensive to calibrate, cost as much as an 6.5 digit meter soo ....So Fluke 189 is the go toI have Amprobe Am-140 based on FSxxxx meter mcu(like many other brands), with the somewhat usefull 500,000 count (gimmick) As useful as the Fluke 189, but i hate it when a fuse blowOnce again i go to the Fluke 189 lollNever played with the Chauvin Arnoux top series .... but seems pretty good too, and yes expensives ....But you wrote one meter lolll in my case it will be tough to choose, you gain and or loose at some point, an overdriven refresh rates of the Gossens 28-29 would make them perfects loll

author: M0HZH
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 01:02:52 pm
content: Quote from: Psi on March 01, 2023, 09:54:55 amOnce you're used to it it's not that bad, you turn it on and then fit the probes, find the test points you want to measure, take a mortgage, send kids to university and bam, just in time to measure.

author: DavidAzulay5000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 01:17:16 pm
content: Quadtech 1659 RLC DigiBridge

author: sonpul
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 01:18:00 pm
content: Especially for existence in a one DMM and to close all questions, Brymen created the Brymen BM789 model.But I did it differently. I bought 2 meters of BM789. There is definitely no such dual display anywhere.

author: lugaw
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 04:17:05 pm
content: My most used meter right now is a Hioki 3244-60

author: TomKatt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 05:19:29 pm
content: If you could only have one meter, you'd probably be here at EEVblog looking for reviews and opinions which one that should beAnd I'm sure you'd be able to talk yourself into getting another, no matter the restrictions

author: Xandinator
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2023, 11:06:31 pm
content: You'll be fine as long as you stay away from the TEA thread...I think it is more about the inability to talk yourself out of it, the true meaning of DMM ultimately being "dispossessionofmy money".Technically two BM789 can be seen as only one DMM – e.g. a 28IIex is just a very prominent and safe replacement fuse carrier for a87V– having two of the same kind is even better because it also holds spare batteries!

author: coromonadalix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2023, 03:28:12 am
content: For theses new Brymen series, sure they seems good, but i can't appreciate where the meter sit on a bench and have a tendency to wiggle on the meter stand, they should have get rid of the round-ish bottom meter case partThe older series had the same complaints

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2023, 03:59:24 am
content: All things considered, I think I would go with either the U1272A or the U1282A (if waterproof and a signal generator were needed).They both have one of the most comprehensive set of functions I know with dual display, data logging good capacitance meter, quite accurate and the battery life is very good.If battery availability was a severe problem (post-nuclear holocaust or other severe supply chain disruption) then I would have to go with an analog VOM - at least voltages and currents wouldn't need one.

author: Electro Detective
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2023, 09:31:09 am
content: Quote from: vk6zgo on March 01, 2023, 11:04:20 amAgreed on the shelf life, but the ubiquitous guaranteed 'leakage' is my only concern,been there too many times, wasting time cleaning up marketed expensive bunny batteriesmore often than 2 dollar shop cheapies with pre-schooler grammar labellingand I did quote:"and don't need batteries,passive features only,"but did forget to mention a flying AVO will down the first shipwreck island attacker or Moon/Mars alienand maybe the idiot behind him toodrive in tent or lunar module leg stakes under heavy gale or lunar wind conditionsand still work to measure whatever DC the cobbled trashed radio needs to send out a rescue signal,and most important:fetch a good auction price if rescued from the above

author: nukie
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2023, 03:43:12 am
content: Fluke 187 and 189. I have both, with refreshed supercap. Very reliable time tested instrument except for the leaky cap.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2023, 05:10:53 am
content: Quote from: nukie on March 03, 2023, 03:43:12 am187 doesn't have the cap.(and is the more sensible choice of the two)

author: 2N3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2023, 08:14:23 am
content: I couldn't decide between BM869S, BM525S and Metrix 3293.Metrix 3293 has datalogging, graphical display, high precision, high voltage/current diode mode (27V/10mA), single current socket (100uA to 10A) with automatic socket switching from A to V and back....It also can charge while working... But it's batteries last maybe a month. It is my favorite indoors.BM869S has very nice screen and is excellent meter.In field I carry BM525. It has very good battery life, datalogging, and huge, nice screen with good visibility.I could survive with any of those 3 though. Many years ago all we had were analog scale passive multimeters and we did good job with those too.. I have two old ones that are still in perfect working order.

author: shakalnokturn
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2023, 01:36:56 pm
content: Help me choose...Either Fluke 867B (it's a big fat Swiss knife with the wrong colour), Fluke 189 (I'd call the best overall compromise), Metrix MX54 (my go-to meter for everyday use).Now, if you only have one meter I have plenty to sell and I'll help you choose...

author: bookaboo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2023, 01:56:40 pm
content: I'd go for my Keysight U1273AX. It's handheld but with more than enough precision for my needs.I got it as a gift and initially I preferred the old 87V for bench work but I've grown to really like it.

author: andyB2022
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 18, 2023, 06:25:19 pm
content: I would pick Fluke 189. 289 is very bulky, has a slow boot time, power hungry, low LCD contrast, need to press couple of buttons to get where I need to...Imo Fluke 189 is the best (most complete) DMM they have ever manufactured.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 18, 2023, 08:50:45 pm
content: Quote from: andyB2022 on April 18, 2023, 06:25:19 pmI prefer 187 - the same meter but no stupid internal supercap to fail and ruin it.

author: PushUp
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 18, 2023, 11:53:54 pm
content: For me, there is nothing better than the Fluke 289!...and yes, anyone knows the disadvantages, but the advantages are the reason to buy it - at least for me, myself and I:-the build quality is perfect: the rotary switch is top, as well as the button design and button feeling when pressing-best precision: no matter against which benchtop or handheld multimeter - you can trust it! (well, my Keysight U1273A is also bang on!)-best arrangement of the display and possibilitiesto switch values from the top to the bottom and vice versa, the way you need it (even better than the Keysight U1273A with its OLED and free arrangement, because you have more space!)-own switch to power it on, so that you can leave the testleads in their plugs and the rotary switch in its position-you can measure anything(apart from white LEDs in diode mode as 3.1V is max)=> capacitance up to 100mF like the Rigol 3068/Siglent 3065=> resistance up to 100MOhm like the Rigol 3068/Siglent 3065=> low pass filter=> LowZ=> LowOhm=> frequency up to 999.99kHz=> 250µS to capture nearly any peak-best prioritizationsuch as measuring capacitance: as an LCR-meter is better, it is enough to have not endless digits such as the Keysight U1273A, with its flickering getting on my nerves-easy to usewith its F-Buttons, you even have a help-menu-you can do everything in the settings: comma or point; dd-mm-yy or mm-dd-yy; any local time format; any backlight with its two brightness settings or power off timing you can imagine-you can save ANY measurementand recall it immediately without pc or software and see it the same way as the real time measurement like a snapshot even with time and date, which is simply worth any penny of this DMM-you could update the FWon your own (thank you, Fluke)- theUSB-IR-adapterhas a fair price (thank you, Fluke)- it works withany OS(thank you, Fluke)-it measures fast enoughin any setting and it is the fastest as far as capacitance is concerned due to its prioritization (see above)- it couldrecord any measurement with a graph(which is probably responsible for keeping this poor display, unfortunately...)Cheers!

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 04:01:15 am
content: Quote from: PushUp on April 18, 2023, 11:53:54 pm500M + nS (0.01nS resolution) actually. And you neglected to mention the warranty.Of course I have to concede that today's prices on these are getting a little absurd. The kit I have with the cable, software, Pelican case and accessories would be ~$1500 now.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 04:23:40 am
content: Quote from: PushUp on April 18, 2023, 11:53:54 pmIt even wins without any probes connected!

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 04:30:21 am
content: Quote from: PushUp on April 18, 2023, 11:53:54 pm3.1V is enough to light a white LED.Does it have a high impedance measurement mode like the Fluke 8060A?

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 04:50:48 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on April 19, 2023, 04:23:40 amYes, it really is that good. The MIN/MAX/AVG mode has a STOP button that freezes it and I can see that it is in that state. The black bars on the right above the main display say "STOPPED" and "MINMAX". No idea on the Gossen, maybe just a HOLD button?QuoteNo, apparently you have to go with UNI-T if you want that feature nowadays. Most people find the LOW impedance to be more practical in a handheld though.

author: Swainster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 05:01:01 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on April 19, 2023, 04:23:40 amWait, is that a mains breakout box? With unshrouded plugs?...in those colours? OK, must stop as I'm starting to sound like some kind of comedy sketch, but that looks a bit "how ya doin", even by my generally quite relaxed standards.

author: artag
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 08:20:16 am
content: And what if you could have only one scope ?

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 08:24:45 am
content: Quote from: artag on April 19, 2023, 08:20:16 amMuch rather have just a scope than only a meter.

author: 2N3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 08:53:43 am
content: Quote from: PushUp on April 18, 2023, 11:53:54 pmMetrix MTX3293 has all that and some...USB IR you get with it (no additional purchase).It has High voltage zener mode (28V) and goes to 100MΩLoZ voltage and low pass filter.Single current socket for 10nA to 20A.Frequency up to 5 MHzAC BW 300kHzPT100/1000 and thermocouple temp measurementSupport for current clamp and external shunt.Power calc (W at specified impedance)Power measurement mode (VxA)MathGraphical mode and logging.Timestamped Min/MaxdBm and relative dB mode.Charge while working.Color screenPeak mode is 500µs, it has several measurement modes etc etc...But I agree 289 is very capable instrument. I only wish they would use better screen and if the graphing would be a bit faster..

author: Smokey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 10:07:04 am
content: only one meter, huh? How about alti...or maybe vario...

author: Ed.Kloonk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 10:58:17 am
content: So you know when to pull the 'chute.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 03:16:27 pm
content: Quote from: 2N3055 on April 19, 2023, 08:53:43 amYou forgot IP67. And the F289 still has Lo-Z, conductance (nS) and a 500M range, all of which I have actually used.Due to shifts in pricing, you can actually get the MTX 3293 here for about the same or even less than the F289. Global Test Supply has them on sale for $765 and the Fluke combo kit with the IR cable is now $1050 from TEquipment or Transcat. Fortive seems to be on a mission to see exactly how much their customers are willing to pay... Of course in the case of industrial handhelds like the 289, you have the warranty to consider as well.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 03:18:38 pm
content: Quote from: Smokey on April 19, 2023, 10:07:04 amI'd definitely go with airspeed--everything else you can just look outside.

author: 2N3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 03:25:50 pm
content: Quote from: bdunham7 on April 19, 2023, 03:16:27 pmYes I didn't list all... MTX has Lo-Z but doesn't have conductance and 500MΩ range (only 100MΩ).I used conductance mode on Brymen few times, but usually only need such a high resistance ranges to test insulation so I use insulation tester for that. UNI-T 511 and it works decent enough...

author: No.15
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 07:32:52 pm
content: My Brymen 869s probably, but I like my Fluke 77 that I have had forever

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 10:06:16 pm
content: Quote from: 2N3055 on April 19, 2023, 03:25:50 pmConductance isn't a good replacement for an HV insulation tester (imagine testing a spark gap) but it actually is useful for looking at leakage on things like capacitors, although it takes a long time and you wouldn't do it routinely. Of course other less$ meters have the feature too. I haven't tried looking at capacitor DA by logging, but you can just eyeball the meter for a few hours and sort of get an idea. You can get a good idea about how good some types of capacitors really are in this area. If you compare ceramic disc, silver mica, mylar, polypropylene film and polystyrene this way you can actually see the differences.

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 11:00:57 pm
content: Quote from: PushUp on April 18, 2023, 11:53:54 pmI have two 287 (which has the same quality rotary switch as the 289) which had the rotary switch broke off. But I won't complain about that because Fluke gave me brand new replacement meters under warranty.

author: Excavatoree
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 20, 2023, 01:10:38 am
content: Quote from: Smokey on April 19, 2023, 10:07:04 amI have one of those. I was going to say I use it as a barometer, but I suppose it IS a barometer. If the altimeter indicates that my house is climbing, I know the pressure is decreasing. If it show my house is descending, I know the pressure is rising. If the altitude indicates the actual altitude of my house, then I know the "altimeter setting" is the actual pressure. (I think.)

author: PushUp
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2023, 12:13:00 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on April 19, 2023, 04:30:21 amLet me know, when you will succeed in doing so with a Fluke 289:Cheers!

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2023, 12:43:18 am
content: Quote from: PushUp on April 21, 2023, 12:13:00 amDMMs can't do everything unassisted.I had a bunch of LEDs to test with the Fluke 77.For the ones it couldn't turn on, I just grabbed a half dead 9v battery, an appropriate series resistor from the junk box, & read the volts across the LED when it was lit,Total cost of the "LED tester"------- zilch.

author: 2N3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2023, 06:06:33 am
content: Quote from: PushUp on April 21, 2023, 12:13:00 am

author: Andrew_Debbie
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2023, 11:00:04 am
content: If I only had one meter, it would have to be a handheld.I'd probalby get a Brymen 869. If the 869 is out of budget, then a BM789.Fluke 87 is a good meter but it is too expensive. Cost matters. It always does.

author: jonpaul
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2023, 03:01:33 pm
content: Fluke 87V or 87 V maxjon

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2023, 03:29:17 pm
content: Quote from: PushUp on April 21, 2023, 12:13:00 amI don't know about your white LEDs but here's mine, actually a bunch of them. 3.1V should light any single blue or white LED.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2023, 03:39:25 pm
content: Quote from: Andrew_Debbie on April 21, 2023, 11:00:04 amHow do you calculate cost?My Fluke 289 from 2010 was $400 for a nice kit. They respun the internals about 2016 but kept the same model number, pretty typical for Fluke. A few years ago I had the supercap problem and I sent it back to them and of course they repaired a 12 year old meter for free. Unfortunately it still had a minor issue with battery drain--still perfectly usable but not quite right. They informed me that there was a part that was NLA and they couldn't fix it and I'd need a new meter--which they provided. According to the terms of their warranty, even if they stopped making the model today I'd still have another seven years of warranty, for about 20 years total. So for $400 I'm guaranteed a working meter for 20 years, or $20 per year. I actually don't use mine all that much, but for someone using it professionally each and every day, $20 per annum seems pretty reasonable.

author: GigaJoe
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 01:27:27 am
content: how about OWON HDS242S as one universal

author: Andrew_Debbie
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 08:27:05 am
content: Quote from: bdunham7 on April 21, 2023, 03:39:25 pmYou do have a point. 10+ years warranty has value.I bought a Beckman Tech 310 new in 1980. It still works and is still in spec. It was about $140 from Mouser, a huge amount of money for me at the time. That's $500 adjusted for inflation.I keep the 310 in my desk at work. I still use it ocassionaly.Support for the meter ended a long time ago. When it dies, I'll probalby put it up on eBay so someone else can use the parts.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 12:08:08 pm
content: Quote from: bdunham7 on April 21, 2023, 03:39:25 pmHave you added in the cost of the batteries and eye strain over that period?

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 12:09:13 pm
content: Quote from: Andrew_Debbie on April 22, 2023, 08:27:05 amLiar! Only Flukes can do that!!(froth)

author: Andrew_Debbie
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 01:27:24 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on April 22, 2023, 12:09:13 pmThe orginal made in California Beckman DMMs wereverydurable.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 02:22:06 pm
content: Quote from: Andrew_Debbie on April 22, 2023, 01:27:24 pmI think everybody on here that's old enough still has a 1980s Radio Shack meter that still works.

author: Bud
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 03:08:26 pm
content: Quote from: jonpaul on April 21, 2023, 03:01:33 pmIt would Not be 87V for me because of the shitty display. Beckman puts it in shame.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 03:26:28 pm
content: Quote from: Bud on April 22, 2023, 03:08:26 pmIt wouldn't be the "max" either. The max is a rebadged 28 II and it can't light up LEDs (only 2V diode test voltage).

author: BeBuLamar
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 03:56:06 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on April 22, 2023, 12:08:08 pmYes the cost of batteries is very high when you use it daily. Yes the eye strain and the frustration of waiting for it to boot up as well as doing the autoranging in resistance measurement. I rarely use the continuilty feature to check for continuity I always use the resistance measurement (I need to know what kind of continuity it is) and it's too slow on autoranging. Bothersome to have to switch to manual ranging. So I avoid using it for my daily task (I let the other guys have that, I use the 87V).

author: 4thDoctorWhoFan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 04:36:36 pm
content: Quote from: Andrew_Debbie on April 22, 2023, 08:27:05 am

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2023, 06:22:47 pm
content: For the sake of easy repair service, lifetime warranty, and calibration services, I would pick my Fluke 179. I like its smaller form factor for handheld uses.

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2023, 12:55:00 am
content: Quote from: Andrew_Debbie on April 22, 2023, 01:27:24 pmTelecom Aust standardised on the Beckman in the 1970s, at least in the RadioComms & Broadcast sections.I think they were put off Fluke by some of their early bench meters.At my depot, we had a quite early one which was solid enough, & although not trouble free, was easily fixable, & a slightly newer one which was a total pig.The old "Beckpersons" were rugged & reliable----what more could you want in a handheld DMM?I never had a Fluke handheld DMM till I left & went to the Private Sector & got the 77.Hiding at the Transmitter site was one of the Flukes with side push button switches, which I never liked, as one button was missing.I had a "Dick Smith" clone with the same switch idea, although much more crappily done.The "convenience" of side buttons never was a convincing argument to me, especially as the 77 offered pretty much the same advantage of "one handed" setting whilst using a conventional rotary switch.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2023, 05:01:18 pm
content: Quote from: Swainster on April 19, 2023, 05:01:01 amHuh? I see only shrouded plugs.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2023, 05:12:55 pm
content: Quote from: tooki on April 29, 2023, 05:01:18 pmHuh?

author: slurry
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2023, 05:22:22 pm
content: Quote from: 2N3055 on April 19, 2023, 08:53:43 amI had one of those MTX in the past, i like the display and now I have the MX5292-BT, new in box, capable yes absolutely.I really tried but I can not get accustomed to the user interface at all! - so i´m thinking of selling it and buying a Hioki DT4282.Returning to the question,if ease of use and small size is important i think the Fluke 17B+ is a great companion for most electronics work.If i have the money, a Fluke 289 is a no-brainer, i still regret selling mine.If you are on a budget, i like my Brymen BM867s, it is cheaper than BM869s and still have most of the functions.

author: Andrew_Debbie
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2023, 08:32:10 am
content: Quote from: 4thDoctorWhoFan on April 22, 2023, 04:36:36 pmThe HD110 is a ruggedized 310. Absolute tank. I belive they were waterproof too.Beckman sold their DMM division to Emerson Electric and the brand name changed to Beckman Industrial. Eventually everything moved to Taiwan. I belive production went first followed by design, but I could be mistaken. I think Emerson moved the brand downmarket in the 1990s but that could be a memory errorEmerson changed what was printed on the back side. I'd be interesed to know what yours has.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2023, 04:10:08 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on April 29, 2023, 05:12:55 pmYeah but that's not metal. (IMHO obviously so, since it also doesn't look like a banana plug, but like a smooth cylinder.)Anyhow, those are Hirschmann retractable-shroud banana plugs. (The shroud in those is spring-loaded, but is locked in the shrouded position. A release button on the side of the plug allows the shroud to be retracted to the unshrouded position.)See attached pictures.This is the product line:https://www.sks-kontakt.de/en/test-measurement/products/4-mm-sliding-sleeve-systemLMAO! This line from the product page for the assembled test leads is glorious: "Contact protected test lead on both sides sprung plug Ø 4 mm, insulated by latching and sprung insulated, which is only released by pressure on the lateral locking spring,and rigid socket Ø 4 mm to the far pluginess."(In the original German, the sentence translates to "... and rigid Ø 4 mm socket for stacking.")

author: kripton2035
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2023, 05:21:56 pm
content: fluke 867B

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2023, 07:55:39 pm
content: Quote from: kripton2035 on May 02, 2023, 05:21:56 pmNever seen that one before, but, yeah... looks like a fun meter.

author: kripton2035
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2023, 08:23:07 pm
content: planning to replace it with some owon hds22xx but not sure it will be as good as the 867B ...

author: shakalnokturn
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2023, 09:54:34 pm
content: Quote from: kripton2035 on May 02, 2023, 08:23:07 pmThe scope section can only be better. Then there's the DMM, UI, build quality...

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2023, 09:35:15 pm
content: I would love to have a meter with good thermocouple measurement. Most use those adapters which compromise accuracy. I guess if you want something better, you just get a dedicated thermocouple meter. I get my best results with Fluke 80TK thermocouple adapters.