How many DMM's do you own ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: anishkgt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 07:22:35 am
content: Hi All,Starting this thread to show the need more than one DMM, which i guess is good thing and everyone would be having more than one. Two is what most of them have. I have a Brymen DM869s an Extech Ex330 and my very first Mastech 8628 which was the cheapest among them.I knew Mastech would not last very long when i had bought it but i never knew i would get serious with electronics back then. Now the Mastech is not working very well these days. So i was thinking of getting a replacement. Actually i bought the Extech to replace the Mastech but it came in handy when i had blown the fuse on both my Extech and Brymen. Would anyone recommend a decent one to use more frequently. I was thinking of the Extech brand which would come in handy when the existing Extech and Brymen are measuring the voltage and Current and the this one would be for temperature and maybe for a second reading to check either has drifted. Since i have the Brymen for more accurate reading with 50,000 counts i guess i would need another Brymen for accuracy or should i ?How does everyone else use their DMM's for ? As always any feedback would be valuable and maybe to others as well.

author: rdl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 08:33:44 am
content: I have accumulated seven multimeters over the years. Some date back to the 80s, but the older ones are stored away and almost never used.Most of the time one meter is enough and lately that's been my new AN8008. Before getting it I used my Fluke 87-III for most things, but the Fluke is about 6x larger than the Aneng, so it now spends most of its time hanging on the wall out of the way.I also have an M9803R (RSR branded Mastech) bench meter that sees a lot of use.

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 08:36:42 am
content: I use two regularly. One new GW Instek bench meter. This is used for calibrated measurements and anything involving line voltage as it's actually calibrated and has properly shrouded and protected everything. The rest get done with a manky old Fluke 8026B. This gets to stay because the continuity buzzer on it is absolutely amazing.I've got a few other meters as well which get hauled out if I have a complicated problem but this is rare. They are mainly just sitting around looking pretty

author: HighVoltage
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 08:50:28 am
content: I never counted ...Here are some of my benchmeters

author: Rbastler
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 09:37:12 am
content: I got eleven atm. Eight were I study and 3 at home.Sent from my A0001 using Tapatalk

author: ChrisLX200
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 09:37:53 am
content: I don't own a bench meter, but I have 4 hand-helds (Uni-T70D, Fluke 87-V, Iso-Tech, and an old RS components meter). The Uni-T and Fluke do everything, very rare I need to call on the other two for a job. Despite its 'cheap' reputation the Uni-T70D is accurate and provides a very similar readout to the Fluke, but for mains voltages I always reach for the Fluke :-)

author: anishkgt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 09:52:14 am
content: Quote from: HighVoltage on October 16, 2017, 08:50:28 amDamn ! are you selling those by any chance, maybe I could spare you some room Just curious what are those for ?Www.Georgehobby.wordpress.comEquipments: DSO104z, Hakko FX888D

author: anishkgt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 09:56:54 am
content: I was looking for a bench dmm but they seem to be way beyond my needs. I had a thought about it when I wanted to take kelvin reading for a cable and finally did it the four wire way. Now ordered a kelvin wire. Any recommendation for a dmm ? Mastech is a no no and I’ve no idea dmm other than fluke ( which is out of my budget), brymen ( which was recommended from this forum and it meets my requirement as well) and extec that I use for everyday use. I think I would go for a cheaper brymen or an extech and a usb data logger for my existing BM869s.Www.Georgehobby.wordpress.comEquipments: DSO104z, Hakko FX888D

author: KNSSoftware
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 09:59:44 am
content: Quote from: HighVoltage on October 16, 2017, 08:50:28 amdude that addiction is more expensive than coke! and your signature says it all!

author: Electro Detective
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 10:06:57 am
content: Quote from: KNSSoftware on October 16, 2017, 09:59:44 amThat 1 million volt Geller Labs SVRT thingy at the bottom of the second photo, needs loads of benchmeters wired in series to get an intact readout

author: Muttley Snickers
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 10:14:20 am
content: I own all of them, none are hired, borrowed or stolen.

author: technogeeky
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 10:14:56 am
content: I think a strong argument for a minimum number of DMMs is 2: you need one DMM, and a 2nd one in case you need to:make a simultaneous current and voltage measurementmeasure the input properties of one DMM (resistance / impedance, burden voltage, diode voltage, etc) with another DMMmeasure two voltages that must stay isolated

author: Specmaster
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 10:42:44 am
content: I currently have 10, 6 bench meters and 4 handhelds, problem is which one to use, eny meany miny mo..

author: IanMacdonald
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 11:17:35 am
content: Five.Recently bought a good analog meter for a specific purpose, and found that I've been using it on the bench quite a bit more than I'd expected to. Sometimes a device with a modest specification can prove to be more useful than one with a fantastic spec, especially as it can show trends.

author: anishkgt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 11:20:49 am
content: Which one ? The extech looks decent in price and function as a third DMM.

author: Vtile
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 11:37:53 am
content: 9 multimeters atm.2 x benchmeter (Vintage Keithley 5½ digit and 3½ Fluke 70's model)1 x Passive analog (20k/V)3 x Active Analogs (up to 100 Meg input, 1 - 1.5% accuracy)3 x Handheld DMMs

author: Vtile
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 11:55:45 am
content: Quote from: anishkgt on October 16, 2017, 11:20:49 amThere only onegood(active/passive) analog meter in production atm . as far as I know and it is from GossenMetrawatt. There is a few decent ones, I think the Extech 38073 is decent, but it only do have ~5% accuracy (compared my AVO8 from 60's with 2% accuracy). The Sanwa Em7000 seems interesting (active) meter, but again the accuracy (and sensitivity) is poor/modest.IIRC. Ians meters were some NIB vintage active model.PS. Any modest analog meter might be better than none for certain users.

author: anishkgt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 11:57:46 am
content: Well I love the Germans and the dmm’s but the dmm does cost way beyond my budget.Www.Georgehobby.wordpress.comEquipments: DSO104z, Hakko FX888D

author: IanMacdonald
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 12:01:31 pm
content: Quote from: Vtile on October 16, 2017, 11:55:45 amIndeed, a lucky Ebay find and looks like it has never been used.

author: cprobertson1
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 12:02:33 pm
content: 14 - BUT - five of those are cheapies - only the Gossen Metrawatts see regular use.Modern:2x Gossen Metrawatt Metrahit (1x X-Tra, 1x Pro)Modern but not high-end:1x Uni-T Pocket1x Uni-T Regular1x MastechModern but crap:1x TackLife (it's actually not terrible)1x Mercury (chinese brand)5x Misc cheap crapOldies but Goldies1x Avometer Model 40 Mk II (1960's vintage)1x Avometer Model-7 (1946 vintage)So that's 14 in total xDPs - that 1946 avometer still works and is pretty much in spec (a little off in the current ranges). It's younger sibling gives readings but they're all over the shop - it spent a few years in a barn and hasn't fared too well for it;))

author: Vtile
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 12:03:08 pm
content: Quote from: anishkgt on October 16, 2017, 11:57:46 amLook the vintage models.The peak of analog tech were late 70's early 80's as far as I know. A really good analog meter do have 1 - 2% accuracy on the voltage ranges, depending if the model is active or passive. Active models are many times called as multitesters (or have FET written in their faceplate somewhere ). Stay away from tube meters, if you don't do tube restoration already.PS. If someone gets a passive analog meter, look that the DC current range is 100 micro amperes or below. Edit2.. And that it does have a mirror strip in the scale..

author: xani
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 12:06:46 pm
content: One Velleman (probably rebranded from something else) DVM1200 multimeter that I use for most things (decent continuity, has USB optical interface I thought I'd need but used once and never touched again)One noname that I bought just because it has separate power-on buttonOne Uni-t 210E for decent AC/DC clamp with good range (from 2A/1mA resolution to 100A). Also it's tiny and have nice bag with it so I use it when I need something portable.One Picotest M3510A because I needed 4 wire for some things, better resolution for other, and planned to do something with USB too and figured out that if Keithley rebrands it (well, keithley version has 5.5, this one is newer 6.5 digits) it can't be that bad (and it isn't). Dual measurement is pretty handy, I usually use voltage + temp, sadly while it can measure voltage and current at same time it doesn't calculate watts out of it.It even has decent continuity buzzerand even can setup threshold resistance for it (which sadly gets reset after power cycle)Quote from: IanMacdonald on October 16, 2017, 11:17:35 amWell, there's a reason a lot of multimeters have bargraphs (not exactly same, I know). Altho I'm suprised that you need to go really high on the price to get any kind of trending display on multimeter as from technical perspective it is just "have a dot matrix screen/part of screen" and "make MCU put measurements on it"

author: Specmaster
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 01:24:06 pm
content: Quote from: bd139 on October 16, 2017, 08:58:49 amEvery one of those would light up your dark corner nicely

author: Specmaster
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 01:40:29 pm
content: Well if we're counting analogues as well then in addition to my 10 DMMs, I also have 4 analogues and a VTVM and an analogue clamp meter.

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 01:53:57 pm
content: I'll count:1 B+K 5360 handheld - go-to meter away from bench2 Keithley 199 bench (5.5 digit) - go-to meters for the bench1 UT-210E clamp - frequently used for quick DC current measurements.2 Mastercraft 3 3/4 digit handheld - same hackable chipset as UT-210E1 Thurlby 1905A bench (5.5 digit) - in pieces awaiting membrane keypad fix1 Agilent 39470A bench (6.5 digit)4 Keithley 2001 bench (7.5 digit)1 Fluke 8505A bench (7.5 digit)1 old generic 3 1/2 digit that I bought 30 years ago. My first. It has a transistor tester!1 old small cheap analog I keep around for the battery tester (1.5 V full scale, loaded with 50 mA).Forgot this one originally: Tek 2236 oscilloscope with built-in 4.5 digit DMM.That's1516 I guess.Time to sell some.edit: Added Tek 2236

author: woody
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 03:19:27 pm
content: Six. In order of usage:- Fluke 25.- Fluke 189-I (although it was not called I at the time)- Fluke 105B Scopemeter. Multimeter and scope.- Some very cheap yellow cased Fluke wannabe multimeter that lives and works on my sailboat.- Chauvion Arnoux F205 clamp AD/DC clamp meter that also doubles as a multimeter.- An AU$6,- mini multimeter powered by two button cells and fixed leads that assisted me while on holiday in Australia in a car that stopped charging.And if all goes as planned next week I will be the proud owner of an Agilent 34401A. But that one is not here yet, so does not count

author: george.b
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 03:32:09 pm
content: I've got 3: Fluke 27, Fluke 8050A, Uni-T UT136B.

author: anishkgt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 05:13:10 pm
content: No I feel I should rather invest in a bench dmm than waste money on a hand held.Www.Georgehobby.wordpress.comEquipments: DSO104z, Hakko FX888D

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 05:13:37 pm
content: Quote from: anishkgt on October 16, 2017, 07:22:35 amHi. What's the problem with the Mastech that it's not working well? I have one that I use for garage electrical work. So far it's holding up fine.For my electronics hobby, mostly I use a couple of old HP bench meters. I bought them new and these have served me very well over the years.

author: anishkgt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 05:15:40 pm
content: The mastec would not switch on have to turn the knob several times before it switches on.Www.Georgehobby.wordpress.comEquipments: DSO104z, Hakko FX888D

author: s8548a
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 05:41:45 pm
content: Quote from: HighVoltage on October 16, 2017, 08:50:28 amI really curious to know what you're doing with all those meters?Sent from my 6043D using Tapatalk

author: hugo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 08:05:10 pm
content: Quote from: anishkgt on October 16, 2017, 05:15:40 pmIt needs a clean up then ...

author: hugo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 08:14:39 pm
content: Quote from: s8548a on October 16, 2017, 05:41:45 pmMainly, checking that SVRT voltage reference

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 08:19:03 pm
content: 6 altogether.Gw-Instek GDM-8251AProtek B-845Fluke 27F/MVellemen DVM-890FRadio Shack 22-175AAneng AN-8008

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 10:00:10 pm
content: +/- 20, but with some cheapies in the mix.Bench:2x HP 3457AKeithley 191Racal Dana 5001Digital Handhelds:Keysight U1282AKeysight U1273ABrymen BM857Fluke 27/FMFluke 8060AFluke 8062AFluke 8020ARadioshack 2200039Uni-T UT136CAneng MiniMastech MS8211Mastech MAS830LSteren 602-010 (Mastech M830B)2x Cen-tech 90899 (Harbor Freight)Lee Tools HY4300Analog handhelds:ICE Supertester 680RMinipa ET-3020Clamp meters:Minipa ET-3200Fluke Y8100Time to sell some...

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2017, 11:32:29 pm
content: I have four DMMs: Two VC8145 bench DMMs for daily electronic use, a Keysight 34461A for measuring things precise and a Keysight U1241B handheld for on the road and use on mains. I must say that I have made it a point to have power supplies & loads with an accurate voltage and current readout so (hopefully) using a DMM for those purposes is becoming less necessary.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 12:06:49 am
content: Decent meters: 5GW Instek 8251AAgilent U1252BBrymen BM857aFluke 27/FM (AC mode is still)Uni-T UT139CI've some DT 830 freebies from Harbor Freight as well, but I prefer to use these as panel meters or as part of a road tool kit (i.e. if lost/went up in smoke/run over with the car I won't be too fussed over it).

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 01:30:44 am
content: 1 x Tektronix DMM916 - 4-3/4 Digit Handheld1 x Beckman RMS225 - 3-3/4 Digit Handheld3 x Tektronix DM501 - 4-1/2 Digit Bench2 x Tektronix DM502 - 3-1/2 Digit Bench2 x Tektronix 7D13 - 3-1/2 Digit Oscilloscope1 x Tektronix DM501A - 4-1/2 Digit Bench1 x HP3478A - 5-1/2 Digit Bench1 x Beckman DM25 - 3-1/2 Digit HandheldAs shown below, I really like having lots of smaller bench meters (and power supplies) to make instant setups for testing and grading parts. The first photograph shows burning in solid tantalum capacitors and the second shows measuring a 999 megohm resistor with an otherwise normal 3-1/2 digit multimeter.Update: I found another DM501 that I did not know I had.

author: Fsck
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 01:47:07 am
content: HP 3457aFluke 8842aBrymen BM869Fluke 87VFluke 8060aFluke 324 clamp

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 04:25:36 am
content: I've lived close to the ocean several times and indeed, electronics seems to corrode faster in that atmosphere.What do you folks who keep lots of battery containing meters around,do about their problematicbatteries- so they do not leak?The leakage issue seems to bemuchworse now than it used to be.

author: Dubbie
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 04:37:10 am
content: Everytime I see a picture of High Voltages stack, it reminds me of the saying:A man with a good clock knows exactly what time it is. A man with two good clocks has no idea what time it is.

author: Cubdriver
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 05:30:29 am
content: I'm honestly afraid to count.Working, handheld:A Fluke 77II, a couple of Fluke 27s, a Triplett 63, a Simpson 269, and an old Rat Shack clamp-on ammeter.Working, bench:Data Precision 3500HP 3439AHP 3440AHP 3430AHP 3455AFluke 8100AFluke 8120AFluke 8200AUnited Systems/Digitec 262AIn various states of repair (or despair):HP 405CRHP 3403CFluke 8024BHP 3450A & BHP 3460A & BHP 2402AHP 2410BHP 2401CHP 3456AHP 3490AHP 5265A plug-inDana 4700AFairchild 7000AData Precision 134Data Precision 245Data Precision 1450Fluke 8375ATriplett 8035In my defense, some of these are just DVMs, rather than DMMs, and I've been collecting them for quite a few years now, but still...-Pat

author: Cubdriver
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 06:50:11 am
content: Quote from: blueskull on October 17, 2017, 06:40:12 amAlex, I'll take the category "Leaky Batteries" for $200 for the first question, and "No" for $400 for the second. blueskull, I remember you writing about that a while back, and think it's BS that the service place left you hanging like that.My meters are mostly line powered, but as for leaky batteries in the handhelds, I try to avoid Duracells like the plague - have had many of them leak in things over the past 10-15 years. I've had better luck with Energizers in recent years. I wouldn't bet the farm on them being leak proof long term either, but in my experience they seem to keep their innards inside where they belong better than current Duracells.-Pat

author: Cubdriver
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 07:14:05 am
content: Quote from: blueskull on October 17, 2017, 07:02:38 amWhat the large print giveth, the small print taketh away.-Pat

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 08:08:25 am
content: Those who are wise know the small print is between the credit card company and the vendor.

author: nidlaX
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 08:20:44 am
content: Most used to least used:Greenlee (Brymen) DM-510AMooshimeterUni-T UT71BKeithley 2000 (repaired)Keithley 193 (new problem post-repair)HP 3455AHP 3458A (diagnostic in progress)

author: woody
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 08:22:46 am
content: Quote from: cdev on October 17, 2017, 04:25:36 amFor the Fluke 189: use rechargeable batteries (Eneloop low self discharge). I don't know if rechargeable batteries can't leak but I have never seen it. And in the case of the 189 this is a good idea anyway, as that meter uses batteries like a camel uses water.

author: HighVoltage
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 08:26:08 am
content: Quote from: s8548a on October 16, 2017, 05:41:45 pmMainly for certification of test stands for sensors and many other parts in a process analysis. Most of the time, 4 1/2 digits would be fully sufficient but with the partially stupid advent of high level process analysis, one is required to record two more digits for the calculations.Also, I have several test stands in the field, where we measure precise voltages up to 1000 V DC directly with a DMM and we use data acquisition to collect the values. The Keysight 34401A and the 34461A have been the standard for these type of measurements for years.

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 08:32:34 am
content: Quote from: HighVoltage on October 16, 2017, 08:50:28 amI think I should create a new thread with the title "How many bench LCR meters do you own ?" and waiting for your post.

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 08:37:10 am
content: Quote from: Cubdriver on October 17, 2017, 05:30:29 amSame here ... but my "collection" is not worth mentioning. The apex member is an EEVBlog BM235.

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 10:18:13 am
content: Tek 2465 with DMM optionHeathkit V-5 VTVMHeathkit IMD-202-2 DVMMastech MS8040Fluke 87Fluke 8021BFluke 8000AFluke 8010AFluke 8050AFluke 8600A

author: HKJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 11:23:20 am
content: Quote from: woody on October 17, 2017, 08:22:46 amIn my expirence it is not using much battery, but my 289 is bad.About the count:Bench DMM's: about 10 (Fluke, Keysight, Tektronix)Good handheld: about 10 (Fluke, Keysight, Gossen, Brymen)Cheap handheld: more than 10 (This number will increase significantly in the near future due to my reviews).

author: Evan.Cornell
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 12:35:57 pm
content: I have two DMMs, both Fluke 115. I was introduced to this model at work, and even though they're not the cheapest, I got two for my home lab, since I know I'll not have to worry about build quality or anything like that.

author: N2IXK
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 12:50:47 pm
content: Fluke 87 (x2) One on bench as my main DMM, one in tool bag in my truck.Fluke 8060AHP 3468B 5 1/2 digit benchtop DMMBeckman Industrial DM78 pocket DMM in my backpack

author: G7PSK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 02:49:29 pm
content: Just counted mine and realise that I have to get another as the present total is 13.or should it be

author: anishkgt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 03:14:38 pm
content: Save some space on the rack guys. Anyone selling their ? I was thinking of getting hand held and then realized a bench dmm would be better. At the moment I don’t see myself getting one any soon.I have the rigol, bk keysight in mind. I like the rigol display and have their oscilloscope as well. To start with i am looking for 4 wire resistance measurement with a resolution of 0.01mOhm and better sample/sec reading. Rigol has about 25s/sec and other features are bonus.Any recommendations would be appreciated. My budget is 300-400$.Www.Georgehobby.wordpress.comEquipments: DSO104z, Hakko FX888D

author: Neomys Sapiens
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2017, 09:25:39 pm
content: 1 Prema 60011 Schlumberger 71511 Fluke 27FM1 Fluke 871 Fluke 8060A1 Fluke 79/III1 Fluke 121 Schlumberger 70451 GMC MetraMax121 Metrawatt Unigor 6e1each Metrawatt Metravo 4E/4H/4S/4D1each Metrawatt Unigor A41/A43/3p1each Metrawatt Metravo Elektronik/Metravo3/Metratest31 HP E2377A1 Siemens Multizet 10001 Siemens Multizet 10011 Siemens Multizet T1 Siemens Multizet B-10101 Siemens Multizet VMG11each H&B Elavi5n/Elavi5/Elavi15n/Multavi61 Beckmann DM25XL1 Amprobe 37XR-A1 Simpson 467 (PSM45)1 Tektronix DMM150 (Pocket/Pentype)1 SOAR 3100 (Pocket/Pentype)1 Wavetek DM78 (Pocket)1 ICE Microtest801 Tektronix DM501A1 Tektronix DM5022 Neuberger modular Multimeters PKD41 ITT Metrix MX1200S (1000A AC/DC clamp + multimeter)1 Tektronix T201 (aka Messcomputer-1?, pseudo-DSO+DMM)1 Th.Steinfurth TH-1000 (Ex-zone Multimeter)1 AN-USM213 (but sadly, no more Mercury cells for it)relatedComponent checker Tektronix DMM353, 2x Memory Voltmeter MTA by Ingeniero G.Gay, AC Voltmeter Ballantines AN/USM-415, some Meggers, LCRs, etc...I wrote about some of the most interesting ones in the 'show your multimeter' post.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/chat/show-your-multimeter!/800/

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2017, 01:51:50 am
content: Quote from: woody on October 17, 2017, 08:22:46 amNiCd and NiMH cells have a pressure vent for safety at the positive terminal. If the cell is old enough or severely overcharged, it can leak but the result is usually crystals of potassium hydroxide and not nearly the mess that other batteries make. The positive end of the cell will look "fuzzy" when it starts to leak.

author: AG6QR
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2017, 04:24:57 am
content: Two good ones: A Fluke 179 and a Fluke 16. The model 16 is smaller and simpler; the 179 is slightly more capable and I usually prefer it, but for most tasks, either one will work well. These are the ones I use almost always.One tiny simple rugged one that I keep in the car: A Triplett 1101.One feature-rich one with horrendously terrible ergonomics that make me hate using it: A TPI 440 scope meter. It's been a decade since I've used it, I think.Three that I keep around for nostalgia's sake and because it's not worth the hassle of selling them, but I don't keep batteries in them and can't imagine I'll ever use them to measure anything:A Micronta 22-027A analog meter, 1000 ohms/V. I bought it about 40 years ago for $7.95. It still has the price tag on the box. It's tiny.A Micronta 22-185A that was my first digital meter, and my first meter with a reasonably high input impedance.A Centech something or other that I got practically for free at Harbor Freight recently, because I was curious to see how bad those things are. It's surprisingly accurate, if it has a fresh battery in it. But it's junk construction.

author: nikonoid
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2017, 06:57:39 am
content: Right now I got 9 modern bench top DMMs (all purchased broken): 5 already repaired and 4 are in the process of being repaired.I also got 2 cheap Chinese handhelds and Fluke 189.Fluke 189 and DR-5000 LCR meter are the most used of them all.(Yes, I know DR-5000 is not a DMM).Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2017, 03:35:40 am
content: FWIW, I also have a DER DE5000 LCR meter, but didn't include it given the title of the thread.That said, it's a wonderful bit of kit for the money IME.I couldn't even get an HP 4274A boat anchor* for what I paid for the DE-500, extra options I ordered, and fastest delivery. BTW, both of these can test up to 100kHz, and the 4275A up to 10MHz.Seller with DE-5000 + all accessories with free tracked shipping goes for $163.49 (here).Add $5 for an intermediate delivery date (by the 9th of Nov.), and $15 for fastest delivery (by the 31st of Oct.) at the time of posting this.DE-5000 LCR + TL-21, TL-22, and TL-23 (no power adapter or software kit) goes for $108.99 shipped (here).* Quick look on eBay brings up $500 OBO + shipping for anHP 4274A(it may be possible to get one for less than the linked unit + cost of repair, but I didn't bother with investigating this).

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 19, 2017, 07:52:44 pm
content: Quote from: nanofrog on October 19, 2017, 03:35:40 amNano, have you gotten rid of those annoyingly short alligator clips and substituted these in?https://www.ebay.com/itm/LCR-Meter-Test-Leads-Lead-Clip-Cable-Terminal-Kelvin-Clip-Wires-with-4-BNC-/181391981262?hash=item2a3bcdface:g:uVMAAOxyUylTWducI got a set, they work well though one of them was shorted. Simple fix.

author: Vtile
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2017, 08:43:40 pm
content: Quote from: nanofrog on October 19, 2017, 03:35:40 amAt this point I were searching from the web what the DMM 4275A looks like as it can measure up to 10MHz .... Yep, I'm disappointed it is a LCR-meter.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2017, 09:39:07 pm
content: Quote from: GreyWoolfe on October 19, 2017, 07:52:44 pmNo, not yet.I figured on DIYing my own using silicone wire I already have on hand (still need to buy the Kelvin clips).Quote from: Vtile on October 19, 2017, 08:43:40 pmI like it as an LCR meter, but despite their age, they still go for a lot of money. And it's this bit I was frustrated with (same with the 4274A).Though it wasn't a primary reason for buying it, the portability of the DE-5000 is nice to have IME.

author: nikonoid
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2017, 02:44:11 am
content: When repairing/troubleshooting stuff and no high accuracy is required, I use normal DMM banana probes on DE-5000. They plug in just fine. Yes it is only 4 wire till the jacks and I am adding about 0.3 ohms to ESR reading. It is a great convenience when you need to get into some tight spots, and you can subtract that 0.3 manually.Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 20, 2017, 11:04:06 pm
content: Quote from: nanofrog on October 19, 2017, 09:39:07 pmI got a set of these to make poor man's kelvin clips for my GW-Instek GDM 8251Ahttps://www.ebay.com/itm/2PCS-For-Copper-Gwinstek-LCR-Kelvin-Test-Clip-Bridge-Test-Microresistivity-Clamp-/142267585778?hash=item211fcf14f2:g:QM4AAOSwo4pYlXc3I added Franky's banana plugs and have a decent set.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 21, 2017, 12:24:29 am
content: Quote from: GreyWoolfe on October 20, 2017, 11:04:06 pmFWIW I've been considering a pair of Mueller BU-78K Kelvin clips to go with retractable & stackabe banana connectors in red & black I already have on-hand (copies of Mueller BU-32614). But given the cost for genuine Mueller BU-78K ($50.92 per), I definitely need something less expensive. So I'd been looking at clones of the BU-78K (example), which go for $13 for a pair shipped.That said, the one's you linked look decent as well, and are similarly priced at $14.35 for a pair shipped.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 21, 2017, 07:09:34 am
content: Strictly DMM, I guess it's currently 17: 9 bench (three in the repair queue) and 8 handheld. They represent a nice assortment of display technologies: Nixie tube, segmented LED, dot LED, VFD, and LCD.Not DMM are a few good old analog voltage and current panel meters.

author: Terabyte2007
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2017, 06:58:40 pm
content: Does this count?

author: anishkgt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2017, 07:19:01 pm
content: Tooo littleBut why would anyone need more than they really require.Www.Georgehobby.wordpress.comEquipments: DSO104z, Hakko FX888D

author: HKJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2017, 07:21:39 pm
content: Quote from: anishkgt on October 23, 2017, 07:19:01 pmRequire is a strong word. I sometimes buy a DMM because I am curious about it, just now I buy DMM's because I am writing reviews.I do also use a lot of DMM's for logging data (Most bench meters now).

author: Rbastler
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2017, 07:23:02 pm
content: Quote from: anishkgt on October 23, 2017, 07:19:01 pmBetter having them and not needing them, than needing them and not having them.

author: anishkgt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2017, 07:24:20 pm
content: Curiosity is costly here  Well that’s true. I guess it’s all about the technology and how well they are and I guess most of them are given out for a review like yourself.Www.Georgehobby.wordpress.comEquipments: DSO104z, Hakko FX888D

author: HKJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2017, 04:22:34 am
content: Quote from: anishkgt on October 23, 2017, 07:24:20 pmDepends, it was fairly cheap to check the AN8008, but the U1282A was a bit expensive.

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 24, 2017, 09:05:11 am
content: Quote from: Terabyte2007 on October 23, 2017, 06:58:40 pmplease, order them by color. It's disgusting.

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 03:26:39 am
content: Three digital, one analog

author: VK5RC
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 11:11:11 am
content: Hangs head in GAS shame; 29 working (2 parts units)My First Dick Smith DSE Q1559 - still worksOld classics HP 3430A (nixie)HP 3455A (LED)HP 3465A (LED)HP 3440A (nixie)HP 5326B (LED)HP 3490A (dot LED)HP 5265A plug in for 5245LNewer HP 3456A (LED)HP 3457A (LCD yuck)HP 3458A (in rack near bench) Volt- nutteryHP 34401A (on the bench)Agil 34461A (on the bench)Keys U1253B x2 (on bench)Agil U1252BKeys 1282AAgil 1194A ClampKeys U 1261AFluke 8060A87V (on bench)289 (on bench)Keithley 617619Metrahit EnergyEEV. BM 235MooshimeterDER DE-19S (pocket dmm)Hioki 3246. (pencil type)PlusDMMs in Scopes x4Mainly Use U1253B - love OLED viewing angle/contrast/boot up time, or 34461A,Re batteries, I leave them out unless on the bench.

author: woody
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 02:21:17 pm
content: One more since yesterday:Agilent 34401A.

author: ChrisLX200
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 02:50:02 pm
content: Quote from: woody onTodayat 01:21:17 AM

author: woody
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 03:11:19 pm
content: Mine was from Ebay.com but not from an auction. The couple of times I tried I an auction I never managed to win one. Not even close. It seems that you have to know exactly what you want to spend and enter that in the last 500 ms. I am not good at either

author: HighVoltage
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 03:22:50 pm
content: It seems to me that the prices for good 34401A DMMs on ebay Europe especially in Germany have gone up significantly in the last 3 years. A few years ago, it was possible to buy a 34401A on ebay Germany for less than 300 euro and now they go for almost 500 euro or even more. May be lots of people here on eevblog realized what a good DMM it is.

author: Zucca
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 03:26:04 pm
content: Quote from: HighVoltage on October 26, 2017, 03:22:50 pmMany of them are fixing the unit thanks to this forum and selling it back...

author: woody
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 03:56:33 pm
content: Might well be. It took me quite some time to find one that looked both nice and affordable. I finally found one in Singapore.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 09:35:38 pm
content: Just a the mention of a used T&M model number here in EEVBlog seems to cause sellers to jack up the price.

author: PA4TIM
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 10:26:53 pm
content: Never counted them, somewhere around 50 I think, but most are analog. Only 15 or so are digital.

author: alsetalokin4017
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2017, 11:35:22 pm
content: Eight. Two Flukes (83, 87-III), a Simpson bench meter, and a handful of ElCheepos.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2017, 02:28:40 am
content: Quote from: VK5RC on October 26, 2017, 11:11:11 amNice collection, Rob. And only two parts units. You've got a good ratio of working to non-working there.

author: rx8pilot
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2017, 03:09:26 am
content: I only have 2 DMM's - A Keithley 2700 with 20 channel relay card and a Fluke 87. I have never wished for any more than that for DMMs.

author: VK5RC
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 27, 2017, 05:35:23 am
content: Quote from: bitseeker on October 27, 2017, 02:28:40 amThanks, it is part of my "ocd" , I have to get them to work.The parts units were for 'unobtanium' esp the micro -processor board for the Fluke 619.Rob.