Pocket Multimeter Recommendations - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: apelly
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 09:20:18 am
content: Thanks to Dave's blog, and the community here, I have pretty much all the equipment I will ever need (probably) and all of it iswayover-spec'ed for my experience level. Meh; I like toys.Anyway, one thing that appeals to me, but doesn't appear to come up often (ever?) in discussion here, is pocket multimeters. I haven't bothered to do any research, which is lazy, but I expect a bunch of people already have a favourite, and I'm looking for a recommendation.Which pocket multimeter do you use, and what's good about it?

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 10:48:43 am
content: Fluke 101. Cheap, real pocket size. Has most features, except for current. Best used with small probes instead of Fluke stock ones.

author: apelly
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 05:02:35 pm
content: The Fluke 101 is bulkier than I had in mind. Nice looking meter though.I have a vague recollection of a small wallet sized one in one of Dave's videos. No idea which one now though.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 05:07:05 pm
content: UNI-T UT120C then. Hard to beat for price, size and features.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/uni-t-ut120c-review-and-tear-down/msg180726/#msg180726

author: electr_peter
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 05:07:08 pm
content: Cheap option is UNI-T UT120C. It measures current too. There are more meters in this size/form factor.Fluke 101 comes with normal leads with banana jacks. Not a pocket DMM in my opinion. DMM above comes with attached leads.

author: Thilo78
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 05:16:08 pm
content: I have a Pancontrol PAN111 for my desk.Pancontrol is an Austrian brand. I bought the DMM in an Austrian tool store.http://www.pancontrol.at/index.php?pid=241&prid=38Good thing is:It's rated CAT II 600 V, so perfect around PC and Notebook, and for general desk work.The probes are attached to the DMM, so you can't lose them.And it has a neat flip cover to protect it in my drawerBy function I'd guess it's more or less the same as the UNI-T UT120C.Edit: Forgot the price. The PAN 111 comes around 20 EUR in DE and AT.

author: DanielS
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 05:28:48 pm
content: I have a $8 Hawk DMM as a spare when I need an extra voltage or current measurement somewhere. The internal build quality is horrible - the mA range fuse is soldered on the PCB and the 10A range has no fuse whatsoever unless you count the PCB itself - but it gets the job done for what I bought it for, which is mainly keeping tabs on stuff that I have already measured with my UT61E or DM27.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 06:48:14 pm
content: Quote from: Thilo78 on January 12, 2015, 05:16:08 pmThe ODM is CEM Instruments.http://www.cem-instruments.com/en/pro/pro-491.html

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 06:49:46 pm
content: Quote from: apelly on January 12, 2015, 09:20:18 amNot even a search here?https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/review-6-pocket-multimeters-amprobe-benning-uni-t-and-3-cheaper-ones-14921/

author: Thilo78
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 07:08:30 pm
content: Quote from: retiredcaps on January 12, 2015, 06:48:14 pmOK, didn't know that.Thanks for the info!

author: apelly
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 10:47:45 pm
content: Quote from: retiredcaps on January 12, 2015, 06:49:46 pmFuck. Sorry guys. I was sure I would have seen any relevant threads here. This is the second one that's been pointed out.Thanks for pointing that out retiredcaps

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 11:00:00 pm
content: I am trying to get to some video reviews of many different things. One of them is some pocket multimeters. I can say briefly that pocket multimeters never seem to be the first thing I pick up, even if one is close by. I much prefer the confidence of a solid meter with proper probes. But having said that I think I can recommend a couple of different ones from my experience.A long time back I did a review of the Uni-T UT10A, here on the forums.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/uni-t-ut10a-review/msg65941/#msg65941I still think it is a good value for a cheap pocket meter. I also have a couple of others that are worth considering:http://www.ebay.com/itm/Digitek-DT-4000P-2-Pocket-Digital-Multimeter-4000-count-Autorange-0-5-Accuracy-/171046640758This one is basically a full featured multimeter, even with a mA function, in a nice hard shell package. The test lead wire quality is a bit low but otherwise it is handy to have around and is well protected in its hard case.I would not use either of the above meters in any kind of industrial or high energy situation. They are just suited to light home use and electronics.I also have two Brymen models on hand right now. The BM22s, and the BM27s.http://www.brymen.com.tw/product-html/cata20/BM20_Catalog.pdfhttp://www.tme.eu/en/details/bm27/portable-digital-multimeters/brymen/#They are both made well enough that I would carry one around in an industrial situation, however the BM27s is made more for the plant electrician than the BM22s.The BM22s has all the basics, 4000 count, and has a peak hold. It is rated 600V CATII and 300V CATIII.The BM27s has all the basics, 6000 count, auto test function, plus continuity test with visual indication in noisy areas, plus low and high impedance voltage functions, and a 2000uA AC/DC function for testing flame sensors and the like. The thing that makes it a really good industrial pocket meter is the non-contact voltage detector function. Before you use your little meter it is nice to know if something is live or not. The auto-test function is also a good safety feature as it will warn you if a voltage appears on a circuit you did not anticipate.Both are very well built, have proper input protection and the third party tests to prove it. I really like them both but I don't think I will be selling any as most people won't want to pay the price for them. Most people don't see a pocket meter as their reliable meter and so will only pay maybe $20-$40 and no more. These will cost more than that after shipping. I still like them very much.

author: apelly
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 12:12:57 am
content: Quote from: Lightages on January 12, 2015, 11:00:00 pmYea, I understand, but having something small to throw in a bag for occasional use would be handy. Why leave home without one? I'd use it more than a pocket knife.Quote from: Lightages on January 12, 2015, 11:00:00 pmThat meter is coming up regularly. It was top of my list, but I think it's my second choice now that you've pointed out those awesome Brymens...Quote from: Lightages on January 12, 2015, 11:00:00 pmThis is the first I've seen of these. They look great. Can you comment on the probes they come with? I can't find any details about them.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 12:22:14 am
content: The leads on the Brymens are rather nice actually. The wires have silicone insulation, strain relief at meter and at the probes. The probes are small of course but not bad and they have removable caps that allow just the tips or the whole probe exposed.If you want to spend the money, yes they are nice meters. Most people look at pocket meters as disposable and therefore only wish to pay disposable prices.

author: artag
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 12:37:43 am
content: I had a couple of the pocket meters with captive leads in the past. Useful, but I found the control knob irritating : in order to keep the meter thin, they had no bar on the knob, and you had to try to get some friction to turn it.The brymen models look as though they have tried to get around this by putting spokes on the surface - does this solve the problem ?I keep looking at the Fluke T5 series. Expensive, but they do have a current sensor. If it would read DC current I'd get one in a flash.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 01:01:57 am
content: There are always trade offs for size. the ribs on the control wheel do work, but there is a bit of force needed. It is not bad but it is more than enough to ensure the dial doesn't move without real intent.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 01:04:00 am
content: I also want to say that if you are considering the Brymens, there is an optional silicone cover/bumper. I would recommend it as it provides a bit more environmental seal over the obvious benefit of shock protection. It also provides a better feel and grip in hand.

author: apelly
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 01:13:51 am
content: Quote from: Lightages on January 13, 2015, 01:04:00 amYes, I saw that in the brochure you linked earlier, thanks. It seems like a reasonable idea.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 01:27:37 am
content: Anyone considering buying a pocket multimeter might want to wait till next week. I will be doing an comparison of the ones I have and this and in combination with the video by Spawn you might want to wait before making a move.

author: benjamin545
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 02:29:43 am
content: i use for work a Fieldpiece SPDM1. i really like this one. Amprobe and Ideal have a model that look exactly like it except they dont have the non contact voltage detector built in.the only issue with it is that it uses tiny permanently attached test leads so it kinda has a limited lifespan, but at ~$35 on ebay for a brand new one its hard to beat.

author: kwass
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 03:21:46 am
content: The UEI DM5B has removable probes with standard diameter, short banana plugs, so they can be replaced (or you can use it with different cables). Also, it has a 5A fused current range that is useful for quick battery checks, etc.. I also have a UT120C that's a little bit smaller and can measure lower current, capacitance and frequency. I like the display better on the UT120. However, the UEI DM5B has a much better mode switch and seems sturdier. Both have horrible continuity beeps.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 04:01:58 am
content: 2mA max range on the Brymen BM27 seems a bit lame. The UT120C has a more useful 400mA scale.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 04:09:48 am
content: I agree with you 100%The BM27s was made specifically, from my estimation, for industrial process technicians, who have very specific needs. All of the other functions are perfect for most people. The BM22s drops the very low current measurement and other features but has a nice 30mS peak measurement. IMHO, Brymen would sell many more pocket meters if they dropped the current measurement and added the peak detect. In its current form the current measurement is all but useless to anyone not measuring fame sensors.This is why I suggest people wait to see my video review of the pocket meters I have before making any purchasing decisions. The reviews by you, Wynucls, and by Spawn, should be considered before any decisions are made.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 04:11:18 am
content: Quote from: benjamin545 on January 13, 2015, 02:29:43 amFieldpiece, like many other brand names, get someone else to make some or all of their meters.IthinkTecpel made the SPDM1? I will have to browse around to confirm.http://www.tecpel.com/Product-2006125161944.html

author: apelly
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 04:59:03 am
content: Quote from: Wytnucls on January 13, 2015, 04:01:58 amShitter cap range too.But these aren't, for me anyway, replacements for proper meters. More like handy voltage & continuity meters.At risk of opening a can of worms, I haven't heard much good about UNI-T, but Brymen is developing a great reputation.Nothing stops me from getting both of course.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 05:33:04 am
content: The Digitek mentioned by Lightages is also made by Victor. Cruder construction, not that small, but powered by 2 ubiquitous AAA batteries and has a nice sharp screen.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 05:42:01 am
content: Sorry Wytnucls, they are not the same. They have different construction and the Digitek uses two SR44 batteries.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 06:22:44 am
content: Yes, but I see a family connection there, with the meters using the same case, probes and lettering. Victor also sold a similar meter with a current range. Seems discontinued now. Possibly all made by a third party for Digitek and Victor, who knows...

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 06:27:10 am
content: Yes, it is very rare that the Chinese manufacturers copy each other....

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 06:45:47 am
content: Got one of those little Victor pocket DMM's for an EE mate 10 years ago as a gift, at the time he graciously thanked me for it (thinking it was crap) then raved that it was soooo handy for years.AFAIK he's still got it.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 06:53:47 am
content: Sanwa has an interesting layout and green credentials for theirs:http://overseas.sanwa-meter.co.jp/items/detail.php?id=33#

author: iloveelectronics
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 07:08:26 am
content: The Digitek pocket meter might look similar to the Victor but internally I think they are rather different. The case's molding is definitely different with different batteries, etc. The probes are different. The Digitek ones have some removable rubber caps for less tip exposure when needed. Here's a pic of the inside:

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 07:33:44 am
content: The Victor doesn't have a mA range, so the PCB would be different. The case molding is also slightly different, but I wouldn't be surprised if it stems from an original design with identical external dimensions (Victor 120x80x20). The four screws holding the PCB are also in the same positions, with clips on top. If the manufacturers are different, the original design was heavily copied.There was also a similar Victor with a mA range, but never saw the PCB layout or the batteries powering it.

author: rollatorwieltje
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2015, 09:20:57 am
content: Avoid the UT10A, the mode switch is unreliable as hell. It appears to be switched to the correct mode, but it doesn't actually read anything. Probably caused by the paper thin case that offers basically no protection to the internals, making it easy to crush the switch.Quite a shame, other than that it's quite good, even the autoranging speed is acceptable.

author: omgfire
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2015, 09:53:22 am
content: DER EE callDE-19Aa pocket multimeter.What are the cons of open jaw design?

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 28, 2015, 05:37:12 pm
content: The open jaw part is a current probe.

author: SkyMaster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2015, 11:28:31 pm
content: I would recommend the Digitek DT-4000P-2 Pocket Multimeter.The rotary knob feels good, all the functions work properly. The test lead are thin but they fit easily into the tray.When the cover is closed, the multimeter is totally protected; which is what you want from a pocket multimeter.I bought mine from iloveelectronics ebay store.

author: omgfire
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2015, 07:23:04 am
content: Quote from: Lightages on January 28, 2015, 05:37:12 pmI was asking what is the difference between open jaw noncontact current meter and clamp noncontact current meter with closed loop. As long as they support DC, they both use Hall effect.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 29, 2015, 07:40:09 am
content: I have these that were (are) for shootout:Sanwa PM3Hioki 3344-60 Card testerDigitech QM1544 (Jaycar rebadged whatever)Unit-T UT10AWavetek DM78A (lost to hand, but somewhere here...)I wanted a lot more though, think I had 10 on my list.Cursory glance:Digitech very nice all round, feel solid. Quick & loud continuity.Hioki has the best case (hard plastic) but minimal features.Uni-T is cheap and crappy looking, but nice 1pF resolution and feature set. Quick cont.Sanwa could be a rebadged Uni-T, but feels a lot better quality. Quick cont.The DM78 has always been my personal go-to pocket meter for a decade now, but basic features.Out of those, at first glace I'd say the Sanwa.

author: rollatorwieltje
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 01, 2015, 07:32:24 pm
content: Some comparisons between the Fluke 101 and UT10A.I wouldn't really qualify the Fluke as a pocket multimeter. It's small compared to most multimeters, but not really small enough to keep in your pocket. It doesn't help that it comes with standard sized leads.It is nice on the desk though, it doesn't take up much space and it has regular 4mm sockets. Continuity is latched, so there is a small delay.

author: firepower
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 02:18:23 pm
content: Found this pic while searching for pocket multimeter

author: dadler
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 08:09:20 pm
content: Quote from: Lightages on January 13, 2015, 04:09:48 amDid you ever conduct your video review of the pocket meters? I searched and was not able to find it, though I just looked for new topics/posts by you here on the forum.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 09:31:14 pm
content: Real life keeps interfering with things I want to do! It will be done very soon is all I can say. Sorry.

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 09:35:31 pm
content: Too busy preparing the test leads review.

author: dadler
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 10:50:25 pm
content: Quote from: Lightages on February 08, 2015, 09:31:14 pmNo worries, just was interested in case you had posted it.I am thinking of purchasing a BM27 as an adjunct to the BM869 I just ordered (for when I am too lazy / out of desk space for the big meter). You speak positively of it, and it seems to be rebadged as Amprobe/Meterman/Greenlee. The rebadged versions seem to be generally well regarded, but the sample size is small as I can find precious few reviews/comments. A rebadged version on Amazon has several one star reviews, and I found a post on here from 2011 with some pretty serious gripes about a rebadged BM27 (forget the particular rebadge).There does seem to be a major market gap in small, yet very high quality, meters. We can make iPhones and Androids in tiny packages--I think we humans could make very high quality and feature packed DMMs in tiny packages. Must just be a lack of demand?I'd be willing to spend >$100+ for a tiny, accurate meter with good usability. The BM27 seems like the closest match from my recent research (albeit the useless "flame sensor" current range, although if I was measuring flame sensors all day I would probably think differently).

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 11:41:38 pm
content: With patience you can score a Tecktronix DMM150 on ebayIt also has a AC current clamp accessory.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 11:54:40 pm
content: Quote from: Wytnucls on February 08, 2015, 09:35:31 pmI have a pile of videos to make and that is definitely 3 of them.

author: dadler
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 03:48:11 am
content: Welp I couldn't resist and ordered a Brymen BM27 from TME. Wish I'd had the good sense to order at the same time as the BM869 and save shipping. And the only place I could find the BM86x USB adapter was eBay for almost $60 shipped from Chinaland, argh.Still looking forward to your review!

author: iloveelectronics
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 04:54:40 am
content: Quote from: dadler on February 10, 2015, 03:48:11 amThat would be my eBay store. I'm located in Hong Kong though, just wanted to clarifyOur postal system is independent from mainland China's.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 05:18:52 am
content: Not one that I use, but it seemed to have a lot of features for $60. Volts, ohms, uA, diode, capacitance, frequency, LoZ, non-contact voltage detect.http://www.amprobe.com/amprobe/usen/Multimeters/Pocket-Multimeters/AMP-PM55A.htm?PID=73304I thought this one looked like an iPod, apparently they did do if you watch the video."Does everything except play MP3s"

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 05:24:53 am
content: Actually that appears to be a Brymen BM27

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 05:27:35 am
content: Quote from: Lightages on February 10, 2015, 05:24:53 amWhat's the going price for the Brymen version?

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 05:30:48 am
content: Apparently "Meterman" as well.http://www.sjelectronics.co.uk/acatalog/PM50-series.pdfEdit: Looks like much of Meterman stuff is the same as an Amprobe.

author: Biff383
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 05:42:25 am
content: This one works for a factory setting. Over 10 years old and still going strong.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 05:45:00 am
content: Quote from: Stonent on February 10, 2015, 05:30:48 amMeterman was bought by Amprobe a while back. Amprobe almost makes no meters themselves. Some of their meters are from Meterman and Brymen.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 05:50:42 am
content: Quote from: retiredcaps on February 10, 2015, 05:45:00 amUni-T as well apparently.http://content.amprobe.com/video-pq/Amprobe%20High%20Voltage%20Insulation%20Resistance%20Testers.htmlThat looks just like the Uni-T Insulation checker that Dave reviewed a while back.

author: Hugoneus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 02:43:51 pm
content: Has anyone used this one?http://www.idealind.com/prodDetail.do?prodId=61-605&div=1&l1=multimeters

author: dadler
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 09:45:31 pm
content: Quote from: iloveelectronics on February 10, 2015, 04:54:40 amAh that I did not realize. Western ignoranceYou seem to have the market cornered on the Brymen USB infrared adapters. TME is all out of stock, and your price is not that much higher than theirs once shipping is added. And you have them in stock

author: dadler
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 09:47:25 pm
content: Quote from: Stonent on February 10, 2015, 05:27:35 amI paid $38.85+shippinghttp://www.tme.eu/en/details/bm27/portable-digital-multimeters/brymen/#

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 09:55:47 pm
content: Quote from: Hugoneus on February 10, 2015, 02:43:51 pmI haven't used it, but the Ideal one above is the same as the Fieldpiece and Tecpel on page 2 of this thread (post #20 and #24).

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 10:07:20 pm
content: And Amprobe DM78C:http://www.amprobe.com/Amprobe/usen/Multimeters/Pocket-Multimeters/AMP-DM78C.htm?PID=73211

author: dadler
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 05:35:48 am
content: Wow, TME (Poland) got that here quick. BM869 shipped on Monday (arrived California Wednesday), BM27 on Tuesday (arrived California Thursday).The BM27 is a very nice little meter. It also came from TME with the silicone cover installed. It's actually constructed very well for such a cheap meter.The Hz function is rated 9.999 Hz-30kHz. At 5Vpp, I was able to accurately measure up to 55kHz. Past that it lost accuracy or signal altogether. The NCV sensor works well and indicates strength with a little bar graph. In NCV mode you can optionally use the red probe to identify hot on mains (1 probe contact, so technically not 'non-contact' in this function).

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 06:16:21 am
content: I just got this:http://www.deree.com.tw/de-19s.htmAnd damn it's nice on first impression.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 07:52:55 pm
content: Speaking of Tandy...I've still got my Micronta LCD Digital Autoranging Pocket Multimeter that I bought in about ... 1991 (ish)And yes, it still works perfectly. All it takes is a couple of LR44s to get it fired up.

author: rollatorwieltje
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 08:19:23 pm
content: For the meters with normal connectors, does anybody know a good pair of small test leads? I'm almost tempted to just cut the leads of my UT10A and solder connectors on them. My Fluke 101 can't measure current, so I don't need leads that can handle several amps (it came with TL75 leads). The only thing stopping me is that these leads really don't feel safe, I occasionally have to measure mains (level) voltages.

author: dadler
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 10:32:51 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on February 13, 2015, 07:52:55 pmAhh I had one of these when I was a kid. Loved it and used it to measure all sorts of stuff! I don't know what happened to it, but I have extremely fond memories of the meter.@EEVBlog Thanks for posting about the DE-19S. I discovered that unit in my research but couldn't find anyone with first hand experience. Just ordered one. You can't have too many meters can you?

author: LaurentR
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 10:49:26 pm
content: Quote from: rollatorwieltje on February 13, 2015, 08:19:23 pmFluke TL910 / Pomona 6341. Cat II 1000V 3A rated. Very sharp. Not really meant for pocket multimeters, but small and oh so nice.

author: kek
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2015, 04:03:03 am
content: Quote from: rollatorwieltje on February 13, 2015, 08:19:23 pmFor just measuring stuff on my breadboarded circuit I hacked a few sets together using some very cheap ebay banana plugs and male/female wire jumpers. The cheap banana plugs have an exposed set screw so I wouldn't use them anywhere else! After removing the plastic bit from the female end there is enough meat for the set screw to hold on.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2015, 05:08:06 am
content: Quote from: dadler on February 13, 2015, 10:32:51 pmMy dad had that meter, when he got it, he gave me his old micronta range doubler meter. Aside from being digital he told me that it causes less circuit interruption, which now I understand as a higher impedance.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2015, 03:23:54 pm
content: Quote from: Stonent on February 14, 2015, 05:08:06 amMaybe I could do a little teardown/test video... for old-times sake.

author: rdl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2015, 05:20:50 pm
content: Still have it and still use it. Lost track of the manual though. BTW, are there any decent small multi-meters that can run off rechargeable AAA or AA batteries?

author: rdl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2015, 11:01:54 pm
content: To sort of answer my own question, I found out that the multimeter spreadsheet sticky has the battery type listed for the different meters. Probably the closest to what I want is the UT139C. But I happened to check out the DE-19s that Dave posted above and noticed that it uses 2 AAA batteries and it's closer to the size I want. The only place I've found to buy it is somebody in Taiwan selling it on eBay. I can't tell if the price ($54 plus $21 shipping) is good though.

author: true
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2015, 04:25:50 am
content: Quote from: Stonent on February 10, 2015, 05:18:52 amI have several of these (both Amprobe PM55A and Meterman PM55 badges) and they see regular use. My work bag has one and I usually use it instead of going back out to get a bigger meter.It has some annoyances like slow Auto mode, ohms mode will beep always at low values, and a couple other things I can't remember, but it works well for almost anything I need in the field. Auto-poweroff is nice because I've left these on I don't know how many times. Battery life is good; I am just about to change my first battery in the most used meter after a couple years of use. NCV works well down to some pretty low voltages. If I need something more it's usually going to be taken out of the field anyway

author: necessaryevil
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2015, 06:15:35 pm
content: I still have to buy adecentmultimeterIt is high on my wishlist since I have wasted to much on cheap-ass rubish. An more expensive tool isn't that expensive after all if it lasts for 20 years, isn't it?A pocket multimeter which I like is the Fluke 106 - supposing it is as well built as the more expensive Flukes. The 106 can do current and at 50 euro it's only ~10 euro more than the fluke 101 (which cannot measure current).But I'm not going to buy that since I want a long lasting multimeter with true rms measurement function. It does not have to be a pocket multimeter. At this moment, I like both the Hioki DT4212 and the Hioki DT4252.Upsides and downsides for the DT4212:Upsides::*Better battery life (800h vs 130h)*2 AA batteries vs 4 AA's on the DT4252 (not really important for me)*Temperature function*Lower price (80 vs 140 euro on ebay)Downsides:* I have not seen a review of the DT4212. ---> DT4252 see below.*Hioki does not lable the HT4212 it as 'drop proof' or 'good design'*They don't mention the speed on the continuity check function (0.5ms for the DT4252).* no USBReview DT4252: Upsides::*Better battery life (800h vs 130h)*2 AA batteries vs 4AA's on the DT4252 (not really important for me)*Temperature function*Lower price (80 vs 140 euro on ebay)Downsides:* I have not seen a review of the DT4212*Hioki does not lable the HT4212 it as 'drop proof' or 'good design'*They don't mention the speed on the continuity check function (0.5ms for the DT4252).* no USBreview DT4252:

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 18, 2015, 06:32:23 pm
content: What do these meters have to do with the OP's need for a pocket meter?

author: necessaryevil
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2015, 09:45:21 am
content: Quote from: Lightages on February 18, 2015, 06:32:23 pmBesides the 106 - nothing I guess:P I went really offtopic:P//editThis depends how big your pockets are off course

author: jancelot
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2015, 02:46:48 pm
content: I think that the ribs on the control wheel are meant to be rotated using both thumbs, one up and the other down

author: jancelot
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2015, 10:26:45 pm
content: Quote from: Lightages on January 13, 2015, 04:09:48 amHow does the "30ms high speed max hold" work exactly? It also has data hold but I guess you have to press the button, or do you press the button before the reading?

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 10, 2015, 01:51:54 am
content: Yes, you press the button and it updates with the latest pulse wider than 30ms.