multimeters - opinions?

[littletoes]

To talk about having ONE good tool, and several cheapy tools that do the same thing.....isn't it always the GOOD tool that gets "grabbed"?

Thats the case in my shop, wether its Snap-On sockets vs "anything else", or a Fluke meter. Doesn't matter what else is in the tool box, the Fluke gets grabbed first, and only.

I didn't realize the Fluke's were that expensive....I use three everyday. When you need to measure micro volts, don't think I'd trust anything else.....


Its funny, but for me, I just don't seem to have the confidence or faith/trust in a cheap meter.

Make sense?

 

[diesel research]

The 179 is pretty sweet and not a bad price relatively speaking.

As for the TPS comment, it is relative to my early comment that auto-ranging is not always an awesome feature some DIY'ers make it out to be. Also pertains to accuracy/speed. I'm not talking displaying the same number as OBD2 scanner is reading, I mean in catching those momentary blips. Cheaper meters will still do ok on some numbers that are static, but on rapidly moving numbers they tend to round/average and hide peaks and dips. Sometimes that "noise" is more important than the actual average reading. It's like comparing standard television and those high speed cameras on discovery channel that catch things the eye wouldn't normally see.

Another example is setting the distributor on a dodge magnum v8 without a scan tool. Uses a hall effect sensor that switches from 0-5 or 0-8 volts and the distributor needs to be set right on the rising or falling edge (cant remember) of the signal while engine is off and set at a specific btdc angle, something like 17*. Cheaper meters go crazy right at that breaking point between on and off. lotta other times a DIY'er really could use the accuracy, maybe on an o2 sensor for example. As he gets more advanced he might even investigate his weird idle by testing his IAC, maybe watching frequency or duty cycle depending on the type.

The last thing a diy'er needs is confusing test results.

 

[volpster31]

what about a good old craftsman???? i have a fluke, craftsman & a fieldpiece and while the fluke is the best, i still like my craftsman

 

[MattT]

Its funny, but for me, I just don't seem to have the confidence or faith/trust in a cheap meter.

Make sense?

Makes sense to me I trust my Fluke with my life. Don't trust anyone elses though. I've seen abused Flukes that wouldn't read right.

The last thing a diy'er needs is confusing test results.

Last thing anyone needs is inaccurate readings. Maybe not quite so much of a problem for someone with experience because they should know to question squirrely readings.

 

[mrb]

ive been using TPI meters as a low cost alternative to fluke. (check my f/s thread of them to see what they look like and get specs http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=87463&highlight=multimeter ) I quit using the random HF meters i had after I discovered their readings were wayy off.

and dont ever use a $5 meter on AC line voltage -its just not worth the risk.

 

[kc-steve]

. . .

and dont ever use a $5 meter on AC line voltage -its just not worth the risk.

Everyone has an opinion. I know licensed electricians that use the HF Cen-Tech meter with confidence.

Steve

 

[BBQ&Love]

Everyone has an opinion. I know licensed electricians that use the HF Cen-Tech meter with confidence.

Steve

While Fluke does a wee bit of fear mongering on this issue, there is a solid basis for concern. It's not just opinion. Meters have safety classifications and I can't find the rating for the HF meters. If it's there please point it out.

 

[canuckian]

wow...thanks for all the responses and opinions! looks like I have some homework to do! Haven't been on all day to respond due to a small flooding issue in my garage.

I have done the cheap meter thing (many times) and have actually had one smoke in my hands so I'm looking for something a little higher on the chain. I don't have access to HF so that one's not an option anyways. i suppose Canada's Princess Auto sells meters but to be honest, the only things I buy there are consumables.

My top runner so far is the fluke 179. I'm aware that it's a little pricey for a non-pro but so are most of my tools and that doesn't stop me. I just want a good, dependable general purpose meter. the backlit display and protection feature are good bonuses and i like Fluke's test leads - they just seem to hold up better than others I've seen.

Thanks again everyone for the advise and please keep the responses coming

 

[ngk22r]

Fluke 117 works great, my favorite one in my box!

 

[smalltruck]

I have an extech at work and an ESC. The extech is every bit as good as a fluke 88. FYI unless you know how and what true RMS is and how to use it, you really don't need it.

And I use resistance testing for ABS work daily. They both work great there.

 

[Identaltech]

Accuracy is a must for me.
So I have two Fluke meters.
but in my line of work a meter reading off by as little as 1 volt will mean 91kv instead of the 90kv it should be.
But for your first meter, for general use you could go cheaper.
That way when you burn it up it dosn't hurt so bad.

 

[JASTECH]

The meter could save your life! I would buy a Fluke to start with so you know your safe. I also have Simpson 160, 260, Amprobe, Keithley 2000, Fluke 45, Fluke 8600A, Greenlee, Craftsman and a little 12vdc meter for alarm systems. Leads are very important too, again buy the best, this will reduce EMF readings interfearing with your meter. Silicone leads from Fluke, Simpson, Amprobe ect. or just from a mfg of leads like Oldaker made in USA too.

Thanks, JASTECH

 

[theoldwizard1]

... Leads are very important too, again buy the best ...

The biggest problem with cheap and mid range meters is poor quality leads ! I have supplemented my factory leads with some 6' long Panoma patch cords with banana jacks and some alligator clips.

For the "average homeowner" get a meter with a rubber housing. An audible continuity tester is also good.

 

[Mr onetwo]

I am a fan of the Fluke 27/FM. They were made for the US goverment and now seem to be showing up on the surplus market (ebay, etc) for $50 or so. They are "true" RMS meters for accurate AC voltage measuements. They also have a Mimimum and Maximum reading button which I find really handy for thing like how low the the battery voltage drop when I started the car, etc. It will also do relative measurements. The 27/FM is o-ring sealed and certified for mine use. They are not small meters but they are built really well. One thing newer flukes have is a more contrasty display. But the 27/FM displays are good enough for me.

If anyone is interested in one of these,I just picked one up on Ebay for $30 shipped.The seller was asking $79, but accepted my offer of $30. Here is the link...a whole bunch of these just sold in this price range.Can't wait to get it home and try it out. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Fluke-27-FM...265?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2eaf4adb79

 

[JesseD]

I am really surprised that no one has ever tired the Innova 3340. It is a true rms meter with all kinds of functions like diode testing and inductive clamp meter. The auto range is slow but if you need fast response you can just turn it off or use the min max function the review what the voltage spike or drop was.

 

[waltinbatonrouge]

visit your local pawn shop. I picked up my latest Fluke 77III for $35.

 

[j.c.whitney]

Those free with any purchase Cen-Tech from Harbor Freight are fine to throw in a toolbox or drawer to check simple measurements but not trusted for high voltage. As previously mentioned, you can get a discounted Fluke with nice test leads, certified accuracy, meets safety standards, and won't explode in your hand. I've zero complaint with the Fluke 73/III and those can be found priced very reasonably.

 

[dodge610]

I have a Actron,Craftsman,Fluke77,HF CenTek between the 4 I get done what I need. Little History craftsman mom bought this when I was a teen many moons ago. Fluke 77 was my dads and im thinking is probably outdated but still gets the job done and still looks like new.

 

[Galaxie]

Would it be better to just drop another $50 on a Power Probe 3 off of Amazon? Instead of $30 on the ebay fluke listed?

I have a few of the free HF meters and a few other cheap brands, always liked the option of the PP3. I assume it can do everything the Fluke can in terms of 12V stuff.

 

[Robbie UK]

Just run into this thread after buying a used Fluke 87-4 (the model that was rebadged as the 187 as it was never really part of the 80 series) from ebay this very evening. Simple meters have their place but their speed of response can miss some faults as they can smooth out the very issues you are trying to find.

Used Flukes make a lot of sense as they are robust, repairable and carry a lifetime warranty. Well that's my logic, but I will soon moan if it arrives as an overly expensive paperweight!

 

[dodge610]

Can anyone tell me how old my Fluke 77 is as I said it was my dads I got it when he passed on years ago. Still looks like new and works for what I use it for just wondering how old it is I know its gotta be outdated.

 

[Robbie UK]

Can anyone tell me how old my Fluke 77 is as I said it was my dads I got it when he passed on years ago. Still looks like new and works for what I use it for just wondering how old it is I know its gotta be outdated.

Depends what series it is, original, II, III, IV etc. The Fluke 77 was the daddy of whole new type of meter and was the first to combine a digital and sudo analogue LCD display when it was launched. Pretty sure the original version hit the market in 1986 and the Series IV is still in production.

 

[dodge610]

Depends what series it is, original, II, III, IV etc. The Fluke 77 was the daddy of whole new type of meter and was the first to combine a digital and sudo analogue LCD display when it was launched. Pretty sure the original version hit the market in 1986 and the Series IV is still in production.

Dads was the original I know that much still works like a champ so ill keep it. To use and because it was his when I got it opened the box and dad had put the original bill of sale in the box I thought that was neat and yes I still have it.

 

[Mr onetwo]

Just got my 27/FM in the mail....it's like brand new!Very pleased for $30

 

[GoBlue]

I prefer auto ranging voms for working on cars. I use to check alt. output, check for draws, and basic wiring stuff. I use a Vantage pro for checking components and a sabre for checking alt. ripple and load testing.

 

[j.c.whitney]

Tried the link on ebay for the $30 Fluke 27FM, offer immediately declined.
Two more bids up to $35 and both offers also declined, seller must have recalibrated price due to demand. Oh well.

 

[pt109]

I haven't seen it mentioned, but I've had good luck with the auto-ranging Mastech MS8268.
A feature I really like is the flashing plugs if you forget and have the wrong input plugs selected. It has been reliable and accurate for over a year, as well as under $50 at amazon.

-Ken

 

[clark_nicholas]

Do Not buy the milwaukee tool brand Meter, My work provides meters for us and we just replaced all our fluke's ( Which i took the fluke home ) with Milwaukee brand ones. Which they **** there a delay in them and I dont feel like im getting a accurate reading.

 

[otis66]

Extech makes a great meter. Not all Fluke meters are made in USA.

 

[bsaint]

87V or 179III

The worse ones Ive ever used were from the Depot.

 

[back2class]

I agree. 95% of the people here will be more then well served with $3 HF unit. Unless you use it EVERY day or are an electronics engineer the Fluke for you is plain stupid. I have a high end Actron automotive multimeter. Not a Fluke, but about 1,000 times better than I need for messing with cars and electronics here. I've had some Flukes and promptly sold them. No doubt sold to people here who's most complicated use will be checking continuity. Same guys who "needs" a snap-on ratchet assortment when they use a ratchet once a month.??????
That's OK. Your money and if you feel you need...well ok. Perhaps you do. But I will recommend a basic one. Perhaps better than HF with junk leads. Perhaps a Craftsman $20 unit. I know I always grab my $3 HF unit unless I need the long leads that my Actron has.

 

[0.511MeV]

Do Not buy the milwaukee tool brand Meter, My work provides meters for us and we just replaced all our fluke's ( Which i took the fluke home ) with Milwaukee brand ones. Which they **** there a delay in them and I dont feel like im getting a accurate reading.

You don't feel the meter is accurate or the meter isn't accurate? Have you tried checking the accuracy with even a simple side by side reading with the Fluke?

 

[housey]

Everyone has an opinion. I know licensed electricians that use the HF Cen-Tech meter with confidence.

Steve

There are standards set by the IEC, by which multimeters are rated and put into different categories of use, being:

Category I: used where equipment is not directly connected to the mains.
Category II: used on single phase mains final sub-circuits.
Category III: used on permanently installed loads such as distribution panels, motors, and 3 phase appliance outlets.
Category IV: used on locations where fault current levels can be very high, such as supply service entrances, main panels, supply meters and primary over-voltage protection equipment.

Going by that, OP should aim to get at minimum a Cat II rated meter, or a Cat III meter if 220V is not just single phase. And any licensed electrician, should also have at minimum a Cat III rated meter.

Extech makes a great meter. Fluke is no longer made in USA.

The lower end flukes are, but most are still made in USA. I have a Fluke 179, a 376 clampmeter and 1507 insulation resistance tester all purchased in the last 8 months and all made in USA. Extech surely make alot of there meters in china as well

 

[Mr onetwo]

Tried the link on ebay for the $30 Fluke 27FM, offer immediately declined.
Two more bids up to $35 and both offers also declined, seller must have recalibrated price due to demand. Oh well.

Be patient Dude.They aren't the only ones with them.Just search "fluke 27/FM" and watch a bunch of auctions....in one day 10 of them went for 29 to 33 bucks from several different sellers.Good luck!

 

[waltinbatonrouge]

I agree. 95% of the people here will be more then well served with $3 HF unit. Unless you use it EVERY day or are an electronics engineer the Fluke for you is plain stupid. I have a high end Actron automotive multimeter. Not a Fluke, but about 1,000 times better than I need for messing with cars and electronics here. I've had some Flukes and promptly sold them. No doubt sold to people here who's most complicated use will be checking continuity. Same guys who "needs" a snap-on ratchet assortment when they use a ratchet once a month.??????
That's OK. Your money and if you feel you need...well ok. Perhaps you do. But I will recommend a basic one. Perhaps better than HF with junk leads. Perhaps a Craftsman $20 unit. I know I always grab my $3 HF unit unless I need the long leads that my Actron has.

Well...the first time you accidently drape your vinyl HF meter leads over a hot exhaust manifold. you'll say "hmmm" we'll thats why I buy $3 meters.

the first time you butterfinger your HF meter, and you have to reach through the ghost turds under your workbench to retrieve the itty bitty broken case parts, you'll say "hmmmm" thats why I buy $3 meters.

Or the first time the rotary switch breaks off.....you'll say...

the first time you wonder why the probe tip broke off when you try to straighten it you'll say..
anyway..

get what you want. don't diss other folks for getting what they like, can afford, or works for them..

For me I've used a meter for the 40 years since your tax dollars taught me how. I like Simpson 260 analog meters and Fluke DMM's

For other folks, if it works when you need it...get what you want.

 

[otis66]

I much prefer Asian made electronics.

Then you would be happy with Fluke

 

[otis66]

Extech is a good meter

 

[cammok5]

how is the klien mm1000? specs look good but how is the is it good quality?
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003LCL4D6/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Butters]

I think that's the one I recently bought or very similar. I've had no issues. Although it looks similar to a fluke, it certainly doesn't have the nice tactile feel of one. But it is a fraction of the cost. I dislike how it defaults to AC voltage rather than a separate dial setting. I mostly use DC voltage and always forget to change the setting from AC to DC. Again, it's fine but I actually find myself using my cheaper Craftsman more often. For my uses, I'd still take it over spending another $100 for a Fluke. Nothing against them as I use one at work. But for my money, the extra $100 buys more tools or beer or gas . . .

 

[Roots]

Do Not buy the milwaukee tool brand Meter, My work provides meters for us and we just replaced all our fluke's ( Which i took the fluke home ) with Milwaukee brand ones. Which they **** there a delay in them and I dont feel like im getting a accurate reading.

I'm a bit shocked that your work switched from Fluke to Milwaukee. Thats a pretty drastic change I would think, especially if the Fluke's were already bought and paid for. Of course, for some outfits new meters are cheaper than calibrating old meters.