Are you come here to buy the Best Electronics Multimeter in 2018 right? This is the most updated guideline to buy a top Electronics Multimeter. Read this guide and get it. As soon as you want to measure electrical quantities the multimeter is an indispensable tool, but what is a multimeter?
As its name suggests, a multimeter is a device capable of measuring different electrical quantities.
Its primary function is to protect you against the risk of electrification or worse electrocution because it ensures that we will work in the absence of voltage. Voltage is expressed in V (volts). All multimeters have this function, it is the voltmeter mode. This function also allows detecting faults, failures, or anomalies on an electric circuit.
Any multimeter also has a mode to test electrical continuity, it is the ohmmeter mode. It measures the resistance expressed in Ω (ohms) between two points. Often, it is linked to a small beeper that rings when the resistance is zero or very weak and so there is continuity. Many best budget multimeters offer many additional functions such as measuring current, impedance (winding resistance), capacitance (capacitor load) and even power (coupling a voltmeter and a clamp meter).
Even if all multimeters are similar, pay close attention to different measurement modes because they will greatly affect the possibilities of your device and its price.
Types of Multimeter
There are two types of multimeter:
Digital Multimeter
Built around a digital voltmeter and includes at least one current-voltage converter to operate it in ammeter and a constant current generator to operate in ohmmeter.
Analog Multimeter
Built around an ammeter generally of magnetoelectric type and includes a voltage-current converter. The major advantage is not to require a battery for voltage and current measurements. Moreover, at an equivalent price, their bandwidth is much wider, thus allowing AC measurements over several hundred kilohertz where a standard digital model is confined to a few hundred hertz. It is for this reason that they are still widely used in testing on Hi-Fi equipment.
Functions of a Multimeter
- Continuity test with pager, familiarly called bipmeter;
- Amplification for measuring very low voltages and high resistances;
- Measuring the capacitance of a capacitor or a capacitive circuit;
- Measuring the inductance of a coil or inductive circuit (self);
- Temperature measurement, with the help of an external probe;
- Discrete semiconductor tests: diodes, gain of transistors (hfe);
- Frequency measurement of electrical signals;
- Measurement of peaks (high and low) of peak hold.
Our Top Multimeter
In case you are looking for the best multimeter for electronics hobbyist, there is certain criterion that you will need to pay close attention to. In addition, you will also need to decide the nature of the measurement device in question to be certain to have in your hands the measuring tool adapted to your needs. Thus, if you follow the following tips, it will be easy to find this product at the best value for money.
The extent of measurement of the device you are interested in is the first point to check because it will depend on the effectiveness of the craft. If you have small needs, then you will not need to buy a device with wide measurements. On the other hand, if you are a professional then, the best is to immediately choose a device of big caliber.
The accuracy of the device is also very important because it is to know certain measures that one acquires this kind of device. So for your sake, expect a precision of at least 0.5% and whether you are a simple handyman or a professional. Of course, there are very specific devices, but quite expensive.
Protection is essential, especially when it comes to electricity. Also, try to choose a specimen with a safety fuse to protect you first and then protect yourself. Moreover, opt for a device that meets European or French safety standards at the limit would be a good idea.
Above all, take your time to check the criteria recently revealed so as not to regret your future purchases. In addition, despite the fact that these criteria are reliable, remember that the right choice in this area also depends largely on your personal taste that should not be neglected.
Etekcity MSR-C600 Digital Multimeter Clamp Meter (Voltage DMM Tester AC / DC Voltmeter)
Take a quick look at the important information of this product to understand why it is the best multimeter for electronics technician in 2018. Let’s start with the technical information.
- Auto ranging clamp meter with AC current, AC voltage, resistance, diode and continuity test
- Jaw opening measures current AC in a conductor up to 26mm without interrupting the circuit
- Features Data Hold, Max Play and an easy to read big LCD SCREEN
- Comes with convenient carrying pocket-Perfect for use while on the go
- Automatically goes into sleep mode after 15 minutes of inactivity for energy conservation
Specifications
Safety / Compliance: IEC61010 CAT. II 600 V, CAT. III 300 V plus voltage and double insulation
Included In the Box
- 1 x Digital Multimeter Clamp
- 2 x Test Leads (one pair)
- 1 x Transport Bag
- 1 x User Manual
Design
Its red protective cover protects it from small shocks (without going to throw it from the roof of a building either!), its crutch makes it possible to leave your hands free.
Etekcity MSR-C600 Digital Multimeter Clamp Meter is small, which allows you to take it everywhere, so it’s easier to grip and it is discreet.
Main Functions
The Etekcity MSR-C600 Digital Multimeter Clamp Meter is an outfit for technicians, experienced or casual handymen, students or the teacher in short all those who might need this type of product.
It is easy to use thanks to its rotating wheel and has features to measure the intensity of the current, the voltage, the perimeter of testing diodes and resistors, transistors and PCB continuity.
Utilization
- It includes a battery charge indicator, data hold function, overload protection function and continuity alarm.
- It can be used to diagnicate faults on electronic and electrical devices.
- The shockproof casing will allow you to carry it everywhere for more complete, practical, secure and reassuring use.
- It comes with a user manual.
The Etekcity portable digital multimeter allows you to take the most diverse measurements with a small margin of error, which makes it an efficient product that you will use according to your different needs.
- Allow to easily read the measurements thanks to its digital screen.
- It is more resistant and equipped with a system that allows it to withstand shocks
- They often cost too much
- The user will have to learn to read the measurements on the needle dial before being able to use it
Other Top Rated Best Electronics Multimeter Reviews 2018
It is always said, and rightly so, that it is not easy to choose a measurement tool. However, thanks to our advice, you will be able to find the best multimeter for electronics repair and other purposes, that will be able to satisfy all your needs. In addition to a well-supplied shopping guide, we intend to deliver a well-updated comparison so that you can find the best multimeter as an electronics technician that suits your requirements best in 2018!
Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter Reviews
With its built-in contactless voltage sensing and the AutoV / LoZ feature to prevent erroneous measurements caused by phantom voltage, the Fluke 117 Electrician’s Meter is the ideal. In fact, users around the world have said that their 117 is an investment in accuracy. The Fluke 117 provides Min / Max / Average readings and frequency and capacity measurements. Its ease of use allows you to save time and move easily from one task to another. Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter is designed and tested for your safety at your workplace. It is safely tested in CAT III 600 V environments. This is one of the best fluke multimeters for electronics technician, for the following reasons:
- The large, white LED backlit display allows you to work in poorly lit areas.
- VoltAlertTM technology, with contactless voltage sensing, allows you to make fact-based go / no-go decisions.
- Auto Volt and Low Input Impedance modes allow faster and more accurate measurements.
Main Functions
- VoltAlert ™ technology for non-contact voltage sensing
- Automatic AutoVolt AC / DC voltage selection
- Low input impedance: avoids erroneous measurements caused by ghost voltage
- Large white LED backlight for working in poorly lit areas
- TRMS measurements for accurate measurements on nonlinear loads
- 10 A measurement (20 A overloads for 30 seconds)
- Resistance, continuity, frequency and capacitance
- Min / Max / Avg features with elapsed time to record signal fluctuations
- Ergonomic design for one-handed operation
- Compatible with the optional magnet suspension system (ToolPak ™) for hands-free operation
- Certified CAT III 600 V
- You will find it at cheaper prices, because of the lower cost of the electronic components needed to manufacture it.
- Allow more useful additional measurements to be made.
- A digital multimeter cannot operate without a battery.
Digital Clamp Meter AC/DC Auto-Ranging 600 Amp Measures Voltage
Main Functions
- Automatically Going True means technology (CRT) squared for increased accuracy
- AC / DC voltage test leads, resistance, continuity, frequency and diodes capacitance and tests
- Temperature measurements of the thermocouple probe
- Low impedance mode (LoZ) for identification and elimination of ghosts or parasitic voltages
- CAT IV 600v, CAT III 1000V, Class 2, Double Insulation Safety Rating
- Built to withstand a 6.6 ‘drop (2M)
- Low battery indicator and an easily accessible compartment
- Operating Temperature: 32 ° F to 104 ° F (0 ° C to 40 ° C)
- Altitude at 6,562 of operation » (2,000 M)
- Includes carrying pouch, test leads, thermocouple with adapter and batteries
- Meets requirements for use in basic and controlled electromagnetic environments such as residence, office and light industry locations
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Specifications:
- Application: AC Current Measurements
- Batteries: 2 x AAA
- Dimensions: 9.09 “x 3.82” x 1.54 “
- Fall Protection: 6.6 ‘(2M)
- Height: 9.09 “(231 mm)
- Accessories included: Test leads, batteries, case, Thermocouple Ingress
- Protection: IP40
- Security clearance: CAT IV 600 v
- Special Features: Low Battery Indicator
- Weight: 12.5 oz (354 grams)
- Width: 3.82 “(97 mm)
- Control the resistance of a coil, the charge of a capacitor, the coupling of a clamp ammeter or volt metric.
- Several additional functions are added to it in order to make the task less complicated for its users.
- Unlike other types of measurement equipment, you can watch how a signal changes over time or in response to stimuli.
- In case of unloading of the latter, the multimeter could give false information.
- Cost many times more than other types of electronic measuring instruments, such as multimeters.
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Extech EX330 Mini Multimeter with NCV and Type K Temperature
The Extech EX330 Mini Multimeter offers AC / DC voltage, AC / DC, resistance, diode, continuity, non-contact voltage sensing, capacitance, frequency, readiness, and temperature functions.
Main Functions
- Standard measuring ranges V, A, Ω, diode, continuity
- Temperature measurement using a K-type probe
- Measurement of capacity, frequency, duty cycle and relative value, Hold function
- DMM authorization with 12 functions and 0.5% basic accuracy
- AC / DC voltage and current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, temperature, operating cycle, diode / continuity
- Non-contact AC voltage detector (NCV) with red LED indicator and beep
- 4 digit 4 digit LCD display
- 10A max Current
Included In the Box
- Extech EX330
- Measuring leads
- Thermocouple type K
- Two AAA batteries
- Accurate frequency measurements on VSD
- Built-in thermometer
- You have to learn how to manipulate the controls to get the best, highest signal of circuit fidelity, which can be a lot of practice.
Fluke 87-V Digital Multimeter Reviews
The Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is designed to help quickly identify complex signal problems. The 4.5-digit digital multimeter offers true RMS readings that give accurate, uncomplicated results. The 87V portable digital multimeter provides accuracy and resolution for troubleshooting in motor drives, factory automation, power distribution and electromechanical equipment in noisy, industrial and high-energy environments as well as in high altitude locations. The Fluke 87V digital multimeter also features a larger display with a brilliant two-level backlight for viewing analog bar graphs and measurements in a dark work environment.
Note : For calibrated items: accuracy is specified for 1 year after calibration, at operating temperatures of 18 to 28 ° C, with relative humidity of 0 to 90%.
Main Functions
- Unique function for accurate measurement of frequency and voltage on variable speed drives and other electronic noise equipment
- Built-in thermometer for easy temperature readings without additional instrument
- Magnet strap (optional) to use the device with maximum comfort and keep your hands free for other tasks
- Large digit display, with two-level illuminated backlight for easier reading on 87V than previous models.
- TRMS measurements of current and AC voltage allowing precise measurements of nonlinear signals.
- Selectable Filter for Accurate Voltage and Frequency Measurements on Variable Speed Drives
- 0.05% accuracy DC
- 6,000 points, 3-3 / 4 digits
- 4-1 / 2-digit mode for accurate measurements (20,000 points)
- Measure up to 1000 V AC and DC
- Measure up to 10 A (20 A for 30 seconds)
- Integrated thermometer, eliminating the need for an additional tool (TC probe included)
- Frequency up to 200 kHz and duty cycle in%
- Measurement of resistance, continuity and diodes
- 10,000 μF capacity range for motor components and capacitors
- Min./Max./Max. Record with min./max. to make automatic captures of variations
- Peak capture for recording transients up to 250 μs
- Relative measurement mode for subtracting interference from test leads from low resistance measurements.
- Automatic or manual range selection for maximum flexibility
- Touch Hold mode for stable measurements without “noisy” signals
- Large digit display and bright white two-level backlight for superior visibility
- Analog bar for unstable or high-fluctuation signals
- Input alarm as an audible warning if inputs are incorrectly used
- Optimized standby mode selectable to increase battery life
- Access door for quick battery replacement without breaking the calibration seal
- “Classic” design with new removable case, built-in test lead and probe compartment
- Fluke Extended One Year Warranty
- Electrical safety
- Accurate measurements of noisy pulse width modulated AC voltage at VSD and motor terminals
- Min Max Peak Mode captures intervals at a speed of 250 μs
- Easy-to-read large-scale display with brilliant two-level backlight
- CAT III 1000 V, CAT IV 600 V Safety
- Compatible with Fluke Toolpak ™ Magnetic Hook and Strap Kit
- Lifetime warranty
- Auto power off if the device is not powered up to conserve battery life
- It’s very sophisticated, and tends to be expensive to repair if damaged.
Fluke 88 V / A Automotive KIT Multimeter Combo Kit
From the control room to the factory, the Fluke family of digital multimeters of the 80 series has earned its reputation as a reliable digital multimeter among industrial technicians.
When productivity is at stake, the Fluke 80 Series delivers the precision and advanced diagnostic features you need to solve problems quickly.
Use its low pass filtering function to accurately measure voltage and frequency on electrically noisy equipment, such as variable speed motor drivers. Use the peak capture function to detect intermittent problems and transient voltages up to 250 microseconds.
And work with confidence. The input alert function sounds an audible warning if the input jacks are misused. The Fluke 80 Series Multimeters are independently tested for use in 1000V CAT IV 600V / CAT III environments.
They can withstand pulses greater than 8000V and reduce the risks associated with power surges at the peaks of tension.
Modern cars are shipping more and more electrical systems. This number will continue to increase with the arrival of hybrid vehicles.
So, the most important tool that you will use for the diagnosis will probably be the multimeter.
The Fluke 88 V has enhanced measurement capabilities, diagnostic capabilities, and accuracy to solve more conventional problems with conventional and new hybrid vehicles.
- 6,000 points, 3-3 / 4 digits
- Measure up to 1000 V AC and DC
- Measure up to 10 A (20 A for 30 seconds)
- Frequency up to 200 kHz and duty cycle in%
- Resistance, continuity and diode measurements
- 10,000 μF capacity range
- Min./Max./Max. Record with min./max. to make automatic captures of variations
- Peak capture for recording up to 250 μs
- Relative measurement mode for subtracting interference from test leads from low resistance measurements.
- Automatic and manual range selection for optimal flexibility
- Touch Hold mode for stable measurements without “noisy” signals
- Large display and bright white two-level backlight for superior visibility
- Analog bar for unstable or high-fluctuation signals
- Input alarm as an audible warning if inputs are incorrectly used
- New selectable standby mode for longer battery life
- Access door for quick battery replacement without breaking the calibration seal
- “Classic” design with new removable case, built-in test lead and probe compartment
Included In the Box
- TL75 test leads
- Crocodile clips AC175
- Protective case
- 9V battery (installed)
- Real time analysis.
- This tool is important for the diagnostic work, not just for determining the tension or resistance.
- Precision control
- Cost and ease of use
- It protects you from risks of electrocution especially.
- It allows you to have the assurance of working in the absence of electrical voltage.
- May be too sensitive to interference from nearby circuits.
How to Choose a Best Multimeter for an Electrician 2018
Whether you are a simple handyman or a professional electrician, you will not have the same needs in terms of measurement, display and accuracy of your multimeter. Let’s get together an overview of the most useful modes according to your needs.
1. Occasional Use and Small Crafts
From a simple change of bulb to the connection of an electrical outlet, or to the test of batteries/batteries to the detection of a simple failure on an electrical panel for example. In all these cases, a basic multimeter is more than enough. The voltmeter and ohmmeter functions will allow you to carry out your work while ensuring the presence or absence of electrical voltage. Opt for a device with a wide voltage measurement range (200 mV to 200V continuous and 0 to 600V AC), this will suit all situations. The ohmmeter function will cover resistances ranging from 0 (continuity test) to 2 MΩ. Orient your choice to a device offering a limited choice of calibres (analog or digital) to limit errors and simplify its use.
2. Frequent Use
You work regularly on electrical networks or installations, wire boards or switchgear, or even detect and look for simple faults. In all these cases, you will need a multimeter a little more powerful, reliable and with additional modes. In addition to conventional ohmmeters and voltmeters, go to a device that also measures currents, expressed in “A” (amperes). For simplicity a multimeter type “fork” or “clamp” ammeter is a good choice because it will allow you to make your measurement without dismantling the electrical son or anything on the installation. The basic templates (10A continuous, 200A AC) will cover all your needs. A digital multimeter will make your readings and measurements easier.
3. The Effective Value
The multimeter can be:
RMS (Root Mean Square = mean square or mean value of a nonlinear value), ideal for continuous currents;
Or TRMS (True RMS = true average value) for AC currents.
4. Protection
This is the type of input protection for measurements via cords (usually one or more fuses). Some higher-performance models also have polarity protection and / or anti-overload protection.
5. The Standard Is the Category
On the standard side, all multimeters must meet the IEC 601010 standard. This standard lists 4 device categories corresponding to the ranges of use and ratings:
- Category III reserves for domestic use;
- Category IV for more intensive or professional use
- Category I: more specific, category I multimeters only concern electronics;
- Category II: Category II multimeters will only allow you to work on receivers and not on power circuits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s )
Question 1: What is the purpose of a multimeter?
Answer: Electrical devices operate with different voltages: 12 V, 24 V, 220 V, 380 V. Your multimeter, in voltmeter mode, will check the voltage of the electrical outlet before connecting your device. More generally, the voltmeter is used to measure the electrical current flowing in the circuit. In ammeter mode, you can check the electrical intensity of a device. This makes it possible to calibrate the circuit breakers of the electrical panel so that they are able to absorb all the intensity of the devices that are connected to it. In ohmmeter mode, your multimeter is used to measure the resistance of a circuit or component. This mode makes it possible to verify that there is no short circuit or that a device does not have an electrical leak to ground. The continuity test is done with a beep that indicates the flow of current.
Question 2: Voltmeter or multimeter – which is more useful?
Answer: An electrician usually uses a multimeter. More practical, this device includes several other devices, including the voltmeter. It measures as follows:
- Electrical intensity: ammeter function;
- Electrical voltages: replace the voltmeter.
- Ohmic conductor resistance as an ohmmeter.
Question 3: Where to get one?
Answer: If you are more connoisseurs, you can search the Net to find your happiness. Otherwise, go to a hardware store where a vendor can tell you which model is best for you. He can explain how to use it, and give you all the information you need. To use your multimeter, you will be able to consult the tutorials on the Internet, either on Youtube or on the site of the DIY store.
Time to Choose
Here you are now to make your choice. But, there are criteria that you must take into account. The question no longer concerns the model or the mode of use; it focuses on the quality of the measuring device. Indeed, you must consider the reliability of the display. Your main criterion will be precision. And, you ask if the value indicated by the display is the true value. So, we must reason on the difference between the indicated value and the real value. In general, you think that using a high-value tester gives you accuracy. In contrast, when your meter has a low value, it gives you more precision. So, prefer the ohmmeter offering basic calibers.
Then the second question arises about the resolution of the measuring device. Then, the multimeter or the ohmmeter shows the smallest variation of the measured quantity. This variation is provided by the place of the decimal point and the digit with the smallest precise meaning. A low resolution thus indicates a correct value. To infer, in your choice, you will take into account the ability of the device as to accuracy and resolution.
Final Words
Electricity is dangerous, it stings, it burns and it kills! Just because you are going to acquire a powerful measuring device does not mean that you will be safe from an accident.
Be sure to use it in the right conditions and always check that you are in the right mode. Pay special attention to your test leads, the plugs must always be clean and dry, and the wires must not be stripped or nicked. We do not become an electrician because we have the electrician’s tool!
The current market has several models of multimeter be it analog or digital. Nevertheless the digital is taking the place on its competitor thanks to its performances. You now have all the information you need to make the right choice for this particular device.
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