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Registered Member #1408
Joined: Fri Mar 21 2008, 03:49PM
Location: Oracle, AZ
Posts: 679
I have a ceiling limit (money) on purchase of testing equipment. I generally buy Fluke IF I can afford it but the money I'm receiving is from mileage and different sources so I have a real limit. My last multi-meter died due to impact & was very disappointed. I was looking for suggestions on MID-PRICED equipment (other than high end, high cost) on the following items: * Clamp amperage meter * Capacitive meter * VERY rugged multi-meter (last Fluke died from impact of small item dropping ON IT!) Basically if you had a limited budget what models/brands have people had direct experience with that stood the test of time. I need suggestions on not only performance but ruggedness. I have had mixed experiences w/ Fluke & I have basically turned to that brand but now because of the economy I simply don't have the money to buy high-end meters. I would welcome direct experience w/ mid-cost units. I am presently "making due" w/ cheap junk and am tired of doing so: I'm ready to spend between $100-$150 on each as it looks like that's all I could get together. If you have really been pleasantly surprised by a product's performance I am very interested in specifics.
Registered Member #2390
Joined: Sat Sept 26 2009, 02:04PM
Location: Milwaukee Wisconsin
Posts: 381
Even a used ebay fluke is better than most cheapo's. Watch some of the arc flash videos on youtube once! I am a professional electrician and i use a fluke 179 that i got on ebay for 100 bucks. Keep looking and you will find one! I am not sure if you know this, most fluke meters will not fry if you use the wrong setting while trying to take a measurement. For example, you can safely check continuity on a 120vac circuit. (You would only be doing so by accident of course ;) My advice is hold out for a good one!
Registered Member #1403
Joined: Tue Mar 18 2008, 06:05PM
Location: Denmark, Odense C
Posts: 1968
The following applies only to meters that measure on unpowered circuits.
Forget all the brand names when it comes down to a hobby, you do not need the guarantee from a brand name meter fabrication in order to build your circuits.
I have the cheapest LCR meter you can find on ebay, those blue/yellow ones from Hong-kong with free shipping. It measures up exactly as my Elma or Fluke DVM.
Spare your money for something real good as a Pearson current monitor.
Registered Member #1408
Joined: Fri Mar 21 2008, 03:49PM
Location: Oracle, AZ
Posts: 679
Now here we go! I knew you all had some favorite equipment whose performance level was on par with the big brand names. These are the type of things I was looking for: tried and true equipment that often goes unnoticed.
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Test Equipment Suggestions
