The need for a digital multimeter is experienced by specialists in power and low-current networks and masters whose professional activities are related to electronics. But not only they need a measuring device. In some cases, it will help you to find the cause of the failure of the appliance yourself. Car enthusiasts, using the device, will be able to find out the cause of the malfunction in the electrical wiring of the machine. At the heart of the device is an analog-to-digital converter of double integration, in which the input signal is compared with the reference one, the polarity and the overload indication are determined automatically. Which multimeter to choose, so that it does not fail at the wrong time, was easy to use, but do not overpay for an unnecessary set of functions?
Contents:
- The multimeter of which firm to choose
- The best low-budget multimeters
- The best multi-level meters
- The best multimeters with advanced features
- The best professional multimeters
- Which multimeter to buy
The multimeter of which firm to choose
Most of the models on the market have high-quality stuffing. But the build quality is far from the strength of many measuring instruments. A large number of gaps in the body, loosely fitting parts affect the life of the device and the accuracy of its readings. The device of worthy quality which will serve not one year, it is possible to receive only from the manufacturer which has proved well on the market.
We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the list of the most popular brands of electronic multimeters in Russia, formed in order of decreasing interest in the trademark: 1. Mastech
2. Fluke
3. CEM
4. APPA
5. Resanta
6. Elitech
The best low-budget multimeters
Even budget digital multimeters have advantages over mechanical measuring instruments - they do not need to recalculate the readings, but immediately output the measurement result to the display. In addition, they have a greater sensitivity to minor changes in current, so they give more accurate readings. Budget measuring instruments do not have a wide range of functions. They are designed to determine the current parameters and help to diagnose the integrity of the connections.
Resanta DT 830B
The device can measure DC and AC voltage, current, resistance, test transistors and diodes. To change the modes, the instrument is equipped with a 20-position switch. The multimeter is completely protected against overloads. Can be used in the field, small workshops and at home. Powered by "Krone" type batteries 9V.
Users who have practical experience with the device, in the reviews were noted its advantages:
- Low price;
- Good measurement accuracy;
- Long service life( with lightly saturated loads and observance of usage rules);
- The offered set of functions and the quality of the multimeter are comparable with the price - the device justifies small expenses.
Disadvantages:
- No buzzer;
- The probability of battery discharge is high, since the device is not equipped with the auto power-off function;
- Weak location - a thin wire in the measuring probes. Replace or strengthen the test leads recommend more than half of the users.
Elitech MM 100
The set of functions and characteristics of the device are similar to the first model. The saturated red color of the device body makes it easy to find it in a toolbox. The advantage of the Elitech MM 100 multimeter is the presence of a buzzer for continuity of the circuits.
Users noted the advantages of the device:
- Good value for money, quality and functionality;
- Reliability;
- Battery included.
Disadvantages:
- Weak audio signal;
- Poor quality of the wires.
The best multimeters of the basic level
Functionality of devices is similar to low-budget models. Devices are distinguished by a higher quality of assembly, additional elements are included in the design for optimizing the work: illumination, the possibility of saving the last readings. Manufacturers have provided protection devices from accidental damage during operation and storage, providing them with a protective case or double casing. To take readings using this device is much more comfortable and safer.
CEM DT-912
The multimeter features ergonomics, it fits easily on the palm of your hand, and thanks to the rubberized case it is securely held in your hand. A small stand on the back of the case allows you to conveniently place the device on a horizontal surface. A large backlit display makes reading easier. Turning the backlight on and off is done by a fixed button. With the Hold button, the instrument records the last reading.
Users note in their reviews the advantages of the multimeter:
- Reliability;
- Conformity of actual errors in operation with those specified in the technical documentation;
- Rubberized body protects the device well against impacts during a fall;
- Convenient control knob.
Disadvantages:
- Probe leads of insufficient thickness.
Mastech MAS838
The instrument carries out 3 measurements per second. Has Hold function for fixing the last recorded reading. In addition, the function for measuring temperature is included. The kit includes a rubber cover with a folding stand for convenient placement of the device on the work surface.
The owners of the Mastech MAS838 multimeter in their reviews noted its advantages:
- Convenient control;
- Maximum of functions for its class at an affordable price;
- High measurement accuracy;
- Display with large digits;
- Soft feelers;
- Long service life.
Disadvantages:
- There is no backlight.
Best Multimeters with Advanced Features
Mastech MS8260E
The device is equipped with a module that allows you to check the bi-polar transistors, is able to test the diodes and check the electrical circuit for integrity. Manufacturers have expanded the functionality of the device - it is able to measure the inductance of coils and chokes. Modes are switched by a 30-step switch. The backlighting of the display makes it easier to read in low light conditions. If necessary, you can lock the last reading by pressing the Hold key.
Users with practical experience with multimeter Mastech MS8260E, noted its advantages:
- Multifunctionality;
- High limits of most measurements;
- Conveniently placed fuse;
- The device is protected against improper connection;
- Comes with a soft rubber cover with stand for convenient positioning of the device on the surface;
- Good quality test leads;
- Convenient access to the battery compartment - you can not remove the cover, just raise the stand.
Disadvantages:
- After the battery charge has dropped and the corresponding symbol appears on the screen, the instrument reading is not true.
CEM DT-61
A multifunctional instrument that combines basic functions with the ability to assess the characteristics of the environment. Advanced features of the device: measurement of temperature, humidity, noise level, light level. The multimeter conducts a non-contact search for static voltage( range: 50-1000 V).
In their reviews, users who purchased the multimeter CEM DT-61 and has practical experience with the device, noted its advantages:
- Reliable double housing;
- Multifunctionality, which eliminates the need to purchase several devices that perform various functions;
- The device has an auto-off function;
- Good quality wires.
Disadvantages:
- High price.
The best professional multimeters
Professional level measuring instruments have a high-quality shock-proof casing, which protects the device from damage. The screen features a great deal of informativity, and the wires of high quality probes - do not break and are convenient in work. Devices have a large measuring range and a high speed of reading. The error in the readings of professional devices is low( up to 0.025%).As a rule, multimeters of this group are included in the state register of measuring instruments.
Fluke 17B
The product of the American manufacturer is distinguished by its high quality and reliability. The digital display has a capacity of 4,000 and is updated 3 times per second. It is possible to select the measuring range in manual or automatic mode. The function "sleep mode" is turned on in the device. In the protective case there is a hole for hanging.
Users in their reviews noted the advantages of the device:
- Ease of perception of information displayed on a large display;
- Stepless rotation of the operating mode regulator. The end of the regime has a clear boundary;
- Comfortable soft test leads with protective caps included;
- User-friendly thermocouple;
- High-voltage indicator light, indicating possible danger;
- Probes are conveniently fixed on the back of the case;
- Powered by finger batteries.
Disadvantages:
- High price.
APPA 107N
Device from Taiwanese developers with a high level of performance. Protection class IP 64 allows to use the device in extreme conditions - it is not afraid of dust, moisture, or falls from a small height. The device inserts into memory 1600 measurements, carried out in the last turn, and is able to interact with computer technology via the interface. The current readings are displayed on a 42-segment linear scale, and not only in the usual way with numbers and symbols. The device is included in the State Register of the SI.
The advantages of the device, marked by users:
- High degree of protection of the case;
- Signaling of incorrect connection of test leads;
- Convenient backlight with auto shut-off;
- Minor degree of measurement error.
Disadvantages:
- Poor quality of PC software;
- Powered by a battery type "Crohn";
- High price.
Which multimeter to buy
The main criteria for choosing a measuring device are the tasks that are supposed to be performed with it, and the price group.
1. For use in domestic conditions and taking single readings it is possible to purchase small-budget devices of the brands Resant or Elitech. The functionality of the Resant DT 830B and Elitech MM 100 multimeter is enough to measure the battery charge, remove the voltage parameters in the network and determine the integrity of the wiring.
2. Specialists who use a multimeter in their professional activities can purchase models with basic functions that are sufficient to take the required indications: CEM DT-912 and Mastech MAS838.The same devices will be convenient for car enthusiasts to test the car wiring - the instrument cases have additional protection, and the quality of the wires allows their use in an unheated garage.
3. Devices with advanced functions can be purchased by specialists who need a wide range of data to carry out their professional activities. If additional features are not supposed to be used in practice, there is no sense in overpaying for the device.
4. Professional models are needed when servicing electrical installations where high accuracy is important. Specialists of repair shops and laboratories, diagnosing electronic devices and servicing industrial equipment, use professional level instruments. They should pay attention to the Fluke 17B and APPA 107N models.