Multimeter

OhmElectrical · Dec 19, 2014

Gents starting a new job after Xmas and need to buy myself a multi meter.

I will be doing routine maintenance in production line type stuff.

Anyone recommend a good make a model of multimeter in the past u have used what companies had but think I need bring my own to new job.

Thanks

driverman · Dec 19, 2014

there is a section on here that sells second hand items like testers etc. Also forum sponsor here for new testers.

Robotstar5 · Dec 19, 2014

I find the Fluke range pretty good for industrial use, currently use a 175.

UNG · Dec 19, 2014

Used Fluke's for many years I have a Fluke 27 that's about 30 years old and still in use and a few years ago I bought a Fluke 289 and the Flukeview software and lead which is a good tool for those obscure faults, so my recommendation would be buy a Fluke

driverman · Dec 19, 2014

Would having separates be better for maintenance work?

Farmelectrics · Dec 19, 2014

fluke are the better ones di log are good and alot cheaper

DPG · Dec 19, 2014

driverman said:
Would having separates be better for maintenance work?

He's asking about a multi-meter, not an MFT. Daz

BlueToBits · Dec 19, 2014

Have you considered getting a cheap (£10) one first, just to get going, then get better one after finding out what 'special' functions are going to be most useful?
Congratulations and good luck in the new Job.

Marvo · Dec 19, 2014

The one I carry in my toolcase and use for almost every job I do is a dual display clamp meter which is basically a multimeter with AC/DC volts, ohms etc plus obviously an RMS ammeter. It's compact and it's particularly useful to be able to see current and voltage simultaneously when checking general circuits and motors/pumps/compressors etc.

If you're looking for something budget try Uni-t or Di log or Metrel.

Jamzie · Dec 19, 2014

Agreed, can't go wrong with a Fluke. Got 2 179's. Just consider some sites stipulate fused test-leads to comply with GS38, and the need for proving units when testing for dead.

Jamzie · Dec 19, 2014

Unless your self-employed, it should be the employers responsibility to purchase such items. They then have traceable records of inspection and calibration etc....

UKMeterman · Dec 19, 2014

Hi,
I would suggest avoiding the £10 ones, the big issue is what happens when you make a mistake and plug in the ammeter shunt and go phase-phase or phase N on an industrial 400V 3 phase supply. An expensive DVM will have decent fuses, the worst will be a small flash, loud pop and brown trousers. Cheap DVMs often have glass fuses and other issues, and in the above incident could explode....
What industry are you in?

OhmElectrical · Dec 19, 2014

Jamzie said:
Unless your self-employed, it should be the employers responsibility to purchase such items. They then have traceable records of inspection and calibration etc....

Yeah might be some on site yet but won't know til I start.
Just preparing myself in case need get one sharpish and no time to research

DPG · Dec 19, 2014

Agree with Meterman - don't buy a £10 cheapy. Build quality and safety is atrocious. can't go wrong with Fluke, although may be worth buying a second hand one as thery do tend to be a bit on the expensive side. Daz

shanky887614 · Dec 19, 2014

Robotstar5 said:
I find the Fluke range pretty good for industrial use, currently use a 175.

i got a 179 cheap on ebay for £112 inc vat+ delivery on ebay

you can get cheaper and a 175 etc would probably be fine.

i really like it but i only got it because it was cheap on the auction.

before you decide which fluke to go for have a think.

you want usa made because if you buy them new they have a lifetimd guarantee (10 years on lcd)

this alone will pay for itself