Megger 1552 vs Fluke 1652 vs Metrel 3100

[Rauer]

The new fluke is faster at doing zs's than the megger we have both at work but the megger automatically presses test for you , but u also get a lead with both ( a line lead) which has a test button on it- the megger one also has a torch button on the probe!

 

[DNS1]

I'm in the same position and trying to choose my first test kit (god, that sounds like a Fisher Price toy!).

Decided to go for the Metrel 3000. It's got all the features I need, without too many additional things to confuse me.

Made the decision after a chat with a guy at Test Meters, Electrical Testing Equipment & Measurement Instruments. Very helpful and worth the phonecall, they didn't try to push me into buying a more expensive bit of kit, just made suggestions.

I've decided not to get the Metrel 3100 as it's more expensive and I've been told the tip-commander probe is a bit bulky at times.

Additionally, the 3100 gives a clear pass/fail readout for some tests, whereas the 3000 just gives the value measured. As a newbie, it's probably best that I get used to checking the readings against regs and make my own mind up, rather than relying on the machine.

 

[tigerpaul]

Megger wins hands down for me.

2 leads for Loop test and you dont have to press a button.
continuity test - no button again
3 phase fault current testing

The Fluke is okay but it is easy to have it on the wrong setting ( i'm thinking about Pscc and Pefc tests)
The Flukes buttons are not as solid and the screen is cluttered.

One thought, why do you need RCD auto test? My megger is the 1502 and it doesnt have auto test, but I've never needed it. I just test at the RCD.

 

[Deleted member 26818]

With the auto test, you can plug the unit into the first socket, press test then stand by the CU, and just flick the RCD back on untill it stops tripping.
Then go back to the machine, and all the results are there on the screen.

 

[telectrix]

and that is standard on the 1552. works a treat, just as spin describes.

 

[brman]

Tigerpaul: I think those are the things that draw me to the megger. The autotest does appeal as it makes it easy and I keep on hearing it means less walking back and forwards but I have to admit I can't see why I shouldn't just stay at the CCU as you say. On the other hand the simplicity of just plugging into a socket does appeal given the hassle I found with the croc clips and trying to get a reliable connection.
I guess with the megger I still have the choice of the 1502 without and the 1552 with autotest.

DNS1: if I do go for new then talking to test-meter.co.uk first does sound like a good plan.

Thanks for all the comments guys, it is making it clearer in my head even if I haven't made the decision yet.

Toby

 

[DNS1]

In time I'll probably get a Megger myself, but for starting out I'm going with the Metrel. I can't afford the Megger right now and besides, when it comes to upgrade time, there will undoubtedly be newer Meggers out with even more features and newer technology.

Let us know what you end up with.

 

[Dcf]

I got a metrel3120 last year and find it good for the money.

 

[brman]

dcf: I assume the 3120 is one up from the 3100? Has it got download or something?

DNS1: I'll certainly report back. At the moment I am tempted by the fluke my mate is selling just because it is easy to go and check it out. if that doesn't work out I'll probably look out for a decent condition megger 1552 2nd hand, failing that the metrel new is a safe option.

Toby

 

[electricalchief]

there is no any metrel 3120.I think you have to say a metrel 3102...

 

[Dcf]

Oops my mistake make that a3125 combo lite.as I say good for the money.ramp tests at 0 and 180 degrees.auto tests rcd as well

 

[MarkieSparkie]

In time I'll probably get a Megger myself, but for starting out I'm going with the Metrel. I can't afford the Megger right now and besides, when it comes to upgrade time, there will undoubtedly be newer Meggers out with even more features and newer technology.

Let us know what you end up with.

Not necessarily better Meggers, currently the proven and reliable old MFT15xx series a better choice than the new all singing, all dancing, half-baked MFT17xx series.

 

[MarkieSparkie]

spinlondon. I tried that but you are right, most of them do what I need. It did show up another cheap option the Idea Suretest but I struggle to find any comments from anyone who has owned one.

Toby

You need to go on an American site to get any reliable feedback from Ideal Suretest owners as they have had it available for a lot longer than we have in the UK.