What Multi Tester to buy?

[srl-8]

Hi guys,

It has become apparant that I require a multi function tester if I am to fill out the 'shedule of results' paperwork for future clients. ( I am learning at the moment/domestic installer)

I am being taught on the Megger 1552 and I have got used to this in the last week, however I have been informed about other makes and models...

My question is... Do i 100% have to have a Multi Function Tester? The one I am currently training on is approx £500 which is a lot of money! Are there alternatives out their??

Any advice welcome..

Thanks

 

[GLENNSPARK]

If its a cheap way into testing then i would recommend robin 1620 or robin seperates (all widely available on ebay) in fact, someones selling metrel testers callibrated for £100 each on there right now and that will do what you want.

 

[srl-8]

Will this robin be able to give me all the readings i require?? Such as R1+r2, inslation res, Ze , Zs , PFC , RCD etc....

??

 

[GLENNSPARK]

Yep but when doing a Zs it`l throw the rcd so you will either have to wire it out or do an R1 R2 and add that to your Ze and that will give you your Zs. If i were you i would throw a hundred quid at it and go for the metrel on ebay as that will do a low current loop and i think that model will do a phase rotation n all plus i think they are 3 phase safe so you can get a phase to phase pscc with it n all.........

 

[Cyberprog]

It's worth going for a unit that does everything - it's slightly more money obviously, but you're only paying for a single unit to be calibrated each year rather than several units.

 

[Deleted member 26818]

One of the problems of buying second hand instruments, is calibration.
A new instrument would not require calibration for a year from first being put into service.
Whereas second hand instruments may or may not be calibrated.
Also if I remember correctly, getting separate instruments calibrated is more expensive than getting a single MFT instrument calibrated.
It is often argued that having separate instruments means that if one breaks, that can be away for repair, and you can still use the others.
In practicle terms that is not correct, as any I&T cannot be completed untill the instrument off for repair is returned.
I have a Metrel MI3000 which I'm quite happy with, the operation is not that disimilar to the Meggers, and I believe that they cost about £350 new, as oposed to the £500-£750 for Meggers and Flukes.
I would suggest checking out test-meter.co.uk, one of the forum sponsers, as they have a meter comparison application on their web site.

 

[GLENNSPARK]

I prefer all in ones myself cy. Cheaper on callibration plus its all there in one unit....no loads of different test leads etc....

 

[GLENNSPARK]

Mines a metrix...They were issued to the armed forces back in the 90s. Cant fault it really as it does loads of different tests etc. The only thing about it is it wont do a low current loop but for what i paid for it....i can live with that.......

 

[gmchris]

Just beware that the 99 quid metrels on ebay come without leads- and they do not have standard 4mm lead sockets but their own unique 4 pin square connection, so you would have to buy a replacement lead set (£43 + postage from Sercal's shop on ebay). you may be better off looking for a complete metrel from another buyer.

I dont want to hijack this thread but i need a MFT with continuous continuity and continuous earth loop(as opposed to having to press the test button with my 3rd hand that i haven't grown yet!) and non trip loop- but i dont wanna pay for a Fluke or Meggar badge (in the same way as i dont need a BMW instead of my Ford)

Any ideas anyone?

 

[Amp David]

This could be one to keep your eye on

Megger MFT1552 multifunction tester 17th edition | eBay

 

[Guest123]

Our forum sponsor test-meter, have some of the cheaper MFT's on their site. Forum members also get the 5% discount so it's a bit cheaper again. Worth a look.


Dilog 9083P 17th Edition Multifunction Tester

 

[DNS1]

I'm very much stuck with which tester to get too..

Megger are the obvious choice, but which one? MFT1710 or 1552?

The Metrel series are also tempting. Anyone recommend the MI3000 or MI3002?

 

[richy3333]

Sorry to hijack the thread but I have a Megger MFT 1552 for sale if anyone is interested. Just PM me

 

[Dale200bhp]

I have the new MT 1730 it is very good! Auto Rcd test is great. Very slow loop test though takes about 15-20 seconds, my old kewtech only took 2 seconds.

 

[jonnyspeed]

Any one know if I can get a 1730 on finance? Can't fork out all of it at once so looking for alternatives.
Cheers