Multimeters!

[Crocodile Tears]

So for work I need a different multimeter. I have a Fluke 365 that was provided for me. However, it does not have enough resolution to be useful - some of our older equipment using DC drives needs tuning down to the mVDC (at least hundreths VDC) while the 365 only goes down to tenths. Its a great meter otherwise, and the detachable clamp makes it great for compact panels.

Anyone have any suggestions for a different meter? I used Fluke 177s at my last job, and it would be fine in this application but then A) I would need to carry another clamp meter probably and B) damn they are spendy. Anyone have experience with other equipment? Initially I was provided some form of Extech meter and the thing would constantly read 6-10 volts higher than any other meter so I ditched it ASAP. I dont recall model though.

[seuadr]

i have used a UEI DL-289. I've used it only in the automotive and HVAC fields, but i've used it to check Mili amps and Mili Volts (AC) with no problems. it auto ranges nicely, just have to give it a second. I've never actually tried Mili Volts (DC).

[HillbillyNinja]

Originally Posted by Crocodile Tears

So for work I need a different multimeter. I have a Fluke 365 that was provided for me. However, it does not have enough resolution to be useful - some of our older equipment using DC drives needs tuning down to the mVDC (at least hundreths VDC) while the 365 only goes down to tenths. Its a great meter otherwise, and the detachable clamp makes it great for compact panels.

Anyone have any suggestions for a different meter? I used Fluke 177s at my last job, and it would be fine in this application but then A) I would need to carry another clamp meter probably and B) damn they are spendy. Anyone have experience with other equipment? Initially I was provided some form of Extech meter and the thing would constantly read 6-10 volts higher than any other meter so I ditched it ASAP. I dont recall model though.

Fluke 87.

[68deluxe]

Originally Posted by HillbillyNinja

Fluke 87.

Can you use it while wearing hippo hands?

[68deluxe]

Originally Posted by HillbillyNinja

Fluke 87.

Looks like $$$$$ for the meter and the clamp, for the price I would think you could keep the 365 and get another meter with the required resolution.

[kobudo28]

We don't use anything but Fluke in the shop for hand held DMM's, unless it is for bench top, then it is Agilent all the way. Fluke gear isn't cheap, but it works and has proven reliability.

[Bokrijder]

Buy the appropriate Fluke product and be done with it.
I'm now retired from a career in aviation. I bought my first Fluke in my 20s. When I was about 45, my dad was complaining about his meter and commented that he sure liked my Fluke unit. With a sudden impulse, I handed him the meter and said, " Here dad it's yours ", and bought myself another. Now twenty plus years later, both units are still going strong. Before retirement the meters were regularly checked and certified per regulations, it's now a few years, but I'm confident both would still certify. Unless Fluke quality has faltered, I'm a believer.

Bokrijder

[HillbillyNinja]

Originally Posted by kobudo28

We don't use anything but Fluke in the shop for hand held DMM's, unless it is for bench top, then it is Agilent all the way. Fluke gear isn't cheap, but it works and has proven reliability.

Exactly this. Although we also use an occasional Keithly for some specialized things, the Agilent bench tops and Fluke DMM's have been flawless and resilient to lab techs doing stupid things with them.

[HillbillyNinja]

Originally Posted by 68deluxe

Looks like $$$$$ for the meter and the clamp, for the price I would think you could keep the 365 and get another meter with the required resolution.

Since he said it was for work, I was recommending professional grade gear. I'd buy one personally and have done so as I'm a firm believer in the quality and reliability of the Fluke DMMs.

Although, since he said clamp, maybe he's doing DC current measurements with the hall effect probe clamp. In that case, I'd go with something a bit more spendy than the 365, such as the 376 with iLoop. We just purchased a 381 with the remote lcd for work around very high voltage DC systems and it's been a treat.

[a1fa]

Can someone commend on oscilloscopes too?

[HillbillyNinja]

Originally Posted by a1fa

Can someone commend on oscilloscopes too?

What are you trying to scope? There's a giant range of equipment and you probably don't need lab grade scopes.

[a1fa]

pulse width modulation on injectors.. :)
maybe timing, and other range of automotive sensors... etc etc

[_cy_]

another vote for Fluke 87V...