Radio Shack 29 range digital multimeter or DVM
web: A precise and reliable multimeter. This 29-range digital multimeter is a compact, auto-ranging, digital multimeter ideal for testing in the field, lab, shop or home. It measures AC and DC voltage up to 600V, AC and DC current up to 10A, resistance up to 40M ohm, and tests 1.5V C, D, AA, AAA and 9V batteries.
Continuity buzzer lets you quick-check cords, fuses, connectors and more
Diode-check tests semiconductors for opens and shorts
2007-12-28 04:30:20 · 5 answers · asked by Dan 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
I started with a less capable meter than that. Actually, digital multimeters are pretty accurate for DC voltage and resistance. If they have true RMS capability, are good for AC voltage as well, but tend not to be so great for DC current because of their high series resistance when used that way.
2007-12-28 04:38:22 · answer #1 · answered by devilsadvocate1728 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I have read reviews (19) and they were generally negative. Main reason is unreliability, and that it stopped working some time between 3 uses and one year....
The problem with "auto-range" for beginners is that it gives a false sense of security: "I can connect it to anything...."
With a (manual) selectable range you are more aware what the maximum input limits are, and what you are about to connect.
Funny enough, I couldn't find the limit values of that meter on Radio Shack's advertisement.....
2007-12-29 00:01:51 · answer #2 · answered by Marianna 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can find very good deals at Sears. I am not kidding. Watch for their sales. They have a nice selection of Craftsman meters, and good reputation for service.(unlike RS)
I have one that measures just about everything including temperature. The accuracy is more than sufficient for all but the most precise calibration. Cost me $15, on sale. They have others to choose from.
Fluke is a great meter, but pricey.
Try Instek, that is my main meter and it has served me well for years. Has the same accuracy as the equivalent Fluke, but at much lower cost.
Another very good choice is Meterman/Wavetek. They used to be Beckman. They are also very accurate, reliable and affordable. Some of their models are drop proof. Nice if your clutzy. lol
And I shouldn't forget to mention Triplett, they've been making terrific meters since 1904. The link shows one that you might find interesting at a distributor for $24. If you can afford $49 the second one has a few more niceities and a 3 year warantee.
Try the links, they'll get you to the starting places. If you search the model numbers, distributors will come up so you can find the best prices.
Hope this helps.
2007-12-31 17:08:18 · answer #3 · answered by charley128 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It should meet your needs for the time being. It's input impedance for voltages is going to be around 10 meg-ohms, which will prevent circuit loading for any circuit where that could be a concern.
2007-12-28 05:04:16 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't overlook your CAT protection you might want to check out this out. http://us.fluke.com/usen/Home/Search.asp?txtSearchBox=meter+safety "Application Notes"
2007-12-29 09:40:53 · answer #5 · answered by Dan K 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋