A digital multimeter is a testing tool that electricians use to measure at least two electrical values. Digital multimeters are primarily used to measure resistance, current, and voltage. They typically combine the tasks that single task meters carry out and they also come with a few specialized features.
Fluke 289 True RMS Industrial Logging Multimeter with TrendCapture
The Fluke 289 True RMS Industrial Logging Multimeter with TrendCapture is compatible with the Fluke Connect app and every Fluke FC-enabled test tools. Complete with a zoom of up to 14 times, you can clearly see what is happening.
The 50,000 count and a ¼ VGA dot matrix display that also comes with a white backlight makes it easy to see. The real-time clock ensures you have automatic time stamping of all your saved readings.
Finally, this model comes with built-in utilities that air-conditioning technicians will find useful.
Fluke 287 True RMS Electronics Logging Multimeter with TrendCapture
The Fluke 287 True RMS Electronics Logging Multimeter with TrendCapture is considered to be a new generation multimeter thanks to its TrendCapture feature and its new graphing and logging capabilities.
Much more accurate than some of Fluke’s other multimeters, this model also comes with ShareLive and the ability to let you zoom in 14 times.
With an on-board help screen, 0.025% basic DC accuracy and 100mF capacitance range, this could be the ideal multimeter for you.
Fluke 117 True RMS Multimeter
The Fluke 117 True RMS Multimeter is ideal for general utility and maintenance. It comes with a range of functions that make it suitable for use both domestically and industrially.
With the ability to ensure that it is accurate even when there is little light, this multimeter is ideal for anyone who works in poor conditions.
With input impedance reduced to a minimum and True RMS that compensates when you’re testing non-linear loads, this could be the multimeter that you need.
Fluke 116 HVAC Multimeter with Temperature and Microamps
The Fluke 116 HVAC Multimeter with Temperature and Microamps comes with a wide range of features that make it ideal for air conditioning technicians.
The microamp reading is suitable for flame sensors testing, and the large LED backlight display makes it easy to read.
With a compact and rugged design that’s also quite ergonomic, this multimeter has been specifically designed for one handed operation.
Fluke 115 True RMS Digital Multimeter
The Fluke 115 True RMS Digital Multimeter is reliable, durable, and a top quality product. Complete with a white LED backlight, this multimeter can be used even in poorly lit areas.
With resistance and continuity and min/max/average to record any signal fluctuations, this could be the ideal multimeter for you.
Fluke 114 Electrical Multimeter
The Fluke 114 Electrical Multimeter is a compact meter that is ideal for Go/No-go testing and comes with a feature that helps to prevent ghost voltage readings.
CAT III 600-V safety rated, and with an AutoVolt, automatic AC/DC voltage selection, this is a good multimeter.
With resistance and continuity along with a large white LED backlight, this multimeter also comes with resistance and continuity, making it well worth considering.
Fluke 113 True RMS Utility Multimeter
The Fluke 113 True RMS Utility Multimeter comes with the Fluke VCHEK Loz low impedance test function. This function allows you to check continuity and voltage simultaneously.
The manual or automatic ranging and a min/max function ensure this meter offers all the features you need.
The optional magnetic hanger lets you have hands-free usage should you need it, and the integral holster that comes with the probe holders makes this multimeter easy to store.
Things to Consider when Purchasing a Digital Multimeter
When you’re about to purchase a digital multimeter you need to take the following things into consideration:
Specifications
A digital multimeter’s performance is usually determined by its specifications or its DMM specifications, i.e. its capabilities in terms of its AC and DC voltage, its AC current and its resistance. If a multimeter does not have all the features you need, you may want to opt for another model instead.
You may also want to opt for a multimeter that comes with a higher main voltage than you need the readings for.
This post is part of a series for electricians:
- Best digital multimeters
- Best Clamp Meters
- Best Earth Ground Testers
- Best Pat Testers
- Best Electrical Testers
- Best Insulation Testers
Accuracy
You need to make sure that the digital multimeter you’re about to purchase is accurate. The accuracy of a meter such as this is defined as the “Maximum permissible error limit” in the observed readings.
Input Impedance
If you purchase a multimeter that comes with a high input impedance, you will have much more accuracy. This is especially important if you want to measure some sensitive electronics and it can make life much easier.
Energy Capacity
It’s sensible to know a circuit’s energy capacity before you work on it. You should know the maximum transient voltage that the digital multimeter can tolerate without being damaged.
Temperature Measurement
If you frequently need to monitor temperatures, you should opt for a digital multimeter that comes with dual differential temperature functions. These will allow you to measure two different temperatures at the same time.
Resolution
A digital multimeter’s resolution is defined as the number of digits that a signal can be measured by, more specifically, the strength of the signal. The measurement of the change in output signal is a result of the smallest of fluctuations made in the signal. The multimeters that come with a higher resolution also come with increased times to observe the correct value, this is after the rightmost digit has stabilised.
While there is a lot to think about when you’re thinking of purchasing a digital multimeter if you buy a model that works well for you it could be worth every penny. Think about all of the features you need and the ones you couldn’t do without, then opt for a digital multimeter that comes with a higher main voltage than you need.