Multimeter recommendation?
I'm looking to buy a multimeter, as my rig's refrigerator doesn't work on electric but still works on gas. There is power to its outlet (of course, that would be too easy of a fix..) and I know my ne...
Forum Discussion
There are some good points made on this thread - but some that need definite clarification and correction.
Fluke is no longer made in America. I think they switched to assembled in America a few years back now I believe it is designed in America. Not saying they are not the gold standard, which they are. They are the most reliable and safest, but you pay for that - but is an extra $50-$100 really that much more?
Next, your value brands like Craftsman and Radio Shack, aren't really comparable to HF. They were made (designed by) Extech, which is considered a mid level brand. So, much higher than the Amazon or HF cheap knock off made in some factory for as cheap as they can.
Now, why does this matter - they points that are the most important on this thread. They only thing between you and what you are measuring is the meter and the leads you are using. If you use something made by a company that is just trying to make the cheapest thing out there, are you really safe? Now, if you are only reading DC batteries, and the DC in your trailer, then I guess safety is not a thing. Take 2 wires connected to a light bulb and you are just as safe. But, you are you measuring 120V - 240V household, or a 30-50 amp pedestal, do you want to rely on the cheapest thing made, or do you want to spend an extra $50-$100 to make sure you don't get shocked or worse. Your probably only buying 1 so just spend a little more for an average or better meter.
Next, accuracy and reliability. I know when I measure my batteries, I want to know what they read. Is my battery 12.7v or 12.1v. Do I measure, come back 2 minutes later and its changed by 1 volt? I'm sure there are other examples where accuracy matters. But, if you don't care about a good reading, why even buy a meter? There was an entire thread on tire pressure gauges. This is different, because a gauge is usually off but consistent. A meter that is off can be high today and low tomorrow. It can be off by tenths or by an entire point. It will be inconsistent for every reading. What do you consider is acceptable and do you trust the manufacturer that designed it and had it made in that factory in China. Is it made in China or Taiwan?
I'm not advocating for Fluke or any specific brand, just saying be careful. I think the OP purchased Klein, which is a great middle of the road brand. As I said before, if they make electrical test tools, this is much better than a company that is trying to sell the cheapest thing they can have made.
Fluke is no longer made in America. I think they switched to assembled in America a few years back now I believe it is designed in America. Not saying they are not the gold standard, which they are. They are the most reliable and safest, but you pay for that - but is an extra $50-$100 really that much more?
Next, your value brands like Craftsman and Radio Shack, aren't really comparable to HF. They were made (designed by) Extech, which is considered a mid level brand. So, much higher than the Amazon or HF cheap knock off made in some factory for as cheap as they can.
Now, why does this matter - they points that are the most important on this thread. They only thing between you and what you are measuring is the meter and the leads you are using. If you use something made by a company that is just trying to make the cheapest thing out there, are you really safe? Now, if you are only reading DC batteries, and the DC in your trailer, then I guess safety is not a thing. Take 2 wires connected to a light bulb and you are just as safe. But, you are you measuring 120V - 240V household, or a 30-50 amp pedestal, do you want to rely on the cheapest thing made, or do you want to spend an extra $50-$100 to make sure you don't get shocked or worse. Your probably only buying 1 so just spend a little more for an average or better meter.
Next, accuracy and reliability. I know when I measure my batteries, I want to know what they read. Is my battery 12.7v or 12.1v. Do I measure, come back 2 minutes later and its changed by 1 volt? I'm sure there are other examples where accuracy matters. But, if you don't care about a good reading, why even buy a meter? There was an entire thread on tire pressure gauges. This is different, because a gauge is usually off but consistent. A meter that is off can be high today and low tomorrow. It can be off by tenths or by an entire point. It will be inconsistent for every reading. What do you consider is acceptable and do you trust the manufacturer that designed it and had it made in that factory in China. Is it made in China or Taiwan?
I'm not advocating for Fluke or any specific brand, just saying be careful. I think the OP purchased Klein, which is a great middle of the road brand. As I said before, if they make electrical test tools, this is much better than a company that is trying to sell the cheapest thing they can have made.
