Electronics folks - question on multimeters

[Mears]

Is there a performance difference b/w different brands. I have a cheapo $20 Ratshack model that I can't seem to measure the resistance of something. If I test across an actual resistor, it bobs up and down and then settles pretty close to the mark. With this thing I'm testing now, it bobs and then flat lines. I'm wondring if maybe I'd have better luck with a nicer model or if I'm just unskilled.

 

[brunswickite]

Fluke

 

[Analog]

As with everything, you get what you paid for. I have a Fluke 87, which is pretty good. The resolution and functions will govern the price.

 

[Mears]

Sweet Jebus...$140 for a multimeter! Is that part of your livelyhood?

 

[Evadman]

Fluke or nothing.

 

[Antisocial Virge]

Originally posted by: Mears
Sweet Jebus...$140 for a multimeter! Is that part of your livelyhood?

Where can you get a fluke 87 for $140? Pretty sure mine was like $287

 

[Evadman]

Originally posted by: Antisocial-Virge

Originally posted by: Mears
Sweet Jebus...$140 for a multimeter! Is that part of your livelyhood?

Where can you get a fluke 87 for $140? Pretty sure mine was like $287

I got mine for ~$80 when HD was clearing them out. 😀

 

[Akira13]

I've had good luck with my Mastech (MAS-345). It was $50 through my school's EE department (University of Washington). The only problem is that the backlight seems to have died.

Spend a few more $ on a nicer model - hopefully it will last longer.

 

[tm37]

Originally posted by: Mears
Sweet Jebus...$140 for a multimeter! Is that part of your livelyhood?

Ask yourself howmuch you spent on the lastest Coputer upgrade and then did it make you any money.

I paid 70 bucks on Ebay for my 87 and I love it. I bought one that was broke and I knew how to fix it. (the over amp fuse was blown) so for about $75 I was able to get it calibrated and repaired. (I knoiw a guy) 🙂

Fluke is the name and while there mau be other GREAT COMPANIES I have yet to find a better meter than the 77 or 87

If you are using it look at it the way you buy your tools for anything else what did you pay for your screwdrivers? Because yuou can buy screwdrivers for $1 that suck.

If you want a edesktop model I might be able to come up with a fluke 8010A if you want

Other wise for basic applications the 77 would be a good start.

 

[Mears]

Is there much of a difference b/w the 77 and the 77-III?