The presence of a multimeter in the arsenal of tools of a universal wizard or an electrician is not an optional addition, but a prerequisite for ensuring effective operation. This device belongs to multifunctional measuring instruments, allowing you to immediately determine several characteristics of the electrical circuit. The versatility and high quality of measurement is distinguished by a professional multimeter, the handling of which, however, requires some preparation. With the help of such a device, it is possible not only to measure the current strength with voltage, but also to determine the location of the hidden line.
What is the difference between professional models from ordinary ones?
The border between professional and home measuring equipment is leveled in many parameters. On the one hand, models for specialists are becoming more compact, ergonomic and more convenient in physical handling, which brings them closer to household appliances. On the other hand, conventional devices are endowed with new functionality, and also offer a wider range of measuring operations.
Nevertheless, the question of how a professional multimeter differs from ordinary modifications is largely determined by the purpose itself. For example, for laboratories and service centers, stationary devices are more often purchased that differ in multi-bit indication. But this segment is still specific and narrow. Generalists generally use portable versions. Unlike household multimeters, such devices are also provided with a number of special options. In particular, a professional instrument can automatically select search ranges, perform calibration, and generally provide more efficient measurement processes.
Main characteristics
A key performance characteristic is the already noted search range. This is a measuring spectrum, within the framework of which the device will be able to determine one or another indicator of the circuit. So, professional models allow you to record the current strength in values ββfrom 0.1 ΞΌA to 10 A. Further, it is important to take into account the resolution, which is expressed in the resolution of the multimeter. For the convenience of finding the desired value, the user switches the digits depending on the current tasks. Regardless of the model, any professional multimeter is characterized by high measurement accuracy. To assess this indicator, use the magnitude of the error. In the case of electric devices, it averages from 0.025 to 3%. For comparison, low-cost household appliances in some versions also allow deviations of 10%, which, of course, will not suit the master performing complex and responsible electrical installation operations.
Types of instrument
More recently, one of the most visible signs of highlighting professional multimeters was expressed in belonging to the segment of digital devices. Models with LCD screens quickly gained the trust of users due to their high measurement accuracy, ease of use and stylish design. Today, among digital devices, there are often household models. At the same time, analog versions do not leave the market. Although they lose to digital models in accuracy, they are cheaper. Such devices are also divided according to their intended purpose. Today, a professional automobile multimeter is quite common, which is used in assessing the characteristics of the on-board network. The universal multimeter tester, equipped with clamp meters, was even more popular. It is distinguished by its ease of use, since it saves the user from performing auxiliary actions during the maintenance of the work site.
Reviews on the model CEM DT 916N
A typical representative of an inexpensive multimeter with a filling designed for professional use. According to the owners, the model allows you to qualitatively perform the continuity of the circuits, testing actions, as well as fix the main values, including voltage and current strength. Although the professional multimeter DT 916N cannot be attributed to high-precision representatives of the segment, skillful handling of settings by ranges before work significantly increases the chances of obtaining reliable information. At the same time, many users of the model note a very decent configuration. The device is supplemented with measuring probes and a thermocouple. At the same time, the modification is inexpensive, which could not but affect the performance in a negative direction. For example, there are complaints about the easily soiled body, which under severe conditions of use does not guarantee the physical protection of sensitive fillings.
Fluke 179 model reviews
If the previous version can be attributed to professional multimeters with some reservations, then Fluke, with its modification 179, demonstrates an example of a complete high-precision device for specialists. This is confirmed by the practice of operation. Even experienced electricians note that the device works efficiently with determining capacitance, frequency, voltage and current in the circuit. In addition, the professional multimeter from Fluke allows you to ring the line, analyze the condition of the transition sections, check the diodes, etc. But this model also has a serious drawback. On the Russian market, it is available for 17-18 thousand rubles. This is a serious amount even for a professional device, but the functionality and a fairly high measurement accuracy justify it.
Mastech MAS838H Reviews
If you need to get wide functionality, while giving the minimum amount of money for the device, it makes sense to turn to Chinese products. Under the Mastech brand, inexpensive, but quite professional in their capabilities devices are produced. The technical characteristics of the MAS838H model are in many respects similar to the Fluke technology, which, again, is confirmed by the users themselves. Even to the error indices, there are no special complaints. But there are critical reviews that receive Mastech multimeters. The professional qualities of this model in terms of measurements can satisfy a specialist, but the quality of the device itself is doubtful. The shakiness of the case and the unreliability of the batteries are only part of the negative responses addressed to this device.
Testo 760 Reviews
We can say that this is a multimeter balanced in all qualities, which is suitable for users with different requests. As for the measurement capabilities themselves, they are average by the standards of professional technology, but supported by a minimum error. Users also indicate the wide range of valid values ββfor measuring in various parameters and the presence of additional functions. At the same time, professional Testo digital multimeters are mostly distinguished by well-thought-out structural implementation. The device in modification 760 was no exception. The model is equipped with a dustproof and waterproof housing, therefore, electricians working in difficult conditions at construction sites are flattering about its operational properties.
How to choose a suitable multimeter?
To begin with, you should outline the range of tasks that the device will have to perform. This can be a narrowly focused range of functions - for example, determining the same current strength with voltage, and a wide range of actions that involve fixing the capacitance and frequency indicators in a particular electrical circuit. Then you can proceed to the selection of the optimal form factor. For example, for production, a stationary electric tester is often chosen . A professional pocket-type multimeter is suitable for field specialists working at different facilities. The choice of performance depends entirely on specific requests, but most modern models even in basic versions offer quite wide measuring ranges, so it will be difficult to miscalculate this criterion.
Recommendations for use
Immediately before work, the condition of the multimeter should be assessed. It checks the correctness of the display in the display, the location and suitability of the batteries, as well as the appearance of the case. After that, the operating mode is configured - manual or automatic. It is advisable to use a professional multimeter in the automatic mode during your acquaintance - this is not only convenient, but also justified in terms of obtaining accurate readings. Using the working parts of the device, it is necessary to ensure tight contact with the electrical circuit, after which you can track the readings. When the data recording is completed, you can turn off the device. By the way, in automatic mode, the device can turn off automatically without user intervention after 15-20 minutes of inactivity.
Conclusion
Assessing the working qualities of a multimeter, one may encounter the question of the appropriateness of its use as an alternative to special measuring instruments. Indeed, in essence, it repeats the functions of an ammeter, an ohmmeter, and a voltmeter, and in some cases it loses noticeably in accuracy. How does a professional multimeter tester justify itself? First of all, its versatility. If a comprehensive examination of the object is required for the state of the power supply network, then a more convenient device simply does not exist. Using the same ammeters and voltmeters separately will be more troublesome, which often leads to errors in the data recording process. Another advantage of multimeters is the economic benefit. Still, to purchase one multifunctional device is always cheaper than several specialized devices.