Multimeter suggestions

[Specialist]

Why ? Standard multimeters max AC voltage is 750. If you gave some clue as to what you might be working on, it would help.
I can't remember the last time I wanted to measure voltages that high, in normal daily life. When I want to measure high voltages, I use a HV probe that will extend the voltage range of my DMM to 4Kv.

 

[davesparks]

I think I need one that is over 1000v

If you're working on voltages greater than 1000V then your employer should really be providing the tools and training as you will no longer be working on low voltage.

 

[Specialist]

it's a pain trying to measure Amps with a mutimeter. first isolate, disconnect conductors and connect to meter leads, then re-energise, measure current. then repeat procedure to reconnect.

That's why I carry a good quality clamp meter for front line testing.
Multimeter stays in the truck until I need to do a bit more in depth work, maybe 4 or 5 times a year.

@gazdkw82 : Whatever Clamp meter / Multimeter you decide to buy, make sure you get a good set of Fused test leads to go with it.

 

[PEG]

The Megger clamp range,320,340 etc,are 600V rated,so you would be as well with another of their fine multimeters,an AVO410. I have found this an excellent item,and it is 1000V rated.

Get a set of suitable croc clips to supplement the standard probes,and sit back and relax,as you wonder what to spend the other half of your budget,on

 

[Specialist]

Hi PEG: Not denying that the 410 is an excellent meter, but like the majority of meters it's only rated 750v AC.

 

[gazdkw82]

maybe iv got that info wrong then. Its working at a higher education organisation. initial 2 years will be to complete my NVQ.

The 1000v thing was what one of the electricians said. I did think it was strange at the time. Most systems here are 415. Although we do have some HV installations. However such systems would require permits to work and specialist equipment.

I think a regular meter would be fine

 

[Specialist]

If that's the case a meter that reads 600v or 750v is more than adequate.

Buy a meter that's at least cat 3 600v rated.
Gets confusing when your looking for a proper meter doesn't it ?

 

[gazdkw82]

cat 3 means I can use it as close to the supply as possible?

 

[telectrix]

cat 3 means it's OK for cats but not for dogs.

 

[Specialist]

Basically yes, suitable for all testing of fixed wiring within a building.
If you want to check out some quality clamp meters & multimeter's why not take a look at the test-meter.co.uk site ?
They give us a discount as well.

 

[davesparks]

I've got the megger AVO410 which has been fine for a couple of years. The only function on it I haven't needed yet is the frequency measurement.
If you don't need the additional functions then the AVO210 will be a good meter too.

 

[Bobster]

I've had a Fluke 177 for years now. Excellent piece of kit, reliable and will take some abuse.

Not overly priced either.

There is a Fluke 179 model above this, however I don't need temperature measurement an a couple of other additional features it offers.

Buy Fluke Testers Fluke 177 | ISSWWW.co.uk | Free Delivery - http://isswww.co.uk/fluke-177-true-rms-multimeter?gclid=CPnG5J6hqdQCFSIG0wodC3ID6g

A little over £200 with a case and a couple of other accessories.

 

[Rpa07]

My megger 310 is used everyday and is severely robust and easy to use. To be honest, I'm a little fond of it!

 

[Specialist]

My two favourite DMM's are the Avo M8037 & the Robin AR4007. Both top quality meters, sadly only available second hand now.

 

[Rpa07]

It's things like that where you keep an eye out for others being sold so the world doesn't run out! or is that hoarding?

 

[Specialist]

Could be called hoarding. Me, I call it good sense

 

[PEG]

Got a bit ahead of myself,biggin' up the 410... i concede,its limit on AC measurement.
There is a meter that they promised me would do all of this,and be rated accordingly,that being the AVO835.

It was meant to be released last month,and i put me name down to be contacted to purchase one first...had no call, as of today...

 

[Specialist]

Hi PEG: Sounds good, any specs on it anywhere ?

 

[LankyWill]

As your employed and still an apprentice I feel they should supply you with a DMM. I was always supplied test equipment when I was employed. Now I'm a subby it's up to me to afford such things. I went all out on my first DMM and bought a Fluke 28-ii and haven't looked back, it should outlast me.

 

[gazdkw82]

I want my own anyway. I do other stuff in my own time so best to pick one I can at work and home