Digital multimeters are one of the things that you either understand how to use or don’t. If you are not aware of how to use one, the contraption with a dial, electrodes, and an LCD display could be quite complicated.
A multimeter is a very practical device utilized to measure ohms, volts, and amps. Other costly and most expensive tools can even measure temperature. Most multimeters combine three different measurements into a single instrument: the ohmmeter for measuring resistance, the voltmeter for measuring voltage, and the ammeter for measuring current.
You see, a multimeter is a very helpful hand-held tool you can use for basic troubleshooting or taking measurements in the field. You can use them at home or in a manufacturing setting for measuring the electrical output with excellent accuracy.
But the question now is, how do you buy the best multimeter in the market today? With many options to choose from, choosing the best for your needs and budget may seem overwhelming and complicated.
What is the Importance of a Multimeter?
Electrical engineers and technicians have a wide array of tools accessible. Some of those are complicated, often costly devices for measuring one certain quantity. If utilized properly, they can turn many times their price with one or two uses.
However, the multimeter that has existed since the start of electronics is still the most widely utilized instrument in an electrician’s toolbox. However, whatever job they do, there’s always more you can do with them.
The key perception of a multimeter is the widely used name of “voltmeter,” which is considered the most typical quantity measured by the device. That’s typical because many meters are used to find faults, and many faults exist in live circuits.
Apart from the standard voltage, they offer a wide array of other functions that help electrical engineers and other experts to become more efficient at their jobs.
Having a multimeter is like having a specific tool for changing a specific type of brake. You won’t need it on a daily basis unless you work on brakes for a living. The same thing applies with a multimeter—don’t expect to use it daily unless your job involves troubleshooting electronics or control systems.
Make the same decision with a multimeter as you wouldn’t expect to spend a huge amount of money on that single tool you only use occasionally.
What are the Basics of Choosing a Multimeter?
It could be a challenging endeavor to find the perfect multimeter for your personal use or electrical work, as there are many different types and brands available in the market. Nonetheless, we have discussed some tips that would help you realize the best one, which will fit your requirements.
- Analog versus digital multimeter
Electrical technicians often go for digital multimeters, as they are more reliable and accurate than their analog predecessors. They also have a wide array of extra features, like they can test for resistance and voltage at the same time. Further, many DMMs can test temperature and power levels at the same time.
Analog multimeters are still around even though DMMS rules the market. The reason behind this is because they prove to be a good, less costly option to the digital ones. The good thing about analogs is that they give more results faster than their counterparts. That makes it useful for electricians to record readings faster and get things done.
- Measurement functions
The more functions your multimeter offers, the costliest it is. Getting such a tool might be expensive, but its versatility makes it a great investment. You need to consider whether you like a multimeter that can read measurements beyond the basic ohms, amps, and volts.
Other measurements you might require include frequency counting, diode testing, transistor, and temperature measurements. Various models of digital multimeters have different specifications and functions. Make sure you take some time to weigh all your choices and choose which measurement functions are vital to you.
- Calibration
Are you going for a high-accuracy meter? Take this step and ensure your multimeter is calibratable. If yours is not calibratable, you’ll need to buy a new one after your multimeter is damaged or spoiled.
- Accuracy
Accuracy will not be an important concern if you’re just checking whether a circuit is working or not. Nonetheless, you like to spend a bit more for a good meter if you need more accuracy from your digital multimeter for accurate measurement and readings.
Take note that the resolution is highly connected to accuracy. How sensitive your multimeter is to currents flowing through it will identify its accuracy within readings. Further, you would like to contemplate both when picking a multimeter.
- Safety
Of course, you can’t ignore the importance of safety. When buying a multimeter of any kind, ensure you check its safety ratings for every model. That’s essential, especially if you’ll be working with circuits more than 30V.
Keep in mind that safety ratings consider the voltage of the object you’ll be testing. That also rates the resilience of the unit to peak transients on the lines.
Apart from safety rating, check if the device is physically safe to utilize. To do that, check the meter’s design. A safety-measured meter will have features such as an internal blast shield. The banana plugs on the probes should also be shrouded for ultimate protection.
Don’t forget to check the flanges on the probes, which will keep your precious fingers from slipping past the insulation of the probe. The device itself must have isolation slots going into the meter’s printed circuit board. That avoids arc-over.
Are you not skilled in this field? Then ensure you take the necessary precautions and make sure the device you will be buying is certified to safe use.
Final Thoughts
Would you like to find the best multimeter that will fit your requirements? It will help if you determine the considerations or factors that are essential for you. You’d also like to understand what you like to use them for. Next, weigh all your choices and determine an ideal multimeter.
Happy buying!
