Multimeters. They have been described as the tape measure of the new millennium. But what exactly is a digital multimeter (DMM)?
Technology is rapidly changing our world. Electrical and electronic circuitry seems to permeate everything, and continues to get more complex and smaller in size. The communication industry booms with cellphones and pagers, and Internet connections have put more pressure on the electronics technician. Servicing, repairing, and installing this complex equipment requires diagnostic tools that provide accurate information.
A DMM is simply an electronic tape measure for making electrical measurements. It may have any number of special features, but mainly a DMM measures volts, ohms, and amperes.
Choosing your DMM
Choosing a DMM for the job requires not only looking at basic specifications, but also looking at features, functions, and the overall value represented by a meter's design and the care taken in its production. Reliability, especially under tough conditions, is more important than ever today. By the time Fluke DMMs are ready to be tossed into tool cases, they have undergone a rigorous testing and evaluation programme.
Basic, general purpose multimeters
* The 73/77 from Fluke are all-round performers for basic measurement tasks and the basis of Fluke's reputation - being the preferred models for professionals.
* The 7-600 is capable of fast and easy basic electrical testing.
* The 12/16 are basic digital meters with automatic AC/DC sensing, and are ideal for first-level troubleshooting.
* The 110 Series of compact, general-purpose meters are small but pack more features than most others twice their size. The new 110 Series (114/115/116/117) has also now been released into the market.
Industrial measurement
* The 80 Series V performs at very high accuracy for maximum industrial productivity.
* The 170 Series represents the benchmark for multimeters in industrial maintenance and field service or bench repair, with a combination of precision, features, ease-of-use and safety and reliability.
Combination multimeters
* The Fluke 27 combines accurate digital and analog measurement with extreme ruggedness and durability. This totally-sealed digital multimeter is for use in extreme conditions and withstands water, contaminants, chemicals, accidental drops and even severe electrical overloads.
* The 787/789 Process Meters combine a digital multimeter with a loop calibrator for handheld use.
* The 1577/1587 insulation multimeters combine a digital insulation tester with a full-featured True RMS digital multimeter in one handheld unit.
Advanced measurement function
The 180 Series solves complex problems with advanced measurement function, highest accuracy and data logging. They boast extremely fast readings, extended ranges and the highest bandwidth.
A fully-comprehensive range of accessories are available for Fluke DMMs, and can increase the range and usefulness of the meters.
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