Multimeters

[Cruzerboy]

Everyone's suggested tool list includes a multimeter. They run anywhere from $5 to well over $100. Anyone have a favorite make and model? Thanks.

 

[Levitation]

Harbor Freight $5.95
And free with a coupon
We keep a number of them scattered across the shop, in tool boxes, and in the tractors.
I have compared their accuracy against our expensive meters on the electronics bench and they work just fine.
Their failure rate has been low. I only remember one failing after some time - and some abuse (unintentional)
For the boat you want to be able to measure battery voltage within a half-tenth of a volt accuracy. (0.05) And measure the presence or absence of continuity in a circuit, and once in a while measure resistance.

Now, if the chinese meter does not float your boat there is always one of these: :mrgreen:
http://tinyurl.com/kp9pf6m

 

[pugtug613]

The main difference in MM's is the amount of amps they can check. It's good to be able to check above 10 amps, in case you have a problem with your alternator. Sears has a nice one for $50. Just my opinion. I also have the Harbor Freight one, I got it for free with a coupon. I keep the cheap one on the boat and bring the good one back and forth as needed.

 

[knotflying]

Here is what I have:
Extech - EX330 - Digital Multimeters Style: Handheld Number of Functions: 13

 

[SGIDAVE]

Hello Cruzerboy,

WELCOME to Tugnuts! I see this is your first post. GREAT question.

As others have said CHEAP is fine. If you appreciate finer tools then Fluke is an example of a "premium" brand.

I recommend a "clamp-on" style meter. It will come with probe cables so I can be used to measure voltage or resistance same as the non clamp style. The benefit of a clamp on is that it will allow EASY measurement of current...like if you have a 'problem' battery, start your engine and clamp your meter on your charging wire coming from the alternator...you will immediately know if the alternator is providing appropriate charge. Turn everything off and clamp each wire coming off the positive battery terminal to see if there is a "parasitic" load that is draining the battery. LOTS of uses for the clamp on style. Amazon has oodles but they are also avail at Lowes, Home Despot, even walmart. When getting the clamp on style make sure it will read DC current (some read only AC current).

Fair winds and meters,

/david

 

[Cruzerboy]

A high-voltage thank you to all who responded. Very good suggestions.

 

[Microship]

Another vote for Fluke for the primary... A cheapie for backup is useful too. The difference in quality is dramatic, and is very much worth the money.