multimeters

Guest
I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.
 
amdiegel@svsu.edu wrote:

I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.
there both important how ever, having a true RMS meter is very
important also one that is rated in the CAT II and III.
The Auto Ranging is good if you make a mistake. Some lower meters
are not forgiving. If you're careful, you'll be ok.



--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"
http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5
 
On Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:26:51 -0800 (PST), amdiegel@svsu.edu wrote:

I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.
---
Unless you're accustomed to using the 200 millivolt range to measure
AC mains voltage, IMO true RMS wins hands down.


--
JF
 
On Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:17:42 -0800 (PST), amdiegel@svsu.edu wrote:

On Nov 28, 7:03 pm, John Fields <jfie...@austininstruments.com> wrote:
On Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:26:51 -0800 (PST), amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

---
Unless you're accustomed to using the 200 millivolt range to measure
AC mains voltage, IMO true RMS wins hands down.

--
JF

So go with the one with the true RMS?
---
I would...


--
JF
 
On Nov 28, 6:49 pm, Jamie
<jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:
amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

there both important how ever, having a true RMS meter is very
important also one that is rated in the CAT II and III.
The Auto Ranging is good if you make a mistake. Some lower meters
are not forgiving. If you're careful, you'll be ok.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5
8-function, 20-range multimeter offers true RMS readings for accurate
voltage, current and temperature. CAT III-600V rating. Audible and
visual warnings to help improper test lead input.

11-function, autoranging, voltage current temp, CAT II-600V, but no
true RMS readings.

just curious of ur opinion on which one would be better. thanks
 
On Nov 28, 7:03 pm, John Fields <jfie...@austininstruments.com> wrote:
On Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:26:51 -0800 (PST), amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

---
Unless you're accustomed to using the 200 millivolt range to measure
AC mains voltage, IMO true RMS wins hands down.

--
JF
So go with the one with the true RMS?
 
amdiegel@svsu.edu wrote:

On Nov 28, 6:49 pm, Jamie
jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:

amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:

I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

there both important how ever, having a true RMS meter is very
important also one that is rated in the CAT II and III.
The Auto Ranging is good if you make a mistake. Some lower meters
are not forgiving. If you're careful, you'll be ok.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5


8-function, 20-range multimeter offers true RMS readings for accurate
voltage, current and temperature. CAT III-600V rating. Audible and
visual warnings to help improper test lead input.

11-function, autoranging, voltage current temp, CAT II-600V, but no
true RMS readings.

just curious of ur opinion on which one would be better. thanks
if you have to select from those 2, Take the 8 function, 20 range with
true RMS.


--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"
http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5
 
David L. Jones wrote:

On Nov 29, 12:54 pm, amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:

On Nov 28, 8:32 pm, Jamie



jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:

amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:

On Nov 28, 6:49 pm, Jamie
jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:

amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:

I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

there both important how ever, having a true RMS meter is very
important also one that is rated in the CAT II and III.
The Auto Ranging is good if you make a mistake. Some lower meters
are not forgiving. If you're careful, you'll be ok.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5

8-function, 20-range multimeter offers true RMS readings for accurate
voltage, current and temperature. CAT III-600V rating. Audible and
visual warnings to help improper test lead input.

11-function, autoranging, voltage current temp, CAT II-600V, but no
true RMS readings.

just curious of ur opinion on which one would be better. thanks

if you have to select from those 2, Take the 8 function, 20 range with
true RMS.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5-Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

Well I solved the problem.... I bought one that has the true RMS
reading function, the CAT III-600V and it has a built-in InfraRed
thermometer. So I think this one sould do it.


So what's the brand and model of the one you bought?

Dave.
http://www.testequipmentdepot.com/extech/clampmeters/ex800series.htm

Ex830, 1000 Amp Clamp AC/DC with all the goodies

Good tool box toss around meter.., It also has thermo pointer in it.

I wouldn't do anything precision with it how ever, it's good for basic
industrial probing around. It's also great for HVAC guys, it just about
has it all in one..


--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"
http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5
 
On Nov 28, 8:32 pm, Jamie
<jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:
amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
On Nov 28, 6:49 pm, Jamie
jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:

amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:

I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

there both important how ever, having a true RMS meter is very
important also one that is rated in the CAT II and III.
The Auto Ranging is good if you make a mistake. Some lower meters
are not forgiving. If you're careful, you'll be ok.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5

8-function, 20-range multimeter offers true RMS readings for accurate
voltage, current and temperature. CAT III-600V rating. Audible and
visual warnings to help improper test lead input.

11-function, autoranging, voltage current temp, CAT II-600V, but no
true RMS readings.

just curious of ur opinion on which one would be better. thanks

if you have to select from those 2, Take the 8 function, 20 range with
true RMS.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -
Well I solved the problem.... I bought one that has the true RMS
reading function, the CAT III-600V and it has a built-in InfraRed
thermometer. So I think this one sould do it.
 
On Nov 28, 8:54 pm, amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
On Nov 28, 8:32 pm, Jamie





jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:
amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
On Nov 28, 6:49 pm, Jamie
jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:

amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:

I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

there both important how ever, having a true RMS meter is very
important also one that is rated in the CAT II and III.
The Auto Ranging is good if you make a mistake. Some lower meters
are not forgiving. If you're careful, you'll be ok.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5

8-function, 20-range multimeter offers true RMS readings for accurate
voltage, current and temperature. CAT III-600V rating. Audible and
visual warnings to help improper test lead input.

11-function, autoranging, voltage current temp, CAT II-600V, but no
true RMS readings.

just curious of ur opinion on which one would be better. thanks

if you have to select from those 2, Take the 8 function, 20 range with
true RMS.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5-Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

Well I solved the problem.... I bought one that has the true RMS
reading function, the autoranging function, CAT III-600V and it has a built-in InfraRed
thermometer. So I think this one sould do it.- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -
 
On Nov 28, 8:55 pm, amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
On Nov 28, 8:54 pm, amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:



On Nov 28, 8:32 pm, Jamie

jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:
amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
On Nov 28, 6:49 pm, Jamie
jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:

amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:

I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

there both important how ever, having a true RMS meter is very
important also one that is rated in the CAT II and III.
The Auto Ranging is good if you make a mistake. Some lower meters
are not forgiving. If you're careful, you'll be ok.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5

8-function, 20-range multimeter offers true RMS readings for accurate
voltage, current and temperature. CAT III-600V rating. Audible and
visual warnings to help improper test lead input.

11-function, autoranging, voltage current temp, CAT II-600V, but no
true RMS readings.

just curious of ur opinion on which one would be better. thanks

if you have to select from those 2, Take the 8 function, 20 range with
true RMS.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5-Hidequoted text -

- Show quoted text -


- Show quoted text -- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -
Well I solved the problem.... I bought one that has the true RMS
reading function, the autoranging function, CAT III-600V and it has a built-in InfraRed
thermometer. So I think this one sould do it. Thanks for your help
 
On Nov 29, 10:26 am, amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.
Technically speaking, the True RMS function is more important.
Without True RMS, you can't measure all AC signals as accurately. But
lack of autoranging does not compromise the actual meters performance.

The two are not mutually exclusive, get one with both!
A Meterman 37XR/38XR is True RMS and autoranging, and it top quality
at a reasonable price.
If you are really strapped for cash, get a cheaper brand with both.
Autoranging is a must-have, so much more convenient than manual
ranging.

There is really no reason to buy a manual range meter these days,
Autorange is cheap and readily available.

Dave.
 
On Nov 29, 12:54 pm, amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
On Nov 28, 8:32 pm, Jamie



jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:
amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
On Nov 28, 6:49 pm, Jamie
jamie_ka1lpa_not_valid_after_ka1l...@charter.net> wrote:

amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:

I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

there both important how ever, having a true RMS meter is very
important also one that is rated in the CAT II and III.
The Auto Ranging is good if you make a mistake. Some lower meters
are not forgiving. If you're careful, you'll be ok.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5

8-function, 20-range multimeter offers true RMS readings for accurate
voltage, current and temperature. CAT III-600V rating. Audible and
visual warnings to help improper test lead input.

11-function, autoranging, voltage current temp, CAT II-600V, but no
true RMS readings.

just curious of ur opinion on which one would be better. thanks

if you have to select from those 2, Take the 8 function, 20 range with
true RMS.

--
"I'd rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy"http://webpages.charter.net/jamie_5-Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

Well I solved the problem.... I bought one that has the true RMS
reading function, the CAT III-600V and it has a built-in InfraRed
thermometer. So I think this one sould do it.
So what's the brand and model of the one you bought?

Dave.
 
"David Lying Jones "
Technically speaking, the True RMS function is more important.
Without True RMS, you can't measure all AC signals as accurately.

** That is more D L Jerkoff self opinionated bollocks.

There is nothing inherently more "accurate" about measuring / computing the
rms value of an AC wave.

Non " rms " multimeters respond to the "average rectified value" of the AC
wave - scaled up to display the exact rms value with sine wave signals. As
the vast majority of AC voltages and currents encountered in ELECTRICAL work
have close to sine wave shape - this is perfectly good method.

The peak value and /or the average rectified value of a non-sine AC wave
are more likely to be important to know than the more obscure " true rms"
value. If the wave shape matters, then you need a scope to look at it.

PLUS - the "true rms" function of budget multimeters has *woefully narrow*
measurement bandwidth ( often < 500Hz ) which * INHERENTLY * spoils the
supposed accuracy of all readings of non sine wave forms - which typically
contain harmonics to well beyond the accurate measurement range of such
multimeters.


But lack of autoranging does not compromise the actual meters performance.

** It sure as hell compromises the operator in most service situations.




....... Phil
 
amdiegel@svsu.edu wrote:

I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.
Autoranging is invaluable.

True RMS is nice but hardly necessary for most electronics and certainly not for
a beginner. It's also expensive. Just be aware that most meters indicate average
current not RMS.

Graham
 
Jamie wrote:

amdiegel@svsu.edu wrote:

I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.
there both important how ever, having a true RMS meter is very
important also one that is rated in the CAT II and III.
Ignore Jamie's nonsense.

He's not very experienced in electronics but has a big mouth and can't resist
talking about stuff he doesn't understand.

Graham
 
In article <f08c45e0-5eaf-4d43-8448-
3467e341d90c@d21g2000prf.googlegroups.com>, altzone@gmail.com says...
On Nov 29, 10:26 am, amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

Technically speaking, the True RMS function is more important.
Without True RMS, you can't measure all AC signals as accurately. But
lack of autoranging does not compromise the actual meters performance.

The two are not mutually exclusive, get one with both!
A Meterman 37XR/38XR is True RMS and autoranging, and it top quality
at a reasonable price.
If you are really strapped for cash, get a cheaper brand with both.
Autoranging is a must-have, so much more convenient than manual
ranging.

There is really no reason to buy a manual range meter these days,
Autorange is cheap and readily available.

Dave.
For my purposes I didn't need anythign special. I picked up a DMM at
Radio Shack for $29 Catlog number 22-813.

It does auto-range for AC and DC voltage.

The only gripe I have is the way the leads plug into the unit. They can
come loose very easily.
 
In article <4fe0b9f7-624e-46ef-a0c6-
2bea3a29434e@s19g2000prg.googlegroups.com>, altzone@gmail.com says...
On Nov 29, 4:40 pm, T <nospam.k...@cox.nospam.net> wrote:
In article <f08c45e0-5eaf-4d43-8448-
3467e341d...@d21g2000prf.googlegroups.com>, altz...@gmail.com says...



On Nov 29, 10:26 am, amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

Technically speaking, the True RMS function is more important.
Without True RMS, you can't measure all AC signals as accurately. But
lack of autoranging does not compromise the actual meters performance.

The two are not mutually exclusive, get one with both!
A Meterman 37XR/38XR is True RMS and autoranging, and it top quality
at a reasonable price.
If you are really strapped for cash, get a cheaper brand with both.
Autoranging is a must-have, so much more convenient than manual
ranging.

There is really no reason to buy a manual range meter these days,
Autorange is cheap and readily available.

Dave.

For my purposes I didn't need anythign special. I picked up a DMM at
Radio Shack for $29 Catlog number 22-813.

It does auto-range for AC and DC voltage.

The only gripe I have is the way the leads plug into the unit. They can
come loose very easily.

That's unreliable and potentially dangerous.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?summary=summary&techSpecs=techSpecs&currentTab=techSpecs&custRatings=custRatings&features=features&accessories=accessories&productId=2103176&support=support&tab=custRatings
Not exactly glowing reviews.

Do yourself a favour and toss it in the bin.

Dave.
Considering that for the most part the highest voltage it will ever see
is 12V I don't think I'll have too many problems.
 
In article <4fe0b9f7-624e-46ef-a0c6-
2bea3a29434e@s19g2000prg.googlegroups.com>, altzone@gmail.com says...
On Nov 29, 4:40 pm, T <nospam.k...@cox.nospam.net> wrote:
In article <f08c45e0-5eaf-4d43-8448-
3467e341d...@d21g2000prf.googlegroups.com>, altz...@gmail.com says...



On Nov 29, 10:26 am, amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

Technically speaking, the True RMS function is more important.
Without True RMS, you can't measure all AC signals as accurately. But
lack of autoranging does not compromise the actual meters performance.

The two are not mutually exclusive, get one with both!
A Meterman 37XR/38XR is True RMS and autoranging, and it top quality
at a reasonable price.
If you are really strapped for cash, get a cheaper brand with both.
Autoranging is a must-have, so much more convenient than manual
ranging.

There is really no reason to buy a manual range meter these days,
Autorange is cheap and readily available.

Dave.

For my purposes I didn't need anythign special. I picked up a DMM at
Radio Shack for $29 Catlog number 22-813.

It does auto-range for AC and DC voltage.

The only gripe I have is the way the leads plug into the unit. They can
come loose very easily.

That's unreliable and potentially dangerous.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?summary=summary&techSpecs=techSpecs&currentTab=techSpecs&custRatings=custRatings&features=features&accessories=accessories&productId=2103176&support=support&tab=custRatings
Not exactly glowing reviews.

Do yourself a favour and toss it in the bin.

Dave.
I note that most of the bad reviews have to do with blown fuses on the
unit. One of them was ridiculous, the end had broken off where the leads
connect and the reviewer didn't know how to fix it? Come on.

I have no problem opening it up to fix it should I have to do so.
 
On Nov 29, 4:40 pm, T <nospam.k...@cox.nospam.net> wrote:
In article <f08c45e0-5eaf-4d43-8448-
3467e341d...@d21g2000prf.googlegroups.com>, altz...@gmail.com says...



On Nov 29, 10:26 am, amdie...@svsu.edu wrote:
I have a question about multimeters and was wondering if ne one could
answer a question for me.
I was curious if it was more important if the meter has an autoranging
function or a true RMS function. I need to purchase one and I don't
know which is more important to have.

Technically speaking, the True RMS function is more important.
Without True RMS, you can't measure all AC signals as accurately. But
lack of autoranging does not compromise the actual meters performance.

The two are not mutually exclusive, get one with both!
A Meterman 37XR/38XR is True RMS and autoranging, and it top quality
at a reasonable price.
If you are really strapped for cash, get a cheaper brand with both.
Autoranging is a must-have, so much more convenient than manual
ranging.

There is really no reason to buy a manual range meter these days,
Autorange is cheap and readily available.

Dave.

For my purposes I didn't need anythign special. I picked up a DMM at
Radio Shack for $29 Catlog number 22-813.

It does auto-range for AC and DC voltage.

The only gripe I have is the way the leads plug into the unit. They can
come loose very easily.
That's unreliable and potentially dangerous.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?summary=summary&techSpecs=techSpecs&currentTab=techSpecs&custRatings=custRatings&features=features&accessories=accessories&productId=2103176&support=support&tab=custRatings
Not exactly glowing reviews.

Do yourself a favour and toss it in the bin.

Dave.
 

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