Multimeters
Multimeters are an essential tool for basis test and measurement. Found everywhere there is electricity, multimeters measure voltage and current, as well as resistance, capacitance and many more. Not all products are the same, therefore it is important to weigh your requirements against the unit’s capability.
There are several factors to consider when selecting a multimeter. A few good questions to start with are:
- What type of voltage do you want to measure – AC, DC, both?
- What are the maximum and minimum voltages you would measure?
- Do you need to measure current?
- Do you need a meter that is True RMS?
- Do you need to test additional factors, such as:
- Resistance
- Capacitance
- Continuity
- Frequency
- Temperature
- What accuracy do you require?
Multimeters are available in both portable and benchtop formats.
Portable units are battery powered and compact, enabling users to take measurements almost anywhere. Products are available for basic, general use, as well as specialized, trade specific applications, such as industrial maintenance, and HVAC. There are also many accessories available, expanding the capability of your meter, including current clamps, thermocouples and specialized leads.
Benchtop units are larger, but also more advanced. Benchtop multimeters are highly accurate and very common in laboratory applications. They can perform many types of tests and contain a variety of interfaces not found on portable meters. Connections include USB, GPIB and RS-232.