Suggested Multi Meter

[AndrewBird]

Well, after much annoyance with my previous multi meter, I need a new one. My price range is about $100. It needs to be digital. I would like it to be auto ranging, but it is not absolutely necessary. If it measured temperature, that would be a plus. It needs to be able to read amperage, voltage, both AC and DC, ohms, a diode function would be nice and possibly a continuity tester. What do guys you suggest I get?

[DanGillan]

over you're price range, but i just picked up a fluke 88. about $600. its fucking awesome. if you can, spend the money, you'll never need another one.

[nando]

figure out how much you have to spend, and get the best Fluke DMM you can afford. I wouldn't buy anything that didn't have autoranging.. I got a pretty basic one that does everything I need for about $75, don't know the model # though.

[parkerbink]

I love my Fluke 88!!!

A quick check of froogle reveals the deluxe kit which has most of the needed probes & connectors including:

Combo Kit Includes: 88V multimeter, TL224 silicone test leads, AC285 long reach alligator clips, TP220 test probes, RPM 80 inductive RPM pick-up, magnet and strap, 80BK temperature probe, two automotive backprobe pins, insulation piercing probe, C800 durable carrying case, holster, 9V battery (installed), Getting Started Manual, and CD with detailed manual.

for 385.61:

http://www.sjdiscounttools.com/flu88.html

[StereoInstaller1]

I have had 2 Fluke meters...bought my first in about 1982. It finally broke in about 1998. Bought a 77 at Sears for about $120 (IIRC).

I imagine I will always buy Fluke meters. I use the hell out of my meters. They get kicked, dropped, used by other neanderthals...I have no brand loyalty at all, but I swear by Fluke.

Luke

[parkerbink]

I have had 2 Fluke meters...bought my first in about 1982. It finally broke in about 1998. Bought a 77 at Sears for about $120 (IIRC).

I imagine I will always buy Fluke meters. I use the hell out of my meters. They get kicked, dropped, used by other neanderthals...I have no brand loyalty at all, but I swear by Fluke.

Luke

Maybe because their name contains your name?

No but really Fluke is the only way to go. Mine is about 10 years old and like Luke said it has been mistreated badly and not only still works but looks fine too.

[mspiegle]

While I am a total fan of fluke, I got a $70 craftsman meter and its done me well so far.

The next meter I buy is going to be a fluke scopemeter... so it'll be a while before I can justify spending money on one of those (think $1500+).

[AndrewBird]

Alrighty. Well I'm looking on e-bay and find a few for $150-$250, so I might just spring and buy one of those. I don't need that good of a meter now, but I can guarantee I will at some point, so maybe buying one now would be a good idea.

[EtaSport]

The fluke 73 that I have has all the functions that you requested. It cost around 130 new.

[mrsleeve]

OTC, DAT, Digital Automotive Tester part number #3545
I will do all sorts of shit, Full multi meter (auto rangeing), sensor tester, fuel injection and presure tester, battery drain tester, noid lights, and chargeing system tester!

the compleat kit can be had on ebay brand new for 279 from USAtool where house IIRC (ebay store). I know its out of the price range but is verry much worth it!!! Its what I use and it saves alot of headaches when trying to figure out shit. It will retail at the parts store for 695 so the ebay store it the palce to go, that is where I got mine at.

[AdamF 88iS]

Fluke > *.DMM