Multimeter: which one is better to choose for home use

Multimeter: which is the best device to choose for use at home

During electrical installation work, it is constantly necessary to measure electrical characteristics: current strength, resistance and voltage. It is convenient to carry out measurements of these values with the help of a tester, which must necessarily be present in the arsenal of a good owner. The article will consider such a device as a multimeter: which one is better to choose so that it meets the stated requirements, is convenient to use and has an affordable cost.

A multimeter is a combined electrical measuring device that combines the functions of a voltmeter, ammeter and ohmmeter

Multimeter: which one is better to choose based on the technical characteristics

Every owner should have a device in the house that will measure all kinds of electrical parameters. It will help to detect a wire break, find out the voltage in the battery or outlet, check the integrity of the heating element, lamp and other electrical components.

The MS8232 electronic multimeter is equipped with all the necessary functions and is convenient to use

When choosing a multimeter, you should be guided by the characteristics that are necessary for solving specific tasks. A simple tester is quite enough for an electrician to measure voltage, check resistance and ring the circuit. For an electrician whose job is to maintain electrical equipment, the “current pliers” function will be useful, allowing you to measure the load during the operation of the equipment without interfering with the circuit. This will prevent accidents.

KIP masters will need the following functions: voltmeter, ohmmeter, ammeter, frequency meter, inductance and capacitance meter.

The device must not only be equipped with the necessary functions, but also be convenient to use. For permanent use, you can choose a pocket digital multimeter, which is slightly larger than a regular lighter. If the work is carried out in one place, then it is better to choose a larger device that will also transmit more accurate readings.

The multimeter model must be selected depending on the required functions

The choice of a multimeter comes down to the main criteria:

• device type;
• functional capabilities of the device;
• errors of operation;
• design features;
• degrees of protection from dust, moisture and other influences;
• electrical safety class of the device;
• manufacturer.

Features of different types of devices

All multimeters, regardless of the type of device, perform the same range of tasks. However, when deciding which multimeter to choose, you should know and take into account all the advantages and disadvantages of a particular device model.

Testers are divided into two types:

• digital (electronic);
• analog (arrow).

A Chinese-made dial (analog) multimeter is less accurate than a digital one

The electronic tester is ideal for solving everyday tasks. It is easy and convenient to work with it, because it will not be difficult to read the reading displayed on the display, as shown in the photo. You can choose a digital multimeter, the price of which differs depending on the functionality of the device, in specialized stores where various models are presented. It is more difficult to accurately determine the reading on an analog multimeter, because it varies depending on the angle at which the arrow is viewed.

It is easier for a professional electrician to work with a switch tester, who must monitor the dynamics of changes in the indicators of the electrical circuit. The digital multimeter does not have such a function. However, it has many other features that the arrow multimeter is not equipped with. Depending on this, the price is formed. You can buy a digital multimeter starting from 240 rubles.

To measure the indicators on a digital device, it is not necessary to observe the polarity. If the “-” sign is shown in front of the number on the display, then the tester was connected in reverse order. On the arrow multimeter, without observing the polarity, the arrow deviates beyond the scale.

The battery charge of the electronic multimeter is consumed during all measurements that are true until the battery is discharged. In analog, energy is stored when measuring voltage and amperage. However, the arrow starts to deviate from zero only depending on the low battery.

Some models of multimeters are equipped with an additional function that records previous measurement readings.

Useful advice! If you need to record the dynamics of measurements, but you do not want to work with an inconvenient scale for reading the results, you can purchase a tester with a display and an arrow.

Functionality and important characteristics of the device

Determining which multimeter is better to buy, reviews of which can be read on the Internet, should be guided by its functional features. After all, each new function affects the cost of the tester.

All testers are equipped with a basic set of functions:

• DC current measurement;
• changing the alternating current;
• checking the AC voltage in the network up to 700 V and DC in the circuits;
• ringing the circuit and checking the integrity of the state of the contacts;
• measuring the resistance of conductors.

Some models of testers can be equipped with the following specific features (more often this applies to digital devices):

• the ability to test semiconductor devices;
• frequency and temperature measurement;
• measuring the capacitance of the capacitor;

The standard function of all multimeters is to ring the circuit and check the integrity of the contacts

• test signal generation function;
• power off timer;
• automatic display illumination;
• automatic determination of permissible measurement limits;
• the function of fixing readings.

One of the most important characteristics of this device is the accuracy of all measurements, which is determined in the error of the device. This indicator should be within 0.025-3%. Multimeters for household use can be selected with an error of 3%, and for professional purposes it is better to choose the most accurate devices. This indicator will affect how much the multimeter costs. The price of a more accurate device will be at least 800 rubles, and a simpler one will cost 240 rubles.

To obtain more accurate results, the instruments can be equipped with an automatic measurement range selection function. There are models in which this can be done manually.

Another important indicator is the bit depth of the display, which is characterized by the ability to display a certain number of decimal places on the screen. Depending on this, the devices can be with a bit depth from 2.5 (0.01) to 6.5 (0.000001).

For electrical installation work, it is worth choosing a high-class electrical safety multimeter

It’s important to know! It should be borne in mind that no matter what bit depth the device has, the accuracy of all measurements will depend on the tester’s error indicators.

Most of the testers are powered by 9V crown batteries. This type of charge is suitable for periodic use of the device. If it is used for continuous operation, then a li-ion battery should be preferred.

Useful advice! If all measurements are constantly carried out at one workplace, then it is advisable to power the device from the mains. To do this, you will need a voltage converter from 220 to 9 V.

The peculiarity of the operation of the device is affected by its electrical safety class. Multimeters of the CAT I class are designed for operation in low voltage networks. CAT II testers are used in household power grids. CAT III devices should be used in networks inside buildings and structures. And the measuring devices of CAT IV are intended for outdoor distribution work.

When using a multimeter, it is worth paying special attention to the safety rules that can be found in the instructions for the device

How to use a digital multimeter

To measure the voltage in the home outlet, set the switch to the ACV position, install the black probe into the COM connector, and the red one — VΩmA. If the expected value is unknown, measurements should begin with a maximum value of 750 V. If “0” appears, then you should switch to a scale with a lower voltage level. To measure DC voltage, for example, electrical wiring in a car, you should set the switch to DCV mode.

To measure the current strength, you first need to know exactly what current is present in the circuit and its approximate value. This is important for choosing a suitable connector for the red probe.

Useful advice! In order not to cause the device to malfunction without knowing the current value, you should insert a red probe into the 10 A connector. If, after the red probe is located in the 10 A socket, a small value is displayed on the display, then switch the plug to the VΩmA connector and set the required measurement range.

Digital devices are more convenient to work with, since they are usually equipped with more useful functions than arrow ones

Voltage measurement is the safest for the device. To do this, it is enough to set the rotary switch to position Ω and make measurements. It should be remembered that the power in the circuit must be turned off, otherwise the device will show an incorrect value. If the display shows “0”, the multimeter should be switched to a lower measurement range. If one of the values, “OL”, “1” or “OVER” is displayed on the scoreboard, this indicates an overload of the device. In this case, it is necessary to set the switch to a higher range.

With the help of a multimeter, you can ring an electrical circuit. To do this, turn the switch to the desired position and connect the red probe to the VΩmA connector. In case of a closed circuit, the tester will beep. It should be noted that the section of the circuit that is planned to be rung must be disconnected from the power supply.

Rating of multimeters most in demand among consumers

When it comes to the question of which multimeter to choose for home and car, the choice is obvious. One of the best budget testers is the Chinese-made DT-830B device. A small-sized multimeter has a set of necessary functions that a home craftsman will need.

The basic equipment of the DT-830B multimeter includes probes, a K-type thermocouple, a 9 V battery, instructions and a warranty card

It is suitable for measuring the voltage in the electrical network between two points, resistance, current values. With its help, you can check the integrity of a semiconductor diode by determining its voltage, ring the circuit with a resistance of up to 5 ohms, test a semiconductor transistor, measure inductance and electrical capacitance. The best multimeter for home DT-830B can be bought for 250 rubles. The device is protected from loads, and the power is supplied from a 9 V crown battery.

Many beginners have a question: how to use the DT 830B multimeter? Everything is extremely simple, the main thing is to clearly follow the instructions to the device, which describes in detail all the actions necessary to measure a specific physical quantity. For example, for wiring in an apartment or determining a break in the network, it is necessary to measure the resistance. To do this, the rotary switch is set to the appropriate position. If the device beeps, the circuit is closed. If there is no signal, it indicates a circuit break or the resistance value exceeds 50 ohms.

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When measuring current, it is very important to know how to use the DT 830V multimeter with its large value. In case of incorrect placement of the red probe, the internal fuse of the device can be disabled. You should also switch modes carefully. If the switch is mistakenly set to DCA to measure the voltage, you can create a short circuit in your own hands.

Probes for the DT 830V series multimeter can be purchased separately, which makes it easy to replace them in case of a breakdown

The device may fail if it is switched on incorrectly or if contacts are lost. Repair of the DT 830B multimeter begins with checking the power supply to the device. Then you should check the performance of the chip. It is serviceable if the voltage is 3 V, and there is no gap between its common output and the power supply. A fuse often fails, which must be replaced with a new one. Do not work with probes that have damaged insulation. For your own safety, you should buy silicone probes for a multimeter, the price of which starts from 50 rubles.

Advanced models of the DT series

The instructions for using the DT 832 multimeter are identical as for the previous model. This model additionally has a built-in signal generator. A fuse is provided in the design of the tester, which protects the device from overloads.

The instructions of the DT 832 digital multimeter clearly indicate the limit values for each measurement range that cannot be exceeded, and the accuracy of their determination. The device can be measured:

• direct current in the range from 200 Ma to 20 A;
• alternating voltage from 200 V to 750 V;
• constant voltage from 200 mV to 1000 V;
• resistance from 200 ohms to 2 mohms;
• transistor gain;
• the ringing of connections.

The DT 832 multimeter is an ideal option for home use, as it is simple and convenient to use, and also equipped with all the basic and necessary functions

How to use the DT 832 multimeter to measure the gain? To do this, the transistor must be connected to the corresponding connector of the device by setting the limit switch to the hFE position. At the same time, it is necessary to strictly observe the conductivity and cycling of the transistor.

According to the scheme of the DT 832 multimeter, the basis of the device is a case-free chip, the crystal is directly soldered to the printed circuit board. Here is a source of stabilizing voltage of 3 V. If it fails, the device cannot be repaired.

Another popular model is the Resanta DT 838 multimeter. This device allows you to measure alternating and direct current, resistance, voltage, temperature and perform a sound run of the wire. It can operate at temperatures from 0 to +40 °C. The tester measures the indicator not once, but 3-4 times. Selects the average indicator from the results obtained, which is displayed on the screen.

A feature of the DT9208A multimeter is the ability to test semiconductor devices

To understand the operation of the device, you should study in detail the circuit of the DT 838 multimeter, which is given in the operating instructions. In addition to the basic parameters, the device can measure temperatures up to 1300 ° C using an external sensor. To do this, select the appropriate mode, and instead of the probes, connect the thermocouple that is included in the kit. It is necessary directly to determine the temperature of the object, in its absence, the device displays its internal temperature.

Repair the DT 838 multimeter with your own hands should be based on the device diagram. The following indicators indicate a malfunction of the device:

A detailed repair process of the DT 838 multimeter, the scheme of which clearly shows the principle of its operation, can be read on specialized websites on the Internet.

Multimeter circuit DT 838

Other popular testers

Next in the ranking is the compact digital multimeter RM 101, which is considered a semi-professional device. It has a large LCD screen on which the readings are clearly visible even from some distance. The device automatically detects the measurement range. In addition to standard features, the device can measure the capacitance of capacitors.

The multimeter has the function of auto-off and sound notification. The tester is powered by two AAA elements. You can buy a digital multimeter for 1500 rubles.

The simple DT 830 multimeter was replaced by the DT 9208 A digital tester, which combines high functionality and affordable price.

The multimeter is characterized by an extended measurement range and is used for measurements:

• DC voltage in the range of 200 mV, 2 V, 200 V and 1000 V;
• AC voltage — 750 V, 200 V, 20 V;
• resistance and circuit integrity;

The DT 9208 A digital tester kit includes a power battery and probes, which allows you to use the device immediately after purchase

• DC current in the range of 20 mA, 200 mA, 20 A;
• AC – 200 mA, 20 A;
• frequencies in the range of 2 kHz – 200 kHz;
• temperatures from -40 to 1000 ° C;
• parameters of transistors and diodes;
• capacitance of capacitors.

The device is equipped with a shutdown timer, which saves battery capacity and switch life.

The principle of operation of the device is the same as that of previous analogues. If the “!” sign is displayed on the display next to the sockets of the device, this indicates that the input voltage and current exceed the specified values. Such notification is aimed at preventing damage to the device circuit. Before any measurement, you must use the switch to set the required range. If the symbol “1” appears on the display, which indicates an overload of the device, it is necessary to switch it to the upper limit. The price of DT 9208 A is 700 rubles.

The Mastech MY68 multimeter allows you to measure DC and AC current and voltage, resistance, frequency of a sinusoidal signal, check the capacitance of capacitors and the operation of semiconductor networks, determine the gain of bipolar transistors, ring electrical circuits. The mnemonic scale at the bottom of the display shows the received data in a linear form.

The MY68 multimeter from Mastech is designed and manufactured in accordance with European quality standards

The device is characterized by a high input resistance, which indicates a high accuracy of the device. The multimeter automatically determines the limit of measurement of physical quantities. The “hold” button allows you to fix the received last value. The tester is equipped with an automatic device shutdown system if it is inactive for 40 minutes. To choose a digital multimeter, the price of which is about 1200 rubles, is for professional use.

The measuring device should be selected based on the scope of its further use. If the multimeter will be used exclusively for household purposes, then preference should be given to conventional models. For specialized measurements, a multifunctional and high-precision instrument should be purchased.