This article sheds light on the three prevalent digital multimeter types – Fluke DMMs, clamp meters, and autoranging meters. Their key attributes, applications, and selecting the suitable one based on measurements, environment, and budget are explored.

When selecting a DMM, the most important factors to consider are reliability, accuracy, safety features, and capabilities needed for your particular applications. While fancier models offer extras like wireless connectivity and data logging, the core functionality remains the same.

For most users, a sturdy mid-range panel meter or DMM that balances affordability with performance will suffice. Here’s an overview of three of the most popular types of digital multimeters available and key differences that impact usability.

Types of Digital Multimeter 

Here are 3 of the most common types of multimeter:

Fluke Digital Multimeters

For electricians seeking the utmost precision, Fluke digital multimeters can’t be beat. Since 1948, Fluke has been perfecting their digital multimeter design to deliver accurate and reliable measurements. Whether in industrial plants, commercial buildings, or homes, Fluke DMMs consistently provide top-tier performance.

Packed with advanced capabilities, Fluke meters aid electricians in troubleshooting issues and maintaining equipment optimally. Beyond voltage, current, and resistance, Fluke DMMs can measure an array of parameters. For instance, the Fluke 87V Industrial meter checks frequency, capacitance, temperature, duty cycle, and more. Special models even diagnose diode condition, test non-contact voltage, and identify motor winding problems. Strong protection circuits prevent damage from overvoltage and overloads.

Fluke utilizes high-resolution displays and customized sampling to achieve lab-quality precision. Their user interfaces offer simple, intuitive operation in dim, cramped spaces. Rigid casings withstand impacts, drops, and harsh environments. Decades of experience have allowed Fluke to craft meters providing unparalleled accuracy under demanding conditions. Whether testing infrastructure in industrial plants or tracing issues in the home, electricians the world over rely on Fluke’s best-in-class digital multimeters.

Clamp Meters

Unlike a traditional digital multimeter, clamp meters don’t require physically disconnecting wires to measure current. As the name suggests, you simply clamp the meter’s jaws around a conductor and its clever circuitry does the rest.

Inside the hinged jaw is a current transformer that detects the conductor’s magnetic field. The digital multimeter then derives amperage based on the field strength. Models are available for measuring from microamps to thousands of amps.

Clamp designs make it easy to safely test live high-voltage, high-current circuits in tight spaces. There’s no need to break connections or power down equipment. Just clamp and read the current.

Clamp meters provide the same voltage, resistance, continuity and other capabilities as standard DMMs. High-end versions even offer wireless connectivity and data logging.

Electricians and field technicians particularly favor clamp meters when troubleshooting wiring problems and performing preventive maintenance. Perfect for quick current checks in live panels or massive industrial equipment.

Autoranging Multimeters

Most digital multimeters require manually setting the measurement range before testing voltage, resistance, etc. You need to dial in the range that covers your expected reading. Set it too low, and you risk blowing the fuse if the reading exceeds the range.

Autoranging DMMs remove this guesswork by automatically detecting the ideal range for the parameter being measured. Just connect to the circuit and the digital multimeter selects the correct range based on the sensed input.

Behind the scenes, automotive digital multimeter rapidly cycles through multiple internal shunt resistors to find the optimal resolution range. This self-adjustment simplifies usage, as you can just test without worrying about settings.

The tradeoff is increased cost and complexity. Budget buyers may prefer a manual-range DMM, while those seeking convenience will appreciate autoranging capability. It’s particularly handy for beginners unfamiliar with dialing ranges.

Autoranging isn’t found exclusively on expensive DMMs – many affordable general-use models include the feature. Just beware problems like worn contacts can cause autoranging instability.

How to Select a Digital Multimeter

Choosing the right digital multimeter (DMM) for your needs requires carefully considering a few key factors. This ensures you get a meter suited to your particular applications and budget. Follow these tips when picking out your next digital multimeter:

Determine Required Measurements

First, make a list of the parameters you need to measure and the expected value ranges. This includes voltage, current, resistance, frequency, duty cycle, capacitance, and any other needed tests.

Knowing the full scope of measurements ensures your DMM has sufficient capabilities and ranges. The meter’s resolution should provide accuracy to detect small measurement variations.

Consider Usage Environment

Think about where and how you will use the digital multimeter. In the field? At home? In a lab? Understanding the operating conditions helps determine durability needs.

If used in tough industrial settings, select a meter with robust casing to handle drops and impacts. Look for weatherproofing if exposed to moisture or extremes. Also consider size and grip for easy handling with gloves.

For home use, affordability may be the priority. Just ensure basic safety ratings are met.

Analyze Features and Ease of Use

Compare features between models like backlit display, data hold, auto power off, and low battery indication. Make sure the user interface allows simple operation.

If performing repetitive tests, automated logging capability could be useful. Clamp meters provide added convenience for current measurements.

Set a Realistic Budget

Digital multimeter prices span from under $10 to over $1,000. Set a budget that aligns with your skill level and projected meter usage.

While professional-grade DMMs have premium price tags, they offer unmatched precision and durability that can justify costs for frequent use. Consider warranty coverage too.

Conclusion

Understanding the key types of digital multimeter empowers you to select the right DMM for your specific needs. But choosing a digital multimeter that offers accuracy, durability, and ease of use is just the first step. To perform electrical testing and troubleshooting safely and effectively, you also need high quality accessories like test probes, alligator clips, and carrying cases.

TOSUNlux provides a complete range of professional DMM accessories to complement your new meter. Visit TOSUNlux website to shop their line of tested, certified accessories purpose-built for electricians and technicians.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

What is a digital multimeter used for? 

Digital multimeters (DMMs) are super handy for diagnosing electrical issues, especially in vehicles. Professional mechanics and weekend warriors alike use them to test voltage, current, resistance, and more. So whether you’re troubleshooting weird electrical gremlins or installing new parts, a good automotive DMM helps you work safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between a multimeter and a digital multimeter?

The main difference is analog vs digital display. Multimeters can be analog or digital, while digital multimeters (DMMs) are always digital. DMMs provide more precise readings. They’re generally easier to read and more accurate.