frudoc
Apprentice Shielder
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Post by frudoc on Apr 11, 2011 20:29:47 GMT -5
As some of you know by now, I am new to all of this stuff - and I mean ALL of it. I need to get a multimeter, but am not sure where the balance between quality and cost lies. As far as I can tell, I would like something that is relatively easy to read (a backlight would be nice), is auto-ranging, and measures capacitance (sounds like I know what those things mean, doesn't it?). Basically, I have gathered from a couple of you that these are some nice features to have, and I need something that is as easy as possible - and as hard as possible for me to screw up while I am learning.
So, if any of you guys (or gals) have any recommendations for a suitable meter at a decent price (I am hoping to keep it below $30 or $40 tops; less is better, but not one that I will have to replace or suffer with), I am all ears (or eyes as the case may be).
Thanks!
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Post by newey on Apr 11, 2011 22:34:25 GMT -5
Most consumer-grade multimeters measure resistance, current, and voltage. Some add continuity testers and a few add additional functions.
The kicker is when you say you want one to measure capacitance. Now you've boosted the price point beyond the $40, to upwards of $80 or so (at least, the last time I looked at one). These are called "LCR meters", they measure capacitance, inductance and resistance.
Forego the capacitance, and your $30 can buy you 2 decent regular multimeters . . .
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frudoc
Apprentice Shielder
Posts: 28
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Post by frudoc on Apr 11, 2011 23:20:49 GMT -5
OK. Fair enough. Honestly, I don't even know what capacitance is yet - well, not totally. I am reading as much as I can find, but you know the interweb: tons of information, a little bit of good information. I read somewhere that it was a good thing for a guitar tech to have, so I included it.
Any other opinions are coveted. Recommendations - even with links - would be awesome too so I can see some of this stuff.
Thanks!
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Post by JFrankParnell on Apr 12, 2011 10:49:36 GMT -5
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Post by sbgodofmetal on Apr 12, 2011 14:13:15 GMT -5
try walmart they've got a good digital one for $12. it'll be good for years if properly cared after, and its a good meter to start out with. its always easier to start out simple an not over complicate your work and gradually build your way up to what you want. especially when your unsure of what your trying to do.
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Post by ashcatlt on Apr 12, 2011 21:29:05 GMT -5
Especially since you mentioned that you might be looking into effects and/or amp type wiring eventually, I'd encourage you to think forward a little bit. It might do you some good to pay a little extra for some things you don't really need - or even understand - right now in case you end up needing them in future. Why spend $12 now and then $40 in a couple years? There's honestly very little hope for you after you get that first whiff of solder fumes! I have this one. Granted, it was a present for that wintertime holiday, but it still just barely fits into your stated budget if you can squint a little at the shipping. It measures Resistance and Capacitance, DC and AC voltage and Current, Frequency, Forward Voltage Drop of Diodes, and even Temperature. You can use it to debug a guitar or effects pedal and then check if your turkey is done!
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frudoc
Apprentice Shielder
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Post by frudoc on Apr 13, 2011 0:57:35 GMT -5
Well, I just missed your reply. I totally agree with your thoughts on buying something now and then in two years. I think the same way. That said, I decided to just get something. I went down to my local RadioShack and picked up the "Extech DIY Electrical Test Value Kit." goo.gl/OcMDxI saw that it was available locally, which I try to support when possible; I read as many reviews as I could and found a lot of happy folks; and figured it would help with some things around the house too - once I figured out how to use it all. It is apparently an "Autoranging meter with 10 functions including Capacitance, Frequency, and Temperature." It feels sturdy and substantial enough, and came with a "Non-contact AC Voltage Detector" and a "Continuity Tester Pro." Add to all that, it came with a pretty nice case for it all and what look to be some decent instructions. Says it includes a "rubber holster" but I don't see that anywhere. Maybe an email to the company will get me a free one sent out. Can't hurt to try. Anyways, hopefully it will do the job now and in two years. If not, I'll just have to deal with that when the time comes. I don't even have a soldering iron yet and I am already starting to feel hooked. I honestly can't wait. I have one of my guitars stripped and ready, I have some parts on the way, and I have been reading and watching every tutorial and guide I can get my eyes on. I needed a new hobby. This should be fun.
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