I've used a lot of meters over the years from cheapo ones from Radio
Shack to top of the line ones my electrician uncle had. Since you
probably have little need for the 880 volt ones that can read 100-500
amps, you don't need a top of the line pro model.
Any of the brand names should give you what you need from an accuracy
standpoint. From there it is a matter of needs and convenience.
My rules of thumb.
1. Single connection plugs are more convenient. Having to move the plug
from Voltage/Frequency to Amp/Ohm/Battery to 20 Amp or other is
inconvenient and can cause problems. To easy to try to read Ohms and
have it plugged into Volts and either not get a reading or damage the unit.
2. Fewer broader auto ranging scales are better. Less need to change
from 2 VDC to 20 VDC or 200 VDC if the auto ranging works properly.
3. Different lead availability, interchangeability. I like the option of
a pointed probe, alligator clip, or fine tip clip or hook clip. Ability
to clip on to a connection can make life much easier.
4. Minimum of VDC, VAC, ADC, AAC and Ohm.
5. Nice to have, battery and frequency. If you want to test your stereo
you need an oscilloscope to do it right. Mine is perfectly flat response
from 10 Hz to 100KHz, but then it was built with mil-spec parts and
resistors, capacitors, and other parts were bridged and mated to
mil-spec as well. Useless detail since most people can't hear above 15k
but impresses my stereo snob perfectionist friends.
6. Rubber case for protection. You WILL drop it. I use mine on my cars,
home and layout so needs to be rugged.
7. Stand is nice. My Craftsman has nice pull out legs to allow it to
stand unaided.
8. Hanging bracket. Don't always have a place to stand it.
9. Standard plugs, banana, mini-phone, DNC to make it easier to add
different leads or longer leads.
I'd be comfortable with any of the brands from Sears, Lowes, Home Depot,
Ace, Radio Shack, Best Buy, etc. Probably all made by the same plant in
China to the retailer's specs like everything else.
Carey
.
Carey Probst
Member, M.I.T. Educational Council
S Scale, Sn3 and S High Rail/AF
A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free State,
the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.
On 4/4/2011 11:58 AM, philpotridge wrote:
>
> Good morning group.
> Need some information on a volt/amp meter to use on my friends DCC
> equipped layout. What brand and model is approiate for checking the
> voltages and amp's.. Anyone have any pro's and con's ???
>
> Thanks,
> Dick Bennett
>
>
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