Multimeter

[BTB 500]

Hi, But could one use a resistance test at asy 200 Ohms and get the same functionality (just without the beep)?

You have to be looking at the meter though in order to do this. A simple beep is much quicker and easier.

 

[190]

Perfect example of where the beep works much better is doing a static timing check on my motorcycle with points. You need to be looking very carefully at the timing marks as the engine is rotated and can just listen for the beep - actually it's for the beep going off as the points open.

 

[Stratman]

Beware of the beep when checking continuity on high current circuits, like engine earth straps or starter motor cables. A few ohms resistance could seriously impair their efficiency but will be low enough to sound the audible continuity check.

 

[Ted]

Beware of the beep when checking continuity on high current circuits, like engine earth straps or starter motor cables. A few ohms resistance could seriously impair their efficiency but will be low enough to sound the audible continuity check.

From ohms law, 0.01 ohms resistance with a typical 300 amp current draw would result in a 3 volt drop in the cable.
Just one of the reasons to keep all the connections clean, and also demonstrates why a battery sensed alternator is so much better than the typical machine sensed alternator.

 

[AMGeed]

Any views on this multimeter? https://www.screwfix.com/p/lap-elec...ck/95426#product_additional_details_container

I have the same multimeter which can be bought on its own for £10 99.
It did the job I wanted it for (an accurate volts test on the battery and alternator ) but as mentioned, no beep.
I'd be inclined to get some crocodile clip attachments if testing house wiring.

 

[survey]

Thanks for all your helpful replies. In the end I opetd for a Neoteck NTK017 Model 8233D Pro. It was only £14 on Amazon. Arrived today. I wanted to use it particularly for a remote oil tank level checker. It served its purpose for that (saving me a potential £37). It has a continuity checker and found that the problem with my previous multimeter was a failure of the cables. So if I buy a new set of cables the old meter will work OK.

 

[Ted]

Checking with a meter would have picked that up.

Hold on............

 

[m80]

If you're likely to do any current testing I would get some spare fuses,
you will blow 'em at some point.

 

[Ted]

They have dvms in Lidl right now for £9.99 including battery.
Resistance buzzer and I suspect auto ranging as they have a range hold button.

 

[Ted]

Gave them a miss as I have a brace of Flukes, but couldn’t pass over the bit set in a rubberised case for £5.99

https://photos.app.goo.gl/t9K9uDv517FrmegT9

 

[brucemillar]

I bought mine on recommendation from this very forum. A Chinese eBay cheap job? Maybe but it has been brilliant with a huge backlit display and autoranging. I love it. It even feels nice.

A pic to admire.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[AntMB]

I bought mine on recommendation from this very forum. A Chinese eBay cheap job? Maybe but it has been brilliant with a huge backlit display and autoranging. I love it. It even feels nice.

A pic to admire.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

This will be absolutely fine for fault finding around your cars 12v system.

Being how cheap they are, I'd be cautious about the legitimacy of its CAT rating if you ever take it anywhere near mains.

 

[m80]

I keep all my meters in their own tuppa ware type boxes, Lock and Lock like these
Range of Lock & and Lock Air Water Tight Clip Seal Food Storage Boxes Containers | eBay

Buying mine from the Stax trade warehouse I pay between about £2.50 and £5.
A meter I left on the boat got wet while stored so I now protect them all, and have meter, leads, spare batteries and spare fuses all in the box.

 

[stephenmercedes]

Lidl frequently stock a very useful one for under a tenner...

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[Ted]

That’s the one!

 

[Diesel Benz]

I have a Fluke 115. Great multimeter for accuracy. Does a whole lot of things, I have to refer to the manual often times. You can find a review on it here Best Multimeter For Home Use | Reviews And Buyer's Guide - TechProHomes

My Fluke 115 is different, no need for any manual. To be honest, unnecessarily expensive for ordinary garage use but good value for the money if you need more advanced features or better accuracy.

 

[Deleted member 126251]

My Fluke 115 is different, no need for any manual. To be honest, unnecessarily expensive for ordinary garage use but good value for the money if you need more advanced features or better accuracy.

Yes - I'd like a Fluke but, they are crazy prices for a hobbyist.

 

[stephenmercedes]

Yes - I'd like a Fluke but, they are crazy prices for a hobbyist.

Ironic comment considering you'd easily drop that amount on your car should she ever need anything! LOL

 

[John]

Ironic comment considering you'd easily drop that amount on your car should she ever need anything! LOL

Very true.

However I can't bring myself to buy a Fluke either for the same reason despite wanting one.

Whilst my old Gunson MM has a knackered 0.3A fuse, I continue with it as I only usually test DC, significant AC and continuity.

Seems a waste of money to buy a Fluke when that money can be spent on things you get more enjoyment from.

 

[AntMB]

You should be able to get a Fluke 115 for around £100 now. I get enjoyment from using quality equipment and it has the safety category rating to be used on mains.