Topic: Multimeter info

[jeromejello]

looking to pick up one of these things... have no idea where to start.  i figure its going to be a slight investment, but i am not going to be making a career out of it... i would like one that gave me the basic data needed for a hobbiest enthusiast level.  what are some of the features that i would need... places to purchase... prices to expect...

i mean i guess i could just pull something out at ratshack or homedepot, but just thought i could sollict some free advice first.

thanks

(oh, and mods, please send to the correct forum, if there is one)

[jpschust]

a multimeter is a multimeter.  get one that's cheap and doesnt have a ton of extra features.

[fozzy]

I have access to a nice Fluke @ work but i have never had a need for anything more than my $10 RS special for testing continuity and DC Voltages.  Did some household AC problem solving w/ it too.  With my crappy meter i have modded/repaired UA5s, Made cables (XLR, unbalanced, 7pin, power, etc..), Custom VR circuits/boxes; and have never felt that I needed a beter meter w/ more features. 

[Chuck]

I find it useful to have both an analog and a digital meter. I sometimes prefer to see the needle jump around on the analog than to see a bunch of numbers fly by on the digital.

[heath]

one feature that you might want to make sure it has is an audible continuity tester.  especially if you're gonna make cables.  my first one did not have one, so  i bought another.

[Patrick]

one feature that you might want to make sure it has is an audible continuity tester.  especially if you're gonna make cables.  my first one did not have one, so  i bought another.

Stole my words Heath 

Certain multimeters "beep" when there is continuity accross the given circut.  This is alot easier than determining continuity throught the "current" setting.

Mine has a backlight, which is cool, but not useful at all 

[jeromejello]

thanks for all the info folks... +t's all around