Buying a new Multimeter - Any Advice?

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I’m going to buy a new multimeter (don’t currently have one at home). Is there any modelrailroad-specific features I should make sure it has?

Thanks

2

You should easily be able to get by with a cheap digital multimeter that can measure AC and DC voltages and currrent, measure resistance, and has an audio tone continuity checker. These meters seem to be sold by every electronics supplier, such as Radio Shack, and maybe even Wal-mart or K-mart, for around $10. Look in the automotive section. It really doesn’t matter what brand name is on the meter because they seem to all come out of the same factory in Korea, and they all have the same basic features.

Or you could look around for one that claims to be made especially for the hobby industry and pay 10 times that amount for the same meter…

3

Resistance (ohms), AC and DC voltage, maybe DCA. I like my dad’s. It’s a Sperry SP10A.
Reed

4

I 100% agree!
Don’t discount that audible continuity checker. Easpcially when doing decoder installs, I find it invaluable for troubleshooting when I dont have to look at the meter, I just have to listen for the tone.[:D]
Mine came from radio shack, and fits easily in my shirt pocket!

5

I use an old analog model from RadioShack that I’ve had for years. AC/DCVolts, ohms,amps and resistance. Cacole had it right that there are some good digitals that are available for a fair price at the places he mentioned.

6

I have both analog and digital units and prefer the digital. If your interested in the very best, Fluke makes very good ones. However, I am happy with my Radio Shack meter that I paid $30.00. It is solid and has lasted along time. It is likely available for much cheaper, now.

7

I have a Fluke brand that Deshane mentioned, but they are pricey. I use it for alot of other electronics and automotive, though. I’ve had problems with the cheaper brand’s test leades coming apart from the tips. This is from rough use, so one of these brands should be fine for use on your MRR only

8

For MR work, the sub $10 ones are fine, I have an analogue one purchased many years ago from Sears for $5, and a newer digital one for about the same price from Harbor Freight.

9

Make sure it works!
[;)]

Gordon