An impedance measurement is important in understanding voltage flow, resistance and reactance in electrical current. This measurement is crucial in setting up sound systems and analyzing transmission cables, antennas, various medical equipment and circuits. Electricians, electrical engineers and amateur radio operators rely on impedance meters to measure impedance in relation to the performance of their equipment.

Popular types include an audio, speaker, medical, bridge or vector impedance meter. The marketplace includes industrial, commercial, research and retail. When buying an impedance meter consider the following:

1. Save time when viewing impedance meters by knowing in advance the electrical specifications or parameters your business plans require.

2. See what accessories, if any, come with the units to determine if you need to order extra items like special plugs or cables.

3. Look at your budget allocation to determine whether to buy new or refurbished meters at nice discounts.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy audio impedance meters for measuring your sound requirements

Common applications for an audio or loudspeaker impedance meter include setting up and testing music, studio equipment, speakers and all types of paging systems.

I recommend: Check out an audio impedance meter capable of measuring 100 and 330 HZ, and 1 KHz or 10 KHz for one loudspeaker or an entire system at MCM Electronics; order online. If you’re looking for a wider range of audio tests see the portable unit with oscillator, frequency counter, dB meter and impedance meter at Crouse-Kimzey with online ordering. Get a speaker impedance meter capable up to 100K ohms, with carrying case and five-year warranty at Full Compass Systems.

Purchase an impedance bridge new or refurbished to save money

Measure complex impedance and reactance in antennas, components and transmission lines and adjust networks to admittance with an impedance bridge.

I recommend: Click “Quote” after selecting an impedance bridge meter; then submit for pricing or phone the number at the bottom of the page at Tucker Electronics. Some units are new, while others are remanufactured. Order online a refurbished 296 digital impedance bridge or fill out the comment form at Test Equipment Connection.

Select a medical impedance meter for electrode contact impedance

These meters each perform the same function but with different measurement options. Specify the type of system you use for compatible cables when ordering.

I recommend: Order online a handheld, battery operated electrode impedance meter for sleep studies, EEG and EMG signals from MVAP Medical Supplies. Select either a two-electrode or multiple-electrode impedance measurement unit at Bio-Medical Instruments with prices; scroll to the bottom for a two-electrode configuration or an EEG unit providing better connections.

Order a refurbished or new vector impedance meter

These meters provide voltage and current ratios and phase differences resulting in the angle of impedance. Some applications for vector impedance measurements include transmitter and antenna testing, locating cable faults and filter and balun testing.

I recommend: Click “Call to Order” next to the price of a refurbished HP Vector impedance meter with frequency range of 400 kHz to 110 MHz with capabilities to measure magnitude and phase at Bell Electronics NW. Click “Order Now” for a TE1000 meter with accessories that include AC-DC mains power plug pack, USB-to-serial converter and aluminum case at IBA Group.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Some companies offer refurbished impedance meters with discounted prices. These meters typically result from manufacturer lines no longer supported, overstock or trade-ins. Always ask about warranties before you buy refurbished or used; and, contact the manufacturer for information about support.