If you work around any sort of electronics or batteries, you're probably already familiar with analog multimeters and their various functions. You may need them to check whether an electrical current is up to code, or if a battery or part is getting enough juice to work properly. The right meter can make the difference between a job well done and a costly mistake, so it's important that you outfit your team with the best meters at the best price.

When shopping around with various analog multimeter distributors, there are a few key components that you should look for in the different meter models they offer. These include:

1. Size and ease of use

2. Battery size

3. Overload protection

4. Different ranges of voltages, currents and temperatures accepted

5. Bench-top or hand-held options

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

Find analog multimeter providers that offer rugged, durable meters

Analog multimeter manufacturers understand that things happen when technicians are out on a job site, so they're developing multimeters that can withstand continual abuse. You should choose meters that are all enclosed and are covered by protective sheeting or have rubber edges, which can protect your investment if the meter is dropped or misused. Many also offer warranty programs in case a piece of equipment gets damaged on a job site.

I recommend: Find multimeters that have the most rugged exteriors. Multimeter Warehouse and Electronic Kits both have multiple types of analog multimeters to choose from that have rubber holsters and protective casing.

Buy analog multimeters in bulk to save money

If you need to pick up several analog multimeters at once, you can often get a bulk discount on the equipment. Try contacting the company directly to ask them about bulk prices, as they often don't advertise this kind of deal on their websites. Another way to go about it is to contact the analog multimeter manufacturer directly to see what sort of deals each can give you.

I recommend: Bargain shop for the best deals. You can directly contact a manufacturer, such as Fluke, or consider going through a wholesaler like CableOrganizer.com.

Look for specialty analog multimeter suppliers that offer more than the basic unit

Not all analog multimeters are the same; in fact, many of the cheaper models won't do what you need to them to do in a professional setting. Find all the analog multimeter information you can, before deciding on the best meters for your business. If your work must measure up to code, you may need to have special meters that can handle certain ranges or be calibrated a certain way.

I recommend: Compare the different analog multimeters on the market to find the best one for the job. Places like Test Equipment Depot offer a side-by-side comparison of their different models, so you know exactly what you're getting before you buy. Global Test Supply also lets you compare specs of different meters in one convenient place.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Calibrate all your analog multimeters at least every six months to ensure that they're measuring accurately. If yours are used frequently, you may want to check them every one to three months.