Multimeters

Provide the best electrician services by using the right multimeter test equipment
By Andrea Townsley Multimeters are great instruments to have since they measure current, voltage and resistance, all with one machine. This saves you from having to buy an ammeter, voltmeter and ohmmeter, and thus, you'll spend less money on supplies for your business.
 

There are a few types of multimeters to choose from: There are traditional analog multimeters, newer digital ones and clamp meters. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Compare each kind before you buy for your business.

1. Train your workers to read analog multimeters. It's not hard, once they get used to it, but the meters must be read correctly for the test to be accurate.

2. Use digital multimeters to reduce user error. These display the reading in digits, leaving no room for interpretation.

3. Increase productivity by using clamp multimeters. These meters eliminate the need for disassembling the circuit to be measured.

Go with traditional analog multimeters

These meters have been around for years and years. They are inexpensive and small. The only downside is that the reading must be taken properly; a needle swings quickly and rests on part of the display scale, then you carefully look to see the value at which the needle rests. With experience, analog meters are just as easy to read as digital ones, which are obviously very simple.
Try: Take advantage of discounted pricing by buying in bulk from Kaito Electronics, which offers lower prices when you buy five or more multimeters. Check out the drop-resistant analog multimeter at CableOrganizer.com, which can safely fall up to five feet without breaking.

Let your workers use digital multimeters to make their jobs easier

A digital multimeter displays its readings using digits. This makes for easy reading with no interpretation needed: Simply glance at the display and move on. These meters do tend to be a bit more expensive. Another disadvantage is that they don't measure continuous fluctuations as well as analog meters can.
Try: Check out the handheld Fluke multimeters available from Tequipment.net; Fluke is one of the best known manufacturers of electronic testing equipment. Cole-Parmer has two types of waterproof multimeters for sale.

Simplify your job by using clamp multimeters

Clamp meters are made so electricians don't have to disconnect any wiring when they want to take a reading. These tools have clamps that encircle the wires in question to allow the meter perform the necessary tests. These devices are also known as "tongs."
Try: Check out the measurement ranges of the clamp meter at Carl's Electronics. Electronix Express also offers a good digital clamp multimeter.

• Fluke is one of the best known brands of electronic equipment. This brand was established in 1948 and has a great reputation. Fluke's products renowned for their durability, quality and user friendliness. This company is the leader of all multimeter makers.