So my question on “safely” using a BM235 fuse instead remains?
An issue with using the BM235's 400mA, 1000V fuse in lieu of the original 500mA, 250V one is the potential for user error resulting in a blown fuse. However, since the front of the meter says that it's fused for 600mA , I suppose it's kind of moot. Otherwise, I don't see a safety issue, per se. The BM235's HRC fuse is otherwise much better than the hollow, mystery fuse that was included.
Thanks, that’s kind of what I was thinking. I installed the 400 mA fuse and using the 1 mA current test on the DMMCHECK Plus, and got a reading of only .33, that’s LOW. Just in case, today I have access to my Ragu meter, and it has the identical fuse (500 mA, 250v), put that in the meter, same LOW reading. My other meters read the correct 1 mA, so I suspect something is bad in this meter besides just the fuse, in the regards to the low current test circuit.
I could return it, but it’s only $9, and all other functions test properly. Since it can still accurately read volts, and hertz, my main use for this meter, I think rather then use the “under rated” BM235 fuse, I simply will NOT use any small fuse at all, and make a label on the meter, no one will be using this other then me, as it will be wall mounted inside a truck.
I’m assuming there is no apparent safety or functionality issues with leaving the small internal fuse holder unpopulated?