EEVblog DMM

[xcvii]

I've just backed Dave's Kickstarter because why wouldn't I?!

What did I just buy? How is it different to my $25 DMM? What good are data-logging and Bluetooth connectivity? How will this thing help me do better at my AVR projects and/or DIY guitar stompboxes?

Explain like I'm five, I'm I total dunce in case it wasn't clear already!

[iainwhite]

A few random thoughts:

1)  It has Cat III and UL, CE ratings that are trustworthy so it is going to be safe using on mains voltages.  $25 meters are often not independently tested and the Cat ratings may be a work of fiction. (some, not all..)
2) It has good input protection to deal with overloads on the input.  Search "joeqsmith" who tests this sort of thing by zapping meters with high voltages.  You can look at his youtube channel (listed below)
3) It has a 50,000 count display which is likely 1 more decimal place than a $25 meter.
4) Logging and bluetooth are handy for guys who want to measures trends over time - e.g. see how a device behaves over hours, days etc by taking repeated measurements. The 121GW can export such measurements in a spreadsheet for easy formatting & graphing.
5) AVR and guitar boxes may not need a top-end meter, to be honest.  However as your skills grow, you may attempt projects that need more accuracy or need features like simultaneous Voltage and Current measurements.

Dave has done a couple videos on the design of the meter - look for EEVblog #929 and #931

Joe Smith youtube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsK99WXk9VhcghnAauTBsbg

 

[rstofer]

Here is a version of the User Manual (there will be a test later):

http://www.eevblog.com/files/EEVblog-121GW-Manual.pdf

About the only thing your old meter has in common with the 121GW is the fact that they both use batteries.

There is a short video at the Kickstarter site that describes some of the features.

[Kohanbash]

I've just backed Dave's Kickstarter because why wouldn't I?!
What good are data-logging and Bluetooth connectivity?

I like things like this for putting the meter in an enclosure or out of reach and being able to view the data.

The graphing is good for when you want to see things such as startup current in a motor, followed by the nominal current.

The other exciting feature is the VA ability to view/log voltage and current at the same time.