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[Specmaster]

WTF! check the specs on that Brymen BM867s, its not an cheapo meter at all, it's made by the same company who makes the EEVblog meter and the original EEVblog meter was just a rebadged Brymen.

The first line was meant as a joke. Clearly that part wasn't interpreted as intended, so my apologies. 

As per Brymen, they're decent handhelds that offer a lot of value over more well known brands IME (I own a BM857 which = BM867's older brother). But if I need more resolution than 50k count units can provide (I consider the 500,000 button as liar mode    ), I go to my bench meter (GW Instek GDM-8251A I got cheap when all the ITT surplus flooded eBay).

For the record, my experience in volt-nuttery comes from aerospace, so that's probably not helping matters much.

There are varying degrees of voltnuttery, those meters such as you mention simply will not fit in my small lab, I've recently sold on my Fluke 8505A for that reason. To have meters such as the 3458A requires very deep pockets  which is something most pensioners I know don't have, but if I could afford to, I'd have those meters in a heartbeat, and a bigger house to setup a bigger lab 

I can certainly understand the issues of finding the physical space for boat anchors. But the smaller format 5.5 or 6.5 digit bench models would seem to be a reasonable compromise.

Even on costs, if something suitable shows up on the used market (I know it's tougher in the UK).

Haha, apology accepted, I did wonder if you was joking as most people would accept that meter as being decent. When you decide not to use liar mode,  how much is it out by when you switch to your 8251A meter? I don't actually do anything that demands that much accuracy, TBH, most domestic radio and audio gear tends to have voltage references expressed in 0.1v steps so even a 3.5 digit meter is perfectly suitable for my needs. That said of course its just like a car, its always nice to have more power on tap in case you need it at some point.

Aerospace I can imagine might need the extra accuracy and yes, I often look at the items on offer in the USA on Ebay and many times I've gone to click on the BIN button then I remember to check the shipping costs which are often considerably higher then the item in the first place and I back down. 

[CJay]

Dave Jones's first meter was a rebadged one and his latest one is also based on and indeed built by Brymen.

If you are referring to the BM235 and the 121GW respectively, the latter is designed and built by UEi, not Brymen.

(But Brymen is really good)

I was indeed but thanks for putting me right, can't say as I know of UEi, it must be a brand not represented here in the UK?

UEi definitely have a UK presence, I think they're represented in the UK (not exclusively) by Kane and May and badged for British Gas, so I'm pretty sure they'd meet the CAT ratings on the front.

I have a DM393, nice little meter, bit slow, true RMS, seems accurate enough.

http://www.ueitest.com/sites/default/files/product-resources/DIGITAL%20MULTIMETERS%20DATA%20SHEET.pdf

[nanofrog]

Haha, apology accepted, I did wonder if you was joking as most people would accept that meter as being decent. When you decide not to use liar mode,  how much is it out by when you switch to your 8251A meter? I don't actually do anything that demands that much accuracy, TBH, most domestic radio and audio gear tends to have voltage references expressed in 0.1v steps so even a 3.5 digit meter is perfectly suitable for my needs. That said of course its just like a car, its always nice to have more power on tap in case you need it at some point.

Aerospace I can imagine might need the extra accuracy and yes, I often look at the items on offer in the USA on Ebay and many times I've gone to click on the BIN button then I remember to check the shipping costs which are often considerably higher then the item in the first place and I back down. 

The BM867 is definitely a decent meter IMHO. It may not have every bell and whistle as it's bigger brother has (BM869 for those that aren't familiar), but the quality and value offered is astounding. I'd actually rank Brymen's value the best I'm aware of for handhelds.

My major handhelds include a Uni-T UT139C (6k count), Brymen BM857 (50k count), Agilent  U1252B (50k count), and a Fluke 27/FM (great whopping 3.2k counts, but built like a tank and is easily fixed as long as you don't blow the IC). There's the bench meter of course, and a few DT-830 freebies (they make great road DMM's and panel meters).

As per more power, I truly get it, but it's from the lazy POV. Meaning I'd rather use a 50k count meter where a 6k count meter would do in order to take advantage of significant digits so I don't have to do any math.  Toss in the fact I like my toys, this fact doesn't improve my purchasing habits either (within reason, as I'm not that far gone ATM). 

In regard to absolute accuracy, do keep in mind none of my meters are calibrated at this point (those that were have expired). That said however, comparing them using an inexpensive voltage reference, they're all well within spec last I checked. 

In regard to US ebay sellers, I do see decent prices incl. shipping for UK/EU buyers at times, so it's worth setting up notifications IMHO.  The link for the Fluke 27/FM would be one example. Just requires more patience than those of us in the US (and a 230V capable PSU that at most, only requires a different fuse for bench gear).

Worst case, if there is something specific you're after, posting a WTB thread could direct you to the right item at the right price (i.e. someone might be in the know of the right company close-out & auction house handling it). Certainly doesn't hurt to make such a thread at any rate.   

[Specmaster]

The BM867 is definitely a decent meter IMHO. It may not have every bell and whistle as it's bigger brother has (BM869 for those that aren't familiar), but the quality and value offered is astounding. I'd actually rank Brymen's value the best I'm aware of for handhelds.

My major handhelds include a Uni-T UT139C (6k count), Brymen BM857 (50k count), Agilent  U1252B (50k count), and a Fluke 27/FM (great whopping 3.2k counts, but built like a tank and is easily fixed as long as you don't blow the IC). There's the bench meter of course, and a few DT-830 freebies (they make great road DMM's and panel meters).

As per more power, I truly get it, but it's from the lazy POV. Meaning I'd rather use a 50k count meter where a 6k count meter would do in order to take advantage of significant digits so I don't have to do any math.  Toss in the fact I like my toys, this fact doesn't improve my purchasing habits either (within reason, as I'm not that far gone ATM). 

In regard to absolute accuracy, do keep in mind none of my meters are calibrated at this point (those that were have expired). That said however, comparing them using an inexpensive voltage reference, they're all well within spec last I checked. 

In regard to US ebay sellers, I do see decent prices incl. shipping for UK/EU buyers at times, so it's worth setting up notifications IMHO.  The link for the Fluke 27/FM would be one example. Just requires more patience than those of us in the US (and a 230V capable PSU that at most, only requires a different fuse for bench gear).

Worst case, if there is something specific you're after, posting a WTB thread could direct you to the right item at the right price (i.e. someone might be in the know of the right company close-out & auction house handling it). Certainly doesn't hurt to make such a thread at any rate.   

I'm a sucker for meters, if there's one thing that could be an impulse buy its multimeters of either digital or analogue and my collection (which I'm thinning down a little to avoid to many duplicates) is as follows;

Handheld DMM's
1 x Proster VC97  2k
2 x Bside ADM08A 6k
1 x Robin OM840 20k
11 x Fluke 25 3.2k
2 x Fluke 27 3.2k
1 x Brymen BM867s 50k & 500k

Bench DMM's
1 x Philips PM2521 20k
1 x Solartron 7045 20k
2 x HP 3466A 20k
1 x HP3478A 200k
1 x Fluke 8840A 200k

Analogue meters
1 x Avo Mk8
1 x Avo 1001
1 x TMK 700
1 x TMK 500
1 x Kyoritsu 1400
1 x Robin 2608
1 x Robin 1502

1 x Heathkit MM-1U
1 x Heathkit V-7AU

There may be in the garage a couple of real cheap and nasty give away DMM's as well.

I agree those Fluke 25 and 27 meters really are built like a tank and the BM867 has a similar feel to it, although I know that the plastics are not of the same quality but the bumper gives it a great feeling of solidity.

The Fluke 8840A is lacking the AC option unfortunately which I already have a thread in the WTB thread for this along with a replacement VFD as mine is quite dim as I suspect that it has been sat in a lab somewhere switched on for the duration of the working day at least.

I think the only extra functions that the BM867 has over the 867 is the function for the variable frequency drives and temperature, neither of which bothers me so I saved myself a huge wedge in getting the 867.

I don't yet have anything above 5.5 digits but I just know that its only a matter of time on that front 

[rsjsouza]

I'm a sucker for meters, if there's one thing that could be an impulse buy its multimeters of either digital or analogue and my collection (which I'm thinning down a little to avoid to many duplicates) is as follows;

Handheld DMM's
1 x Proster VC97  2k
2 x Bside ADM08A 6k
1 x Robin OM840 20k
11 x Fluke 25 3.2k
2 x Fluke 27 3.2k
1 x Brymen BM867s 50k & 500k

Bench DMM's
1 x Philips PM2521 20k
1 x Solartron 7045 20k
2 x HP 3466A 20k
1 x HP3478A 300k
1 x Fluke 8840A 200k

Analogue meters
1 x Avo Mk8
1 x Avo 1001
1 x TMK 700
1 x TMK 500
1 x Kyoritsu 1400
1 x Robin 2608
1 x Robin 1502

1 x Heathkit MM-1U
1 x Heathkit V-7AU

There may be in the garage a couple of real cheap and nasty give away DMM's as well.

I agree those Fluke 25 and 27 meters really are built like a tank and the BM867 has a similar feel to it, although I know that the plastics are not of the same quality but the bumper gives it a great feeling of solidity.

The Fluke 8840A is lacking the AC option unfortunately which I already have a thread in the WTB thread for this along with a replacement VFD as mine is quite dim as I suspect that it has been sat in a lab somewhere switched on for the duration of the working day at least.

I think the only extra functions that the BM867 has over the 867 is the function for the variable frequency drives and temperature, neither of which bothers me so I saved myself a huge wedge in getting the 867.

I don't yet have anything above 5.5 digits but I just know that its only a matter of time on that front 

You are closer to 6.5d than you think; the 3478A is 300k counts (303100 to be precise).

I have two and I absolutely love them! I suspect these meters go for such low price because of their LCD - otherwise it is an excellent piece of gear.

[djos]

I just ordered a mini 50mm cut-off saw so I can cut down 64 pin receptacles to 62 pins seeing as the 62 pin receptacles are now as easy to find as Unicorn poo! 

[rx8pilot]

I just ordered a mini 50mm cut-off saw so I can cut down 64 pin receptacles to 62 pins seeing as the 62 pin receptacles are now as easy to find as Unicorn poo! 

I want that saw!!!!!
I have to cut short lengths of 3mm OD brass tubing and that looks like the ticket.

[djos]

I just ordered a mini 50mm cut-off saw so I can cut down 64 pin receptacles to 62 pins seeing as the 62 pin receptacles are now as easy to find as Unicorn poo! 

I want that saw!!!!!
I have to cut short lengths of 3mm OD brass tubing and that looks like the ticket.

They are pretty affordable, only $115 aussie pesos delivered from a local seller. I'd guess they are cheaper stateside.

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com.au%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F142758175904

[nanofrog]

I'm a sucker for meters, if there's one thing that could be an impulse buy its multimeters of either digital or analogue and my collection (which I'm thinning down a little to avoid to many duplicates) is as follows;

Handheld DMM's
1 x Proster VC97  2k
2 x Bside ADM08A 6k
1 x Robin OM840 20k
11 x Fluke 25 3.2k
2 x Fluke 27 3.2k
1 x Brymen BM867s 50k & 500k

Bench DMM's
1 x Philips PM2521 20k
1 x Solartron 7045 20k
2 x HP 3466A 20k
1 x HP3478A 200k
1 x Fluke 8840A 200k

Analogue meters
1 x Avo Mk8
1 x Avo 1001
1 x TMK 700
1 x TMK 500
1 x Kyoritsu 1400
1 x Robin 2608
1 x Robin 1502

1 x Heathkit MM-1U
1 x Heathkit V-7AU

There may be in the garage a couple of real cheap and nasty give away DMM's as well.

Holly crap, you've quite a collection there.   

FWIW, the only analog meters I have these days are attached to a couple of PSU's I own (PD TP343B & GW Instek GPC-3020).





Damn I love the aesthetics of the Power Designs stuff  (aluminum knobs, not the later versions/models with the cheap, ugly plastic ones).

The Fluke 8840A is lacking the AC option unfortunately which I already have a thread in the WTB thread for this along with a replacement VFD as mine is quite dim as I suspect that it has been sat in a lab somewhere switched on for the duration of the working day at least.

FWIW, I've seen threads/info regarding VFD rejuvenation, so that may truly be worth a look IMHO.

Sorry I don't have more details on this, but I've not needed to do this thus far.

I think the only extra functions that the BM869 has over the 867 is the function for the variable frequency drives and temperature, neither of which bothers me so I saved myself a huge wedge in getting the 867.

I don't yet have anything above 5.5 digits but I just know that its only a matter of time on that front 

Exactly.

Not a huge difference in features as a general rule, but a notable price difference to get the extras that come standard in the BM869 (think there are differences in data logging capabilities as well).

Certainly seems you're more than bitten by the bug that imparts gear acquisition syndrome though, so you might want to figure out if you need an anti-fungal or antibiotic to deal with it.   

Regarding a decent 5.5 digit DMM, I'm sure something suitable will come up for the right price on eBay (US or other locations).

[mathsquid]

I want that saw!!!!!
I have to cut short lengths of 3mm OD brass tubing and that looks like the ticket.

You can get one at Harbor freight for $35; or $28 if you use a 20% off coupon.

https://www.harborfreight.com/2-in-mini-bench-top-cut-off-saw-62136.html

[djos]

I want that saw!!!!!
I have to cut short lengths of 3mm OD brass tubing and that looks like the ticket.

You can get one at Harbor freight for $35; or $28 if you use a 20% off coupon.

https://www.harborfreight.com/2-in-mini-bench-top-cut-off-saw-62136.html

Yeah I knew you guy's would get much better pricing than we do, everything here gets an unhealthy does of "Australia Tax"! 

[BravoV]

Used GE Capacitors 55 mF (55.000 uF) 30 V rated.

ELECTROLITYC vs normal ELECTROLYTIC ? 

[rdl]

Used GE Capacitors 55 mF (55.000 uF) 30 V rated.

ELECTROLITYC vs normal ELECTROLYTIC ? 

The quotation marks used as an apostrophe is a little iffy also.

[Nominal Animal]

Used GE Capacitors 55 mF (55.000 uF) 30 V rated.

Geniune GE electrolityc capacitors. Oo-kay.

[BravoV]

Used GE Capacitors 55 mF (55.000 uF) 30 V rated.

ELECTROLITYC vs normal ELECTROLYTIC ? 

The quotation marks used as an apostrophe is a little iffy also.

Used GE Capacitors 55 mF (55.000 uF) 30 V rated.

Geniune GE electrolityc capacitors. Oo-kay.

Yeah, I'm aware of those details that it looks fishy, I guess I'm going to fully test it like forming and leakage test at 30 Volt, this will take sometimes.

Meanwhile briefly tested capacitance using Fluke 287 are about 75.000 uF (75 mF).   

[mathsquid]

I want that saw!!!!!
I have to cut short lengths of 3mm OD brass tubing and that looks like the ticket.

You can get one at Harbor freight for $35; or $28 if you use a 20% off coupon.

https://www.harborfreight.com/2-in-mini-bench-top-cut-off-saw-62136.html

Yeah I knew you guy's would get much better pricing than we do, everything here gets an unhealthy does of "Australia Tax"! 

Ouch!! But I have to admit that it seems odd, since practically everything everything at harbor freight is manufactured in China. It seems like there wouldn't be any big difference AU and US.  But I'm sure that there are lots of reasons why it's not that simple.

[pigrew]

Yeah, I'm aware of those details that it looks fishy, I guess I'm going to fully test it like forming and leakage test at 30 Volt, this will take sometimes.

Meanwhile briefly tested capacitance using Fluke 287 are about 75.000 uF (75 mF).   

Completely within tolerance. It's rated as -10% to +50%.  Sounds promising.

I think the main issues with counterfeits would be reliability, which are not really testable with a small handful of parts in a low amount of time. For example, will the electrolytic leak out in a few years....

[tautech]

Used GE Capacitors 55 mF (55.000 uF) 30 V rated.

Yummy ! 

I got a 60kuF 60V jobby a few years back cheap and it's currently serving duty in a MIG welder.
I should've bought more. 

[Back2Volts]

I like that saw!

[piguy101]

I got a Knipex 12 42 195 wire stripper. It seems to work well so far and gives good results. It is rated for 7-32 AWG, but I find that for my cheap 30 awg 'bodge wire', it has a tendency just to cut the conductor instead of strip it. Larger wires strip just fine.

[djos]

I want that saw!!!!!
I have to cut short lengths of 3mm OD brass tubing and that looks like the ticket.

You can get one at Harbor freight for $35; or $28 if you use a 20% off coupon.

https://www.harborfreight.com/2-in-mini-bench-top-cut-off-saw-62136.html

Yeah I knew you guy's would get much better pricing than we do, everything here gets an unhealthy does of "Australia Tax"! 

Ouch!! But I have to admit that it seems odd, since practically everything everything at harbor freight is manufactured in China. It seems like there wouldn't be any big difference AU and US.  But I'm sure that there are lots of reasons why it's not that simple.

I could have bought it direct from China and saved about $30, but I didn't want to wait 4-6 weeks for it to arrive.

[BravoV]

Time to retire my aging almost 5 yrs old tablet, use tablet "a lot" for reading, especially datasheets.

[Terry01]

Pulled trigger on one of these little beauties today, it will be with me tomorrow, more voltnuttery toys to play with 

How you getting on with your new toy buddy?

The only thing I wish was different with mine is the diode test, I wish it had a bit more kick! Mine pushes 3V give or take a tiny bit. my older fluke 177 pushes 7V+ which is awesome and my 289 does around 5v which is decent and bearable! Other than that I find it an awesome beasty and very quick.

[Terry01]

I got 3 Wera precision screwdrivers, a couple of sets of flush cutters and a new set of tweezers! Crap! 

Hope the postie has to chap me to deliver a LOAD of stuffs tomorrow morning....we'll see....we can dream right???   

[Specmaster]

Pulled trigger on one of these little beauties today, it will be with me tomorrow, more voltnuttery toys to play with 

How you getting on with your new toy buddy?

The only thing I wish was different with mine is the diode test, I wish it had a bit more kick! Mine pushes 3V give or take a tiny bit. my older fluke 177 pushes 7V+ which is awesome and my 289 does around 5v which is decent and bearable! Other than that I find it an awesome beasty and very quick.

I like it a lot but it only pushes out 2.94v on diode test which is low, my 3466A does 4.66v, Flukes 25 and 27 give 2.48v, my cheap Bside ADM08A is 3.22V, Proster VC97 only has 1.52V, Robin OM840 2.79V and lastly Philips PM2521 3.55V.

I find the backlight to be a bit flaky on the left side of the screen to a bit strange considering the rest of the performance is (apart form diode test) is right up there with meters many classes above it.