Hello all,
I've been wanting to get a new meter for a while, as I could use some of the features my old BK 2703C meter lacks. Most of my work is repair of older PC and test equipment.
My budget is $300 US or less (I figure, buy once cry once, right?)
Mostly, my must have list is:
- Dual display, with AC+DC modes so I can view power supply ripple without dragging the oscope out
- Temperature/thermocouple measurement
- Capacitance measurement
- Data logging and/or PC comms, independent data logging would be especially attractive as I already have a bench meter that can send data to the PC
- Proper input protection, while I don't intend to go near mains very often, being a DIYer means it's bound to happen eventually
So far I've narrowed it down to the EEVBlog 121GW and the Brymen BM869s. Looks like they're comparable in precision, and both have the usual min/max/hold/autohold features. the BM869s is slightly more expensive, but not by much.
The 121GW also has some really unique test features (15V diode test, for instance) which could come in handy.
The BM869s has some more features related to AC (duty cycle, etc) but I can't really see myself having a use for them in most cases. The dual temp might be handy in some cases.
I think, typing it out, the logging features of the 121GW have swayed me that way, but the BM896s is also an attractive proposition. The open design and easily updatable firmware also helps. I'm sure either one would be a fine meter for years to come, but wanted to get opinions for either meter, or suggestions for others to look at.
TIA!