Extech 410 multimeter auto-off question

[jimdeane]

I bought an Extech 410 multimeter for my physics lab -- intended to be the "nicer" meter I use for demos and other measurements.

Right now I'm monitoring a supply voltage, and the damned thing auto-offs itself every 10 minutes. Can't press a button to turn it back on, or even jiggle the handle. You have to go all the way back to "off" and then back to your reading position.

I read the manual and emailed them, it's just "the way it is".

Anyone know of a way to either stop the auto-off, temporarily stop it, or make it so i can hit a button or use a magnet and a reed switch to reset/keep it on?

[StevokeanoPleaseApprove]

Ever find a work around?

[mwb1100]

Most meters that support disabling auto power off do so by holding down one of the buttons suchas select/func or hold while turning the meter on.  I doubt that will work for the EX410 since the manual doesn't mention it, but it's easy enough to try.

Your alternative to is to get a meter that supports disabling APO.  One cheap option is the Aneng 8001 which runs for less than $20 on Aliexpress.  Or maybe something like this cheapie: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09M8641Y7  ($10 on Amazon at the moment) which allows APO to be disabled.