Hi All,
My DER DE-5000 has been invaluable for measuring capacitors, inductors and transformers for audio, up to 100kHz. Drawbacks are mainly that it doesn't have an easy way to attach standard 4-wire probes, and readings can be a bit sensitive to the connections from its probes.
I'm thinking about getting a benchtop unit to improve accuracy and ease of use. USB or GPIB would be nice. Recommendations here suggest brands including HP/Agilent, Tonghui (also available as SourceTronic and SalukiTec), Hioki and GW Instek. The latter two are better, and more expensive, than I need.
Older HP units have the benefits of their original build quality, available documentation and serviceability in case of problems.
- The HP 4263A is the least expensive, and readily available used at under $300. 5-digits, 0.1% accuracy and 6 frequencies from 100Hz to 100kHz.
- The HP 4263B has a better 2 line screen, can be hacked to measure transformers, but is a less widely available and costs around $600.
The recently discontinued Tonghui TH2830 has a good spec and is just under $700 (SourceTronic list the ST2830 at around $1,300 in UK). The TH2817B is available for a similar price.
The discontinued GW Instek LCR-819 is available for $700, but pretty much only in the US so shipping would be prohibitive and specs seem slightly behind the TH2830.
The 2830 looks like a good machine; but it's pushing my budget. Whilst I'd like the better screen and transformer measurements, the 4263B costs nearly as much as the 2830. The 4263A looks like the sensible choice, but I'm still tempted by the TH2830.
Is there a benefit in having more frequencies within the test range rather than four or five?
Is there anything I've missed or should consider? What do you think, preferably from experience?
TIA
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