The content of the article:
- Tester and multimeter - what's the difference
- Types of multimeters
- Best Automotive Multimeters
The only transport that surpasses a car in terms of electronics is an airplane. The total length of the electric cable in the sedan of the middle price segment is approaching 2,000 meters. Car ECUs, hundreds of sensors, stabilization systems, control systems, car lighting - all require a correct and accurate supply of an electrical signal to ensure the safety and proper operation of the car.
Tester and multimeter - what's the difference
Repair of any electrical circuit begins with checking the integrity of the cable; the problem of the sensors can be diagnosed only by determining the quality of the signal. If 10 years ago it was possible to use an electric light bulb to ring a cable, today this method of verification is not used, since this can lead to a breakdown of the semiconductor alarm keys.
It is inconvenient to use separately an ohmmeter, voltmeter and ammeter to check the continuity of the circuit for many reasons. The only solution is to choose a functional meter - a multimeter that displays all current characteristics on a scale or display.
Novice drivers mistakenly believe that the on-board network voltage meter is a tester, this is a multimeter. In fact, using a multimeter, they check not only the presence and parameters of the voltage, but also measure all the characteristics of the current: type, strength, resistance.
In addition, universal multimeters have a number of built-in additional functions for checking the performance of diodes, capacitor capacitance, noise parameters, temperature, lighting, etc.
Types of multimeters
Universal measuring instruments are divided into three large groups:
- analog;
- combined;
- electronic.
The indications of analog devices are displayed on the graduated scale by the oscillations of the arrow. The main disadvantage of analog kits is that the devices do not determine the polarity and, if the probes are incorrectly connected, quickly fail.
Combined multimeter models that combine a graduated scale and digital readings are more practical and are widely used to check the on-board circuits of a car due to the convenient display of readings and a lower percentage of error.
In electronic multimeters there is a function for determining the polarity, the device is used to determine the negative and positive contacts.
The disadvantage of a digital multimeter, according to experienced electricians, is that digital values are lit on the monitor, which do not convey the dynamics of current fluctuations in the circuit during the diagnosis process.
Digital devices are gradually replacing analog devices, which are considered morally obsolete due to a large percentage of error and a minimum number of additional functions.
Multimeter specifications for the right choice
When choosing an automotive measuring instrument, it is necessary to consider specifications, which include:
- allowable error;
- range or limits of measurements;
- type of food;
- digit capacity of multimeter readings;
- additional features.
For modern cars with a large number of electronic systems, devices with additional functions are chosen that will determine the malfunction of sensors, equipment units, etc.
The permissible error of the multimeter is up to 1%. Electronic devices of proven brands normally work within the limits of an error of 0.025-0.5%, which does not in any way affect the accuracy of the car. For a 220 V network, an error of up to 2.5% is allowed, 90% of analog multimeters work in this range.
For each multimeter, the manufacturer sets its own operating range, within which the device is able to work correctly.
The digit capacity of the multimeter is an option for tracking readings. In simple analog instruments, the measurement is carried out up to one hundredth of a whole indicator. In digital devices, the bit depth is determined by readings up to a thousandth, since the error of such a tool is minimal.
According to the type of power supply, multimeters are divided into stand-alone ones, which operate from a built-in battery, and stationary ones, which must be connected to the battery. For cars, choose only portable multimeters that operate from an autonomous power source.
A multimeter with additional functionality, in addition to checking the operability of transistors and diodes, is able to generate a test signal, check the operation of semiconductors, record the results obtained, and carry out measurements in automatic mode. In addition, the device itself has a number of additional settings: push-button activation, timer, screen brightness adjustment, etc.
Before you pick up a multimeter, you need to decide for what purpose you need the device. A multifunctional meter is used more often in repair shops and is quite expensive. For example, a universal multimeter Fluke 279 FC (887222) has 15 measurement functions, a wide range of boundaries, a color display, etc. and costs from 50,000 rubles.
If there is no need to carry out a comprehensive repair of the entire automotive electrical system, it is recommended to choose a meter with the most necessary set of options. Here are the top 9 best automotive multimeters for 2020.
Best Automotive Multimeters
The best budget-class automotive multimeters
In the photo: Victor VC830L multimeter
- Mastech MAS838 - 900 rubles;
- UNIT UT-33 modification A 700 rubles;
- Victor VC830L - 750 rubles.
Among budget models, the first place is taken by the Mastech МAS838 multimeter. The device monitors all the main characteristics of the electrical signal, measures the gain of bipolar transistors. Convenient body, strong and reliable wires, thin, sharp test leads. The model has a button for fixing the readings, which are displayed on a black and white display.
The advantages of the device include a long service life, a maximum measuring range, a clear 3.5-inch display.
The budget-class digital multimeter UNI-T UT 33 automatically selects the operating range to determine the resistance and voltage parameters of the on-board circuit of the car. Additional options include a transistor testing panel, temperature measurement, and generation of a test square wave signal.
The multimeter has a convenient body, durable probes, the lack of screen backlighting is highlighted among the shortcomings, there is no option to automatically save readings. You can fix the signal through the button.
The Victor VC830L brand completes the rating of budget models. The multimeter measures AC and DC current, voltage, resistance, temperature. Automatically turns off after 15 minutes, runs on 2 AAA batteries, has a minimum weight of 185 grams.
The best meters of the middle price segment
In the photo: Testo 7601 multimeter
- Testo 7601 - 5100 rubles;
- Mastech MS 826-0E - 2100 rubles;
- CEM DT - 1900 rubles.
Testo is a digital automatic multimeter with great functionality. In addition to standard measurements "Voltage", "Current", the device has a third mode "Advanced", when connected, it automatically determines the individual range and test method. The mode tracks capacitance in the range of 10 nF-100nF, signal frequency in the range of 0.001 Hz-513 kHz, etc.
Model 760-1 is included in the State Register as a reference meter for examinations. Among the advantages are high reliability, minimum measurement error, long service life. Of the minuses, radio amateurs note the lack of an option to check the transistor.
Model MS8260E from Mastech, in addition to standard electrical circuit checks, allows you to measure the correct operation of chokes and coils. Frequency and temperature measurements are available as additional options.The built-in module checks the operation of bipolar transistors, diodes. The model has an audible buzzer when the circuit rings.
Among the advantages are the connection of power from the button, a fuse, an additional unit for testing transistors. The disadvantages include the power source of the "Krona" device.
A simple digital multimeter CEM DT is considered the most convenient for motorists. In addition to the standard set of options, there is a meter for capacitor capacitance, frequency and temperature. In the model, the output resistance is increased when checking the voltage up to 10 MΩ. The display has an autonomous backlight.
The best multimeters for a professional car
Photo: Fluke 233 multimeter
This class of meters is rarely bought by drivers who carry out simple car diagnostics. The tool will become indispensable for complex work both at service stations and for self-repair of electrical equipment, signal sensors, for checking and repairing an ECU.
- Fluke 233 - 30,000 rubles;
- APPA 107-N 17,000 rubles;
- CEM AT-9955 RUB 10,000
The Fluke 233 multimeter features a removable display that can be detached from the base measurement module. The communication radius of up to 10 meters provides comfort for diagnostics and repair of vehicle components and assemblies located in hard-to-reach places.
The meter determines the voltage with an error of up to 0.00001%, which today is considered the standard of accuracy, determines the capacitance to the upper limit of 9999 μF., Frequency, temperature, generates test pulses, etc. In addition to standard probes, the multimeter works with external current clamps, pressure and vacuum meters. The device is powered by 5 batteries.
The second place in the ranking of the most expensive automotive multimeters belongs to the 107N model from the manufacturer APPA. The rugged instrument doesn't offer as much functionality as the Fluke models, but it offers accurate measurements and high-voltage fuses. The minimum service life is 10 years.
Among the advantages are the accuracy of measurements in an electrical circuit with an incorrect sinusoid, the option of storing the last 1600 readings, it is possible to synchronize the test with a PC via the RS-232 interface. Additional options: display backlighting by time (adjustable by the user), alarm in case of incorrect connection of the probes.
CEM AT-9955 rounds out the top 9 best automotive multimeters. In addition to the standard measurement modes: alternating, direct current, resistance, voltage, the multimeter has additional functions that will come in handy for self-diagnosis of a car. This is a pyrometer, measurement of pulse width, angle of closed state, etc. The maximum measurement error is 2%.
The model is convenient specifically for motorists - the device allows you to read the pulsation of the ignition cycle, electronic injection. Service station masters use the meter when diagnosing an automatic transmission with electric control, an injector control unit.
Conclusion
When choosing a multimeter for a car, check the compliance of the barcode on the package with the manufacturer's base. Models of the middle and premium segment are practically not counterfeited, but there are enough budget devices of dubious quality on the market.
