Which multimeter should I choose for a car? Overview, types, prices

The operation of a car is usually associated with the performance of mechanical operations, even if it concerns serious failures. Electrical equipment requires special attention, therefore technical maintenance of this sphere is more often entrusted to specialists. But there are also simple, often preventive measures that even an inexperienced motorist can produce. For example, it can be checking the voltage at the terminals or measuring the current resistance of the on-board network. For such operations special testers are purchased - multimeters. This is a small device that allows you to perform the necessary measurements in minutes. Which multimeter is best to choose is an ambiguous question, and the answer to it can only be given when considering the individual needs and preferences of the user. Nevertheless, there are general rules for this choice, knowledge of which will help to solve this problem.

General information about multimeters

The device is a measuring tool of small dimensions, which allows using its functional to assess the state of the electrical circuit, as well as reflect its specific characteristics. In the standard version, such devices perform the functions of voltmeters, ohmmeters and ammeters. It can be said, this is a set of operations, which is characterized by a universal multimeter. Which is better to choose for a home? Perhaps, in terms of functional filling this set of operations is quite enough for domestic needs.

However, for the car it will be superfluous to provide additional functionality. In particular, some of the specialized models of this type also allow to work with specific on-board equipment. Such devices allow you to determine the indicators of the tachometer and speedometer. True, excessive filling of functions does not always go in plus to the quality of measurement. Therefore, it is worth sticking to the standard modifications in which a modern multimeter is manufactured. Which is better to choose in terms of ease of use - also an important issue, which takes into account the nuances of handling the instrument. In particular, the convenience of using the device will depend on its type.

Varieties of the device

The principle separation is carried out by the method of controlling and presenting the measurement data. Morally obsolete, but reliable analog devices with mechanical control elements are still in demand on the market. These are arrow devices that differ in poor functionality, but at the same time they are understandable to most even novice users. But to replace the classic testers comes a digital multimeter. Which is better to choose for a car in that case? It is desirable to focus on models with ticks. Such modifications, in particular, are optimally suited for working with battery packs, since they exclude the need for additional equipment. By itself, the digital model of the multimeter is also advantageous in the modern way of presenting data that are output to a liquid crystal display. In improved versions, the computer stuffing is also used, thanks to which it is possible to produce and process the received data.

Basic selection criteria

Technical parameters should be the basis for making a choice. This mainly applies to the range of measured values. In particular, by means of a multimeter with a wide range, the user can determine the current strength in the spectrum from 0.1 μA to 10 A. The resolution, which is provided by the multimeter, is also taken into account - what is the best choice for this indicator? Of course, the higher the bit capacity, the better the measurement quality. This allows for more detailed evaluation of the measured values. Another thing is that fine gradation is not appropriate in all cases.

An important criterion of choice is the accuracy of the device. Officially, it is represented as an error factor. For example, for digital testers, this value usually ranges from 0.02 to 3%. But in the question of how to choose a digital multimeter, the very principle of measurement is also important, since low-power equipment is often subjected to inspection. And in terms of stability of measurements, by the way, sometimes analogous modifications are better than themselves.

Model FLUKE 15B

A compact device suitable for universal needs, among which are the operation changes in the on-board vehicle power system. The model is a classic representative of the segment of digital testers. It is distinguished by a low error rate of 0.5%, as well as the presence of automatic monitoring and control systems. For example, if there is a question about which multimeter should be chosen from the point of view of optimal bit depth, then we can safely give preference to this device. Its automation allows without user intervention to determine the most suitable bit capacity. And after measuring, the device will give characteristic sound signals. By the way, the data is updated every 3 seconds, which contributes to the rapid implementation of complex measurements.

Model Mastech MS8040

A representative of a rare class of industrial testers who do not often meet in everyday life, but sometimes such models justify themselves in the economy of ordinary motorists. Especially if, in addition to maintaining the battery, the user is dealing with electrical work. High digits, the possibility of working with a chain chime, the estimation of linear frequencies and amplitude values are only a part of the advantages that this stationary multimeter possesses. Which is better to choose a tester from the segment of professional devices? This question is asked motorists who, in addition to the main indicators, also plan to record the capacity of the circuit, frequency and temperature. And the modification of the MS8040 is just right for such needs. For this reason, many car service employees use the model, although, of course, lack of mobility is its serious drawback.

Model CEM DT-101

If a very simple model is required to perform infrequent measuring actions in the main list of indicators, this option may be appropriate. In the budget segment, he is also one of the most reliable, although significantly limited in his abilities. The advantages of the device include compactness, ease and simplicity of control. In the answer to the question of which multimeter is best to choose for a quick and no-hassle measurement of the parameters of the circuit, this model can be fully considered. In addition, the tester in this version has a digital display and optimized controls, so for a beginner, it can be a better choice.

How much does a multimeter cost?

The above version costs 700 rubles. In the segment up to 1000 rubles. There are also a lot of interesting offers with more opportunities. The average class offers devices with price tags of the order of 1.5-2 thousand rubles. This is already a multi-functional instrument with a reliable element base and modern options. Apart from the same segment, there is a professional multimeter. Which is better to choose? The price, which in this case is about 20 thousand, can complicate the choice or, at least, will make it more precise to determine the spectrum of the required functions. For home service of the car it is quite possible to be limited to cheaper devices. But, as already noted, if you plan to use the device for other, more responsible and time-consuming measuring tasks, it makes sense to acquire a professional model like MS8040 from Mastech.

Conclusion

In multimeters, regardless of their belonging to a particular class, indirect parameters are often not of the last importance. This applies, in particular, to the method of nutrition. Which multimeter is better to choose by this criterion? The battery should be capacious and reliable, so as not to let you down in the conditions of temperature changes. The quality of the battery is difficult to assess in the selection process, but manufacturers of the FLUKE or Mastech level rarely supply their products with frankly weak and sensitive power supplies.