ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Howdy, and a question.

Hi all,

Just joined and thought I'd say hi. Hi.

I just took and passed my apprenticeship test and am now studying for my jouneymen test in November. I am still in high school and taking electrician classes at the local vo-tech school. I am graduating this spring and am going to get a job in the electric field after that.

I have a couple regular mulimeters, a Ideal vol-con voltage/continuity tester, and a non contact voltage probe but was wanting to get a clamp type multimeter so I can measure amps.

What model do you all recommend? I was looking at the fluke t5-600, t5-1000, 333, or 322.

Also saw that Ideal sells clamp meters, any experience with those?

Thanks,
Sam

[This message has been edited by wv-wire-wrangler (edited 09-12-2005).]

I have the T5-1000 and it is my most used meter, I will get another if it breaks.

I got a great deal on the '1000' but all you will need is the '600' most likely. It's not very often you need to go past 600 V if you do you can break out a real meter.

The Fluke 87 is nice but many times it is also overkill, I like it for it's recording features especially when you get an amp clamp to connect to it.

I also have a Fluke 36 amp clamp and an old Simpson analog meter which you can't beat with a stick for it's classic 1960s look.

thanks for the reply. I like the looks of the t5-600 but my concern is the limited wire capacity of the jaws. Do you find that problem?

I have a T5-600. It is very good for a general voltage, continuity and amp meter, but it is limited. The best part is the size, it fits in your hand and doesn't take up too much space. But for amperage, you'll be limited to 120 amps or so due to the size of the jaws. I just keep an inexpensive clamp meter for larger wires.

Welcome to the forum !

I carry my Fluke t5-600 great tester but limited ,
Also have a Fluke 36 and If I dig even deeper .... here it is ... My old trusty analog amprobe clamp meter.
In general t5-600 is a good overall tester that covers most of your needs. IMO don't be afriad to spend the money to get a trusted quality meter, It should last you a long time and do you really want to trust your life to a no name knock off ?

(edited to add the welcome)

[This message has been edited by luckyshadow (edited 09-14-2005).]

Thanks for the replys and the welcome.

I was talking to some of my friends today (with backround mainly in electronics) and they said they would not get a clamp type meter but a multimeter with a seperate amp clamp attachment. They said a fluke 73 with the amp clamp attatchment would be ideal. The only problems are that it's a little over budget and would be a bear to carry around on jobs!!!

I am on a limited budget (I'm 17) so I am trying to find a meter $150.00 or under.

what about you guys (and girls)? would the fluke 333 meter be better or should I get the 73?

p.s. One problem I am worried about with the 73 would be carrying it around on the job which is why I was looking at the clamp meters.

Luckyshadow must have been in my toolbag again!!


I've got a T5-600 and a Fluke 36 also.
I love them both. Also I carry a solenoid type 25+yr old wiggie.

I've also got the Ideal clamps, but I don't use them often.

I have the Ideal "Wiggies" and a Fluke 322 multimeter. I do mostly residential and light commercial. The 322 is good for 600 volts, 400 amps, and has been very reliable for the work I do. I quit using those volt-ticks years ago.

"Luckyshadow must have been in my toolbag again"


I only peeked , I didn't touch anything - Promise !!!

If you are just starting out , here's a thought . Why not just get the T5-600 for now then in about a year go for the bigger clamp meter ? Your money situation should be better then and most first year guys don't need a clamp meter any way. No offense. This time will allow you to check into the various meters.

I have to agree with luckshadow, when new guy comes to work with me it does not impress me if he has a 600 amp clamp meter as I will never send him to use it until they have been in for a while.

What is important to me?

ON TIME!, leave your phone in the car, ready to work, your safety gear on and a full selection of the most basic hand tools including pencils and markers.

I do remember the new hires that need to always borrow the same tools, tape measures, pens and markers, screwdrivers etc.

If you need to borrow a tool that is a sign for you to go out after work and buy it.

Not to sound harsh, I just think that you should aim your money at the basics first, fancy meters later.

Bob

[This message has been edited by iwire (edited 09-15-2005).]