Clamp On DC Current Meter

[kramarczyk]

I've been looking into getting a clamp on DC current meter and was looking at the Fluke i410 (http://us.fluke.com/usen/Products/AccessoryDetail.htm?cs_id=9319(FlukeProducts)&catalog_name=FlukeUnitedStates) to go with my Fluke 179 (http://us.fluke.com/usen/Products/Fluke+170.htm?catalog_name=FlukeUnitedStates&category=THETOP(FlukeProducts)) but I noticed that is a significantly more expensive than a similar 400A DC meter such as the Craftsman 73756 (http://www.craftsman.com/shc/s/p_10155_12602_03473756000P?vName=Tools+%26+Equipme nt&cName=Equipment&sName=Electrical+Shop&keyword=dc+current+meter). ~$240 vs $100. I do not see any obvious differences between the specs, but then again I am not well versed in this area. I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on the trade offs between them. The basic question I am looking to answer is, "is the extra money worth it?"

[James Tonthat]

I'm just waiting for Al to chime in. :)

[scottydoh]

The "brand name" factor is the only think I can think of. The Craftsman is meant for the average homeowner, and thus is an affordable price, whereas the Fluke is designed for professionals, and is thus a little more pricey. I'd probably go with the Fluke though, because its probably a little better quality product...oh and because it matches your meter :)

Just my $.02

[Gdeaver]

I've used a UEI DL389 and have been satisfied with it's performance. Local distributor had it on sale for 129$ last month. Don't know what a normal price is for it.
DL 389 (http://www.ueitest.com/productList-clampon.html)

[kramarczyk]

I've used a UEI DL389 and have been satisfied with it's performance. Local distributor had it on sale for 129$ last month. Don't know what a normal price is for it.
DL 389 (http://www.ueitest.com/productList-clampon.html)
It doesn't look like this model does DC Current in the ranges we deal with. Am I mistaken?

I'm just waiting for Al to chime in. :)
Me too. This was almost just an e-mail to him, but I figured there was a larger learning opportunity for everyone.

[Gdeaver]

Opps, the dl389 will not do. Looked in some catalogs and not many do dc amp in the range for robotics. Probable have to spend some money for a clamp on solution.

[Dad1279]

I have used the Cen-Tech model. Item #98675 at Harbor freight store. It measures DC amps to 600, an as I remember cost between $70-80.

[DonRotolo]

The biggest differences between Fluke & Craftsman are accuracy and durability. The Fluke is meant as a measuring instrument, used hundreds of times a day every day - someone's salary depends on it working. The Craftsman is meant for the more casual user, a few times a month.

Buy the Craftsman for robotics usage.

(I am a huge fan of Fluke products, but for what you're going to be doing with it, the money's not worth it).

Al?

[Lowfategg]

I have used the Cen-Tech model. Item #98675 at Harbor freight store. It measures DC amps to 600, an as I remember cost between $70-80.

Harbor Freight's more expensive clamp on meter (Model: 98675-DDD) will read DC amps and voltage. The build quality feels fantastic for the price, its no fluke but definitely good enough for robotics and standard hobby/home work.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

I'm just waiting for Al to chime in. :)

I have used the Fluke and really like it. It is accurate to 3kHz so trying to measure a Jaguar (at other than full throttle) will have some inaccuracy. Victors are not a problem. It is not something you will use on a regular basis so the money may be better spent on something you will use on a regular basis. You can just as easily measure current by using a volt meter across a 1 foot length of #10 wire. 0.1 volts is equal to 100 amps.
Please remember that using a clamp type ammeter, you must only put the clamp around one wire. If you put it around both, the result will be zero.

[Dick Linn]

Thanks, Al, I think I might actually remember that: .1;1;10,100

[kramarczyk]

Thanks for the feedback everyone. It looks like there is no point in the extra cost.