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Variac and multimeter recommendations? - Printable Version

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Variac and multimeter recommendations? - WallaceRoger - 04-23-2017

What variac models do you guys recommend? I'm looking for something that hopefully doesn't cost hundreds of dollars, but I can use to slowly power up my Model 20 (and future projects).

And while I'm on the subject, what about multimeter recommendations? I have a GDT-11 and it's ok but pretty bare bones.

RE: Variac and multimeter recommendations? - Mondial - 04-23-2017

This variac seems to be popular with restorers and is inexpensive. The 5 Amp rating should be sufficient for most any vintage radio.

https://www.circuitspecialists.com/variac-variable-ac-ps05kva.html?otaid=gpl&gclid=CMSmzOzLu9MCFU9WDQod3AUNPQ

As far as DMM's, I am partial to the Fluke handheld models. I have had my Fluke 79 for more than 20 years and it has never failed me. I just checked the calibration and it is still spot on. Recently bought as second one for $50 on ebay.

If you need a really inexpensive meter, I can recommend this one. It is a steal at this price and is surprisingly accurate ( within 1% of my Flukes).

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Hot-Digital-Multimeter-Ohm-Voltmeter-Ammeter-AVO-Meter-DT830D-Test-Leads-LCD-/172601090412?hash=item282fd3a16c:g:a7AAAOSwrklVUeqn

RE: Variac and multimeter recommendations? - klondike98 - 04-23-2017

I got this multimeter off amazon several years ago and it been doing fine. The thing I like about it most is that it has a frequency meter on it as well (Hz). I use it to set the signal gen to exactly the right frequency.

RE: Variac and multimeter recommendations? - Eliot Ness - 04-24-2017

Another vote for Fluke.... you'll pay more but you know you have a quality and accurate DVM that will probably outlast you.  We used Flukes at work and occasionally I'd hear where someone lost or misplaced one but never saw or heard of one having having issues and some of the guys were pretty hard on them.

The models I'm most familiar with are the 87 and 77.  The 77 I bought new off eBay because I wanted the same dependability on my work bench as I had at work and it hasn't disappointed. 

The other Fluke that not many people know about is the 27/FM that was used by the military and those things are built like tanks.  You can still find them on eBay but you have to look closely for one that wasn't beat to death.  I bought one several years ago for a spare (like I needed another meter) that was in great condition with the case, instructions, and a HV probe.  They are good meters if you can still find a nice one:

http://www.antiqueradios.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=167123

I will say that the meter Bob (Klondike98) mentioned sounds nice. There have to be many meters like his that aren't quite Flukes but are much better than the Harbor Freight $5 meters.

RE: Variac and multimeter recommendations? - morzh - 04-24-2017

I have a Fluke. And at work when ordering one I also ordered a Fluke. at work I have 87 model, at home - forgot.

But: if budget is a major consideration, Tenma makes very nice products. At a much lower price.

RE: Variac and multimeter recommendations? - WallaceRoger - 04-24-2017

Thanks again, guys.

RE: Variac and multimeter recommendations? - gregb - 04-24-2017

I use a Fluke 89 that I bought 20 years ago and it is the best meter I have ever owned. I did give some of those cheap ones a try and they truly are not worth the money or the time it took to drive to the store to get one.

Gregb