Are you trying to test and troubleshoot electrical systems with a trustworthy and adaptable multimeter? If so, it’s possible that you’ve come across any of the goods made by Extech, a renowned producer of test and measurement equipment.
But how can you pick the finest Extech Multimeter for your needs when there are so many options?
The MA640-KÂ Phase Rotation/Clamp Meter Test Kit, the ETK35 Electrical Test Kit with True RMS AC DC Clamp Meter, and the MA63 True RMS AC DC Clamp Meter NCV are three of their well-known multimeters that we shall contrast in this post.
We’ll examine their characteristics, resemblances, differences, advantages, and disadvantages to help you choose which is best for you.
You can choose a multimeter that meets your needs in this comparison guide, whether you need one for testing and troubleshooting 3-phase motors and generators, installing and repairing electrical systems and HVAC equipment, or working on automotive and motor applications.
Continue reading to find out more about the three Extech multimeters mentioned above and how they might benefit your projects.
EXTECH Multimeter MA640-K
You may have already come across some of the devices from Extech, a well-known producer of test and measurement instruments, if you’re seeking for a dependable and adaptable multimeter.
But how can you pick the finest alternative for your needs when there are so many options?
The MA640-K Phase Rotation/Clamp Meter Test Kit, the ETK35 Electrical Test Kit with True RMS AC DC Clamp Meter, and the MA63 True RMS AC DC Clamp Meter NCV are three of their well-known multimeters that we shall contrast in this post.
We’ll examine their characteristics, resemblances, differences, advantages, and disadvantages to help you choose which is best for you.
What distinguishes each multimeter?
A 600A true RMS AC/DC clamp meter, a 3-phase rotation tester, a dual range AC voltage detector, a type K thermocouple bead probe, and a carrying case are all included in the MA640-K Phase Rotation/Clamp Meter Test Kit.
It is made to measure AC/DC current, voltage, resistance, frequency, capacitance, temperature, diode, and continuity as well as test and troubleshoot 3-phase motors and generators.
Another package including a true RMS autoranging multimeter, a true RMS 400A AC/DC clamp meter with a built-in non-contact voltage detector, a type K temperature bead wire probe, test leads, and a carrying case is the ETK35 Electrical Test package with True RMS AC DC Clamp Meter.
EXTECH Multimeter ETK35
It is made to measure AC/DC current, voltage, resistance, frequency, capacitance, temperature, diode, and continuity as well as install and repair major appliances, HVAC equipment, and electrical systems.
The MA63 True RMS AC DC Clamp Meter NCV is a stand-alone clamp meter with three current ranges and an AC/DC voltage range of up to 600V.
It also supports a manual ranging mode.
For reliable measurement of variable frequency drive signals, it also includes a built-in non-contact voltage detector with an LED alarm and a variable frequency control mode.
It is capable of detecting continuity, diode, resistance, frequency, capacitance, temperature, AC/DC current, and voltage.
What features do these multimeters have in common?
All three multimeters share some characteristics that make them useful in a range of situations.
Among these characteristics are:
For reliable readings of distorted waveforms, they are all equipped with real RMS measuring.
Data hold, maximum hold, auto power down, and low battery indicators are all features that each device has.
They all have conductors up to 350 MCM and 1.2″ (30mm) jaw sizes.
Each one includes batteries and test leads.
What distinguishes these multimeters from one another?
These multimeters are comparable to one another, but they also have unique qualities that make them stand out from one another.
Among these characteristics are:
The MA640-K has a backlit 6000 count LCD display, the ETK35 has a backlit 2000 count LCD display, and the MA63 has a backlit 6000 count LCD display.
While the other two multimeters lack this capability, the MA640-K contains a 3-phase rotation tester that can display phase sequence and rotation on a multiline LCD display1.
The other two multimeters have manual ranging modes that require the user to choose the proper range1, however the ETK35 includes an autoranging mode that automatically chooses the ideal range for the measurement2.
Unlike the other two multimeters, the ETK35 incorporates an IR thermometer with a laser pointer for non-contact temperature measurement2.
The other two multimeters lack the MA63’s variable frequency control mode, which enables precise measurement of variable frequency drive signals.
Which multimeter has advantages and disadvantages?
The following are some advantages and disadvantages of each multimeter based on its characteristics, similarities, and differences:
Phase Rotation/Clamp Meter Test Kit MA640-K
Pros:
Excellent for analyzing and diagnosing 3-phase motors and generators.
may show rotation and phase sequence on a multiline LCD panel.
has a backlit 6000 count LCD display.
includes a type K thermocouple bead probe for measuring temperature.
includes a soft carrying case.
Cons:
has a user-operated manual ranging mode.
How do you pick the ideal multimeter for your requirements?
You might be unsure of which multimeter will suit your needs the best now that you are aware of its features, similarities, and differences from the other two.
The answer depends on a number of variables, including:
Your spending limit: At about $175.991, the MA640-K is the most costly of the three. However, bear in mind that this set includes more than simply a multimeter.
A type K thermocouple bead probe, a dual range AC voltage detector, a 3-phase rotation tester, and a soft carrying box are also included.
The ETK35 costs about $149.99, which is a little less. A genuine RMS autoranging multimeter, a type K temperature bead wire probe, test leads, and a soft carrying case are all included in this kit.
The MA63, which costs about $99.99, is the least expensive of the three. The test leads and batteries for this solo clamp meter are included.
Your submission:
The MA640-K’s multiline LCD display allows it to show the phase order and rotation, making it ideal for testing and troubleshooting 3-phase motors and generators.
You can use this capability to check for proper wiring and connections and troubleshoot issues with 3-phase power systems. Due to its autoranging mode and IR thermometer, the ETK35 is most suitable for the installation and repair of electrical systems, HVAC devices, and large appliances.
By choosing the ideal range for the measurement automatically, the autoranging mode can help you save time and bother.
When checking for hot spots or overheating issues, the IR thermometer can help you measure temperature without touching the surface. Given that it features a variable frequency control mode, the MA63 is most appropriate for automotive and motor applications.
When testing motors, inverters, or generators, this mode might be useful for properly measuring variable frequency driving signals.
Your preference:
You might also have a particular preference for a function, such as IR thermometer, autoranging, or backlight. For instance, you might favor a multimeter with a backlight if you work in low light.
The LCD displays of the MA640-K and ETK35 both feature backlights, whereas the MA63 does not.
A multimeter with an IR thermometer might be preferred if you wish to monitor temperature without touching the surface. Unlike the other two multimeters, the ETK35 incorporates an IR thermometer with a laser pointer for non-contact temperature measuring.
A multimeter with an autoranging mode may be preferred if you wish to save time and bother. While the other two multimeters feature a manual ranging mode that requires you to choose the proper range, the ETK35 offers an autoranging mode that automatically chooses the ideal range for the measurement.
Three of Extech’s well-known multimeters—the MA640-K Phase Rotation/Clamp Meter Test Kit, the ETK35 Electrical Test Kit with True RMS AC DC Clamp Meter, and the MA63 True RMS AC DC Clamp Meter NCV—have been compared in this article.
We have discussed their attributes, similarities, differences, advantages, disadvantages, and how to pick the one that will meet your needs the best.
According to your budget, application, and preferences, every multimeter has different strengths and drawbacks. The MA640-K’s multiline LCD display allows it to show the phase order and rotation, making it perfect for testing and troubleshooting 3-phase motors and generators.
Because it has an IR thermometer and an autoranging mode, the ETK35 is ideal for installing and repairing large appliances, HVAC equipment, and electrical systems. The MA63 offers a variable frequency control mode, making it appropriate for automotive and motor applications.
It can be difficult to choose the best multimeter for your needs, but we hope this article has made the process easier.
Before purchasing any multimeter, keep in mind to take your demands, budget, and preferences into account. And feel free to post any questions or comments you may have concerned these multimeters or this article in the section below. We’d be thrilled to hear from you.
Additionally, you can check out Extech’s official website or their accredited dealers online if you’re interested in purchasing any of these multimeters or other Extech items.
Happy testing, and thanks for reading.
