An in-depth analysis of four Extech multimeters
One of Extech’s four models, the EX355, EX503, MM560A, or ETK35, might be worth your consideration if you’re seeking for a dependable and adaptable multimeter.
These multimeters share a lot of characteristics, but they also offer some unique features that might be more suitable for your own requirements. This article will help you choose the best Extech multimeter for you by comparing the four available models.
Extech MM570A: MultiMaster® High-Accuracy Multimeter
Taking Voltage Readings
With the exception of the ETK35, which has a limit of 600V, all four multimeters can measure AC/DC voltage up to 1000V.
They are therefore capable of handling the majority of domestic and commercial tasks, including testing batteries, outlets, circuits, motors, and other devices.
However, you might want to look for a different model if you need to measure higher voltages.
Actual Measurement
With the exception of ETK35, which can measure up to 600A with a clamp connection, all four multimeters can measure AC/DC current up to 10A.
This indicates that they can manage the majority of low-current tasks, including checking fuses, resistors, diodes, and other components. However, you might want to choose the ETK35 or another model with a clamp metre if you need to measure higher currents.
Measurement of Resistance
The resistance range for all four multimeters is 60M, which is a standard range for most multimeters.
They can therefore check the consistency and effectiveness of various electrical devices and components. However, you might want to look for a different model if you need to measure higher resistances.
Taking Capacitance Readings
All four multimeters are capable of measuring capacitance up to 60mF, which is a higher range than most multimeters can measure. The capacitance of various capacitors and circuits can therefore be tested.
However, you might want to look for another model with a higher resolution if you need to measure lower capacitances.
Measurements of Frequency
Except for ETK35, which can measure up to 10MHz with a clamp attachment, all four multimeters can measure frequency up to 10MHz. They can therefore check the frequency of different signals and waveforms.
EXTECH ETK35 Electrical Test Kit with True RMS AC DC Clamp Meter
However, you might want to look for a different model if you need to measure higher frequencies.
Duty Cycle Analysis
All four multimeters are capable of measuring duty cycle, or the ratio of a signal or waveform’s on-time to its off-time.
This is helpful for evaluating the effectiveness and performance of various equipment and circuits. But the ETK35 can only measure duty cycle when attached with a clamp.
Measurement of Temperature
With a thermocouple probe, all four multimeters can measure temperatures between -40°C and +1000°C. However, the EX355 also has a feature that uses an infrared sensor to measure temperature.
It can therefore estimate an object’s surface temperature without having to contact it. For evaluating heated or difficult-to-reach locations, utilise this method.
Device Test
A diode test, which is used to verify the polarity and functionality of diodes, may be carried out by all four multimeters. Testing different electronic components and circuits can be done using this.
Test of Continuity
A continuity test, which is used to determine whether there is a complete path connecting two points in a circuit or device, can be carried out by all four multimeters.
Filter, Low Pass
The low pass filter feature on each of the four multimeters is used to remove high-frequency noise from a signal or waveform. This is helpful for testing motors, variable frequency drives, and other electrically noisy equipment.
Detecting Voltage Without Contact
The non-contact voltage detection feature on EX355 and ETK35 is used to check for the existence of AC electricity without having to touch the cables or outlets. This is helpful for evaluating the operation and safety of different electrical systems.
Display
Each of the four multimeters has a backlit LCD display that is simple to read in low light. The MM560A, on the other hand, has a dual display that can show two measurements simultaneously. This is helpful for contrasting and comparing various values.
Flashlight
The EX355 has a torch feature that lets you shine a light on the area you’re testing. When working in dim or dark environments, this is helpful.
Hold Data
The data hold feature on each of the four multimeters can stop the display’s current reading from changing. This is helpful for writing down or recording the measurement.
Comparative Mode
Each of the four multimeters has a relative mode feature that can display the variance between a reading and a reference value. For evaluating the precision and consistency of different measures, this is helpful.
Peak Retain
The peak hold function of the EX503 and MM560A can record the highest or lowest reading during a measurement. Testing the peak or valley values of different signals and waveforms is beneficial here.
Self-Powering Off
The auto power down feature on the MM560A and ETK35 can automatically turn the multimeter off after a certain amount of inactivity. This helps to avoid harm from accidents and extend battery life.
Real RMS
The true root mean square value of an AC signal or waveform can be measured by the true RMS function, which is present on all four multimeters.
This is helpful for testing waveforms and signals that are non-sinusoidal or distorted, such as those produced by inverters, computers, and other equipment.
Safety Score
Each of the four multimeters has a separate safety rating, indicating the degree of protection it provides against fire and electric shock risks. The more protection they provide, the better the grade.
As the device with the highest CAT IV 600V/CAT III 1000V rating, the EX355 is capable of withstanding high-energy transient overvoltages that could happen in power distribution systems.
EX503 and MM560A are rated as CAT IV 600V, CAT III 1000V, and CAT II 1000V, respectively, for different tasks. ETK35 has a CAT III 600V/CAT II 1000V rating.
Details for each multimeter include:
EX355: This multimeter features an infrared temperature sensor that allows you to measure an object’s surface temperature without actually touching it.
For evaluating heated or difficult-to-reach locations, utilise this method. Additionally, it has a torch feature that lets you shine a light on the area you’re testing. When working in dim or dark environments, this is helpful.
It can also tolerate high-energy transient overvoltages that may occur in power distribution systems because to its high safety rating of CAT IV 600V/CAT III 1000V.
However, some users have complained that this multimeter responds slowly and beeps loudly after each dial turn.
EXTECH EX503 10 Function Heavy Duty Industrial MultiMeter
The peak hold feature on the multimeter EX503 allows it to record the highest or lowest reading obtained during a measurement.
Testing the peak or valley values of different signals and waveforms is beneficial here. Additionally, it has a sturdy design and some functions with a high safety rating.
However, some users have complained that this multimeter is missing a torch, an auto power off feature, and a non-contact voltage detector.
MM560A: This multimeter includes a dual display that can simultaneously show two measurements.
This is helpful for contrasting and comparing various values. Additionally, it has an auto power off feature and a peak hold feature.
However, some customers have complained that this multimeter is missing a torch, a non-contact voltage detector, and a high safety rating for some of its features.
ETK35: With a clamp attachment, this clamp multimeter can measure current up to 600A. For detecting greater currents without disrupting the circuit, this is helpful.
Additionally, it has an automatic power-off feature and a non-contact voltage detector. However, according to some users, this multimeter has the lowest safety rating of CAT III 600V/CAT II 1000V and the lowest voltage and frequency measurement ranges.
Conclusion
As you can see, the four Extech multimeters share a lot of functions but also differ in a few ways that may be more suitable for your individual requirements.
Here are some of the primary benefits and drawbacks of each model, in brief:
The most adaptable and feature-rich multimeter is the EX355, which also has a torch, a non-contact voltage detector, an infrared temperature sensor, and a high safety certification. It is, however, also the most expensive and substantial model.
EX503: A dependable multimeter with high safety ratings for some functions, a peak hold function, and durability. However, it is devoid of a torch, an auto power off feature, and a non-contact voltage detector.
MM560A: A dual-display multimeter featuring an auto power-off feature and a peak hold capability. It does not have a torch, a non-contact voltage detector, or several functionalities with a high safety rating.
ETK35: A clamp metre multimeter featuring an auto power off feature and a non-contact voltage detector. The lowest safety rating and lowest measurement ranges for voltage and frequency are present, nevertheless.
The ideal Extech multimeter for you ultimately depends on your needs, tastes, and financial situation.
We sincerely hope that this essay has assisted you in making a thoughtful choice. Please leave a remark if you have any queries or suggestions.
You can get some fantastic offers and savings on this site if you’re interested in purchasing one of these multimeters.
