Choosing a multimeter

[Sphere]

Hello everyone,

I'm embarking on a journey of learning how to use a multimeter, at this time I'm not planning on breaking the bank. So, I'd like some opinions from you that do know your stuff to help get me started on the right foot.

http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/search.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&keyword=multimeter&vertical=TOOL

Sears is just one of the places I've looked. I plan to spend $30-40 to get me started with one. I sure don't have to buy one from them, but it was a place to start.

Just one of the questions I have is whether I need *auto ranging* in my first unit...if it'll make my life easier, then I'm all for it.

Any help appreciated, thank you

Sphere

[procreate]

i have this one http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?cat=Electrical+Shop&pid=03482139000&vertical=TOOL&subcat=Multi-Meters%2C+Testers+%26+Accessories&BV_SessionID=@@@@2009329728.1165090562@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccjkaddjiddljfecefecemldffidfko.0

and it works GREAT... autoranging is totally worth it because it makes life easier... course you can always disable it. with this model i have always wanted the temp probe [i think i might go but that today]

[madmat]

I've got this one (http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?cat=Electrical+Shop&pid=03482141000&vertical=TOOL&subcat=Multi-Meters%2C+Testers+%26+Accessories&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes) and it's pretty nice for $20. .5% accuracy, removable probes, 10A testing...nice little meter for the home user if you don't need autoranging.

[Sphere]

Thanks guys, keep'em coming!

[madmat]

Up until recently I've never had an autoranging meter, I've never needed one so saw the added cost as a negative. Of course I like a good analog meter over a digital version with the same specs.

[GalvanizedYankee]

Read this thread. I like having the temp probe on the meter I linked, just to play with. Yeah, I know that a cheap laser temp meter can be had for < $50.
http://www.jonnyguru.com/forums/showthread.php?t=485

[Spectre]

Be sure ot check how many digits of precision multimeter does ;)

[Sphere]

Thanks again everyone for your input, this is the one I purchased

http://www.allelectronics.com/cgi-bin/item/DVM-890/760/LCD_MULTIMETER_FAHRENHEIT_THERMOMETER_.html

[Praxis1452]

That would measure ohm's resistance right if I placed them at the two ends of a resistor? I'm trying to volt mod two of my X1900GT's rev2 as ati disabled software volt mods. :D