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Fluke 87-5 Digital Multimeter by Fluke
Product DetailsManufacturer: Fluke Model: FLUKE 87-5 Product features: - Auto and manual ranging for maximum flexibility
- Analog bar graph for fast changing or unstable signals
- Measure up to 10 A, 20 A for up to 30 seconds
- Selectable filter for accurate voltage
- Input Alert provides audible warning against wrong use of input jacks
Accessories:
Tools and Hardware Reviews of Fluke 87-5 Digital MultimeterCustomer Review: Nearly perfect multimeter Summary: 5 Stars
The 87 has evolved little since 1989 yet it remains a preferred and widely used meter for professional electric and electronic work, over 20 years later. Its very rare to have any design in production for decades yet still command a top price despite competition from cheaper work a like multimeters. The 87 look, feel and functionality, remains often copied even today. While the 87 has changed backlighting, added 20,000 count precision, increased LCD annunciators, louder beeps, new button colors etc., it didn't markedly improve overall accuracy, reliability, build quality, safety, and ease of maintenance that gave the whole 80 series its reputation. You can still find 1-4 80 series meters on eBay commanding top prices [often as much or more than similar functioned new non-Fluke DMMs ] and often need just cleaning, to look near new.
I own a 20+ year old 85I, a 10 year old 85III and a 3 year old 87V. None of these has been adjusted since its original calibration and a recent comparison against a calibrated 6.5 digit bench meter showed all 3 still in factory spec. I'm not the only owner to notice this reliability, other long time owners know it too. Further, the specs are often 3-10x better at room temperature than given in the manual.
I've used the meters is high heat of summer or cold of winter, left in cars or bags, yet it measures true. The rubber case helps endure drops and shocks, resists splashing, dirt, grease, and mud, yet is easily cleaned with soap [ I throw it into the diswasher ]. The case also adds grip to prevent falling off table tops, and makes the meter easier to hold with heavy gloves.
The rotary switch is slightly recessed from the lower end of the case, reducing the chance of accidental operation should the meter fall or rub against other tools in a box.
The buttons are widely spaced, making correct selection with gloves more accurate.
The beeps are loud, and engage clearly to warn you of settings and possible misplacement of leads in wrong modes.
The casing is made of a very durable plastic, essentially unchanged since 1989, it holds its look and strength for over 20 years.
The case, inputs, rotary switch, and buttons are O ring or gasket sealed, and while not made to be waterproof, is at least splash resistant. The entire meter, including the PCB, can easily be user disassembled and cleaned, if needed.
The parts count on the PCB have been substantially reduced, so the 87V is slightly lighter than the 85. The measurement speed is noticeably faster, but the accuracy remains similar to the specs of the original 87I, which is similar to an 85III and 85I. The 85I is adjusted using trim pots, while the the 85III and 87V are close case adjustments, using memory chips to store correction factors. However, I've not had to do any adjustment since the meters were purchased, so long ago.
What is most striking about Fluke 87s is the fast cycling of a measurement that is often devoid of drift, making one have high confidence in the measurement reading. By comparison, I also use a Radio Shack ruggedized pocket DMM, made by reputable maker Sanwa, that can take a while for the last digit to settle. In 5 years the accuracy drifted over 5% off scale, and while easy to adjust I had to suspect it was off, and must regularly calibrate it against a Fluke. A frebbie DMM I leave in a car would read DC as well as my Fluke, but unexpectedly one day, it died. I now had no meter to use, and it was intended to make field repairs. Many other DMMs specify their accuracy misleadingly, quoting a low % of reading, but with high last digit drift rates that increase the % of reading inaccuracy many fold. Drifts create skepticism with measurement, so when my intuition says something isn't right it makes me reach for my Fluke to settle the issue, so in the end, why bother with the questionable readings and just get another Fluke, which I did.
So why 'nearly' perfect? Some gripes I have is that after 20 years, the meter still costs a lot. It has a small LCD screen compared to top DMMs brands, but its LCD remains very clear . No attempt was made to convert it easier to find AA batteries instead of less ubiquitous 9V batteries.
Conclusion:
Can one justify a DMM that cost 3x more than a competing meter of similar accuracy, at least by spec sheet? A lesser DMM will work most of the time but it can mislead or break when you least expect it, or not perform exactly as the spec sheet says. As a Fluke owner, I know 80 series meters performs over its spec sheet, require no special protective cases or care, will exceed 20 years, or more, of life working as good as when it was new. While Fluke states it requires annual calibration, in reality is hardly needs any. A new 87V has a "lifetime" warranty for original owners, and a used one on auction often sells close to a new one.
Description of Fluke 87-5 Digital Multimeter - Built-in thermometer conveniently allows you to take temperature readings without having to carry a separate instrument
- Large digital display, 6000 counts, 3-3/4-digits
- Measure up to 1000V AC and DC
- Auto and manual ranging for maximum flexibility
Industrial True RMS Multimeter with Temperature Measure up to 1000V AC and DC. Built in thermometer lets you carry one less tool. Withstands hazardous 8,000 volt spikes caused by load switching. Analog bar graph for fast changing or unstable signals. The Fluke 87-5 Digital Multimeter is a versatile True-RMS meter that's perfect for professional or around-the-house use. This meter offers auto and manual ranging for maximum flexibility, and it also offers an annual bar graph for quick-changing or unstable signals. Classically designed, the Fluke 87-5 has a removable holster with built-in probe and test-lead storage. For added convenience, it arrives ready to go with TL75 test leads and a nine-volt battery. | The Fluke 87-5 Digital Multimeter At a Glance:- Auto and manual ranging
- Removable holster with built-in probe and test-lead storage
- Built-in thermometer
- CAT IV 600-volt safety rated
- Includes TL75 test leads, alligator clips, and 9-volt battery
- Lifetime warranty
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Fits in the palm of your hand.
| Safe, Convenient Functions Enable Productivity Designed for maximum productivity, the Fluke 87-5 has more problem solving power, safety, convenience, and impact protection than the previous 80 Series models. This multimeter offers improved measurement functions, accuracy, and resolution, as well as trouble-shooting features to solve problems with motor drives, in-plant automation, power distribution, and electro-mechanical equipment.Auto and Manual Ranging for Versatility This unique multimeter provides both auto and manual ranging for optimum flexibility. And it's chock-full of helpful functions for accurate voltage and frequency measurements, even on adjustable-speed motor drives and other noisy equipment. The Fluke 87-5 also boasts a built-in thermometer that conveniently allows you to take temperature readings without having to use a separate instrument--no more carrying a thermometer to take readings inside a refrigerator or air conditioning unit. When used with ToolPak, a convenient magnetic hanger (sold separately), the Fluke 87-5 can be set up and viewed hands free. Selectable Filter and True-RMS AC Voltage for Dependable Accuracy Incredibly responsive and reliable, the Fluke 87-5 is accurate to 0.05% DC. Also, True-RMS AC voltage and current provide accurate measurements on non-linear signals. Additionally, a selectable filter ensures accurate voltage, while an input alert provides an audible warning against incorrect use of the input jacks. The Fluke 87-5 measures up to 0 A, up to 20 A for 30 seconds, and 1,000-volt AC and DC. Also, it features an analog bar graph that allows for measurement of quick-changing or unstable signals. What's more, this meter measures frequency to 200 kHz, as well as resistance, continuity, and diode test. The Fluke records Min/Max/Average and has a Min/Max alert that automatically captures variations. The Relative mode removes test lead interference from low-ohms measurements. Easy-Read Display and Safe, Durable Design The Fluke 87-5 comes equipped with a large, backlit display that shows easy-read digits. An improved selectable sleep mode helps increase the life of the battery, while an access door makes for fast battery changes without breaking the calibration seal. The Fluke 87-5 is also safe--it's independently tested to comply with the second edition of ANSI/ISA S82.01 and EN61010-1. Also, CAT IV 600V/CAT III 1000V rated, this handy meter can withstand impulses in excess of 8,000 volts and can reduce risks related to surges and spikes. Additionally, its tightly sealed design helps protect against damage, even when the unit is dropped. The Fluke 87-5 is backed by a lifetime warranty. What's in the Box Fluke 87-5; TL75 test leads; AC72 alligator clips; holster; nine-volt battery (installed); Getting Started manual; CD with detailed manual; and 80BK temperature probe.
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