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Every professional electrician knows what digital multimeter is. And it seems that the Fluke has become the synonym for all DMMs.

Perhaps the most important tasks facing installation test professionals is managing testing information and putting them into written documents confirming whether an installation meets the relevant quality standards. The Fluke 1653 multifunction tester helps you do this.

The Fluke 1653 multifunction tester comes into its own in combination with the FlukeView Forms unique software to manage and store recorded data. The FlukeView comes with standard forms to get the user to start working and the user can simply customize them or create his own to meet exact documenting needs. This unique software is quick and efficient. The recorded data can also be copied and pasted into other programs.

It is also good to know that this instrument can perform earth resistance tests with the help of the auxiliary earth electrodes and phase rotation testing. This is something that all DMMs have but there are also some other features that the Fluke 1653 has. And these features make the difference between the good and the best measuring instruments.

Other relevant features of this digital multimeter include selectable filter for precise voltage and frequency measurements on motor drives. It is good to know that the 0.05 % dc accuracy provides great results. And with 6,000 counts, 3-3/4 digits this multimeter is really a good tool. It has a 4-1/2 digit mode for accurate testing. The instrument can measure up to 1,000 V AC and DC which is pretty good.

The instrument has a relative mode to remove test probe interference from low ohms testing. It also has auto and manual ranging for maximum efficiency. And the touch hold function allows the user to record stable readings avoiding loud signals.

The instrument can test up to 10 A, 20 A for up to 30s. And it is good to say that the built in thermometer lets you carry one less tool. It features frequency measurements to 200 kHz. All of these features are very useful when installing networks and other complex systems.

The Fluke 87 has an access door for fast AA battery changes without breaking the calibration seal. Previous models did not have this feature. It features a standard design and it comes with new removable holster with built in test probe and test lead storage. And it has a lifetime warranty – so much for quality. The selectable filter will ensure precise voltage and frequency testing on motor drives.

Tom Pitson is an electrician with over eight years of practice. He runs an electric shop in Kiev, Ukraine. His latest article was published in 2005. You can seethe full text of this review by clicking on Fluke 189 Digital Multimeter.