Fluke 117 Multimeter Review: A Comprehensive Look
When it comes to selecting a digital multimeter, the Fluke 117 stands out as one of the best options available for electricians. After extensive use, I can confidently say that this compact, true-RMS multimeter is impressively reliable and user-friendly. From tackling complex electrical problems to handling daily diagnostics with ease, the Fluke 117 has proven its worth in a multitude of scenarios. What highlights this model is its robust build quality, intuitive interface, and a range of features that cater specifically to the needs of a professional electrician.
Compact Design with Useful LED Backlight
One of the most appreciated features of the Fluke 117 is its compact design coupled with a highly useful large white LED backlight. This backlight is a game-changer when working in poorly lit areas. Whether you are squeezed into a dim corner of a basement or dealing with electrical panels in low-light conditions, the backlight ensures you can read measurements with clarity. The compact size makes it easy to carry around in your tool belt, and the ergonomic design ensures that it fits comfortably in your hand.
Personal Experience: On multiple occasions, I found myself in attics and crawl spaces with minimal lighting. The LED backlight on the Fluke 117 was a lifesaver, allowing me to continue my work without the need for a headlamp or additional lighting.
Enhanced Safety with Non-Contact Voltage Detection
Safety is paramount when working with electricity, and the Fluke 117 excels in this area with its integrated non-contact voltage detection feature. This function enables you to detect voltage without having to make direct contact with electrical components, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock. Simply bringing the meter close to a live wire or outlet can signal voltage presence through both visual and auditory indicators.
Personal Experience: This feature has saved me countless times from potential hazards. One particular instance was during an inspection of a faulty outlet where the non-contact voltage detection alerted me to live wires I hadn't anticipated, allowing me to take proper precautions.
Prevent Ghost Voltage with Low-Impedance Mode
Another standout feature of the Fluke 117 is its selectable low-impedance mode designed to prevent false readings from ghost voltage. Ghost voltage can often lead to inaccurate diagnostics and unnecessary troubleshooting. By activating the low-impedance mode, the Fluke 117 drastically reduces the chances of such errors, ensuring you get accurate and reliable readings.
Personal Experience: While troubleshooting a tripped breaker, the low-impedance mode helped me identify and isolate nuisance voltage, significantly speeding up the diagnostic process.
Personal Experiences with Fluke 117
Having used the Fluke 117 extensively, I can share several scenarios where this multimeter has been a valuable tool. In one case, a residence had intermittent power issues that were tricky to diagnose due to the irregular fault occurrence. The Fluke 117's precision and real-time data helped pinpoint the problem to a specific circuit, ultimately saving hours of labor.
In another instance, working on a commercial installation, the true-RMS feature provided accurate measurements when dealing with non-linear loads, something generic multimeters often struggle with. These real-world applications showcase the versatility and reliability of the Fluke 117.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Fluke 117 Multimeter?
In summary, the Fluke 117 Electrician's Digital Multimeter with Non-Contact Voltage offers a blend of precision, safety, and ease of use that is hard to match. Its compact size, robust build, and essential features like non-contact voltage detection and low-impedance mode make it an indispensable tool for any electrician. While the price point might be higher than some other models on the market, the investment is well worth it given the reliability and range of features provided.
Pros:
- True-RMS for accurate measurements on non-linear loads
- Integrated non-contact voltage detection for enhanced safety
- Selectable low-impedance mode to prevent ghost voltage readings
- Large, bright LED backlight for working in dark areas
- Compact and ergonomic design
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic models
- No auto-ranging mode, which would be a nice addition for beginners
Recommendation: If you're a professional electrician or even a serious DIY enthusiast, the Fluke 117 is a multimeter that should be in your toolkit. Its precise measurements, safety features, and durable design make it a reliable companion for all your electrical diagnostic needs.
Overall, my experience with the Fluke 117 has been overwhelmingly positive, and I highly recommend it to anyone in need of a dependable and high-performing multimeter.