Analog Multitesters (AMTs) - Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is an Analog Multitester (AMT)?
What are the advantages of analog Multimeters?
What are the key points to be considered while choosing a suitable model?
Why choose SANWA meters?
What are Basic Measuring methods using Analog Multitesters?
How to Buy?

What is an Analog Multitesters?

Analog Multitesters (AMT) basically measures DC Voltage, AC Voltage, DC Current and Resistance. Except some special products, they have no function to measure the AC current. Characteristics of recent analog Multitester include the extended measuring range function (particularly for fine voltage and current) with an amplifier installed, the function to allow the measurement of capacitor capacity, and the zero center meter function. To enhance operability and usability, some products include the auto range function, automatic polarity switching function, and a structure integrating a case to allow the storage of a test lead. There are some testers that allow the measurement of hFE (DC Current amplification factor) of a transistor sensor, which is offered as an optional accessory.

What are the advantages of analog Multimeters?

1. Easy to read the mean value of value changing in short cycles.
* A digital tester does not give stable value determination

2. No need for the operating power supply except for resistance range (excluding Model EM7000 integrating an amplifier, and CX506a integrating an oscillator) and zero-center function.

3. Suited for judgment based by intuition (in continuity test etc.)

What are the key points to be considered while choosing a suitable model?

1. What are the necessary measuring functions? Choose the necessary measuring functions in addition to voltage and resistance.

* Need for the measurement of current (0.25A, 0.3A, 30A), DC only
* Measurements for remaining dry battery capacity, capacitor, and frequency.
* Measurement of DC high voltage with the use of an optional accessory.

2. Other necessary functions

A) The needle occasionally swings to the opposite direction in DC voltage meaurement.
* Check the polarity by the zero-center meter function.

B) Hard to check for continuity.
* Use an LED light-up type in noisy places
* Use a buzzer type to verify with sounds.

3. Graduation of Scale: There are two general types of graduation of the measuring range:

(A) 2.5, 5, 10, 50, 250, 500V
(B) 3, 12, 30, 120, 600V

For measurement of a car battery (24V), measurement in the 30V range of (B) is suitable. Choose a type suitable for your intended application.

4. Other functions: Other types are furnished with an auto range function allowing the automatic optimal setting of voltage and resistance. There are also types integrating a transistor transmitter and others integrating a current-limiting fuse with breaking capacity of 100kA for enhanced safe operation.

Please refer to Analog Multitesters comparative chart available for download by clicking here (in PDF).

It is also available on Pages 47 and 48 of our catalog. Our general catalog can be downloaded by clicking here (in PDF) - 3.2 MB or contact us to request a copy.

Why choose SANWA meters?

SANWA is a leading handheld manufacturer since 1941 supporting a wide range of products with a world-renowned Japanese quality. Our products have not only the basic functions required for multimeters, but also sophisticated and versatile features realized by our expertise in the software development and ergonomic design. The products we provide range from multimeters to advanced ones which can satisfy specific needs in measurements and recording, even in the field of opto-electronics. With our compact, yet high-performance and beautifully designed products, we hope to satisfy customers in the world.

ISO 9001 Quality Assurance: In November 2002, SANWA ELECTRIC INSTRUMENT CO., LTD. obtained ISO 9001 certification. (No. JQA-1453). The certification is given by Japan Quality Assurance Organization (JQA), which is an authorized member of IQNET, one of the globally recognized quality assurance organizations.  The certification testifies to our compliance with the International Quality Assurance Standard.

Traceability: Traceability to prove the compliance with national and international standards is an essential factor for measuring instruments used as test instruments associated with quality assurance. Products of Sanwa are calibrated by reference samples which is periodically checked for its compliance with national standards.

CECE Marking: Some SANWA meters come with a CE marking. CE marking is a safety mark which can be attached only on a product meeting the safety requirements of the Directive of Council of European Union (EC Directive). A product attached with the CE mark is designed so as to meet the requirements of the "Low Voltage Directive" and the "EMC Directive" of the EC Directive.

Warranty: All our products come with 12 month manufacturers warranty, so buy with confidence.

What are Basic Measuring methods using Analog Multitesters?

Check the range before making a measurement: Most problems with a tester are caused by overcurrent and drop of the tester. Failures due to overcurrent are most frequently caused by voltage applied to a current range and resistance range with lower internal resistance (thereby causing overcurrent of tens to hundreds times to run through the circuit). Although some circuit protector using a diode, it is recommended to check the range before measuring.

For measuring unknown values: In measuring unknown current and voltage values, find an approximate value at the maximum range first and then make adjustments to the optimum range (1000V to 250V range in case of voltage measurement). This method prevents a failure caused by incorrect range adjustment.

* Do not change the range during measurement

How to Buy?

To request a quote, please contact us at info@bhumika.ca or at +1 (416) 930 2931

If you wish to discuss your application in detail, please contact us to help us understand your requirements and suggest the most appropriate model.

All orders are to be placed to:

Bhumika International Inc.
Mississauga, ON Canada
Ph: +1 (416) 930 2931
E-mail: info@bhumika.ca

 

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BHUMIKA INTERNATIONAL INC.
Ph: +1(416) 930 2931
E-mail: info@bhumika.ca
Website: http://www.bhumika.ca

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