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Mastech MS8229 Auto-Range 5-in-1 Digital Multimeter
February 01, 2010 10:47– by Everett Snyder

Product: Auto-Range 5-in-1 Multi-functional Digital Multimeter
Manufacturer: Mastech
Value Rating: Hot Item
Performance Rating: Handyman Special
Price: $99.99 Buy It Now!

Pros: Easy to use, auto range, Backlit LCD display, Audible alarms, Excellent value

Cons: Doesn't measure inductance

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Features & Specs
  • DMM + Lux Meter + Humidity Meter + Sound Level Meter + Thermometer
  • 20%-95% RH 40-100 dB 40000 LUX -4-1832F 0-200 KHz 0-100 uF
  • Built-in Temperature & Humidity Sensors
  • LED Back-lit LCD display
 

Sometimes it's nice to have a tool that simply does it all... The newly released Mastech MS8229 Digital Multimeter (DMM) is an improved and modified version of the Mastech MS8209 and does it all. It combines a multimeter, a sound level meter, thermometer, luxmeter, and humidity meter all in a single box. The unit has some very handy features. It provides temperature & humidity display and has an audible + LED warning for correct connection of the probes. The back-lit LCD Screen makes for a very easy to read screen, in dark or light rooms. 

The multimeter is quite easy to use - even with gloves. The centrally-located rotary knob easy moves around between the various modes. The probes are inserted below and the sockets are clearly labeled for measuring current, voltage, temperature, and resistance. One thing we really appreciated was the unit's ability to automatically adjust the measurement range as needed. This saves a step and means less hassle for using the unit, especially with gloved hands.

Specifications: 

  • DCV: 400m/4/40/400/1000V, +/- 0.7%
  • ACV: 400m/4/40/400 +/- 0.8% 750V, +/- 1.0%
  • DCA: 400µ/4m/40m/400m +/- 1.2% 4/10A, +/- 2.0%
  • ACA: 400µ/4m/40m/400m +/- 1.5 % 4/10A, +/- 3.0%
  • Resistance: 400/4K/40K/400K/4M +/- 1.2% 40M, +/- 2.0%
  • Capacitance: 40n/400n/4m/40m/100mF ±3.0%
  • Frequency: 10/100/1K/10K/100KHz/200KHz ± 2.0%, >200KHz,reference only
  • Temperature: -20 - 1000 degrees C (0-1,800 degrees F ) +/- 3.0% (C/F selectable) 
  • RH: 20-95%, +/- 5.0%
  • Lux: 4,000/40,000 Lux, +/- 5.0%
  • Sound dB: 40 - 100dB, +/- 3.5% @ 94dB, Diode test
  • Continuity tester: Buzzer if resistance is less than 40 ohms
  • Duty cycle: 0.1%-99.9% ± 3.0%
  • Dimensions and Weight: 195 x 92 x 55mm, 400g
  • Battery: 1.5 x 3 AAA
  • Accessories: Test leads, K-Type thermo probe & User Manual

Features

  • Designed to international safety standard IEC61010-1 CAT II 1000V/CAT III 600V
  • Sound & light warning for the incorrect inserting the input plug
  • Auto range/Manual range
  • Data hold
  • Maximum value measurement
  • Auto power off
  • Back light
  • Display: 3999 counts
  • DC voltage: 400m/4/40/400/1000V±0.7%
  • AC voltage: 400m/4/40/400V±0.8%, 750V±1.0%
  • DC current: 400μ/4000μ/40m/400mA±1.2%, 10A±2.0%
  • AC current: 400μ/4000μ/40m/400mA ±1.5%, 10A ±3.0%
  • Resistance: 400/4k/40k/400k/4M/40MΩ±1.0%
  • Capacitance: 50n/500n/5μ/50μ/200μF±3.0%
  • Frequency: 10/100/1k/10k/100kHz±2.0%
  • Duty cycle: 0.1% ~ 99.9%±3.0%
  • Temperature (thermocouple): -20°C ~ 1000°C±3.0% or ±2°C, 0°F ~ 1800°F ±3.0% or ±4°F
  • Temperature (NTC): 0°C ~ 40°C±2°C;32°F ~104°F±4°F
  • HUMIDITY:20% ~ 95%RH ±5.0%RH
  • Light: 4000Lux/40000Lux±5.0%
  • Sound level: 40 ~ 100dB±5dB
  • Continuity checking with buzzer
  • Diode test
  • Power: 1.5V (AAA) X 3
  • Size: 195 X 92 X 55mm
  • Weight: Approx. 400g (including battery)

This is a one-size-fits-all product that is a great choice for those wanting an entry-level DMM that can handle a myriad of functions. Considering its price vs. that of entry level voltage/current/resistance-only products, you are getting a lot of value for your money.

For more information please visit http://www.p-mastech.com/products/04_dm/ms8229.html