Hi all
Happy New Year

I'm looking to purchase a new electrical/continuity tester.

I would like the continuity to have a loud audible signal

I would like a higher quality durable tool , but price is an issue.

If you can make some suggestions it would be appreciated

Ralph

 

You came to the right place for a meter. Let me spend your money for you.

Price is an issue. Do you have a budget in mind..... something around $100 ?
Fluke makes some of the best meters.

 

Have you looked at the Ideal Vol-con?

http://www.idealind.com/products/tes...rical_testers/

 

I'm a Fluke man myself...probably because of my Navy time..but the can be pricey depending on what you need it to do. IDEAL is also a pretty good brand.


Exactly what are you going to be using it for is the main question.

 

Yeah, the Navy uses Fluke meters, you can't go wrong.

I've had an Ideal meter for years though. It's rugged with a protective cover and has audible continuity indicator. Never had a problem with it.

 

Yes under $100
Continuity with loud audible sound
AC voltage to 240
DC voltage to 50

That's about it.

The easier the better

 

I just looked at the Ideal 61-076
I can pick it up for $53.00
Is it a reliable and durable unit

It say it uses LR44 batteries
How is the battery life.

 

You might want to read tis if you will be using it for AC voltages: http://support.fluke.com/find-sales/...105317_A_w.pdf

 

Just curious Ray, because I don't recall actually trying it, but rh referenced a solenoid type tester, and I thought that one of the advantages of them over some or maybe most digital meters is that they operate on actual voltage, not "ghost" or "phantom". Don't quote me on this, but have heard and read this, so tossing it out as a question more than anything.

 

Yes that is correct. A solenoid or to some extent an analog-type meter is not susceptible to phantom voltage readings because it puts a load on the circuit large enough to dissipate the phantom charge.

 

I'm not a tech
that's why I said the simplest for me is best.

I have been using an ideal neon tester for voltage only, I want one with continuity and voltage.

 

Then look for the cheapest analog multimeter you can find with audible continuity. Never actually used on with audible continuity. I found just useing the resistance section worked well enough.

 

I don't want a multimeter
I don't want to deal with settings, which scale to use

I just want to poke

I have a DMM 3/4'S of the functions are useless for me.

simple and loud, dependable, reliable, sturdy, that all I want.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Etcon-Audible-.../dp/B0053ZLGL4

Ideal Voltage, Continuity Tester, 600VAC 61-092 | Zoro.com

 

In that case, I can't answer your question about battery life, although I assume it is as good as any in that regard, but think the Ideal one you mentioned is a good choice. In fact, I had figured that I would pick that exact one up at Lowes a few weeks ago, then got there and remembered they don't handle Ideal any more, so have a note setting here on my desk to go online and find one. I have a T5 Fluke that I particularly like for motor work as it's easy to take amp readings, a couple of 30-40 year old analog meters that are great for bench work as well as on the tractors, vehicles, etc., neon and non-contact testers for preliminary work, a fox and hound, etc., but I have either loaned or misplaced my solenoid tester, and that is the one that I like for household wiring, because I have always relied on it to be reliable as far as "go" or "no go". So, again, for what you said that you are looking for, I think it's a good choice.

 

Thanks for the info
After your response I just ordered it

Check JET
$53 and change free shipping plus tax
I'm in NY

There is a first time buyer discount on this site. 15%

Original price was about $68

Thanks again

Ralph

 

Thanks for the info
After your response I just ordered the Ideal 61-076

Check JET
$53 and change free shipping plus tax
I'm in NY

There is a first time buyer discount on this site. 15%

Original price was about $68

Thanks again

Ralph