Multimeters
Multimeters are devices that measure multiple electrical values, including voltage (volts), current (amps), and resistance (ohms). They are considered essential tools for diagnosing issues, testing circuits, and ensuring electrical safety in electrical components and circuits. Multimeters are available in various types, each tailored to specific needs. These range from basic models for beginners to advanced precision multimeters for professionals who require a broader range of measurement capabilities.
Our comprehensive range of multimeters has been chosen forc their high-quality components and accuracy, sourced from leading brands in the industry. Browse our range of multimeters for sale on RS New Zealand, which includes Fluke Multimeters, Keysight Multimeters and our own RS PRO Multimeters, to find your ideal multimeter solution. For more information, check out our digital multimeters guide.
What is a Multimeter?
The multimeter’s purpose is to check the electrical resistance within a circuit. They are available in two different types: analogue and digital. Within the device, many tests can be performed. No two multimeters are the same, and the functions can vary with the price, so it's important to have a good quality multimeter with multiple functions if you are an electronic engineer and electrician.
What are the Main Types of Multimeters
There are various types of multimeters, and the two most popular are analogue multimeters, which use older technology and the modern digital multimeters.
Analogue Multimeters
Analogue multimeters are relatively simple to use. While they have limited features and functions, they remain popular among professionals in New Zealand. These devices feature a dial with a needle and various graduated scales corresponding to the different electrical values and measurement ranges. They function similarly to galvanometers, with the needle's movement on the dial driven by the current flowing through the device. The benefits of an analogue multimeter include its affordability, lack of battery requirement, and ability to measure fluctuations in readings.
Digital Multimeters (DMMs)
Digital multimeters come in various forms, including handheld, benchtop, and clamp meter versions, each catering to specific measurement and test requirements. The digital multimeter performs all functions related to AC and DC measurements except for analogue signals. The advantages of this multi-function tester include its direct display of the measured value, high accuracy, and elimination of the risk of parallax error or reading the wrong scale. Digital multimeters also require less frequent calibration, are more shock-resistant, and can be waterproof and dustproof. However, they are less effective at measuring constantly fluctuating values than analogue ones, as the analogue-to-digital converter responds more slowly to changes than an analogue needle.
Bench Multimeters
Bench multimeters measure electrical parameters such as voltage, current, and resistance. These diagnostic tools combine the functionalities of a voltmeter, ammeter, and ohmmeter. This makes them more suitable for workshop and laboratory-based engineers and technicians who need a reliable instrument for maintenance, tests, advanced measurements or repair tasks.
What is the Difference Between an Analogue and a Digital Multimeter?
Analogue multimeters use a needle scale to show their readings, as the needle can move over time due to fluctuations caused by the flow of electricity. Meanwhile, digital multimeters have a numeric display. As technology has advanced, digital multimeters have become more popular as they have the ability to measure with greater accuracy, and the LCD is easy to read.
Checks Performed by Multimeters Include
- AC or DC voltages
- Resistance
- Continuity of electrical components
- Current in circuits
- Diode testing
- Some advanced models may measure frequency, temperature, and capacitance and have True RMS voltage and current readings
- Auto-ranging capabilities, which automatically select the measurement range
Multimeters’ Typical Applications
Multimeters are used across a range of industries, environments and applications in New Zealand. This includes:
- Electronics Testing: As a versatile device capable of providing accurate measurements of various critical electrical parameters, multimeters are invaluable testers for troubleshooting, and diagnosing electrical components and devices.
- Domestic and Commercial: In a home or office setting, multimeters can diagnose and repair common electrical issues in appliances, wiring, and outlets. These include pinpointing the causes of problems such as power outages, short circuits, and malfunctioning appliances.
- Industrial: Multimeters can measure and verify if there is a complete electrical connection between two points. This is useful for determining if a wire has been appropriately assembled during electrical wiring installation.
- Automotive Servicing: A multimeter enables car owners to check the strength of a car's battery, diagnose electrical problems, and identify issues with headlights or faulty circuits.
Why Choose RS for Multimeters?
Selecting the right type of multimeter is crucial, but ensuring your device is reliable is just as important. At RS New Zealand, we provide peace of mind by sourcing multimeters from leading, trusted brands such as Fluke, Keysight Technologies, and our own exclusive line, RS PRO.
In doing so, we support technicians and engineers with the latest high-quality multimeters and multimeter accessories that are not only high in quality but also precise and dependable. Our product range is easy to browse. This is further supported by the comprehensive technical information we provide to help you choose the right solution for your needs easily, ensuring that your shopping experience from selection to purchase is smooth and efficient.
How to Order Digital Multimeters from RS?
Shop your digital multimeters at RS today to enhance your toolkit. Add on other essential tools, such as insulation testers and leak detectors, to hit the minimum spend for free delivery. Approved RS business account holders with a valid NZBN qualify for free delivery on online orders over $40 (excluding GST) or offline orders over $80 (excluding GST). Meanwhile, private account holders and guest customers are also eligible for free delivery on all online and offline orders over $80 (excluding GST).
Delivery Information for New Zealand
To enjoy next working day delivery for items stocked locally in New Zealand or Australia, please buy your items before 5 pm NZT and 3 pm NZT, respectively.
RS is committed to delivering your digital multimeters and other purchased products the next working day between 8 am and 5 pm local time. However, a longer lead time may be anticipated for certain products, including:
- Global Stock and Extended Range products.
- Orders containing hazardous materials.
- Items over 20kg, with a cubic weight over 20kg, or longer than 1.5 metres.
Non-core products and deliveries to specific regional areas may also experience extended lead times. For more information or to arrange consolidated delivery, please contact Customer Service.