This topic contains 2 replies, has 3 voices, and was last updated by 
Roger & Sue Fell 5 months, 4 weeks ago.
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Want to add a digital clamp or multi meter to my RV tool kit but not sure whether the Clamp or Multi would be the more useful. Also not sure what features I should be looking for: true RMS, Auto ranging, etc. My immediate need is adding a Progressive Industrues EMS to my main line.
I will admit my knowledge of all things electrical is limited but based on my research a clamp meter with true RMS and Auto ranging features sounds like the way to go.
Any suggestions on features or specific products would be appreciated.
A good multimeter would be my first piece of electrical test gear to add. A clamp meter is for measuring only current (amps) which can help with seeing what things in the rig are drawing and battery charging but is of limited use compared to a good multimeter.
I like to have an auto raging multimeter and also one that puts out a tone to test continuity. You can get a decent one these days for around 50 bucks. RV circuit tests don’t demand too much precision or testing of very low voltage or current values so no need to go hog wild and get a 300 dollar unit.
My PI surge protector comes with voltage and current readout which is quite handy current.
Another good little piece of gear to have is a non contact voltage tester. Great for doing quick checks for the presence of AC voltage and safety of power pedestal wiring.
Klein Tools NCVT-2 Dual Range Non-Contact Voltage Tester
Another nifty peace of gear is called a Kill a Watt meter and is very handy for measuring power drain of items.
P3 P4400 Kill A Watt Electricity Usage Monitor
LoveYourRV.comI have two favorite meters, one has an AC amp clamp and most of the features Ray mentions. I got it at Home Depot. I believe they are in the $70 range now. It’s no good for anything over 1000 ohms resistance, mostly designed as an electricians tool.
The other is a $10 Walmart special, mostly for the DC amp function. You don’t feel so bad when you blow up a $10 meter! It also has most of the functions Ray mentions.
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