Milwaukee Digital Multimeter (NIST)

When you need a reliable, sturdy, and accurate digital multimeter for your professional or DIY projects, Milwaukee's 2216-20NST model is worth considering. I’ve had the opportunity to put this multimeter through its paces in a variety of settings, from residential troubleshooting to more demanding industrial applications. Here’s how it performed.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things you notice about this multimeter is its solid construction. Milwaukee has a reputation for building durable tools, and this multimeter lives up to that standard. The rugged over-molding provides a firm grip and a protective barrier against drops and knocks, which is essential when working in less-than-ideal conditions. The device feels balanced in hand, not too heavy, yet substantial enough to inspire confidence in its durability.

However, there's a notable downside to the rubber coating. Over time, especially in more humid or varied climate conditions, the rubber can begin to degrade, becoming sticky and peeling off. This issue can significantly detract from the user experience, leaving messy flakes and making the tool less pleasant to handle.

Display and Usability

The display on this multimeter is one of its standout features. The large, bright LCD with a backlight ensures that readings are easily visible, even in poorly lit environments. The backlight is controlled by a simple push button, which is a thoughtful addition for those who frequently work in dimly lit spaces. The digital bar graph above the numerical display is particularly useful for getting a quick sense of fluctuating measurements.

Using the multimeter is straightforward, thanks to the intuitive dial and clear labeling of all functions. The auto-ranging feature simplifies the process, allowing the device to automatically select the appropriate measurement range. This is a big plus for both novice and experienced users, saving time and reducing the risk of incorrect settings.

Performance and Accuracy

The 2216-20NST model is a true-RMS multimeter, which means it provides accurate readings even when measuring non-linear loads. This accuracy is critical for electricians and other professionals who need precise data for troubleshooting and diagnostics. I found the multimeter’s performance to be consistently reliable across a range of measurements, including AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, frequency, and continuity.

One particularly useful feature is the hold function, which allows you to freeze the current reading on the display, making it easier to record or analyze data. The min/max function is another valuable tool, enabling you to capture the highest and lowest readings over a period, which is essential for monitoring fluctuations.

Versatility and Additional Features

This multimeter is equipped with a variety of functions that make it versatile for different applications. It can measure AC voltage from 6 mV to 600 V and DC voltage from 600 mV to 600 V, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks. The resistance measurement spans from 600 Ω to 40 MΩ, and it can measure frequency from 10 Hz to 50 kHz.

The continuity detection feature is accompanied by an audible signal, which is loud and clear, providing immediate feedback during testing. The multimeter also includes a capacitance measurement function, although it’s limited to 1,000 μF, which might not be sufficient for all users.

Storage of test leads is made convenient by the holders on the back of the unit, and the flip-out stand allows the multimeter to stand upright on a flat surface, freeing up your hands for other tasks. The inclusion of a magnetic meter holder as an accessory is a thoughtful touch, making it easier to work in confined spaces.

Calibration and Maintenance

The Milwaukee 2216-20NST comes with a NIST Certificate of Calibration, ensuring that it meets rigorous standards for accuracy. It’s recommended to recalibrate the unit annually to maintain its precision. The multimeter runs on two AA alkaline batteries, which are included in the package, along with a stick-on screen protector to keep the display in good condition.

Areas for Improvement

While the multimeter excels in many areas, there are a few drawbacks. For instance, it lacks a diode test function and doesn’t support microamps, which might limit its use in some specialized applications, such as HVAC work. Additionally, the price point, while justified by the quality and features, might be a bit steep for casual users. Including alligator clips in the package would also enhance its value, given their utility in various testing scenarios.

Conclusion

In summary, the Milwaukee 2216-20NST Digital Multimeter is a robust, reliable tool that performs exceptionally well in a variety of settings. Its true-RMS capability, user-friendly design, and range of features make it a valuable asset for both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. The issues with the rubber coating and the absence of some advanced functions are notable but do not overshadow the overall quality and performance of the multimeter.

I would recommend this multimeter to anyone in need of a high-quality, versatile tool for electrical diagnostics and measurements. Its durability, accuracy, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those who require a dependable tool for regular use.