Milwaukee True RMS Multimeter

Choosing the right multimeter can be a daunting task, especially when there are so many options on the market. As someone who has used various multimeters over the years, I recently had the opportunity to spend some time with the Milwaukee True RMS Multimeter (model 2217-20NST). This multimeter is designed for residential, commercial, and industrial applications, and it promises a lot with its range of features. Here’s my detailed take on how it performs in real-world scenarios.

Build Quality and Design

Right out of the box, the Milwaukee True RMS Multimeter feels solid and well-built. It has a rugged construction, which is a big plus for those of us who need a durable tool that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The overmolded casing provides a good grip and seems designed to protect the unit from drops and impacts. However, I did notice that the rubber covering, including the rotary knob, tends to become sticky over time, which can be a bit annoying. This could be a potential manufacturing material defect, but it doesn't affect the functionality of the multimeter.

Display

One of the standout features of this multimeter is its high-contrast white-on-black LCD display. The display is backlit, making it easy to read in both bright sunlight and dark environments. This is particularly useful for those who work in varied lighting conditions. However, the plastic face of the display does seem prone to scratches, so it's essential to handle it with care. Using a microfiber cloth and an appropriate cleaner is highly recommended to avoid any damage.

Performance and Accuracy

This multimeter boasts a wide voltage range of up to 600 volts AC/DC, which is more than adequate for most applications. It also features True RMS measurement, ensuring accurate readings even in noisy electrical environments. During my tests, the multimeter performed well in measuring voltage, current, and resistance. The auto-ranging feature is convenient, although it can be a bit slow at times.

The Lo-Z measurement function is a nice addition, helping to reduce ghost voltage that can lead to false readings. I also appreciated the frequency measurement capability, which ranges from 10Hz to 50kHz. The contact temperature measurement is another useful feature, with a range from -40°F to 752°F. However, I did notice that the temperature readings were occasionally off by a few degrees, which could be critical in some applications.

Usability

The Milwaukee True RMS Multimeter is user-friendly, with a dial switch that is easy to navigate. The ergonomics are well thought out, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods. The multimeter comes with a magnetic meter holder, which is a handy accessory for hands-free operation. However, attaching the magnet can be a bit tricky, and it does not fit well into the soft case provided. It would have been better if Milwaukee included a hard molded case for better protection and easier storage.

Battery Life

This multimeter uses AA alkaline batteries, which are easy to replace and widely available. The auto-off feature helps conserve battery life, although it’s not prominently advertised. I found the battery life to be satisfactory for daily usage, but it’s always a good idea to keep spare batteries on hand.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Durable Build: The rugged construction and overmolded casing provide excellent durability.
• High-Contrast Display: The white-on-black LCD is easy to read in various lighting conditions.
• True RMS Measurement: Ensures accurate readings in complex electrical environments.
• Wide Range of Measurements: From voltage and current to frequency and temperature, this multimeter covers a lot of ground.
• Ergonomic Design: Comfortable to hold and easy to use.

Cons:

• Sticky Rubber Covering: Over time, the rubber covering can become sticky, affecting the user experience.
• Slow Auto-Ranging: The auto-ranging feature can be a bit slow, which might be frustrating for some users.
• Temperature Accuracy: The contact temperature measurement can be off by a few degrees.
• Display Prone to Scratches: The plastic face of the display is susceptible to scratches, requiring careful handling.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee True RMS Multimeter is a solid tool that meets the needs of both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its durability, range of features, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. However, it does have some drawbacks, such as the sticky rubber covering and the slow auto-ranging feature.

Would I recommend this multimeter? Yes, but with some reservations. If you need a reliable and durable multimeter with a wide range of capabilities, this is a good choice. However, if speed and temperature accuracy are critical for your applications, you might want to consider other options. Overall, the Milwaukee True RMS Multimeter offers good value for its price and is a dependable tool for most electrical diagnostic tasks.