Milwaukee Clamp Meter

Milwaukee's clamp meter, model 2237-20NST, is a tool that promises a lot and delivers on many counts, though not without its quirks and caveats. As an experienced user of electrical testing equipment, I had high expectations for this meter, given Milwaukee’s reputation in the tool industry. Here’s a deep dive into my hands-on experience with this device.

First off, let’s talk about the build quality. The meter feels robust and well-constructed, living up to Milwaukee’s standards. The rugged over-molding not only provides a good grip but also adds to the durability, making it feel like it could withstand the rigors of a busy work environment. The device is reasonably compact at 9.5 inches in length, and the large 1.30-inch jaw opening is quite handy for measuring thick wires without hassle. The thin jaw profile is also a thoughtful design choice, easing the task of measuring in cramped spaces.

One of the standout features is the high contrast white on black display, which is excellent. The display is easy to read from various angles and in different lighting conditions, thanks to the backlight. This proved particularly useful when working in dimly lit areas like basements or utility closets. The side-mounted dial and large mode buttons are designed for one-handed use, even with gloves on, which is a practical feature for fieldwork.

Accuracy is where things get a bit tricky. The meter's True-RMS capability ensures accurate measurements in most scenarios, but it does falter with lower readings. I noticed some inconsistencies when measuring small currents and voltages, which might be problematic for tasks requiring high precision. For example, the AC voltage sometimes read 0.2 volts even when not near any electrical source, and similarly for AC amps. This can be a dealbreaker for professionals who need absolute accuracy, such as HVAC technicians dealing with efficient fan motors or other sensitive equipment.

One feature that I found particularly useful was the built-in LED work light and the non-contact voltage detector. The LED light eliminates the need for a separate flashlight, allowing you to keep one hand free, which is always a plus. The non-contact voltage detector is sensitive and reliable, providing an added layer of safety by alerting you to live wires before making contact.

The meter also includes a temperature probe, which is a nice touch, especially for HVAC applications. However, the temperature readings were not as accurate as I’d hoped, showing significant deviations from expected values. This lack of accuracy and an inability to calibrate the temperature probe might make it less useful for those who frequently need precise temperature measurements.

Another point of contention is the test leads. While they come with removable tips for deep inspection work, they are too short and thick to fit into standard electrical outlets comfortably. Additionally, the ports for the leads are located at the bottom of the meter, which can be inconvenient as the leads tend to get caught on things and can pull out easily. Moving the ports to the face of the meter would have been a better design choice.

One feature I appreciated was the auto-off function, which helps conserve battery life. Powered by two AA batteries, the meter offers the convenience of easily replaceable power sources. However, replacing the batteries requires removing a couple of screws, which could be a minor inconvenience in the field.

The meter does miss out on a few features that would have made it more user-friendly. For instance, a magnetic back would have been helpful for hands-free operation, allowing you to stick the meter to a metal surface while taking readings. Similarly, the lack of storage or holding clips for the probes and thermocouple is a drawback, as is the absence of a carrying case. Considering the price point, these are features that should have been included.

In summary, Milwaukee's clamp meter 2237-20NST is a solid tool with a mix of strengths and weaknesses. Its sturdy construction, user-friendly design, and a range of useful features make it a strong contender for general electrical work. However, the accuracy issues at lower readings, the inconvenient test lead design, and the absence of some helpful features like a magnetic back and carrying case are notable drawbacks.

Would I recommend this meter? It depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a durable, well-built meter for general use and can tolerate some minor inaccuracies at lower readings, this tool is a good choice. Its additional features, like the LED work light and non-contact voltage detector, add significant value. However, if you require high precision for specific professional applications, or if you prefer a more feature-rich package at this price point, you might want to explore other options.

Overall, Milwaukee has created a competent tool with room for improvement. It’s a reliable addition to any tool arsenal but may fall short of the mark for those with specialized and precise needs.