Fluke 233 Remote Display Digital Multimeter - RoadTest Review

Multimeters have been around for years and there are so many of them out there that it is hard to get excited about a new meter on the market … until now! The new Fluke 233 True RMS Wireless Digital Multimeter features a detachable display which separates this model from any other multimeter I’ve ever seen. With this ability you are able to place the display where you can safely and conveniently view it (up to 30-feet away), while the meter remains at the point of measurement. I’m sure this will start a new trend in the world of portable test and measurement equipment and possibly create a new standard acronym “WDMM” (Wireless Digital MultiMeter) in the electronics industry. I have been using this meter on the job for the past couple of weeks so that I could really get familiar with this unit and evaluate it properly. In a word … the Fluke 233 WDMM is very cool!

The literature states that it uses low-power 802.15.4 wireless technology ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEEE_802.15.4-2006 ) for the display and does not interfere with the accuracy of the measurements. There are not any physical electronic connections used when the display is ‘docked’ with the main unit … it uses infrared communication. This design element eliminates the possibility of a connector getting damaged when docking and un-docking the remote display from the main unit … that’s brilliant! This feature adds another dimension of reliability and ruggedness. Both the display and the main unit require AA batteries (which are included). The display has a fairly strong magnet integrated into the back of the case which is very handy if you want to stick it on a metal object nearby where you are working.

The package includes the meter, batteries, probes, alligator tips, printed manual (in numerous languages) and a temperature probe. The only item missing is a protective pouch … which I think should be included in the standard kit. A basic Fluke C35 zippered pouch is about $16 (average) on the internet (the shipping charges probably cost as much as the case).

(Optional C35 Soft Carrying Case)

It is also possible for multiple units to be used in close proximity of each other: “If more than one technician in the shop is using the new model 233, there will be no problem confusing displays. The remote display automatically syncs with whatever meter body to which it is attached. What's more, the meter automatically assigns wireless channels, which virtually eliminates any possibility of interference between different meters in the shop.” (Source: Fluke Website)

There is even a hazard indicator that lights up red (on the face of the meter) just to remind you about safety precautions when connected to a high voltage … yet another good feature. In continuity mode, the audible tone is a nice strong volume that can be heard in a moderately noisy environment.

The meter has a rugged feel to it and the rotary mode-selector switch has a nice solid feel to it (with very distinct detents), as well. The display is very easy to read and has a backlight (not too bright – but adequate). When the meter has been idle for approximately 20-minutes it will automatically power down.

Feature Wish:

I hope that Fluke develops an accessory that would interface with your computer’s USB port (or IR port?) along with a software application for your PC. This would open up all kinds of possibilities for data logging, graphs, etc. and further enhance the greatness of this unique wonderful meter.

Features:

True-rms ac voltage and current for accurate measurements on non-linear signals
Measure up to 1000 V ac and dc
Measure up to 10 A (20 A for 30 seconds)
10,000 μF capacitance range
Frequency to 50 kHz
Built in thermometer conveniently allows you to take temperature readings without having to carry a separate instrument
Resistance, continuity and diode test
Low power wireless technology allows the display to be carried up to 10 meters (33 ft) away from the point of measurement for added flexibility. No interference with measurements
The removable magnetic display can be conveniently mounted where it is easily seen
Make measurements without holding the meter to improve visual focus on probes and augment safe electrical measurements
Use as a conventional multimeter when the display is connected
Radio transmitter automatically turns off when the display is connected to the meter
Auto power off maximizes battery life
Min/Max and Average recording to capture variations automatically
Test continuity and diodes
Easy to read display with large digits and bright backlight
Battery life approximately 400 hours

Specifications:

DC voltage:	Range 0.1 mV to 1000 V Accuracy 0.25 % + 2
AC voltage:	Range 0.1 mV to 1000 V Accuracy 1.0 % + 3
DC current:	Range 0.1 mA to 10 A Accuracy 1.0 % + 3
AC current:	Range 0.1 mA to 10 A Accuracy 1.5 % + 3
Resistance:	Range 0.1 Ω to 40 MΩ
Counts	6000
Capacitance:	1000 nF to 9999 μF
Frequency:	0.1 Hz to 50.00 kHz
Temperature:	-40 °C to +400 °C
Power:	AA batteries: Three for main body; two for display
Battery life:	400 hours
Wireless frequency:	2.4 GHz ISM Band 10 meter range
Safety rating	CAT IV 600 V , CAT III 1000 V