Measuring LED current / Clamp meter advice

Flashlight Modding and DIY Parts
1

Hi guys, blew my multimeter measuring somewhere north of 11+ amps with my LW-12T6 so now I’m in the market for a new multimeter as only the voltage seems to work now.


Im thinking I’d like a clamp meter as I need to be able to measure up to 20A, but I’d like it to reasonably accurate at the 2-3A range also.


Currently tossing up between the Mastech MS2108A or a Uni-T UT204


I’m curious what everyone else is using and any advice/experience.

2

Open up your multimeter and see if you just blew a fuse...

Regarding your inquiry, I don't have any experience with low-current clamp meters, so I can't be of much help there...

3

Unfortunately the Amp side wasn’t fused, so I guess the trace blew. Interestingly I measured 11 amps with UR18650FMs, 9 amps with NCR18650s, so possibly 15 amps with IMR 26650s??

Oh well, it was a budget meter anyways time for an upgrade! :bigsmile:

4

I’ve been using a Kyoritsu KEW 2033 for years, it’s easy to use and very accurate.
Maybe a bit expensive for just hobby use though.

5

I was eying the Mastech too, but recently found a good deal on another meter. I wouldn’t expect milliamp accuracy with any of them, but I think a few tenths or quarter amp should be reasonable. Here are a few quick test shots comparing a cheap ebay watt meter, store bought DMM and clamp meters at 0.1A to 5A ranges running and charging my POB HID.





KuoH

6

Thats some great pics! Think I might do the same and just compare it with a mates much more expensive meter. Pity theres not much info about 10+ amp multimeters, most solutions look like needing $200+ equipment.

7

There are probably not that many hobbyists that need high accuracy 10+ amp DMMs, so the prices tend to reflect that lack of demand. However, clamp meters like the Mastech are actually relatively cheap for what they can do and are likely safer for us to use at those current levels. In my opinion, if they can get within a half or quarter amp of actual current at low ranges, it’s good enough. Also don’t forget about the ebay watt meter in my images, I think it was less than $15. It’s supposed to be capable of measuring up to 100A, but I don’t have anything handy that can safely draw such a load for testing.

KuoH