[Elecraft] DMM suggestion

[Don Wilhelm]

Dan,

For DC measurements, it makes no difference which type of meter is used.

For AC measurements - on a true sine wave signal there should be no
difference in the two types of meters. Either type of meter makes
assumptions about the waveshape and really can't be trusted unless you know
that the waveshape is the same as that which the meter reading is calibrated
for. In difficult situations and unknown waveshapes, I prefer to read the
peak value and at the same time observe the waveshape is so I can determine
anything I want from there - but that requires a 'scope to determine both at
the same time.

Bottom line for use of any test equipment - KNOW YOUR EQUIPMENT!!! That
means to know its capabilities AND its limitations - if you follow that
rule, you won't go wrong with any meter, but there will be times you have to
say "I still don't know" because the meter is not capable of showing you the
right thing.  Or stated another way - 'match the tool to the task at hand'.

73,
Don W3FPR

----- Original Message -----

> I just learned in Troubleshooting class, that it is better for your DMM
> to measure Voltage RMS (root mean square or True Voltage) instead of AVG
> (average).
>