One thing about multimeters is that you aren’t going to have one for long if it can’t take a simple drop. Klein Tools upped the ante with its new MM500 auto ranging multimeter that claims to not only handle drops from up to 10 feet onto concrete, it’s also totally encased in a sealed IP67 dust and waterproof-rated case. If only my iPhone was this protected…not that I want an iPhone that’s 2″ thick…Still, this kind of protection is going to really resonate with electricians and other technicians who need that kind of dependability on the job site. The Klein MM500 Auto Ranging Multimeter should go far.
The Klein MM500 Auto Ranging Multimeter is designed to verify or troubleshoot electrical circuits and carries a CAT IV (600V) rating. This is a meter so tough, Klein claims that you really don’t need to baby it with a special bag (though the Klein Tradesman Pro Organizer backpack might help in other areas). Just bring it to the job site and get to work. In particular, those who work on ladders and at elevated heights are going to appreciate being able to take their “good” meter with them, rather than bring along a junker in the event that it drops.
Klein MM500 Auto Ranging Multimeter Features
The Klein MM500 Auto Ranging Multimeter is rated to handle up to 750 volts AC or DC, and it measures both resistance and continuity. It’s also really simple to operate, with just three buttons. Klein designed the MM500 to automatically detect AC or DC voltage, and the meter has both visual and audible continuity indicators. The leads are, thankfully, self-storing which is a feature we can’t believe isn’t standard on all meters sold today. The leads are also spaced perfectly for use with tamperproof outlets.
An auto-hold feature will lock readings automatically on the display so you can take measurements in difficult-to-reach locations without having to necessarily see the screen as you take the measurement. The LCD display goes to 4000 and there is an auto-off feature with a low battery indicator that will tell you when it’s time to change out the AAA batteries.
These videos are fun to watch, as Klein pellets the MM500 meter with paint balls, water, and drops it from a full 3 meters onto concrete. I think this meter is tough enough for you.
