Are you in search of the perfect multimeter for your measuring needs? Look no further than Fluke! As top-notch manufacturers of quality tools and meters, they offer the ideal solution. In our Fluke 117 vs Fluke 177 comparison, we’ll break down their unique features for precise measurements. This easy-to-follow review will help you choose the right model by highlighting its differences, specifications, and reliability based on user feedback and weighing the pros and cons. Stay with us to understand why Fluke is your ultimate choice for multimeters!
Comparison Table Fluke 117 vs 177 Multimeter
Here’s a simplified comparison table between the Fluke 117 and Fluke 177 multimeters:
| Specification | Fluke 117 | Fluke 177 |
| Maximum Voltage | 600 V | 1000 V |
| Safety Standards | IEC 61010-1: Pollution Degree 2 | EN 61010–1 to 1000 V CAT III |
| IEC 61010-2-033: CAT III 600V | EN 61010–1 to 600 V CAT IV | |
| Display | Digital: 6,000 counts, updates 4/s | N/A |
| Bar Graph | 33 segments, updates 32/s | N/A |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to +50°C | -10°C to +50°C |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +60°C | -30°C to +60°C |
| Battery Type | 9-volt Alkaline, IEC 6LR61 | N/A |
| Battery Life | 400 hours typical (without backlight) | N/A |
| DC Voltage Measurement | ✓ (Accuracy: 0.5% + 2) | ✓ (Accuracy: ±(0.09% + 2)) |
| AC Voltage Measurement | ✓ (Accuracy: 2.0% + 3 to 4.0% + 3) | ✓ (Accuracy: ±(1.0% + 3)) |
| Resistance Measurement | ✓ (Accuracy: 0.9% + 1 to 5% + 2) | ✓ (Accuracy: ±(0.9% + 1)) |
| Capacitance Measurement | ✓ (Accuracy: 1.9% + 2 to 5% + 20%) | ✓ (Accuracy: ±(1.2% + 2)) |
| Frequency Measurement | ✓ (Accuracy: 0.1% + 2) | ✓ (Accuracy: ±(0.1% + 1)) |
| Current Measurement | ✓ (Accuracy: 1.0% + 3) | ✓ (Accuracy: ±(1.0% + 3) to ±(1.5% + 3)) |
| Diode Test | ✓ (Accuracy: 0.9% + 2) | N/A |
| Safety Certifications | CAT III 600V | CAT III 1000V, CAT IV 600V |
Differences Between Fluke 117 vs Fluke 177
Certainly, let’s break down the key differences between the Fluke 117 and Fluke 177 multimeters in a straightforward manner:
Fluke 117 Multimeter:
- Designed for electricians.
- Compact, CAT III 600 V, True-RMS digital multimeter.
- Offers essential measurements, including AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, and resistance.
- Equipped with integrated non-contact voltage detection for safety.
- Features a selectable low-impedance mode to prevent false readings from ghost voltage.
- Ideal for everyday use, whether you’re working in commercial buildings, hospitals, or schools.
- Does not have a backlight for screen illumination.
Fluke 177 Multimeter:
- Geared towards professional technicians.
- True-RMS digital multimeter with a more extensive range of features.
- Offers manual and automatic ranging for increased productivity.
- Provides advanced measurements, including AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, temperature, and duty cycle.
- Equipped with a backlight for enhanced screen visibility, particularly in low-light conditions.
- Safety rated CAT III 1000 V, CAT IV 600 V.
- It is ideal for technicians who require precise True-RMS AC current and voltage measurements, as well as additional features like Min/Max-average recording.
The Fluke 117 is a compact and straightforward multimeter designed for electricians who need basic measurements in their daily work. It’s perfect for typical applications in commercial buildings, hospitals, and schools. On the other hand, the Fluke 177 is more advanced, catering to professional technicians who demand a wider range of features, enhanced screen visibility, and the ability to handle more complex tasks. However, the Fluke 177 is typically pricier due to its extended capabilities. Your choice depends on your specific needs and budget.
Fluke 117 Electrician’s Multimeter
The Fluke 117 Electrician’s Multimeter is the perfect tool for your everyday work needs. This compact, true-RMS digital multimeter was designed specifically for electricians, featuring three integrated functions and non-contact voltage detection for added safety. With a quick turn of the dial, you can get measurements of resistance, continuity, frequency, capacitance, min/max/average, and more. Use it in commercial buildings, hospitals, and schools. It also includes VoltAlert™ technology, allowing you to quickly and safely detect non-contact voltage. Plus, AutoVolt technology makes it easy to get your reading with automatic AC/DC voltage selection. The Fluke 117 comes with 4mm silicone test leads, a holster and a manual.
Key Features
Compact Design for Electricians:
The Fluke 117 is designed with electricians in mind, featuring a compact and portable design that’s easy to carry to job sites.
CAT III 600 V Rating:
With a CAT III 600 V safety rating, this multimeter is capable of handling electrical work in a variety of settings, ensuring your safety while you work.
True-RMS Accuracy:
The Fluke 117 provides True-RMS measurements, which is crucial for accurate readings, especially in non-linear electrical systems.
Bright Backlight:
Its bright backlight makes it perfect for use in low-light or dark environments, ensuring you can clearly read measurements even when visibility is limited.
Quick Measurements:
A user-friendly interface and a dial for easy mode selection allow you to quickly and efficiently measure:
- Resistance
- Continuity
- Frequency
- Capacitance
- Min/Max/Average values
Non-Contact Voltage Detection:
Integrated VoltAlert™ technology enables fast, non-contact voltage detection, enhancing safety by eliminating the need for an extra tool and streamlining your workflow.
Automatic AC/DC Selection:
The AutoVolt feature simplifies measurements by automatically selecting AC or DC voltage, allowing you to focus on your work without having to switch between modes manually.
Prevent Ghost Voltage:
The selectable low-impedance mode helps prevent false readings caused by ghost voltage, ensuring the accuracy of your measurements.
PROS & CONS
PROS:
- Ease of Use: The Fluke 117 is designed with an intuitive interface, making it easy for both professionals and beginners to operate.
- Accurate Readings: It provides accurate and reliable measurements, crucial for ensuring precision in electrical work.
- Durability: Fluke is known for producing robust and long-lasting tools, and the Fluke 117 is no exception. It can withstand the rigours of regular use.
- Non-Contact Voltage Detection: The integrated VoltAlert™ technology is a valuable safety feature, allowing you to detect voltage without direct contact, enhancing safety on the job.
CONS:
- Lack of Built-In Thermometer: The absence of a built-in thermometer means you would need a separate device for temperature measurements, which can be inconvenient if you frequently require temperature data in your work.
FAQ Fluke 117 Multimeter
Yes, it’s designed to be user-friendly, making it suitable for both professional electricians and those new to electrical testing.
The Fluke 117 provides accurate measurements with specified accuracy levels for different functions, ensuring precise readings.
Yes, the Fluke 117 features non-contact voltage detection, which allows you to detect voltage without physical contact.
The Fluke 117 uses a 9-volt Alkaline battery and has a typical battery life of around 400 hours without using the backlight.
Yes, it features a bright backlight to make it easier to read the display in low-light environments.
Yes, it can measure both AC and DC voltage and current, making it versatile for various applications.
It complies with IEC safety standards, including IEC 61010-1 (Pollution Degree 2) and IEC 61010-2-033 (CAT III 600V), ensuring safe operation.
Fluke 177 Multimeter
The Fluke 177 True-RMS Digital Multimeter is a reliable and precise tool designed specifically for professional technicians. It is independently tested for safety in CAT IV 600 V/CAT III 1000 V environments, so you can be sure it is safe to use. This digital multimeter offers True-RMS AC current and voltage measurements, manual and automatic ranging, plus frequency, capacitance, resistance, continuity, and diode measurements. With its 6000-count resolution, 0.09% basic accuracy, digital display with analog bar graph and backlight, and a limited lifetime warranty, the Fluke 177 True-RMS Digital Multimeter is an excellent choice for electrical maintenance experts. It has all the features you need to accurately troubleshoot and repair a variety of electrical and electronic systems. With the Fluke 177, productivity is increased with its Display Hold, Auto Hold, and Min/Max-average recording features. Make sure to get yours today!
Key Features
True-RMS Measurements:
The Fluke 177 provides accurate True-RMS voltage and current measurements, ensuring precise readings even in complex electrical environments.
Professional Technician’s Choice:
This multimeter is the preferred choice of professional technicians worldwide due to its precision, reliability, and ease of use.
Safety Certification:
Independently tested for safety, the Fluke 177 is certified for use in CAT IV 600 V and CAT III 1000 V environments, making it suitable for a wide range of electrical applications.
Comprehensive Measurements:
The Fluke 177 offers a wide range of measurement capabilities, including AC and DC voltage measurements up to 1000 V, frequency, capacitance, resistance, continuity, and diode testing.
Increased Productivity:
It enhances productivity with manual and automatic ranging, Display Hold, Auto Hold, and Min/Max-average recording features, ensuring efficiency in troubleshooting and repair tasks.
High Resolution:
With a 6000-count resolution, this multimeter provides clear and detailed measurement results.
User-Friendly Design:
The Fluke 177 features a digital display with a backlight, enabling work in low-light conditions. It also offers a digital display with an analog bar graph.
Front Panel Calibration:
It allows closed-case calibration through the front panel, ensuring accurate measurements over time.
Ergonomic and Protective Design:
The multimeter comes with an ergonomic case that includes an integrated protective holster, adding durability and convenience to its use.
PROS & CONS
Pros:
- Reliable and Rugged Construction: The Fluke 177 is built to withstand tough working conditions, making it a durable and reliable tool for professionals.
- Easy to Read in Any Lighting Conditions: With its digital display and backlight, this multimeter ensures that measurements can be easily read, even in dimly lit or low-light environments.
- A Versatile Tool for Troubleshooting and Maintenance: It offers a wide range of measurement capabilities, making it a versatile choice for various troubleshooting and maintenance tasks.
Cons:
- Not Able to Measure in Micro-Amps: One limitation is that it cannot measure in micro-amps, which may be necessary for some specialized applications.
FAQ’s Fluke 177 Multimeter
For DC voltage, the accuracy is approximately ±(0.09% + 2), and for AC voltage, it’s approximately ±(1.0% + 3).
The Fluke 177 can measure capacitance up to 10,000 microfarads (µF).
Yes, it has safety certifications such as EN 61010-1 to 1000 V CAT III and EN 61010-1 to 600 V CAT IV, making it suitable for various electrical situations.
Recommendation:
If your tasks are straightforward and you’re budget-conscious, the Fluke 117 is an excellent choice. It’s affordable and performs well for basic needs. However, if you require a multimeter with advanced features and more versatility, the Fluke 177 is the superior option. While it comes at a slightly higher price point, it’s well worth the investment for its additional capabilities.
In short, opt for the Fluke 117 if you have simple tasks to tackle and are mindful of your budget. On the other hand, if you seek a multimeter with enhanced functionality and quality, the Fluke 177 is the ideal choice despite the slightly higher cost. Your selection should align with your specific requirements and budget.
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My name is Robert Phillipson, and I am an Electrical Engineer with 20 years of experience in the field. My fascination with multimeters began early on during my career as I was captivated by their precision and accuracy. Over the years, I have gained a deep understanding of how they work, enabling me to use them effectively for measurement applications like testing circuit boards and other components.