Gw Instek Gdm-397 Vs. Competitors: In-depth Comparison Of Specs, Performance, And Price

GW Instek GDM-397 Information

The GW Instek GDM-397 is a 3.75-digit digital multimeter with a variety of features, including auto/manual ranging, true RMS measurements, and a large backlit display. It is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of electrical measurements, including AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, and frequency.

Introduction

The GDM-397 is a compact and portable multimeter that is easy to use. It features a large backlit display that makes it easy to read measurements in even low-light conditions. The multimeter also has a number of other features that make it a versatile tool, including:

• Auto/manual ranging: The multimeter automatically ranges itself for the measurement being made, or you can manually select the range.
• True RMS measurements: The multimeter provides accurate measurements of AC signals, even those that are not sinusoidal.
• Data hold: The multimeter can hold the current measurement so that you can easily read it.
• Relative mode: The multimeter can measure the difference between two voltages or currents.
• RS-232 interface: The multimeter can be connected to a PC via the RS-232 interface for data logging or remote control.

Specifications

The following table lists the specifications of the GW Instek GDM-397:

Feature	Specification
Display	3.75-digit LCD with backlighting
Auto/manual ranging	Yes
True RMS measurements	Yes
Data hold	Yes
Relative mode	Yes
RS-232 interface	Yes
Voltage measurement	DC: 200 mV to 1000 V, AC: 200 mV to 750 V
Current measurement	DC: 200 µA to 10 A, AC: 200 µA to 10 A
Resistance measurement	200 Ω to 40 MΩ
Capacitance measurement	20 nF to 100 µF
Frequency measurement	20 Hz to 10 MHz
Dimensions	150 x 70 x 35 mm
Weight	250 g

Features

In addition to the features listed above, the GW Instek GDM-397 also has a number of other features, including:

• A beeper that sounds when a continuity test is passed.
• A diode test function that allows you to check the forward voltage of a diode.
• A hFE test function that allows you to measure the current gain of a transistor.
• A temperature measurement function that allows you to measure the temperature of a device.
• A duty cycle measurement function that allows you to measure the duty cycle of a signal.

What's in the box

The GW Instek GDM-397 comes in a sturdy carrying case that includes the following items:

• The multimeter itself
• A pair of test leads
• A 9V battery
• A user manual

Conclusion

The GW Instek GDM-397 is a versatile and easy-to-use digital multimeter that is ideal for a wide range of electrical measurements. It features a large backlit display, auto/manual ranging, true RMS measurements, and a number of other useful features. The multimeter is also compact and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go.

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Pricing

The GW Instek GDM-397 is available for purchase from a variety of retailers. The price typically ranges from $100 to $150.

GW Instek GDM-397 Compare with Similar Item

a table comparing the GW Instek GDM-397 with two similar multimeters:

Feature	GW Instek GDM-397	Fluke 115	UNI-T UT61E
Voltage range (DC)	40 mV - 1000 V	40 mV - 1000 V	40 mV - 1000 V
Voltage range (AC)	40 mV - 1000 V	40 mV - 1000 V	40 mV - 1000 V
Current range (DC)	400 µA - 10 A	400 µA - 10 A	400 µA - 10 A
Current range (AC)	400 µA - 10 A	400 µA - 10 A	400 µA - 10 A
Resistance range	400 Ω - 40 MΩ	400 Ω - 40 MΩ	400 Ω - 40 MΩ
Capacitance range	40 nF - 4000 µF	40 nF - 4000 µF	40 nF - 4000 µF
Temperature range	-40 °C - +1000 °C	-20 °C - +500 °C	-20 °C - +600 °C
Basic accuracy	0.5 %	0.5 %	1 %
Frequency range	10 Hz - 10 MHz	10 Hz - 10 MHz	10 Hz - 10 MHz
Interfaces	RS232	RS232	None
Dimensions	180 x 87 x 47 mm	178 x 89 x 43 mm	160 x 86 x 38 mm
Weight	370 g	365 g	330 g
Price	$100	$150	$50

Comparison

The GW Instek GDM-397 is a mid-range multimeter that offers a good balance of features and price. It has a wide range of measurement capabilities, including DC and AC voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, and temperature. It also has a built-in RS232 interface for data logging and communication with PC software.

The Fluke 115 is a more expensive multimeter, but it offers a higher level of accuracy and performance. It has a wider voltage range, higher current range, and more accurate resistance measurements. It also has a number of additional features, such as a data hold function and a peak hold function.

The UNI-T UT61E is a budget-friendly multimeter that offers basic measurement capabilities. It has a smaller voltage range, lower current range, and less accurate resistance measurements than the other two multimeters. However, it is still a capable multimeter for basic electrical work.

Conclusion

The GW Instek GDM-397 is a good choice for a mid-range multimeter. It offers a good balance of features and price, and it is a reliable tool for electrical work. The Fluke 115 is a better choice for those who need a high level of accuracy and performance. The UNI-T UT61E is a good choice for those on a budget.

GW Instek GDM-397 Pros/Cons and My Thought

The GW Instek GDM-397 is a handheld digital multimeter that is perfect for any professional or hobbyist in need of accurate and reliable measurements. It features a 4000-count display, auto/manual ranging, and a variety of measurement functions, including AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, and diode test.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the GW Instek GDM-397:

Pros:

• Accurate and reliable measurements
• Large, easy-to-read display
• Auto/manual ranging
• Variety of measurement functions
• Durable construction
• Backlit display
• Affordable price

Cons:

• No True RMS measurements
• No Bluetooth connectivity
• No data logging

Here are some user reviews of the GW Instek GDM-397:

Positive reviews:

• "This multimeter is very accurate and reliable. I've used it to troubleshoot circuits and diagnose problems with appliances, and it's always been spot on."
• "The large, easy-to-read display is a big plus. I can easily see the readings even in low-light conditions."
• "The auto/manual ranging is very convenient. I don't have to worry about setting the correct range for each measurement."

Negative reviews:

• "I wish it had True RMS measurements. That would be a great addition."
• "I would like to see Bluetooth connectivity. That would make it easier to transfer data to a computer."
• "I would like to see data logging. That would be helpful for troubleshooting problems."

Overall, the GW Instek GDM-397 is a great multimeter for the price. It's accurate, reliable, and has a variety of measurement functions. However, it lacks True RMS measurements and Bluetooth connectivity. If you're looking for a multimeter with those features, you may want to consider a more expensive model.

My thoughts:

I think the GW Instek GDM-397 is a great multimeter for the price. It's accurate, reliable, and has a variety of measurement functions. I especially like the large, easy-to-read display and the auto/manual ranging. I would have liked to see True RMS measurements and Bluetooth connectivity, but those features are not essential for most users. Overall, I think the GW Instek GDM-397 is a great value for the price.

Here are some other multimeters that you may want to consider:

• Fluke 117: This multimeter is a bit more expensive than the GW Instek GDM-397, but it has True RMS measurements and Bluetooth connectivity.
• Uni-T UT61E: This multimeter is a good value for the price. It has a variety of measurement functions, including True RMS measurements.
• Amprobe AM-370: This multimeter is a good option for budget-minded users. It's accurate and reliable, but it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive models.

I hope this helps!

GW Instek GDM-397 Where To Buy

You can buy the GW Instek GDM-397 multimeter and spare parts from the following retailers:

• Direct from GW Instek: The manufacturer's website is a good option if you want to make sure you are getting an authentic product. They also offer extended same-day shipping times.
• Walmart: Walmart is a great option for finding affordable multimeters and spare parts. You can often find them on sale, and they offer free shipping on orders over $35.
• Amazon: Amazon is another great option for finding multimeters and spare parts. They have a wide selection of products to choose from, and you can often find them at competitive prices.
• Best Buy: Best Buy is a good option if you are looking for a multimeter in a physical store. They have a limited selection of multimeters, but they do offer same-day pickup in some locations.
• Lowes: Lowes is another good option for finding multimeters in a physical store. They have a wider selection of multimeters than Best Buy, but they do not offer same-day pickup.
• eBay: eBay is a good option if you are looking for a used or refurbished multimeter. You can often find them at a fraction of the cost of a new multimeter.

I hope this helps!

GW Instek GDM-397 Problems and Solutions

some common issues and problems with the GW Instek GDM-397 digital multimeter, along with solutions from experts:

Issue: The multimeter displays "OL" or "1" when measuring voltage or current. Solution: This usually means that the input range is set too high. To fix this, simply adjust the input range to a lower value.

Issue: The multimeter displays incorrect readings. Solution: This could be caused by a number of things, such as a faulty fuse, a dirty or damaged probe, or a loose connection. To troubleshoot this issue, you can try the following steps: * Check the fuse. If the fuse is blown, it will need to be replaced. * Clean the probes with a soft cloth. * Make sure that the probes are properly connected to the multimeter. * If the problem persists, contact GW Instek customer support for further assistance.

Issue: The multimeter powers on but does not display any readings. Solution: This could be caused by a dead battery or a faulty power supply. To troubleshoot this issue, you can try the following steps: * Check the batteries. If the batteries are dead, they will need to be replaced. * Check the power supply. If the power supply is faulty, it will need to be replaced. * If the problem persists, contact GW Instek customer support for further assistance.

I hope this helps!

GW Instek GDM-397 Manual

Safety Information

• Read and understand all safety information before using the GDM-397 multimeter.
• Do not use the multimeter if it is damaged.
• Do not use the multimeter in wet or humid conditions.
• Do not use the multimeter near flammable or explosive materials.
• Do not use the multimeter to measure high voltage or current.
• Do not use the multimeter to measure live circuits.
• Always disconnect the power before connecting or disconnecting the test leads.
• Keep the test leads away from your body when measuring high voltage.
• Do not use the multimeter if the display is unreadable.

Before Use

• Make sure that the batteries are installed correctly.
• Select the correct range for the measurement you are performing.
• Connect the test leads to the correct terminals.
• Take care not to overload the meter.

Troubleshooting

• If the display is blank, check the batteries.
• If the display is unreadable, check the range setting.
• If the meter is not responding, try turning it off and then on again.
• If you are still having problems, contact GW Instek customer support.

Maintenance

• Keep the multimeter clean and free of dust.
• Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the multimeter.
• If the multimeter gets wet, dry it off immediately.
• Replace the batteries when they are low.

Warranty

The GDM-397 multimeter is covered by a one-year warranty. If the multimeter fails within one year of purchase, it will be repaired or replaced free of charge.

Contact Information

GW Instek

10F, No. 106, Sec. 3, Zhongzheng Rd.,

Taipei 100, Taiwan

Tel: +886-2-2369-8999

Fax: +886-2-2369-8998

Website: https://www.gwinstek.com/

Additional Information

• The GDM-397 multimeter has a number of features that make it a versatile and reliable tool.
• It can measure DC and AC voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, and temperature.
• It also has a number of special functions, such as continuity testing, diode testing, and hFE testing.
• The GDM-397 multimeter is a valuable tool for engineers, technicians, and hobbyists.

I hope this manual has been helpful. Please contact GW Instek customer support if you have any further questions.