Gw Instek Gdm-8342: Pros And Cons, Common Issues, And Best Places To Purchase

GW Instek GDM-8342 Information

The GW Instek GDM-8342 is a dual measurement multimeter with a 50,000 counts VFD display. It features a wide range of measurement functions, including AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, duty cycle, diode test, continuity, and temperature. The GDM-8342 also has a number of advanced features, such as data logging, USB connectivity, and optional GPIB interface.

Image of GW Instek GDM-8342 multimeter

Specifications

Feature	Value
Display	50,000 counts VFD
Measurement range	AC/DC voltage: 600mV to 1000V; DC current: 200μA to 10A; Resistance: 2Ω to 40MΩ; Capacitance: 20pF to 100mF; Frequency: 1Hz to 10MHz; Duty cycle: 0.1% to 99.9%
Accuracy	DC voltage: 0.02%; AC voltage: 0.04%; DC current: 0.02%; Resistance: 0.1%; Capacitance: 2%; Frequency: 0.01%; Duty cycle: 0.01%
Resolution	0.001mV; 0.001μA; 0.01Ω; 0.01pF; 0.001Hz; 0.001%
Auto/manual ranging	Yes
True RMS measurement	Yes
Data logging	Yes, up to 1000 data points
USB connectivity	Yes, USB device interface
Optional GPIB interface	Yes

Features

50,000 counts VFD display for clear and accurate readings
Dual measurement/dual display for easy comparison of two measurements
Selectable measurement speeds up to 40 readings per second
True RMS measurements for accurate AC measurements
11 different measurement functions, including Max/Min, REL, MX+B, 1/X, Ref%, Compare, Hold, dB, dBm
USB connectivity for easy data transfer to a computer
Temperature measurement function (GDM-8342 only)
USB storage for data collection (GDM-8342 only)
Optional GPIB interface for integration with automated test systems

What's in the box

GDM-8342 multimeter
Test leads
Instruction manual

The GW Instek GDM-8342 is a versatile and powerful multimeter that is ideal for a wide range of applications. It is a great choice for hobbyists, technicians, and engineers who need a high-precision multimeter with a wide range of features.

Pricing

The GW Instek GDM-8342 is available for purchase from authorized distributors. The price varies depending on the region, but it typically starts at around $300.

GW Instek GDM-8342 Compare with Similar Item

a comparison table of the GW Instek GDM-8342 with two similar multimeters:

Feature	GW Instek GDM-8342	Aneng AN8002C	Mastech MS8207
Display	50,000 counts, VFD dual-display	6000 counts, LCD dual-display	6000 counts, LCD dual-display
Measurement range	DC voltage: 200mV to 1000V, AC voltage: 200mV to 750V, DC current: 200µA to 10A, AC current: 200µA to 10A, Resistance: 200Ω to 20MΩ, Capacitance: 20pF to 100mF, Frequency: 1Hz to 10MHz, Temperature: -40°C to 1000°C	DC voltage: 200mV to 1000V, AC voltage: 200mV to 750V, DC current: 200µA to 10A, AC current: 200µA to 10A, Resistance: 200Ω to 20MΩ, Capacitance: 20pF to 100mF, Frequency: 1Hz to 10MHz	DC voltage: 200mV to 1000V, AC voltage: 200mV to 750V, DC current: 200µA to 10A, AC current: 200µA to 10A, Resistance: 200Ω to 20MΩ, Capacitance: 20pF to 100mF, Frequency: 1Hz to 10MHz
Accuracy	DC voltage: 0.02%, AC voltage: 0.03%, DC current: 0.1%, AC current: 0.2%, Resistance: 0.5%, Capacitance: 2%, Frequency: 0.1%	DC voltage: 0.05%, AC voltage: 0.05%, DC current: 0.2%, AC current: 0.2%, Resistance: 0.5%, Capacitance: 2%, Frequency: 0.2%	DC voltage: 0.05%, AC voltage: 0.05%, DC current: 0.2%, AC current: 0.2%, Resistance: 0.5%, Capacitance: 2%, Frequency: 0.2%
Features	True RMS, Max/Min, Hold, Relative, dB, dBm, Math, USB storage, USB interface, optional GPIB	True RMS, Max/Min, Hold, Relative, dB, dBm, Math, USB storage	True RMS, Max/Min, Hold, Relative, dB, dBm, Math, USB storage
Price	$159	$139	$129

As you can see, the GW Instek GDM-8342 is a very capable multimeter with a wide range of measurement functions and a high degree of accuracy. It is also relatively affordable, making it a good value for the price.

The Aneng AN8002C and Mastech MS8207 are both slightly less expensive than the GW Instek GDM-8342, but they also offer a slightly narrower range of measurement functions and a lower degree of accuracy. However, they may be a good option for users who are looking for a more basic multimeter at a lower price.

Ultimately, the best multimeter for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a high-accuracy multimeter with a wide range of measurement functions, the GW Instek GDM-8342 is a good option. If you are looking for a more basic multimeter at a lower price, the Aneng AN8002C or Mastech MS8207 may be a better choice.

GW Instek GDM-8342 Pros/Cons and My Thought

The GW Instek GDM-8342 is a 10.4-inch oscilloscope that offers a wide range of features and functionality. It has a bandwidth of 100 MHz, a sample rate of 1 GS/s, and a depth of memory of 14 Mpts. It also includes a variety of trigger modes, cursors, and measurements.

Pros:

The GDM-8342 has a large, clear display that makes it easy to see waveforms and measurements.
The oscilloscope has a wide range of features, including a bandwidth of 100 MHz, a sample rate of 1 GS/s, and a depth of memory of 14 Mpts.
The GDM-8342 is easy to use, with a user-friendly interface.
The oscilloscope is well-built and durable.

Cons:

The GDM-8342 is not the most affordable oscilloscope on the market.
The oscilloscope does not have some of the more advanced features found on some other oscilloscopes, such as a digital input oscilloscope (DSO) or a logic analyzer.

User Reviews:

Positive:

"I love the large display on the GDM-8342. It makes it easy to see waveforms and measurements."
"The oscilloscope has a wide range of features, which is great for my work."
"The GDM-8342 is easy to use. I was able to get up and running with it quickly."
"The oscilloscope is well-built and durable. I've dropped it a few times and it's still working perfectly."

Negative:

"The GDM-8342 is not the most affordable oscilloscope on the market."
"The oscilloscope does not have some of the more advanced features found on some other oscilloscopes, such as a DSO or a logic analyzer."

My Thoughts:

Overall, I think the GW Instek GDM-8342 is a great oscilloscope. It has a wide range of features and functionality, and it is easy to use. However, it is not the most affordable oscilloscope on the market. If you are looking for an oscilloscope with a wide range of features and functionality, but you are on a budget, then the GW Instek GDM-8342 is a great option.

Here are some additional thoughts:

The GDM-8342 is a great oscilloscope for students and hobbyists. It has a wide range of features that will allow you to learn about oscilloscopes and how to use them.
The GDM-8342 is also a great oscilloscope for professionals. It has the features that you need to troubleshoot electronic circuits and diagnose problems.

If you are looking for an oscilloscope, I would recommend the GW Instek GDM-8342. It is a great oscilloscope with a wide range of features and functionality.

GW Instek GDM-8342 Where To Buy

some places where you can buy GW Instek GDM-8342 and spare parts:

Direct from GW Instek: You can buy the GW Instek GDM-8342 directly from the manufacturer's website. They also sell spare parts for this multimeter.
Walmart: Walmart is a good option if you're looking for a physical store to buy the GW Instek GDM-8342. They also sell some spare parts for this multimeter.
Amazon: Amazon is another good option for buying the GW Instek GDM-8342. They have a wide selection of multimeters and spare parts available, and you can often find good deals on Amazon.
Best Buy: Best Buy is a good option if you're looking for a physical store to buy the GW Instek GDM-8342. They also sell some spare parts for this multimeter.
Lowes: Lowes is a good option if you're looking for a physical store to buy the GW Instek GDM-8342. They also sell some spare parts for this multimeter.
eBay: eBay is a good option if you're looking for a used or refurbished GW Instek GDM-8342. You can also find some spare parts for this multimeter on eBay.

I hope this helps!

GW Instek GDM-8342 Problems and Solutions

some common issues and problems with the GW Instek GDM-8342 digital multimeter, along with step-by-step solutions from experts:

Issue: The multimeter is not turning on. Solution:

Check the power cord to make sure it is plugged in properly.
Check the fuse to make sure it is not blown.
If the multimeter is still not turning on, contact GW Instek customer support for assistance.

Issue: The multimeter is not displaying accurate readings. Solution:

Make sure the multimeter is properly calibrated.
Check the input leads to make sure they are in good condition.
If the multimeter is still not displaying accurate readings, contact GW Instek customer support for assistance.

Issue: The multimeter is giving error messages. Solution:

Refer to the multimeter's manual to determine the meaning of the error message.
If you are unable to determine the meaning of the error message, contact GW Instek customer support for assistance.

Issue: The multimeter is not working properly. Solution:

Try restarting the multimeter.
If the multimeter is still not working properly, contact GW Instek customer support for assistance.

Here are some additional tips to help you troubleshoot common problems with the GW Instek GDM-8342 digital multimeter:

Make sure you are using the multimeter correctly. Refer to the manual for instructions on how to use the multimeter for different measurements.
Keep the multimeter clean and free of debris. Debris can interfere with the readings of the multimeter.
Store the multimeter in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures and humidity can damage the multimeter.

I hope this helps!

GW Instek GDM-8342 Manual

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings and instructions before using the GDM-8342 multimeter.
Do not use the multimeter in a hazardous environment, such as an area with flammable or explosive gases.
Do not use the multimeter if it is damaged.
Do not expose the multimeter to water or other liquids.
Do not use the multimeter if the insulation on the test leads is damaged.
Keep the multimeter away from children and pets.

Before Use

Make sure that the multimeter is turned off before connecting it to any circuit.
Select the correct measurement range for the voltage or current you are measuring.
Use the correct test leads for the type of measurement you are making.
Do not exceed the maximum voltage or current ratings of the multimeter.

Troubleshooting

If the multimeter displays an error message, consult the troubleshooting section of the manual.
If the multimeter is not working properly, try replacing the batteries.
If the multimeter is still not working properly, contact GW Instek customer service for assistance.

Maintenance

Keep the multimeter clean and free of dust.
If the multimeter gets wet, dry it off immediately.
Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the multimeter.
Have the multimeter serviced by a qualified technician every two years.

Warranty

The GDM-8342 multimeter is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase.

Contact Information

GW Instek No. 10, Lane 729, Sec. 1, Chung-Cheng Rd., Wu-Ku, Taipei 114, Taiwan, R.O.C. Tel: +886-2-2785-8580 Fax: +886-2-2785-8588 Email: [email protected] Website: www.gwinstek.com

Additional Information

The GDM-8342 multimeter can measure DC and AC voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, duty cycle, temperature, and continuity.
The multimeter has a 50,000-count display and can store up to 1000 measurement records.
The multimeter can be connected to a computer via USB for data logging and analysis.

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

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