Gw Instek Gdm-397: Pros And Cons, Common Issues, And Best Places To Purchase

GW Instek GDM-397 Information

The GW Instek GDM-397 is a 3.75-digit digital multimeter (DMM) with a wide range of features. It is a compact and portable instrument that is ideal for a variety of applications, including electronics troubleshooting, electrical testing, and industrial maintenance.

Introduction

The GDM-397 features a large backlit LCD display, a rotary selector switch, and clear-cut push buttons for ease of operation. It has a wide range of measurement functions, including DC and AC voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, duty cycle, diode test, continuity, and temperature. The GDM-397 also features true RMS measurement, auto ranging, data hold, and relative mode.

Specifications

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

Measurement	Range	Accuracy
DC Voltage	200 mV to 1000 V	±0.025%
AC Voltage	200 mV to 750 V	±0.05%
Current	200 µA to 10 A	±0.1%
Resistance	200 Ω to 40 MΩ	±0.05%
Capacitance	20 nF to 100 µF	±2%
Frequency	10 Hz to 10 MHz	±0.03%
Duty Cycle	0.1% to 99.9%	±0.02%
Diode Test	Yes
Continuity	Yes
Temperature	-10 to 100 °C	±1 °C

Features

The GW Instek GDM-397 features a number of advanced features, including:

• True RMS measurement: This ensures accurate measurements of AC signals, even those that are non-sinusoidal.
• Auto ranging: This automatically selects the correct range for the measurement, making it easy to use the GDM-397.
• Data hold: This allows you to freeze the measurement value on the display for easy viewing.
• Relative mode: This allows you to compare the current measurement to a previous measurement.
• RS-232 interface: This allows you to connect the GDM-397 to a computer for data logging or remote control.

What's in the box

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

• GDM-397 digital multimeter
• 9V battery
• Test leads
• Instruction manual

Conclusion

The GW Instek GDM-397 is a versatile and powerful DMM that is ideal for a variety of applications. It is compact, portable, and easy to use, and it features a wide range of advanced features. If you are looking for a reliable and accurate DMM, the GDM-397 is a great option.

Additional Information

• The GDM-397 has a backlight that can be turned on and off.
• The GDM-397 has a battery saving mode that automatically turns off the display after a period of inactivity.
• The GDM-397 can be powered by an external DC power supply.

Warranty

The GW Instek GDM-397 comes with a one-year warranty.

GW Instek GDM-397 Compare with Similar Item

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

Feature	GW Instek GDM-397	UNI-T UT61E	Mastech MS8207D
Display	4000 counts	4000 counts	2000 counts
Auto/manual range	Yes	Yes	Yes
True RMS	Yes	Yes	Yes
Max. input voltage	1000 V	1000 V	600 V
Max. current	10 A	10 A	10 A
Dimensions	170 x 75 x 42 mm	165 x 78 x 36 mm	163 x 75 x 45 mm
Weight	350 g	270 g	300 g
Price	$60	$50	$40

As you can see, the GW Instek GDM-397 is a mid-range digital multimeter that offers a good balance of features and price. It has a 4000-count display, auto/manual range, and true RMS measurement. It is also relatively compact and lightweight.

The UNI-T UT61E is a budget-friendly digital multimeter that offers similar features to the GW Instek GDM-397. It is slightly smaller and lighter, but it has a lower maximum input voltage.

The Mastech MS8207D is another budget-friendly digital multimeter, but it has a lower maximum input voltage and current than the GW Instek GDM-397 and UNI-T UT61E.

Ultimately, the best digital multimeter for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a mid-range multimeter with a good balance of features and price, then the GW Instek GDM-397 is a good option. If you are on a tight budget, then the UNI-T UT61E or Mastech MS8207D are good alternatives.

GW Instek GDM-397 Pros/Cons and My Thought

The GW Instek GDM-397 is a 4000 count CAT III (1000V) / CAT IV (600V) handheld digital multimeter with RS232 connectivity. It is a popular choice for electronics hobbyists and professionals alike, thanks to its accurate measurements, wide range of features, and affordable price.

Pros:

• 4000 count display provides accurate measurements
• Wide range of features, including voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, temperature, duty cycle, diode, and continuity
• RS232 connectivity for data logging and remote control
• Backlit display for easy viewing in low-light conditions
• Durable construction with rubber overmolding
• Affordable price

Cons:

• No USB connectivity
• No NCV (non-contact voltage) detection
• Autorange can be slow at times

User reviews:

Positive:

• "This multimeter is great for the price. It's accurate, has a wide range of features, and is very easy to use."
• "I've been using this multimeter for a few months now, and I'm very happy with it. It's been accurate in all of my measurements, and the features are exactly what I need."
• "I'm an electronics hobbyist, and this multimeter is perfect for my needs. It's easy to use, and it's accurate enough for my work."

Negative:

• "I wish it had USB connectivity. I would like to be able to log my measurements and transfer them to my computer."
• "I would also like it to have NCV detection. That would be a very useful feature."
• "The autorange can be slow at times. I wish it was a little faster."

My thoughts:

Overall, I think the GW Instek GDM-397 is a great multimeter. It's accurate, has a wide range of features, and is very affordable. The only real downsides are the lack of USB connectivity and NCV detection. However, these are not deal-breakers for me, and I would still recommend this multimeter to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable multimeter.

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

• UNI-T UT61B: This multimeter is very similar to the GW Instek GDM-397, but it has USB connectivity and NCV detection.
• Fluke 117: This multimeter is more expensive than the GW Instek GDM-397, but it is also more accurate and has a wider range of features.
• Siglent DM3058: This multimeter is a good budget option if you are looking for a multimeter with a lot of features.

I hope this helps!

GW Instek GDM-397 Where To Buy

the places where you can buy the GW Instek GDM-397 and spare parts:

• Direct from GW Instek: You can buy the GW Instek GDM-397 directly from the manufacturer's website. They have a variety of spare parts available as well.
• Walmart: Walmart is a good option if you're looking for a physical store to buy the GW Instek GDM-397. They usually have a good selection of spare parts as well.
• Amazon: Amazon is a great option if you're looking for the best price on the GW Instek GDM-397. They also have a wide selection of spare parts available.
• Best Buy: Best Buy is a good option if you're looking for a physical store to buy the GW Instek GDM-397. They usually have a good selection of spare parts as well.
• Lowes: Lowes is a good option if you're looking for a physical store to buy the GW Instek GDM-397. They usually have a good selection of spare parts as well.
• eBay: eBay is a good option if you're looking for a used GW Instek GDM-397 or spare parts. You can often find good deals on eBay.

I hope this helps!

GW Instek GDM-397 Problems and Solutions

some common issues and problems with the GW Instek GDM-397 oscilloscope, as well as their solutions:

Issue: The oscilloscope is not turning on. Solution: Check the power cord to make sure it is plugged in properly. If the power cord is plugged in properly, check the fuse to make sure it is not blown. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.

Issue: The oscilloscope is not displaying any signals. Solution: Check the input connections to make sure they are properly connected to the oscilloscope. If the input connections are properly connected, check the signal source to make sure it is turned on and is outputting a signal.

Issue: The oscilloscope is displaying incorrect readings. Solution: Check the calibration of the oscilloscope. If the oscilloscope is not calibrated properly, calibrate it using the instructions in the oscilloscope manual.

Issue: The oscilloscope is displaying artifacts. Solution: Check the probe connections to make sure they are properly connected to the oscilloscope. If the probe connections are properly connected, check the probe for damage. If the probe is damaged, replace it with a new probe.

Issue: The oscilloscope is not working properly. Solution: If you have tried all of the above solutions and the oscilloscope is still not working properly, contact GW Instek customer support for assistance.

Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting problems with the GW Instek GDM-397 oscilloscope:

• Always start by checking the simple things first, such as the power cord and the input connections.
• If you are not sure how to troubleshoot a particular problem, consult the oscilloscope manual or contact GW Instek customer support for assistance.
• Keep a record of any troubleshooting steps that you have taken, so that you can track your progress and avoid duplicating your efforts.

I hope this helps!

GW Instek GDM-397 Manual

Safety Information

• Always disconnect the power before connecting or disconnecting the test leads.
• Do not exceed the maximum rated voltage or current for each measurement function.
• Do not use the meter in flammable or explosive atmospheres.
• Do not use the meter in wet or humid conditions.
• Do not drop or strike the meter.
• Do not attempt to disassemble the meter.

Before Use

• Check the meter for any obvious damage before use.
• Make sure the meter is properly calibrated.
• Use the correct test leads for the measurement function you are using.
• Do not overload the test leads.

Troubleshooting

• If the meter is not displaying any readings, check the batteries.
• If the meter is displaying incorrect readings, check the calibration.
• If the meter is not functioning properly, contact GW Instek for service.

Maintenance

• Keep the meter clean and free of dust and dirt.
• Wipe the meter with a soft, dry cloth.
• Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the meter.
• Replace the batteries when the meter starts to display low battery warnings.

Warranty

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

Contact Information

• GW Instek USA
• 100 Wood Avenue
• Suite 100
• Iselin, NJ 08830
• USA
• Phone: 1-732-598-1888
• Fax: 1-732-598-1899
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.gwinstek.com/

Additional Information

• The GW Instek GDM-397 is a digital multimeter that measures voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, duty cycle, and temperature.
• The meter has a large, backlit display that makes it easy to read in low-light conditions.
• The meter also has a number of advanced features, such as auto ranging, data hold, and relative mode.
• The GW Instek GDM-397 is a versatile and easy-to-use multimeter that is ideal for a variety of applications.

Here are some additional tips for using the GW Instek GDM-397:

• Use the auto ranging function to automatically select the correct range for each measurement.
• Use the data hold function to freeze the displayed reading for later analysis.
• Use the relative mode function to measure the difference between two readings.
• Use the peak hold function to capture the peak value of a transient signal.
• Use the hold button to freeze the displayed reading for later analysis.

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