29 September 2005 -- TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments) has redesigned the model 1705 multimeter to utilise the company's new 2U high bench-top case for which an optional rack-mount kit is available. The instrument is fitted with an RS232 Interface as standard, and can also be specified with a GPIB (IEEE-488) interface. The 1705 is a 4+1/4-digit meter with a scale length of 12,000 counts and a resolution of 10uV, 10 microhm and 0.1uA.
Combined with a high basic DC voltage accuracy of 0.04%, it provides measurements that are an order of magnitude better than those of most hand-held DMMs, says the company.
The multimeter incorporates not just dual displays but also 'dual measurement' technology.
Unlike DMMs which use dual displays simply to show two parameters of one signal, a patented technique is used to enable two signals - for example, a DC voltage and an AC current - to be measured and displayed simultaneously.
The multimeter can be operated either from AC mains or from batteries.
The high-contrast LCD has unusually large digits (17mm high) and a full set of annunciators.
It offers fully automatic ranging on all functions.
Alternatively, ranges can be selected manually.
Unlike other meters, the range value can be clearly shown on the secondary display, avoiding any possibility of confusion.
The 1705 provides true RMS AC response, which gives accurate measurements regardless of the waveform shape.
The high-bandwidth attenuator provides high accuracy within the audio band, and gives extended response to avoid errors when measuring switching waveforms.
Measurements are normally AC coupled but, when required, the true RMS value of the AC plus DC components can be shown at the touch of a button.
A wide range of 'smart' functions are incorporated, including decibel measurements, Ax+b, limits comparison, percentage deviation, min/max storage and power measurement.
A 100-step data logger is also included which can store readings either at timed intervals (from one per second to one every three hours) or in response to a front-panel key or external contact closure.
The 1705 is fully programmable via its built-in RS-232 interface.
This can be used to control all the meter functions and to read back results from the display or from the data logger.
The same facilities are available when using the optional GPIB interface.
The 1705 is designed and manufactured in the UK, and costs £305 (plus VAT).
