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Vintage Digital Multimeter Collection - DMMs
Vintage Digital meters that are worthy of note in my collection.
More about Non-Linear Systems
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Non-Linear Systems X-2 DMM
The NLS X-2 DMM was manufactured around 1967. Unlike NLS's first digital meters, the X-2 utilizes a nixie tube display.
The display is made up of seven nixie tubes with the far left nixie tube signifying + (positive) or - (negative) and the far right
nixie tube displaying AC, DC, K Ohms (ohms symbol), or MV. There were at least a couple different versions of the X-2 series. This X-2 has remote inputs and adjustable offset controls on the back but no cooling fan.
Larger Photo
Nixie Display
X-2 Back
Inside
Board Layout Diagram
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Non-Linear Systems LM-4 DMM
This NLS LM-4 DMM was manufactured around 1975.
The LM-4 is AC powered and is only 2 1/2 inches wide.
I was surprised to find this one unused and still
in it's original box after 38 years. It is serial number 069. The meter's test leads use mini banana plugs.
Non-Linear Systems manufactured the first digital readout meter in 1952.
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LED Display
Original Box
LM-4 Bottom
LM-4 Specifications Sheet
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Non-Linear Systems
Touch Test 20 DMM
The NLS Touch Test 20 came in two versions, an AC powered model TT-20 and an AC/Battery version model TT-20B.
It measured AC, DC, Current, Temperature, and Capacitance with a 3½ digit LED display.
The DMM measures 6 1/4" x 2 5/8" x 8" deep.
Larger Photo - Front
Larger Photo - Back
Larger Photo - Chassis
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B&K Precision model 280 DMM
The B&K Precision model 280 DMM was manufactured in the early 1970s by B&K Manufacturing Company.
It has a LED display and is powered by 4 1.5 volt "C" batteries.
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Carry Case
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Hioki 3208 Calcu Hi Tester
This Hioki model 3208 Calculator and DMM combination was sold around 1980. It's a unique combination of a calculator and Digital Multi-Meter (DMM) in one hand held unit. Not just both in the same package, the reading from the DMM will transfer to the calculator by pressing
the shift key which allows formulas to be calculated using the readings directly from DMM.
The DMM section has ranges for AC/DC Volts, Ohms, and two milli-amp ranges. The DMM can be set to auto range and also has a zero adjust.
It's been labeled by some as "The Best Multi-meter Ever!" (referring to the combination of a calculator and handheld DMM in one package).
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Calculator Mode
w/Case, Probes and Manual
DMM/Calculator Display
Advertisment (PDF file)
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Fluke's first DMM - 1977
Fluke 8020A
The 8020A was Fluke's first hand held digital multi-meter. Its new more efficient LCD display allowed the battery
to last up to 200 hours making this first Fluke DMM the meter of choice by field service technicians all over the world.
Many other manufacturers copied the side pushbutton style for several years.
After replacing the dead battery I checked it for accuracy aginst my other Fluke handheld DMMs.
It's still accurate after 36 years. What else would you expect from a Fluke?
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8020A DMM With Case
8020A Operator's Guide
Fluke DMM History
My Fluke 8020A (1977), 75(1980s), & 87V(2013)
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Fluke 8020B Digital Multimeter
Fluke 8020B
The handheld 8020B was the next model up from the original 8020A. In addition to the ranges of the 8020A,
conductance and continuity were added.
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8020B DMM With Case
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Fluke 75 DMM - 1980s
Fluke 75
This Fluke 75 has seen more use than any other piece of test equipment on my bench or in my collection.
I purchased it in the 1980s and it has been in the field, on my workbench,
and still lives in the bottom of my tool case. It spent years on the road with me taping power for concert
systems and troubleshooting sound system problems so the show could go on. I've trusted it with my life many times (and I'm still here).
The only problem I've had with it is the zipper case seems to be deteriorating.
It could be the padding inside it is breaking down and creating some kind of dust after all these years that gets all over the meter and test leads.
75 With Case
My Fluke 8020A (1977), 75(1980s), & 87V(2013)
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Flukes 8000 Series Bench Meters
Fluke 8000 Series Bench Meters
I use these two Fluke 8000 series meters on my workbench.
The 8000A (top) is 3½ digits and the 8800A (bottom) is 5½ digits.
Larger Photo
What is a half digit?
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