One of the cheaper full-size multimeters on the market, the AstroAI Digital –WH5000A in Asia – is a true RMS meter with manual and auto ranging capability. A basic test device for DIYer’s, it’s easy to operate and can measure voltage, resistance and continuity to current, frequency and temperature. Some might compare it to a Fluke on certain aspects, but it doesn’t compete at that level.
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Key Features
- Continuity beeper
- Auto and manual ranging
- Data hold
- Large, backlit screen
- Auto off
- Diode test
- Low battery indicator
- Powered by 9V battery
- Size: 7.5” x 5.6” x 1.2”
- Weight: about 12oz
What’s Included?
- Test leads
- Temperature probe
- Multifunction socket
- User manual
- 9V battery
In-depth Review of the AstroAI Multimeter
The AstroAI DMM has been remarketed in the West from the Kuman WH5000A. A run of the mill multimeter around the $30-$40 mark, it looks the part and measures most things, if a little cluttered and twitchy.
AC and DC voltage are on different scales and can be measured in either auto or manual ranging mode. There are also amperage scales (micro-amps up to 10A), though the latter is only for short bursts at higher energies. Along with resistance (up to 60MΩ) and continuity with beeper, you can also test for temperature, capacitance and frequency.
Users can also perform tests on transistors via a multifunction socket. The transistor checker puts out low voltage and is CBE configuration, however, so look to another device with better specs if you need must have this function.
One of the obvious pluses of the AstroAI Digital Multimeter is that it comes with various features and functions. These include a large screen with backlight, a MAX/MIN button – which lets you quickly save high and low readings – a relative mode, range button, and data hold.
When you measure temperature, you plug in a thermocouple and can do so in Fahrenheit or Celsius. This is not entirely consistent or bang on accurate, but it rarely is on cheaper meters.
One of the best features of the AstroAI is the inclusion of a magnet hanger. You would usually have to buy this item separately, which is certainly the case with your average Fluke. There is also a kickstand/tilting bale for propping it up on a bench, and the ceramic fuses are easy to get to.
Continuity test has a beeper. Note: each position induces the beep, which could get annoying.
Multifunction socket: Tests capacitance and transistors though is a bit limited.
Other multimeters in this series:
4000-Count AstroAI True RMS
AstroAI Digital Clamp Meter
SPECS
Range | basic accuracy | |
---|---|---|
DC volts | 60mV / 600V | ±0.5% |
AC volts | 60mV / 600V | ±1.0% |
DC amps | 600µA / 10A | ±1.8% |
AC amps | 600µA / 10A | ±2.0% |
Resistance | 600Ω / 60MΩ | ±1.0% |
Frequency | 9.99 to 9.99MHz | ±3.0% |
Capacitance | 40nF / 4000µF | ±5.0% |
Temperature °F | 4°F / 1832°F | ±2.0% |
Temperature °C | 20°C / 1000°C | ±2.0% |
Build Quality
The AstroAI Digital Multimeter was probably built to look a bit like some of the higher rated, branded meters. Truth is the quality is of course a bit lower, employing less durable materials and a cheaper overall feel. It has a stiff position switch and the probe test leads are decidedly average. The magnet holder is quite weak.
Display
The large display is a plus of the AstroAI Digital Multimeter, measuring around 2.5” by over 1.5”. The backlight will help a lot in dimly lit spots, but only stays on for a few seconds with each press and washes out at an angle. Display count is 5999, with sample rate and auto range a bit slow.
Functions & Safety
Screen features include low battery warning and polarity indicator. There is an auto power off function to save the battery; this cannot be disabled.
The fuses are of the ceramic type to better protect the unit and user should there be a spike. These are 400mA for the low amperage scales and 10A for the high range. These are easily accessed from the rear.
Pros and Cons
PROS
- Big screen
- Backlit
- Micro-amps
- Measures temperature
- Magnetic hanger
- Good price
CONS
- Stiff switch
- Beeps a lot
- Poor transistor specs
- Lots of beeping
- Slow sample rate
- Leads satisfactory
Conclusion
This is a pretty decent meter for the hobbyist, less so for the HAM radio enthusiast and electrician. The AstroAI Digital Multimeter has okay accuracy and specs, and comes with a nice backlit screen and usable functions, but is quite quirky and not recommended for high amperage works.