Mastech MS8268 Review

The Mastech MS8268 is a budget-friendly DMM perfect for DIYers and those who don’t Code. With its intuitive interface, and helpful indicators on how to proceed in each function of the device (and even which buttons do what), this machine will be easy enough even if you’ve never used one before.
The multimeter has everything you need for testing basic electronics. It includes resistance, Current, and voltage checks and capacitance inputs with frequency capabilities that make it perfect if you’re into this sort of thing. In addition to all these great features, there is also a backlit screen, so even in low light conditions, crystal clear viewing can be enjoyed without any difficulty whatsoever; plus data hold function ensures none are left out when doing repairs on anything from small appliances up through cars (or anything else really). The device runs solely off AAA batteries, which means they’re easy to find at nearly anytime anywhere–even when the power goes down.

Key Features

● Does most ranges, including mA, µA, capacitance, and frequency
● Auto / manual ranging
● Continuity buzzer
● Data hold
● Transistor gain checker
● Diode tester
● Zero REL mode
● Auto shut-off
● Backlit display
● Stated CATII (1000V), CATIII (600V) ratings
● Incorrect lead input warning
● Size: 7.7″ (195mm) x 3.6″ (92mm) x 2.2″ (55mm)
● Weight: 1lb (453g)


Complete Review of the Mastech MS8268

Complete Review of the Mastech MS8268

Mastech MS8268 Digital AC/DC Auto/Manual Range Digital Multimeter Meter

Reasons To Buy

Good variety of input range

Separate voltage positions

Quite rugged

Okay-quality leads

Lighted lead input warning

Separate battery compartment

Backlit screen

Affordable

Reasons To Avoid

Category ratings spurious

Manual poorly written

Backlight on-time is short

This multimeter is designed to measure voltage, current, and resistance within a range that will not cause harm even if you push it into higher ranges. For example, the 1000V rating means this device can handle energies without issue but do not try using them near industries where energetic 3 phase systems exist. They may become energized during testing, making things worse rather than better.

The meter has a maximum voltage range up to 1000V, with an AC signal reaching 750 volts. It can measure current ranging from 10A-200 kHz and has frequencies between 200 Khz and -1 MHz, covering most transistors available today. There are measurements for capacitance (upwards) and resistance values spanning 40M leads/microfarads.

Transistor tests: The MS8268 review notes an included adapter that fits into the low current/COM jack sockets with several test options. However, having a transistor option is often seen as one of its cheaper features because it’s not necessary for most people who own this multimeter but may be helpful if you’re into electronics or repairing amplifiers.

This meter is a beginner’s instrument because it auto-sleeps after 3 minutes of inactivity. Still, those who know what they’re doing can set their range positions and measure readings more quickly.

The frequency display, relative mode, and data hold are great features that will come in handy when working with your resistance circuit. The ability to freeze the screen at any given moment makes it easy for you set up precise measurements without having interference from other applications running on your phone or tablet.

The device comes with a few nice touches, including an auto power-off function to save your battery and the ability for you (the user) to set what sound or light alarm goes off when it’s plugged in the wrong.

Best Suited To: This is an excellent multimeter for home hobbyists and residential HVAC work. It can also be used as an occasional tool in engineering labs, but it’s not aimed at industrial engineers who need higher durability specifications on their equipment.

– For example, they might require more than just 60v DC voltage capability or resistance measurements between specific points.

Build Quality

The Mastech MS8268 is an excellent multimeter for beginners and pros alike. It has everything you need in one handy device, from its sturdy exterior to the ability to be waterproof up until 5 meters deep! The display doesn’t look cheap either; it’s easy on your eyes with large numbers that make reading readings quick and easy (not like those small font things). There are even separate batteries included, so there won’t be any worries about running out during testing time–makes sure they’re charged beforehand, or else this baby won’t work.
The dial selector switch nicely incorporates definite positions and a good click. The interior of the meter features more revealing materials as it’s clear they focused on this aspect over anything else- even though there are some cons worth noting, such as low electronic protection in certain areas, which can lead to unreliable readings or failure modes when used without care.

Display and Labels

The display on this monitor is pretty good, considering the price. It’s a 4000-count (3 ¾ digits) unit with an impressive refresh rate of 2 – 3 times per the second area, and it has blue/white backlight that only stays lit for about four seconds at a time before turning off again, but doesn’t let these minor setbacks get you down.
The Mastech MS8268 is a high-end multimeter with all its functions and symbols clearly labeled on the screen and an icon for low battery. It also includes data hold so you can use it in difficult situations where seeing readings may be challenging without looking at your instrument, like when testing wires underwater or near other exposed metal objects which might interfere with signals reaching our meters (this should not happen).

Function and Performance

The MS8268 interface is a well-designed and easy-to-use meter with 11 positions, including the centrally-located OFF position. One of its best features is that there’s only one shared button between AC/DC current selection or voltage reading – so you don’t need two hands! Additionally, each reading can be independently tuned by simply rotating your dial relative to resistance (blue) vs. electric Current (green).

The buttons are clear and easy to use with RANGE, SELECT, REL Hz/%, and HOLD LIGHT. The range button changes from AC ( unity gain )to DC( supplemental). It also switches between diode testing or continuity monitoring mode when pressed down for half-second.

Protection

One of the most durable test leads on Earth; this heavy-duty rubber holster protects your Mastech MS8268 from bashes and drops. Rating CATII up to 1000V with included caps– but remember not too tested parameters.
Fuse protection is on the central Current (10A) range only. This ceramic 10 amp/250V fuse looks like an HRC, but it’s not-it have positive temperature coefficient PTC capabilities that protect your milliamps input.
The main terminal jack input is not protected, so it’s possible that you could short out your device and cause damage. It might be safe, but sticking to testing low-energy circuits like this one would help protect against any potential risks.

JACK SOCKETS

There are four jack inputs:

10A (amps – red)

hFE/µA/mA (transistor, micro-amps, milliamps – red)

COM (standard – black)

V/Ω/Hz etc. (main lead – red)

The input warning system on this multimeter is a great way to avoid any accidents. Each jack has its own LED light, which will tell you whether or not that’s the correct one for what you’re doing at all times. The buzzer also sounds if things aren’t up to code, so there won’t be anything left alive after testing amps with voltage connections like a power supply might have?

The battery life on this product can last up to 8 hours when in use, and there’s also an auto shut-off feature that you should keep enabled for best results. One of the main reasons people forget their meters is because they are busy, so having something like a timer or alarm goes off might help them remember.

Conclusion

The Mastech MS8268 is a decent multimeter that does most things well. It has okay accuracy levels on voltage, Current, and resistance, but it can be used around the home or office without much worry because of its versatility.
The exterior of this device may seem sturdy, but it’s not designed for higher voltage/current systems. An Extech or perhaps a Klein would be better options in that case.

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