Which Multimeter is More Accurate: ±1%+2 or ±2.5%+2?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the accuracy of two multimeters, specifically comparing one with an accuracy rating of ±1%+2 and another with ±2.5%+2. Participants are exploring how to interpret these accuracy ratings and what the implications are for measurement precision.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the lower percentage accuracy (±1%) indicates a more accurate multimeter compared to the higher percentage (±2.5%).
  • There is uncertainty about the meaning of the "+2" in the accuracy ratings, with participants questioning its significance.
  • One participant explains that the accuracy rating includes a specified amount of digits added to the basic accuracy, providing a range of possible readings based on the actual voltage.
  • Another participant challenges the clarity of the explanation provided in a linked resource, suggesting that there may be a typo regarding the calculation of the voltage range based on the accuracy ratings.
  • There is a correction regarding the interpretation of the voltage range for the ±1% accuracy, with a participant asserting that the lower value should be 98.8 V instead of 99.8 V.
  • One participant expresses gratitude for the clarification provided by others, indicating a shared confusion about the topic.
  • A later reply references the link provided earlier, affirming that their understanding aligns with the information presented there.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the lower percentage indicates higher accuracy, but there is no consensus on the interpretation of the "+2" and the calculations related to the voltage ranges.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion over the accuracy ratings and the implications of the "+2" component, indicating a need for clearer definitions and examples. There are also unresolved discrepancies in the calculations of voltage ranges based on the accuracy ratings.

nothing909
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Homework Statement


Which multimeter is more accurate?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Which multimeter is more accurate, one that is ±1%+2 or one that is ±2.5%+2

I don't know how to read it, is it the higher percentage one that's more accurate or the lower percentage one?
I think it's the lower percentage one but I'm not too sure.

Also, what does the +2 mean? Does that make much of a difference?
 
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nothing909 said:

Homework Statement


Which multimeter is more accurate?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Which multimeter is more accurate, one that is ±1%+2 or one that is ±2.5%+2

I don't know how to read it, is it the higher percentage one that's more accurate or the lower percentage one?
I think it's the lower percentage one but I'm not too sure.
Lower would be more accurate.
nothing909 said:
Also, what does the +2 mean? Does that make much of a difference?
I don't know what the +2 means, either. Where did you see this? Can you post a link or a picture?
 
Here
 

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The explanation isn't very clear, and I think they might have a typo. If the actual voltage is 100 V, an error of +/- 1% would give a range of indicated values between 99.0 V and 101.0 V. The + 2 has to do with the least significant digit being off by 2. They go on to say it could be as low as 99.8 V or as high as 101.2 V. I believe the low value should be 98.8 V, not 99.8 V.
 
Mark44 said:
The explanation isn't very clear, and I think they might have a typo. If the actual voltage is 100 V, an error of +/- 1% would give a range of indicated values between 99.0 V and 101.0 V. The + 2 has to do with the least significant digit being off by 2. They go on to say it could be as low as 99.8 V or as high as 101.2 V. I believe the low value should be 98.8 V, not 99.8 V.
Yea, I notice that now, that's why I was so confused. I couldn't find a clear explanation online so I came here. Thanks for clearing it up.
 
My comment is consistent with the link that nsaspook provided. (Look on the tab with Accuracy.)
 

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