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

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on comparing the accuracy of two multimeters: one rated at ±1%+2 and the other at ±2.5%+2. The lower percentage indicates higher accuracy, making the ±1% multimeter the more precise choice. The "+2" refers to an additional error margin related to the least significant digit, which can affect the overall reading range. Clarification on how to interpret these ratings is sought, as there seems to be confusion regarding the calculations of potential error ranges. Understanding these specifications is crucial for selecting a multimeter suitable for various applications.
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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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