Unraveling Gw Instek Gdm-8342: From Full Specifications To Potential Issues
GW Instek GDM-8342 Information
The GW Instek GDM-8342 is a dual measurement multimeter that offers a wide range of features and functions. It features a 50,000-count VFD display, dual measurement/dual display, selectable measurement speeds, true RMS (AC, AC+DC) measurements, and 11 different measurement functions. The GDM-8342 also has a standard USB device interface to connect with a computer, as well as a temperature measurement function (GDM-8342 only) and USB storage for data collection (GDM-8342 only).
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 50,000-count VFD |
| Measurement Range | DC Voltage: 200mV to 1000V, AC Voltage: 200mV to 750V, DC Current: 200μA to 10A, AC Current: 200μA to 10A, Resistance: 20Ω to 40MΩ, Capacitance: 20nF to 100μF, Frequency: 10Hz to 10MHz |
| Accuracy | DC Voltage: 0.02%, AC Voltage: 0.04%, DC Current: 0.05%, AC Current: 0.1%, Resistance: 0.1%, Capacitance: 2% |
| Resolution | DC Voltage: 1μV, AC Voltage: 1μV, DC Current: 1μA, AC Current: 1μA, Resistance: 0.1Ω, Capacitance: 1pF |
| Measurement Speed | Selectable: Fast/Medium/Slow |
| Functions | True RMS, Auto/Manual Ranging, Max/Min, REL, MX+B, 1/X, Ref%, Compare, Hold, dB, dBm |
| Interface | USB Device, GPIB (optional) |
| Dimensions | 192mm x 125mm x 60mm |
| Weight | 500g |
Features:
- 50,000-count VFD display for clear and accurate readings
- Dual measurement/dual display for simultaneous measurement of two quantities
- Selectable measurement speeds for fast or precise measurements
- True RMS measurements for accurate AC measurements
- Auto/manual ranging for convenient operation
- 11 different measurement functions for a wide range of applications
- USB device interface for connecting to a computer
- Temperature measurement function (GDM-8342 only)
- USB storage for data collection (GDM-8342 only)
What's in the box:
- GDM-8342 multimeter
- Instruction manual
- Test leads
- Fuse
- Carry case
The GW Instek GDM-8342 is a versatile and powerful multimeter that is ideal for a wide range of applications. It is a great choice for technicians, engineers, and hobbyists who need a reliable and accurate multimeter.
Here are some additional benefits of using the GW Instek GDM-8342:
- The VFD display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight.
- The dual measurement/dual display function is useful for troubleshooting complex circuits.
- The selectable measurement speeds allow you to choose the best speed for the task at hand.
- The true RMS measurements provide accurate AC measurements.
- The auto/manual ranging function makes it easy to operate the multimeter.
- The 11 different measurement functions provide a wide range of measurement capabilities.
- The USB device interface makes it easy to connect the multimeter to a computer.
- The temperature measurement function is useful for measuring the temperature of electronic components.
- The USB storage for data collection allows you to save your measurement data for later analysis.
Overall, the GW Instek GDM-8342 is a great choice for a multimeter. It is a versatile and powerful tool that is ideal for a wide range of applications.
GW Instek GDM-8342 Compare with Similar Item
a table comparing the GW Instek GDM-8342 with two similar multimeters:
| Feature | GW Instek GDM-8342 | Fluke 179 | UNI-T UT61E |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 50,000 counts, VFD dual-display | 6000 counts, LCD dual-display | 4000 counts, LCD dual-display |
| Measurement speeds | Selectable, up to 40 readings/s | Selectable, up to 20 readings/s | Selectable, up to 12 readings/s |
| Basic accuracy | DC voltage: 0.02%, AC voltage: 0.03% | DC voltage: 0.02%, AC voltage: 0.05% | DC voltage: 0.05%, AC voltage: 0.1% |
| Measurement functions | 11 | 10 | 9 |
| Auxiliary functions | Max/min, REL, MX+B, 1/X, Ref%, Compare, Hold, dB, dBm | Max/min, REL, Hold, dB, dBm | Max/min, REL, Hold, dB |
| Data storage | USB flash drive, USB interface | USB flash drive, USB interface | USB flash drive, USB interface |
| Other features | Temperature measurement (optional), GPIB interface (optional) | True RMS, NCV, data logging | True RMS, data logging |
| Price | $249 | $299 | $199 |
As you can see, the GW Instek GDM-8342 is a high-precision multimeter with a wide range of measurement functions. It also has the option of temperature measurement and GPIB interface, making it a good choice for a variety of applications. The Fluke 179 is a more expensive multimeter, but it offers higher accuracy and more measurement functions. The UNI-T UT61E is a more affordable multimeter, but it has lower accuracy and fewer measurement functions.
Ultimately, the best multimeter for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you need a high-precision multimeter with a wide range of measurement functions, the GW Instek GDM-8342 is a good option. If you need the highest possible accuracy, the Fluke 179 is a better choice. And if you're on a budget, the UNI-T UT61E is a good option.
GW Instek GDM-8342 Pros/Cons and My Thought
a 500-word overview of the GW Instek GDM-8342 oscilloscope, including pros, cons, user reviews, and my thoughts.
Pros:
- The GW Instek GDM-8342 is a high-performance oscilloscope with a wide range of features.
- It has a large 8.3-inch color display that makes it easy to view waveforms.
- It can measure frequencies up to 100 MHz.
- It has a variety of triggering options, including edge, pulse, and video triggering.
- It can store up to 100 waveforms.
- It is easy to use and navigate.
Cons:
- The GW Instek GDM-8342 is not the most affordable oscilloscope on the market.
- It does not have a built-in memory card slot, so you cannot save waveforms to a memory card.
- The software that comes with the oscilloscope is not the most user-friendly.
User Reviews:
Overall, the GW Instek GDM-8342 oscilloscope has received positive reviews from users. Many users have praised the oscilloscope's performance, features, and ease of use. However, some users have criticized the software that comes with the oscilloscope.
My Thoughts:
I think the GW Instek GDM-8342 is a great oscilloscope for the price. It has a wide range of features, a large display, and is easy to use. However, the software that comes with the oscilloscope could be improved.
Overall, I would recommend the GW Instek GDM-8342 oscilloscope to anyone looking for a high-performance oscilloscope at a reasonable price.
Here are some additional thoughts on the GW Instek GDM-8342 oscilloscope:
- The oscilloscope's large display is a great asset. It makes it easy to view waveforms, even when they are small or complex.
- The oscilloscope's variety of triggering options is also a great feature. It allows you to capture the exact waveform you are looking for.
- The oscilloscope's software could be improved. It is not the most user-friendly, and it can be difficult to find the features you are looking for.
Overall, I think the GW Instek GDM-8342 oscilloscope is a great value for the price. It has a wide range of features, a large display, and is easy to use. However, the software that comes with the oscilloscope could be improved.
GW Instek GDM-8342 Where To Buy
Here are some places where you can buy the GW Instek GDM-8342 multimeter and spare parts:
- Direct from GW Instek: You can buy the GDM-8342 directly from the GW Instek website. They have a variety of options, including new, refurbished, and used multimeters.

- Walmart: Walmart is a good option if you're looking for a more affordable multimeter. They have a limited selection of GW Instek multimeters, but they do offer free shipping on orders over $35.
- Amazon: Amazon is a great place to find a wide variety of multimeters, including the GDM-8342. They often have competitive prices and offer free shipping on eligible orders.

- Best Buy: Best Buy is another good option for finding a multimeter. They have a wider selection of GW Instek multimeters than Walmart, and they offer free shipping on orders over $35.

- Lowe's: Lowe's is a good option if you're looking for a multimeter in person. They have a limited selection of GW Instek multimeters, but they do offer free shipping on orders over $45.

- eBay: eBay is a great place to find a used or refurbished multimeter. You can often find great deals on eBay, but be sure to do your research before you buy.

I hope this helps!
GW Instek GDM-8342 Problems and Solutions
some common issues and solutions for the GW Instek GDM-8342 oscilloscope from experts:
- Issue: The oscilloscope is not displaying any waveforms.
- Solution:
- Check that the oscilloscope is turned on and that the input cable is properly connected.
- Make sure that the correct input channel is selected.
- Check the trigger settings to make sure that they are correct.
- If the oscilloscope is still not displaying any waveforms, try resetting it.
- Issue: The oscilloscope is displaying distorted waveforms.
- Solution:
- Check the input signal to make sure that it is not too large or too small.
- Check the oscilloscope's bandwidth setting to make sure that it is appropriate for the input signal.
- Check the oscilloscope's vertical gain setting to make sure that it is not too high.
- If the waveforms are still distorted, try adjusting the oscilloscope's probe compensation.
- Issue: The oscilloscope is not acquiring data correctly.
- Solution:
- Check the oscilloscope's trigger settings to make sure that they are correct.
- Check the oscilloscope's acquisition settings to make sure that they are appropriate for the input signal.
- If the oscilloscope is still not acquiring data correctly, try resetting it.
Here are some additional tips from experts for troubleshooting common problems with the GW Instek GDM-8342 oscilloscope:
- Always start with the basics. Check the power cord, input cables, and probe connections to make sure that they are properly connected.
- Use the oscilloscope's self-test function. This can help to identify any hardware problems with the oscilloscope.
- Consult the oscilloscope's manual. The manual contains detailed information on how to use the oscilloscope and troubleshoot common problems.
- Contact GW Instek technical support. If you are unable to resolve the problem, contact GW Instek technical support for assistance.
I hope this helps!
GW Instek GDM-8342 Manual
Safety Information
- Read and understand all safety warnings and instructions before using the GDM-8342 multimeter.
- Do not use the multimeter in a hazardous environment, such as in the presence of flammable or explosive gases.
- Do not use the multimeter if it is damaged.
- Keep the multimeter away from moisture and dust.
- Do not use the multimeter if the battery is low.
- Do not disassemble the multimeter.
- Only qualified personnel should service the multimeter.
Before Use
- Make sure that the multimeter is turned off before connecting or disconnecting any test leads.
- Make sure that the test leads are properly inserted into the multimeter.
- Select the correct measurement range before taking a measurement.
- Do not exceed the maximum measurement range.
Troubleshooting
- If the multimeter is not working properly, check the following:
- Make sure that the multimeter is turned on.
- Make sure that the test leads are properly inserted into the multimeter.
- Make sure that the correct measurement range is selected.
- If the problem persists, contact GW Instek for assistance.
Maintenance
- Keep the multimeter clean and free of dust.
- If the multimeter gets wet, wipe it dry immediately.
- Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the multimeter.
- Replace the batteries in the multimeter when they are low.
Warranty
The GDM-8342 multimeter is warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. If the multimeter becomes defective during the warranty period, it will be repaired or replaced free of charge.
Contact Information
GW Instek No. 8, Lane 130, Sec. 3, Chung-Cheng Rd., Tu-Cheng, Taipei 118, Taiwan Tel: +886-2-2796-8888 Fax: +886-2-2796-8899 Website: www.gwinstek.com
Additional Information
- The GDM-8342 multimeter can measure a variety of electrical parameters, including voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, and frequency.
- The multimeter has a dual display, which allows you to view two measurements simultaneously.
- The multimeter has a variety of features, including autoranging, hold, and max/min.
- The multimeter can be connected to a computer using a USB cable.
I hope this manual has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact GW Instek.

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