...I saw the problems Dave had uploading data from the U1272A in the resistor averaging test video, and it just didn't seem to... I don't know... be mature in the market yet or something.
Not sure if it helps, but there's a newer software version out now (current revision is 1.5.0.0, released on Oct. 18, 2011). I never tried the older version (got mine in Jan. 2012), and I've not played around with it that much.
But it's also possible to export the data in a .cmv file, and use it in another application, such as a spreadsheet. Getting the data from the meter was rather easy, as was exporting it to a .cmv file. So YMMV, but I don't think it's that big a deal, especially when compared to what Fluke charges for the FVF software + cable kit (presume it's even worse in NZ).
Just a general feeling of a lack of confidence in it. But that might be unjustified.
I must say, I would really like to have a data logging function though, but the Fluke 289 was out of my price range.
I was looking at a Fluke 287 for electronics use on a bench (don't work in industrial settings, so features like ZLow aren't important to me). Amazon offers it here in the US for a bit over $400USD ($406?), which is for all intents and purposes, the same as the MSRP for the U1252B ($410).
But the fact that the Agilent throws in a calibration with data, and they were offering a $100USD rebate at the time I purchased it (I even got it for a little less than MSRP), it made a better deal. And that's before considering the cost of using the software, which only adds the price of a cable in the case of the Agilent ($30USD IIRC), vs. the cost of the FVF kit.
In terms of Bang-For-The-Buck, the Agilent made better sense for me.
I've no idea if the Agilent will hold it's calibration or will drift over time, making calibration necessary in order to trust the readings (if you can't trust it, it's useless IMO, save as a fancy paperweight). I don't expect this to happen, so if it turns out to be a bust in terms of accuracy over time, that would force the purchase of a 287 (I will probably still get one at some point, but there are other purchases that I will make first).
I don't know where the U1272A is made, and it has a 3 year warranty.
They're made in Malaysia.
Keep in mind, Fluke's warranty isn't what most would consider a lifetime warranty though. It's between 7 and 10 years according to Fluke's warranty page. Bit confused myself as to the details, as I'm under the impression it depends on a combination of the date of purchase, when it goes EOL, and available spare parts (i.e. if it dies 7 yrs + 1 day, and there's no spares to repair the unit, will they give you a new meter or tell you "sorry, it's no longer under warranty"
). I don't think it's a major issue, but it's what you don't expect that can take a big bite out of your wallet.
I guess I was hoping for someone to say, "look here is the comparison" Fluke has the name and reputation, but it is in my opinion way too pricey. The U1272A is about $100 cheaper than 87V at the moment on E14. So this is why I am asking. All that really matters is longevity, accuracy, price(of course) and robustness. And what about the continuity test, anyone out there own a U1272A How good is it? Fast enough?
Overall, the U1272A compares really well from available information (specs and video reviews). What we don't have, is sufficient history to base long term reliability and accuracy on, as Agilent has been absent from the handheld segment for some time until they bought Escort.
So in that regard, I and others that have bought them, are taking a gamble (why I suspect they offered the rebate in the first place, as they need to get their products out into the field since their standard MSRP's are too close in order to gain a market presence). Particularly when comparing the U1272A and 87-V.
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