Thanks for all the interest and feedback with the DE-6000
Everyone is correct, the DE-5000 and the DE-6000 use the same components. However, there are two significant technical difference between the two units:
1: Improved accuracy to 0.2% at 1kHz . IET provides an updated firmware to improve on the accuracy of the LCR Meters at 1 kHz.
2. A LabVIEW Driver for is available for collecting data from the DE-6000.
IET is a small engineering business, with the benefit of inheriting the GenRad legacy has made some very significant strides and advancements in impedance and LCR meter technology.
Our primary business is working with high end metrology labs and the DE-6000 is our only LCR meter that is economically feasible for the hobbyist market.
Since we are small business, we pride ourselves in the support we offer to our customers. IET offers phone, email, and warranty support for all the products we sell. It is very important to us that all of our customers are successful with our products. From our entry level DE-6000, to those purchasing the very high performance 7600 Plus we try our best to offer superior customer support.
Additionally we have invested significant resources in providing the community with excellent technical resources::
Informational guides
http://www.ietlabs.com/lcr-meter-informational-guide or
Application Notes
http://www.ietlabs.com/notes/Digibridgeor Historical Documents
http://www.ietlabs.com/genrad_history/papers_application_notes/We test and have the
ability to calibrate every DE-6000 we sell.
When we calibrate these units, it is done in an ISO-17025 Accredited lab using a combination of standards that cost over $45,000
While it is true that DE-5000 units can be found on eBay for a lower price, we believe the additional support we provide and the added performance of the DE-6000 is worth more to some customers. The less expensive choice may make better sense for those who don't have the need or the funds.
We concur with many others on the EEV blog that the DE-6000 is the best handheld unit on the market.
A number of references have been made to our profit margin. Given the many factors involved, we can honestly report that this hasn't been a particularly successful financially endeavor.
For those who have purchased our units, we hope you are pleased with your purchase and truly value your continued business and support. For those who did not buy or products and are going to respond to this with criticism , we are sorry that we couldn't do better by you. We care!
Benjamin Sheena
IET Labs