Fluke 1587 FC Insulation Tester Multimeter Review

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Fluke 1587 Insulation Multimeter, LCD Display, 2 Gigaohms Insulation...
  • Manual- and auto-ranging digital insulation multimeter measures insulation resistance, current, voltage, capacitance, frequency, resistance, and temperature, and performs...
  • True RMS meter provides accurate readings when measuring linear or nonlinear loads where the current or voltage has an undistorted or distorted waveform
  • Insulation test voltages of 50, 100, 250, 500, and 1000V and insulation measurement range of 0.01 megohms to 2 gigohms

The Fluke 1587 Insulation Multimeter is an electrician’s best friend. With the help of the Fluke 1587 and the Fluke Connect, electricians can identify and fix their common problems wirelessly. This multimeter has an extensive memory storage, through the Fluke Connect Measurements it can save your results on a phone or cloud and eliminates the need to write down results.

The Fluke 1587 is a high-range multimeter that can perform well in both residential and commercial applications. The Fluke 1587 has an insulation test range from 50 to 1000 volts, giving you enough utility to work on virtually any electrical outlet. This is a high quality multimeter that has an impressive list of features such as a Min/Max mode to automatically pick up high and low readings, auto-ranging, and an input alert system.

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Contents

Key Features

  • 1KV insulation tester
  • Can measure AC/DC measurements voltage, capacitance, resistance, and frequencies 
  • Min/Max Mode
  • Autopower off feature helps preserve battery power
  • Voltage Testing Range: 50, 100, 250, 500, 1000 volts

What’s Included

  • Fluke 1587 digital multimeter
  • Instructions
  • Handy Case
  • Remote probe
  • Alligator grips
  • Test Leads

In-depth Review of the Fluke 1587

The Fluke 1587 is optimized for today’s standards, making it easier to check the voltage in electrical devices. It includes a live circuit detection feature that increases user safety by preventing to do insulation tests that exceed over 30 volts. 

This multimeter can be used to test both AC and DC current, making it useful to test home and commercial appliances. 

After 20 minutes of use, the device turns off to converse battery power. It’s low-battery indicator signals once the battery needs to be replaced. Due to its automatic shut off feature, electricians can save battery power and prevent wasted energy.

The RMS meter creates accurate readings when testing linear loads, such as incandescent lights and standard motors, where the voltage or current has a distorted waveform. For electricians that want to get a multimeter that helps with finding the correct voltage, the Fluke 1587 is your best bet.

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Specifications

RangeResolutionAccuracy
DC Voltage Measurement0.001 V±(0.09% + 2)
AC Voltage Measurement600.0 mV/ (50 – 60 Hz)±(1% + 3)
DC and AC Current±(1.5% + 2)±(1.5% + 2)
Ohms Measurement0.1 Ω±(0.9% + 2)
Low Pass Filter Voltage50 Hz to 60 Hz ± ±(1% + 3)

Fluke 1587 vs 1507

When in the market for a Fluke 1587, you’ll inevitably ask yourself the question – what’s the difference between a Fluke 1587 vs Fluke 1507? The simple answer is that the Fluke 1587 is an upgraded version of the Fluke 1507.

Here are the extra benefits you’re getting with a Fluke 1587 vs a Fluke 1507:

  • The Fluke 1587 comes with a True RMS meter
  • The Fluke 1587 comes with a low-pass filter to block unwanted voltages when measuring AC voltage and AC frequency
  • The Fluke 1587 allows for capacitance, frequency, and diode testing
  • The Fluke 1587 allows for temperature measuring
  • The Fluke 1587 includes an optional magnetic hanging system

All of these features are not included in the Fluke 1507, and this accounts for the difference in price between the Fluke 1587 and the Fluke 1507 (the Fluke 1587 is more expensive). If you don’t need any of these features, then you should buy the Fluke 1507 instead. If you need more information on the 1507, see our in-depth Fluke 1507 review, or alternatively read our full guide on the best insulation resistance tester.

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Build Quality

If you’re looking for a compact multimeter, the Fluke 1587 is the right choice. It weighs 1.2 lb, which is light enough to fit in your pocket and mobile enough to be transferred in the workplace. Because of its build quality, its a good tool for both apprentice and professional electricians.

The dial switch and button are durable enough to withstand years of abuse. Its power supply takes up to 4 AA batteries. Underneath this is the fuse compartment, which allows users to save from open up the case.

Display and Labels

The Fluke 1587 comes with a backlit LCD screen which is used to read in low light. There is a HOLD function that freezes the display reading, making it easier to lock in on important measurements.

Function and Performance

When it comes to performance, the Fluke 1587 stands out against the competition. For instance, it can test voltages ranging from 50, 100, 250, 500, and 1000V. This multimeter also measures frequency, resistance, and capacitance making it a versatile tool for electricians.

To start the insulation test, press the TEST button located on the multimeter. This allows you to perform diode tests for generators, motors, and cables. Users have the ability to conduct automatic or manual testing, which adds more functionality to the multimeter. 

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Protection

The Fluke 1587 has been individually tested for safety and protection. For instance, it’s CAT III rated, meaning that it can cover items used for closed building applications (such as branch circuits, fixed installations that are connected to the building’s AC supply, and service panel parts). 

Pros And Cons of Fluke 1587

What We Like
  • Accurate multimeter readings
  • Durable test leads
  • True RMS
  • Long battery life
  • Large dual display
What We Don’t Like
  • Would prefer slightly brighter LCD lighting
  • Slightly pricier option
Fluke 1587 Insulation Multimeter, LCD Display, 2 Gigaohms Insulation...
  • Manual- and auto-ranging digital insulation multimeter measures insulation resistance, current, voltage, capacitance, frequency, resistance, and temperature, and performs...
  • True RMS meter provides accurate readings when measuring linear or nonlinear loads where the current or voltage has an undistorted or distorted waveform
  • Insulation test voltages of 50, 100, 250, 500, and 1000V and insulation measurement range of 0.01 megohms to 2 gigohms

About Blake Sutton

Blake has worked as an electrician for over 10 years, receiving his Journeyman Electrician license in 1998. Looking to take his professional electrical career further, in 2008 he received his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from the University of Texas in Austin. Blake now works full time as an electrical engineer, specializing in power systems.