Weird but.. Recommend a multi-meter?

[Niall]

For what you need you really don't need to spend over £20! Mine has lived for years too.

Get a digital one as they're easier to read. Ones with crocodile clip attachments are handy too. Mine has been used on cars, computers and scalextric cars

hmm id disagree with that slightly. At least you know with something decent, your going to get accuracy which you dont get with really cheap ones. Just basic testing, doesnt have to be too accurate but for testing sensors and stuff, could be pretty important!