CEN-TECH 59458 - User Manual

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The CEN-TECH TRMS AC 600V CAT III Basic Clamp Meter is a versatile electrical testing device designed for measuring various electrical parameters in a safe and efficient manner. It is primarily used for current, voltage, resistance, continuity, and diode measurements, as well as non-contact voltage detection.

Function Description:

The clamp meter features a current clamp that allows for non-invasive measurement of AC current up to 400 amperes without breaking the circuit. This is particularly useful for measuring current in 2- and 3-wire power cords, often with the aid of an AC Line Splitter (not included).

For voltage measurements, the device can measure both AC and DC voltages up to 600V. The AC voltage measurement range is 2V to 600V with a frequency range of 50-400Hz, while DC voltage ranges from 200mV to 600V.

Resistance measurements are supported across a wide range, from 200Ω to 20MΩ. The continuity test feature provides an audible beep when resistance is less than 50Ω, indicating a continuous circuit. The diode test function measures the forward voltage drop in diodes.

A key safety feature is the Non-Contact Voltage (NCV) detection, which allows users to detect the presence of AC voltage without direct contact with the conductor. This is indicated by dashes on the LCD, a beep, and a flashing indicator, with more dashes signifying higher AC voltage. However, it's crucial to remember that NCV detection should not be solely relied upon to determine the presence of voltage.

The meter incorporates several user-friendly features, including a Data Hold function to freeze the LCD reading, a MAX/MIN mode to display the highest and lowest readings during a measurement session, and an Auto Power Off function to conserve battery life after approximately 15 minutes of inactivity. The Auto Backlight feature illuminates the LCD in dark areas or when the light sensor is covered, though frequent use may shorten battery life.

Important Technical Specifications:

DC Voltage Ranges: 200mV / 2V / 20V / 200V / 600V
DC Voltage Accuracy: 1.5% of rdg + 2d (200mV to 200V), 2% of rdg + 2d (600V)
TRMS AC Voltage Ranges: 2V / 20V / 200V / 600V
TRMS AC Voltage Frequency Range: 50-400Hz
TRMS AC Voltage Accuracy: 1.5% of rdg + 8d (2V to 200V), 2.5% of rdg + 8d (600V)
TRMS AC Current Ranges: 2A / 20A / 200A / 400A
TRMS AC Current Frequency Range: 50-60Hz
TRMS AC Current Accuracy: (3.0% + 8d) ± 2.5% of rdg + 8D (@2A @400A), ± 2.5% of rdg + 5D (@20A & 200A)
Resistance Ranges: 200Ω / 2KΩ / 20KΩ / 200KΩ / 2MΩ / 20MΩ
Resistance Accuracy: ± 1.0% of rdg + 4D (@200Ω), ± 1.5% of rdg + 4D (@2kΩ-200kΩ), ± 2.5% of rdg + 4D (@2MΩ), ± 3.5% of rdg + 4D (@20MΩ)
Continuity: Meter beeps at < 50Ω
Diode Test: Forward DC Current: ~ 1mA, Reverse DC Voltage: ~ 2V
Sampling Rate: ~3 times/second
Operating Temperature: 41°F - 104°F
Storage Temperature: -4°F to 140°F
Operating Humidity: Max 80% RH
Storage Humidity: < 80% RH
Operating Altitude: 7000ft. (2000 meters) maximum
Max Jaw Opening: 1.2"
Battery: 3x AAA batteries (included)
Safety Rating: CAT III 600V

Usage Features:

Rotary Function Switch: Used to select the desired measurement mode (AC Current, AC/DC Voltage, Resistance, Diode, Continuity, NCV).
Clamp Trigger: Opens the clamp jaws for current measurement.
MODE/Auto Backlight Button: Toggles between different sub-functions within a mode (e.g., Ω for resistance, for continuity, for diode test) and activates/deactivates the backlight.
Hold Button: Freezes the current reading on the LCD.
MAX/MIN Button: Records and displays the maximum and minimum values during a measurement.
Test Leads: Connect to the COM (common) and Positive Input Jacks for voltage, resistance, continuity, and diode measurements. The probes have removable covers for overvoltage protection, rated for CAT III circuits with covers and CAT II circuits when exposed.
LCD Display: Shows measurement readings, selected mode icons (AC, DC, MAX, MIN, AUTO), battery status, and other indicators.
Safety Precautions: Emphasizes using one hand for clamp measurements, inspecting the meter and leads before use, avoiding high voltages (above 30 VAC rms, 42 VAC peak, or 60 VDC) without caution, and ensuring the battery cover is closed. It also warns against using the meter if leads are damaged, the battery is low, or in explosive atmospheres.

Maintenance Features:

Cleaning: The unit should be wiped with a dry, lint-free cloth. Solvents or abrasives should not be used.
Battery Replacement: When the low battery symbol appears on the LCD, the 3x AAA batteries need to be replaced. This involves removing the test leads, turning the unit over, unscrewing the battery cover, replacing the batteries, and re-securing the cover.
Storage: For long-term storage, batteries should be removed, and the unit stored in a dry location, out of reach of children.
Repairs: Other than battery replacement, there are no user-replaceable parts. All repairs should be performed by a qualified technician.
Calibration: The meter should be calibrated annually by a qualified technician to maintain accuracy.

The manual strongly emphasizes reading all safety warnings and instructions before use to prevent electric shock, fire, or serious injury. It also highlights the importance of common sense and caution during operation.