The RadioShack Clamp-On AC Ammeter Probe (Cat. No. 22-601) is a specialized tool designed to measure AC current in wires without the need to disconnect or break the circuit. It works in conjunction with a separate digital multimeter and can measure AC current up to 300 amps. Additionally, with the included AC current adapter, it can measure current (up to 10 amps) in wires powering devices such as air conditioners, ovens, ranges, or standard two- or three-wire power cable devices like lamps or plug-in AC adapters. The probe also facilitates the calculation of wattage, which can help in determining electricity costs per appliance.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Clamp-On AC Ammeter Probe is to measure alternating current (AC) in electrical circuits. It operates on a clamp-on principle, meaning its jaws can be opened and placed around a single wire to induce a current measurement, eliminating the need for direct contact with the circuit or interruption of power. The probe converts the measured AC current into a proportional milliampere (mA) output, which is then read by a connected digital multimeter.
When used with the AC current adapter, the probe can measure current in devices with standard power cords. The adapter features a male plug for insertion into an AC outlet and a female plug for the device's power cord. A loop within the adapter allows the probe's jaws to clamp around it, measuring the current flowing through the device.
The device is not intended for commercial or industrial use.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Input Current Range: 1-300 A AC
- Output: 0.5 mA per amp of input current (1 mA = 2 A)
- Accuracy:
- ± 0.6 A at 50 Hz/60 Hz for 1-2 A
- ± (4% + 1 A) at 50 Hz/60 Hz for 2-300 A
- Working Voltage (Probe): 500 V RMS maximum
- Working Voltage (AC Current Adapter): 120 VAC
- Division Ratio: 2000:1.0
- Duty Cycle: 30 seconds use/15 minutes rest (for measurement current more than 200 A)
- Shunt (Load) Resistance: Less than 12 Ω at current meter input
- Jaw Opening: 1 Inch (25 mm)
- Test Lead Length: 39.37 Inches (100 cm)
- Operating Temperature: 32 to 109.4°F (0 to 43°C)
- Storage Temperature: -4 to 140°F (-20 to 60°C)
- Dimensions (HWD): 8 13/16 × 3 3/8 × 1 3/16 Inches (224 x 86 x 30 mm)
- Weight: 10.4 oz (294.1 g)
- AC Current Adapter Input Current Range: 10 A maximum
- Safety Rating: CAT II (maximum 3600 VA) for the probe, indicating protection against transient overvoltages in energy-consuming equipment supplied from the fixed installation.
Usage Features:
- Non-Invasive Measurement: Measures AC current without disconnecting or breaking the circuit, enhancing safety and convenience.
- Multimeter Compatibility: Requires connection to a digital multimeter with specific characteristics:
- Capable of measuring AC current equal to 1/2000th of the current in the wire.
- Input jacks compatible with banana plugs on the probe's test leads.
- AC current range of 20 mA or greater, up to 200 mA.
- Input resistance of less than 12 Ω in its AC current mode.
- AC Current Adapter for Appliance Measurement: Allows measurement of current in devices plugged into standard AC outlets (up to 10 amps AC).
- Wattage Determination: Enables users to calculate the wattage of an appliance using the formula V (volts) x A (amps) = W (watts), aiding in understanding electricity consumption.
- Clear Output Conversion: The device's current (in amps) is twice the reading seen (in milliamps) on the multimeter's display. For example, a 5 mA reading on the multimeter indicates 10 amps of current.
- Measurement Procedure:
- Connect the probe's red test lead to the multimeter's current input jack and the black test lead to the multimeter's COM jack.
- Turn on the multimeter and set it to measure AC current, selecting the appropriate range based on the estimated current level.
- For appliance measurement, insert the AC current adapter's male plug into an AC outlet and the device's power cord into the adapter's female plug.
- Open the probe's jaws and insert the AC current adapter's loop (or the single wire for direct wire measurement) inside the jaws, ensuring it is centered for accurate readings.
- Note the reading on the multimeter and perform the necessary conversion (multiply mA reading by 2 to get amps).
- Immediately unplug the AC current adapter from the AC outlet and the device's power cord from the adapter after measurement.
Safety Precautions:
- Never use the probe where voltage exceeds 500 volts RMS AC 50/60 Hz with respect to ground.
- Never use the AC current adapter where voltage exceeds 120 volts RMS AC 50/60 Hz with respect to ground.
- Do not leave the AC current adapter plugged into an AC outlet when not in use.
- Never measure more than 300 amps AC with the probe or more than 10 amps AC with the AC current adapter.
- For currents over 200 amps AC, limit probe usage to 30 seconds at a time and allow a 15-minute cool-down period.
- Always connect the probe to the multimeter before clamping to a wire and remove from the wire before disconnecting from the multimeter.
- Never apply power to or touch the probe's test leads while in use.
- Ensure only one wire is placed inside the probe's jaws at a time for accurate measurements.
- The device is protected by double insulation.
Maintenance Features:
- Durability: Designed with superior craftsmanship.
- Dry Storage: Keep the probe dry to prevent corrosion of electronic circuits.
- Temperature Control: Store and use in normal temperature environments to avoid shortening device life or melting plastic parts.
- Cleanliness: Keep away from dust and dirt to prevent premature wear.
- Gentle Handling: Handle carefully to avoid damaging circuit boards or cases.
- Cleaning: Wipe with a damp cloth; avoid harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong detergents.
- No User-Serviceable Parts: Do not attempt to adjust or repair the probe yourself; refer to qualified personnel or a RadioShack store for service to maintain warranty validity. The probe is fully calibrated and tested, requiring no further adjustment under normal use.
Need help?
General
To Next Page
