Are you looking for a guide that will help you to use the clamp multimeter properly to measure AC and DC amps? You want to own it, but it makes sense to first see how the thing works, right?
You are in the right place. This is the most comprehensive manual on using a clamp meter, and it was designed with beginners and inexperienced users in mind.
Before using an electronic device, such as a clamp multimeter, it is important to understand its fundamentals. I’m here to assist you with this manual.
What is Clamp Multimeter?
A clamp meter, also known as a current probe, is a type of electrical meter that allows you to measure the current flowing through a conductor without having to make direct contact with the wire. This is particularly useful in situations where it is difficult or impossible to access the wire itself, such as in a wall or inside a piece of equipment.
Clamp meters are commonly used by electricians and other professionals in the electrical field to quickly and easily measure the current in a circuit.
How To Measure amps With A Clamp Multimeter
Precautions
It is very important to use precautions before touching electrical devices as these devices heat up due to running and may remain energized after power is removed.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
- The power source should be removed before testing
- Use a Multimeter to confirm that the power source is OFF
5 Easy Steps To Measure amps Using Clamp Multimeter
Step 1:
Set the clamp meter to the “amps” measurement setting.
Step 2:
Open the jaws of the clamp and place them around the conductor that you want to measure the current in (this can be a wire or cable).
Step 3:
Close the jaws of the clamp securely around the conductor.
Step 4:
Read the current measurement on the clamp meter’s display.
Step 5:
Repeat the measurement if necessary.
Note: Some clamp meters may require you to select the type of conductor (AC or DC) before taking a measurement, and some may also require you to select the appropriate measurement range. Consult the user manual for your specific meter for more information.
Differences Between a Clamp Multimeter and a Digital Multimeter
The following are the main difference between Clamp Multimeter and Digital Multimeter
Measurement Capabilities
A clamp meter is primarily used for measuring AC current, while a DMM (digital multimeter) can measure a variety of electrical parameters such as voltage, resistance, and continuity.
Design
A clamp meter has a jaw-like mechanism that allows it to clamp around a conductor to measure current, while a DMM typically has probes for making contact with the measurement points.
Accuracy
DMM typically has higher accuracy in measurement than Clamp meter, as DMM can measure a wide range of parameters and have multiple measurement ranges.
Price
Clamp meters are generally more expensive than DMMs since they are designed for a specific measurement purpose and have a specialized mechanism.
Safety
Clamp meters are considered safer to use than DMMs, as they allow for non-contact measurements of current, reducing the risk of electric shock.
Features of Clamp Multimeter
Clamp meters also have a maximum current they can measure. This value is called the Clamp meter’s Range and is typically marked on the meter. If the current exceeds the range of the meter, it may not give an accurate reading.
It’s also good to note that the clamp meter can’t measure the DC current only the alternating current(AC) current.
There are some additional features that may be found on some clamp meters that can provide more detailed information about the current flowing through a circuit. For example, some meters have a built-in frequency measurement function that allows you to measure the frequency of the current.
Other meters may have a “Hold” function that allows you to freeze the current reading on the display, making it easier to record the measurement.
Conclusion
Overall, clamp meters are a convenient and versatile tool that can be used to quickly and easily measure the current in a circuit. They are especially useful in situations where it is difficult or impossible to access the wire itself and can provide detailed information about the current flowing through a circuit that can be helpful in troubleshooting and maintenance.
Note: When working with electricity, it is important to follow all safety precautions to ensure that you don’t accidentally electrocute yourself or cause damage to the circuit. Also, always double-check your readings with other measuring tools if