AEMC 24-3001 Operating Manual

AmpFlex®
Flexible AC Current Probes

USER MANUAL

Table of Contents

Warning ..................................................................................................... 2

International Electrical Symbols ................................................................ 2

Definition of Measurement Categories ...................................................... 3

Receiving Your Shipment .......................................................................... 3

Packaging .................................................................................................. 3

Description ................................................................................................ 4

Features .................................................................................................... 6

Accessories ............................................................................................... 6

Standard Models ....................................................................................... 7

Specifications ............................................................................................ 8

Instrument Compatibility .......................................................................... 12

Operation ................................................................................................. 12

Making Measurements with the AmpFlex® .......................................... 12

Tips for Making Precise Measurements: ............................................. 12

Typical Response Curves:................................................................... 16

Maintenance ............................................................................................ 18

Warning ............................................................................................... 18

Battery Replacement ........................................................................... 18

Cleaning............................................................................................... 18

Repair and Calibration ............................................................................ 19

Technical and Sales Assistance ............................................................. 19

AmpFlex® - Flexible AC Current Probes

Warning

These safety warnings are provided to ensure the safety of
personnel and proper operation of the instrument.

 Read the instruction manual completely and follow all the

safety information before attempting to use or service this
instrument.

 Wear protective clothing and gloves as required.

 Use caution on any circuit: potentially high voltages and

currents may be present and may pose a shock hazard.

 Read the safety specifications section prior to using the

current probe. Never exceed the max voltage ratings given.

 Safety is the responsibility of the operator. The AmpFlex®

must be used only by qualified personnel using applicable
safety precautions.

 ALWAYS de-energize the circuit before wrapping the

AmpFlex® around bare conductors, bus bars, or near live
parts. Do not wrap on live conductors.

 ALWAYS connect the electronic module to the display

device before wrapping the AmpFlex® around the sample
being tested.

 ALWAYS inspect the module, sensor, sensor cable, and

output terminals prior to use. Replace any defective parts
immediately. Use only factory parts.

 NEVER use the AmpFlex® on electrical conductors rated

above 600V CAT IV; 1000V CAT III.

International Electrical Symbols

This symbol signifies that the current probe is protected by double
or reinforced insulation. Use only factory specified replacement
parts when servicing the instrument.

This symbol signifies CAUTION! and requests that the user refer to
the user manual before using the instrument.

This symbol refers to a type B current sensor. Do not apply around
or remove from HAZARDOUS LIVE conductors without additional
protective means (de-energizing the circuit or wearing protective
clothing suitable for high voltage work).

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AmpFlex® - Flexible AC Current Probes

Definition of Measurement Categories

CAT II: For measurements performed on circuits directly connected to

the electrical distribution system. Examples are measurements
on household appliances or portable tools.

CAT III: For measurements performed in the building installation at the

distribution level such as on hardwired equipment in fixed
installation and circuit breakers.

CAT IV: For measurements performed at the primary electrical supply

(<1000V) such as on primary overcurrent protection devices,
ripple control units, or meters

Receiving Your Shipment

Upon receiving your shipment, make sure that the contents are
consistent with the packing list. Notify your distributor of any missing
items. If the equipment appears to be damaged, file a claim immediately
with the carrier and notify your distributor at once, giving a detailed
description of any damage.

Packaging

Your AmpFlex® consists of the following items:

 Flexible probe with electronic module

 User manual

 9V battery

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AmpFlex® - Flexible AC Current Probes

Description

The AmpFlex® is a flexible AC current transformer composed of a flexible
sensor and an electronic module. The flexible sensor permits
measurements on conductors where standard clamp-on probes could
not be used. In particular, it can be installed in tight spaces, around
breaker panels, around cable bundles, around wide or large bus bars, or
even wrapped around irregular shapes. The Shape Memory feature
enables the user to “pre-shape” the sensor before inserting it between or
around conductors. This feature facilitates closing, enhances user safety,
and alleviates the drooping effect typically associated with flexible
sensors.

The AmpFlex® is lightweight and does not use magnetic cores like
standard transformers. The transformation principle is based on an air
core. It presents virtually no load to the system under test, has a low
phase shift and excellent frequency response, and cannot be damaged
by overloads.

The sensor assembly is waterproof and insulated for 600V CAT IV;
1000V CAT III. The AmpFlex® meets EN 61010-1, is CE marked, and is
designed with materials and components to meet international agency
approvals.

The AmpFlex® has an mV output proportional to the current measured
for direct readings on DMMs, data loggers, oscilloscopes, and power or
harmonic meters. TRMS measurements are taken when connected to a
TRMS meter. The AmpFlex® is insensitive to DC currents and only the
AC component of the measured signal is measured.

The length of the flexible sensor can be selected in lengths of 24", 36",
and 48" in length. Consult the factory for custom lengths, ranges and/or
features.

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AmpFlex®

AmpFlex® - Flexible AC Current Probes

1. Positive: Red Banana Plug (+)

2. Common: Black Banana Plug (-)

3. Power ON Indicator (Green LED)

4. Overload Indicator (Red LED)

5. Range Selection Switch

6. AmpFlex® Connector/Latch

Figure 1

7. Flexible Sensor
(Diameter 0.5", 12.5mm)

8. Lead from Sensor to Module
(6.5 ft, 2m)

9. Electronic Module -
Descriptive Label on Back

Case (range, model, etc.)

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