AC Current Probe
Model MN254 and MN255
User Manual
DESCRIPTION
The MN254/MN255 (Cat. #2115.80/2115.81) are the latest in compact AC Current probes. Designed to
meet the most stringent demands in industry and electrical contracting, they also meet the latest safety
and performance standards. The probes have a measurement range up to 240 Arms which makes them
perfect tools for measurement with DMMs, recorders, power and harmonic meters. They are compatible
with any AC voltmeter, multimeter, or other voltage measurement instrument that is capable of
displaying 10mV of output per amp of measured current, voltmeter accuracy of 0.75% or better and an
input impedance of ≥ 1 MΩ.
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.
• Use caution on any circuit: Potentially high voltages and currents may be present and may
pose a shock hazard.
• Read the specifications section prior to using the current probe. Never exceed the maximum
voltage ratings given.
• Safety is the responsibility of the operator.
• ALWAYS connect the current probe to the display device before clamping the probe onto the
sample being tested.
• ALWAYS inspect the instrument, probe, probe cable, and output terminals prior to use.
Replace any defective parts immediately.
• NEVER use the current probe on electrical conductors rated above 600V in overvoltage
category III (CAT III). Use extreme caution when clamping around bare conductors or bus bars.
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 is a type A current sensor. This symbol signifies that application around and removal
from HAZARDOUS LIVE conductors is permitted.
DEFINITION OF MEASUREMENT CATEGORIES
Cat. I: For measurements on circuits not directly connected to the AC supply wall outlet such as
protected secondaries, signal level, and limited energy circuits.
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.
2.56"
.83"
(65 mm)
(21 mm)
5.47"
(139 mm)
.73"
(18.5 mm)
Black
Red
2.00"
(51 mm)
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Nominal Range: 20A, 200A
Measurement Range: 20 A: 0.1 to 24 A
200A: 0.1 to 240 A
Transformation Ratio: Voltage output
Output Signal: 20 A: 100 mV/A
200 A: 10 mV/A
Accuracy and Phase Shift*:
20 A Range
Accuracy: 1% ± 50 mV
Phase Shift: Not specified
Overload: 24 A for 10 min ON, 30 min OFF
.1.18"
MN255MN254
(30 mm)
200 A Range:
Accuracy: 0.5 to 10 A: 3.0% Reading ± 5 mV
10 to 40 A: 2.5% Reading ± 5 mV
40 to 100 A: 2.0% Reading ± 5 mV
100 to 240 A: 1.0% Reading ± 5 mV
Phase Shift: 0.5 to 10 A: Not Specified
10 to 40 A: ≤ 5°
40 to 100 A: ≤ 3°
100 to 240 A: ≤ 2.5°
(*Reference conditions: 18°C to 28°C, 20 to 75% RH,
external magnetic field <40 A/m, 48 to 65Hz sine wave,
distortion factor less than 1%, no DC component, no
external current carrying conductor, test sample centered.)
Load impedance > 1MΩ.