Amprobe 38XR-A Operating Manual

0 (0)

38XR-A

38XR-A

Professional

Digital

Multimeter

User Manual

ENG FRE SPA

38XR-A

Professional Digital

Multimeter

User Manual

English

5/2018, 6010932 C

©2018 Amprobe

All rights reserved. Printed in Taiwan

Limited Warranty and Limitation of Liability

Your Amprobe product will be free from defects in material and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase unless local laws require otherwise. This warranty does not cover fuses, disposable batteries or damage from accident, neglect, misuse,

alteration, contamination, or abnormal conditions of operation or handling. Resellers are not authorized to extend any other warranty on the behalf of Amprobe. To obtain service during the warranty period, return the product with proof of purchase to an authorized Amprobe Service Center or to an Amprobe dealer or distributor. See Repair Section for details. THIS WARRANTY IS YOUR ONLY REMEDY. ALL OTHER WARRANTIES - WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY - INCLUDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR MERCHANTABILITY, ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED. MANUFACTURER SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES, ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY. Since some states or countries do not allow the exclusion or limitation of an implied warranty or of incidental or consequential damages, this limitation of liability may not apply to you.

Repair

All Amprobe returned for warranty or non-warranty repair or for calibration should be accompanied by the following: your name, company’s name, address, telephone number, and proof of purchase. Additionally, please include a brief description of the problem or the service requested and include the test leads with the meter. Non-warranty repair or replacement charges should be remitted in the form of a check, a money order, credit card with expiration date, or a purchase order made payable to Amprobe.

In-Warranty Repairs and Replacement – All Countries

Please read the warranty statement and check your battery before requesting repair. During the warranty period, any defective

test tool can be returned to your Amprobe distributor for an exchange for the same or like product. Please check the “Where to Buy” section on amprobe.com for a list of distributors near you. Additionally, in the United States and Canada, in-warranty repair and replacement units can also be sent to an Amprobe Service Center (see address below).

Non-warranty Repairs and Replacement – United States and Canada

Non-warranty repairs in the United States and Canada should be sent to an Amprobe Service Center. Call Amprobe or inquire at your point of purchase for current repair and replacement rates.

USA:

Canada:

Amprobe

Amprobe

Everett, WA 98203

Mississauga, ON L4Z 1X9

Tel: 877-AMPROBE (267-7623)

Tel: 905-890-7600

Non-Warranty Repairs and Replacement – Europe

European non-warranty units can be replaced by your Beha-Amprobe distributor for a nominal charge. Please check the “Where to Buy” section on beha-amprobe.com for a list of distributors near you.

Beha-Amprobe

Division and reg. trademark of Fluke Corp. (USA)

Germany*

United Kingdom

In den Engematten 14

52 Hurricane Way

79286 Glottertal

Norwich, Norfolk

Germany

NR6 6JB United Kingdom

Phone: +49 (0) 7684 8009 - 0

Phone: +44 (0) 1603 25 6662

beha-amprobe.de

beha-amprobe.com

The Netherlands - Headquarters** Science Park Eindhoven 5110 5692 EC Son

The Netherlands

Phone: +31 (0) 40 267 51 00 beha-amprobe.com

*(Correspondence only – no repair or replacement available from this address.

European customers please contact your distributor.)

**single contact address in EEA Fluke Europe BV

38XR-A Professional Digital Multimeter

38XR-A

5

1

2

MADE IN TAIWAN

PATENTS PENDING

www.amprobe.com

3

6

4

1Display

2Feature Buttons

3Function/Range Switch

4Test Lead Connections

5Strap Clip

6Battery/Fuse Cover

38XR-A Professional Digital Multimeter

CONTENTS

 

SYMBOLS.......................................................................

2

SAFETY INFORMATION.................................................

2

UNPACKING AND INSPECTION.....................................

3

INTRODUCTION.............................................................

4

MAKING MEASUREMENTS...........................................

4

ADDITIONAL FEATURES................................................

16

PRODUCT MAINTENANCE............................................

21

SPECIFICATIONS............................................................

22

SAFETY..........................................................................

23

ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS.......................................

24

1

SYMBOLS

M

T

F

B

I

X

J

SSIF

IED

LA

C

 

CAT III

CAT IV

Battery

Double insulated

Direct Current

Alternating Current

Fuse

Complies with EU Directives

Refer to the Manual

Dangerous Voltage

Earth Ground

Audible tone

Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.

MEASUREMENT CAT III is applicable to test and measuring circuits connected to the distribution part of the building’s low-voltage mains installation.

MEASUREMENT CAT IV is applicable to test and measuring circuits connected at the source of the building’s low-voltage mains installation.

SAFETY INFORMATION

Warning

Do not alter the Product and use only as specified, or the protection supplied by the Product can be compromised.

The 38XR-A Digital Multimeter is for use with fixed equipment installations, such as, distribution panels, feeders and short branch circuits and lighting systems in large buildings; and for the primary supply level, such as, an electric meter or an overhead or underground utility service.

2

Do not exceed the maximum overload limits per function (see specifications) nor the limits marked on the instrument itself. Never apply more than 1000V dc/750 V ac rms between the test lead and earth ground.

Inspect the DMM, test leads and accessories before every use. Do not use any damaged part.

Never ground yourself when taking measurements. Do not touch exposed circuit elements or test probe tips.

Do not operate the instrument in an explosive atmosphere.

Exercise extreme caution when: measuring voltage >20V // current >10mA // AC power line with inductive loads // AC power line during electrical storms // current, when the fuse blows in a circuit with open circuit voltage >1000 V // servicing CRT equipment.

Always measure current in series with the load – NEVER ACROSS a voltage source. Check fuse first. Never replace a fuse with one of a different rating.

Remove test leads before opening the Battery Cover or case.

UNPACKING AND INSPECTION

Your shipping carton should include:

1 38XR-A Digital Multimeter

1 Test leads w/ alligator clips

1 Magne-Grip® Holster

1 Clip, magnet, and strap

1 Temperature Adapter

1 K-type thermocouple

1 Users Manual

1 9 V battery (installed)

1 mA fuse, 0.5A/1000 V

3

INTRODUCTION

The 38XR-A is a true rms autoranging handheld digital multimeter for measuring or testing the following:

DC and AC Voltage

Capacitance

DC and AC Current

Diodes

Resistance

Continuity

Frequency

dBm

Dutycycle

4 - 20 mA Loop Current

Temperature

 

 

Additional features include: MIN MAX AVG, HOLD, REL, PEAK±, Range Lock, RS-232 IR communication, and Backlight.

MAKING MEASUREMENTS

Verify Instrument Operation

Before attempting to make a measurement, verify that the instrument is operational and the battery is good. If the instrument is not operational, have it repaired before attempting to make a measurement.

Range Selection

In addition to autoranging the 38XR-A allows you to manually select and lock a range by pressing the RANGE button. RANGE appears on the display to indicate that manual ranging is active and the range is locked. When appropriate, each subsequent press of the range button steps the meter to the next higher range. When the highest range is reached the next press returns the meter to the lowest range. To return to autoranging press and hold the RANGE button for 2 seconds. If RANGE still shows on the display, autoranging is not appropriate for the selected function.

Use autorange for all initial measurements. Then, when appropriate, use the RANGE button to select and lock a range.

4

WARNING

To avoid electrical shock while manual ranging use the display annunciators to identify the actual range selected.

Correcting an Overload (0oor - 0o) Indication W

An 0oor - 0oindication may appear on the display to indicate that an overload condition exists. For voltage and current measurements, an overload should be immediately corrected by selecting a higher range. If the highest range setting does not eliminate the overload, interrupt the measurement until the problem is identified and eliminated. The 0oindication

is normal for some functions; for example, resistance, continuity, and diode test.

Measuring DC Voltage

1.Set the Function Switch to v.

2.If RANGE is displayed, press the RANGE button to enable autoranging.

3.Connect the Test Leads: Red to E, Black to COM

4.Connect the Test Probes to the circuit test points.

5.Read the display, and, if necessary, correct any overload (0o) conditions.

38XR-A

5

4

 

 

2

 

1

3

5

Measuring AC + DC Voltage (True rms)

See Additional Features to find out the advantages of true rms.

1.Set the Function Switch to v.

2.If DC is displayed, press the yellow button to turn on

AC+DC.

3.If RANGE is displayed, press the RANGE button to enable autoranging.

4.Connect the Test Leads: Red to E, Black to COM

5.Connect the Test Probes to the circuit test points.

6.Read the display, and, if necessary, correct any overload (0o) conditions.

Measuring AC Voltage (True rms)

See Additional Features to find out the advantages of true rms.

1.Set the Function Switch to V.

2.If dBm is displayed, press the yellow button to turn on AC.

3.If RANGE is displayed, press the RANGE button to enable autoranging.

4.Connect the Test Leads: Red to E, Black to COM

5.Connect the Test Probes to the circuit test points.

6.Read the display, and, if necessary, correct any overload (0o) conditions.

38XR-A

6

5

 

 

2

 

 

3

 

 

1

 

4

6

Input Waveform

38XR-A

Signal d’entrée

Ture rms *

Eingangsschwingungsform

AC

Forma d’onda d’ingresso

 

 

Forma de onda de entrada

AC + DC

Sine Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.707 x Vpeak

Sinusoïdale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.414

Sinusschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.707 x Vpeak

Onda sinusoidale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda sinusoidal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.414

Full Wave, Sine Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.308 x Vpeak

Onde complète,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sinusoïdale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 3.247

Volle Schwingung,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sinusschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda sinusoidale, onda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.707 x Vpeak

intera

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda completa, Onda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.414

sinusoidal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Half-Wave, Sine Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.386 x Vpeak

Demi-onde, sinusoïdale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 2.591

Halbschwingung,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sinusschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda sinusoidale,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

semionda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.500 x Vpeak

Media onda, onda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 2.000

sinusoidal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Square Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.000 x Vpeak

Onde carrée

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.000

Rechteckschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.000 x Vpeak

Onda quadra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda cuadrada

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Square Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.500 x Vpeak

Onde carrée

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 2.000

Rechteckschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.707 x Vpeak

Onda quadra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda cuadrada

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.414

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pulse Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vpeak x K

Onde impulsionnelle

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1 / K

Impulsschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vpeak x

Onda dell’impulso

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda de impulsos

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = Vpeak /

Sawtooth Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.577 x Vpeak

Onde en dent de scie

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.733

Sägezahnschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.577 x Vpeak

Onda a denti di sega

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda diente de sierra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.733

* CF = Crest Factor, Crest Factor = Vpeak / Vrms

7

Preparing for Current Measurements

Turn off circuit power before connecting the Test Probes.

Allow the meter to cool between measurements, if current measurements approach or exceeds 10 amps.

A warning tone sounds if you connect a test lead to a current input while a current function is not selected.

Open circuit voltage at the measurement point must not exceed 1000 V.

Always measure current in series with the load. Never measure current across a voltage source.

Measuring DC Current

1.Set the Function Switch to a current function, μA, mA, or 10A.

2.If AC or AC+DC is displayed, press the yellow button to turn on DC.

3.If the μA function is selected and RANGE is displayed, press the RANGE button to enable autoranging.

4.Connect the Test Leads: Red to mA or 10A, Black to COM.

5.Turn off power to the circuit being measured.

6.Open the test circuit (X) to establish measurement points.

7.Connect the Test Probes in series with the load (to the measurement points).

8.Turn on power to the circuit being measured.

9.Read the display, and, if necessary, correct any overload (0oor - 0o) conditions.

38XR-A

9

 

3

 

2

 

1

5

8

 

6

4

7

 

8

Measuring AC or AC+DC Current (True rms)

See Additional Features to find out the advantages of true rms.

1.Set the Function Switch to a current function and range, μA, mA, or 10A.

2.If DC is displayed, press the yellow button to turn on

AC or AC+DC.

3.If the μA or mA function is selected and RANGE is displayed, press the RANGE button to enable autoranging.

4.Connect the Test Leads: Red to mA or 10A, Black to COM

5.Turn off power to the circuit being measured.

6.Open the test circuit (X) to establish measurement points.

7.Connect the Test Probes in series with the load (to the measurement points).

8.Turn on power to the circuit being measured.

9.Read the display, and, if necessary, correct any overload (0o) conditions.

38XR-A

9

 

3

2

1

4

5

8

 

6

7

9

Input Waveform

38XR-A

Signal d’entrée

Ture rms *

Eingangsschwingungsform

AC

Forma d’onda d’ingresso

 

 

Forma de onda de entrada

AC + DC

Sine Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.707 x Vpeak

Sinusoïdale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.414

Sinusschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.707 x Vpeak

Onda sinusoidale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda sinusoidal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.414

Full Wave, Sine Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.308 x Vpeak

Onde complète,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sinusoïdale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 3.247

Volle Schwingung,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sinusschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda sinusoidale, onda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.707 x Vpeak

intera

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda completa, Onda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.414

sinusoidal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Half-Wave, Sine Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.386 x Vpeak

Demi-onde, sinusoïdale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 2.591

Halbschwingung,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sinusschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda sinusoidale,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

semionda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.500 x Vpeak

Media onda, onda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 2.000

sinusoidal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Square Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.000 x Vpeak

Onde carrée

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.000

Rechteckschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.000 x Vpeak

Onda quadra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda cuadrada

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Square Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.500 x Vpeak

Onde carrée

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 2.000

Rechteckschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.707 x Vpeak

Onda quadra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda cuadrada

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.414

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pulse Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vpeak x K

Onde impulsionnelle

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1 / K

Impulsschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vpeak x

Onda dell’impulso

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda de impulsos

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = Vpeak /

Sawtooth Wave

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.577 x Vpeak

Onde en dent de scie

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.733

Sägezahnschwingung

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.577 x Vpeak

Onda a denti di sega

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onda diente de sierra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CF = 1.733

* CF = Crest Factor, Crest Factor = Vpeak / Vrms

10

Measuring Resistance

1.Set the Function Switch to Ω.

2.If is displayed, press the yellow button to display Ω.

3.If RANGE is displayed, press the RANGE button to enable autoranging.

4.Connect the Test Leads: Red to E, Black to COM

5.Turn off power to the circuit being measured. Never measure resistance across a voltage source or on a powered circuit.

6.Discharge any capacitors that may influence the reading.

7.Connect the Test Probes across the resistance.

8.Read the display. If 0oappears on the highest range, the resistance is too large to be measured.

38XR-A

8

6

 

 

 

3

5

 

 

 

2

 

 

1

7

4

Testing for Continuity

1.Set the Function Switch to .

2.If Ωis displayed, press the yellow button to display .

3.Connect the Test Leads: Red to E, Black to COM

4.Turn off power to the circuit being measured.

5.Discharge any capacitors that may influence the reading.

6.Connect the Test Probes across the resistance.

7.Listen for the tone that indicates continuity (< 40 Ω).

11

Amprobe 38XR-A Operating Manual

38XR-A

6

2

1

4

3

5

7

Testing Diodes

1.Set the Function Switch to d.

2.Connect the Test Leads: Red to E, Black to COM

3.Turn off power to the circuit being measured.

4.Free at least one end of the diode from the circuit.

5.Connect the Test Probes across the diode.

6.Read the display. A good diode has a forward voltage drop of about 0.6 V. An open or reverse biased diode will read 0o.

6

3

38XR-A

 

1

2

4

5

12

Measuring Capacitance

1.Set the Function Switch to the P function.

2.If RANGE is displayed, press the RANGE button to enable autoranging.

3.Connect the Test Leads: Red to COM, Black to h

4.Turn off power to the circuit being measured.

5.Discharge the capacitor using a 100 kΩresistor.

6.Free at least one end of the capacitor from the circuit.

7.Connect the Test Probes across the capacitor. When measuring an electrolytic capacitor match the test lead polarity to the polarity of the capacitor.

8.Read the display.

8

38XR-A

2

 

1

7

4

3

5

 

 

6

Measuring Temperature

1.Set the function Switch to °C or °F.

2.Connect the K-type thermocouple to a TEMP adapter (XR-TA). Match the polarity of the adapter to the polarity of the thermocouple.

3.Connect the TEMP adapter to the Eand COM inputs.

Note: The 38XR-A is compatible with all K-type thermocouples. The K-type bead thermocouple supplied with the meter is not intended for contact with liquids or electrical circuits.

13

4.Expose the thermocouple to the temperature to be measured.

5.Read the display.

5

4

38XR-A

 

1

2

K

 

3

Measuring Frequency

1.Set the Function Switch to Hz.

2.If % is displayed, press the yellow button to display Hz.

3.If RANGE is displayed, press the RANGE button to enable autoranging.

4.Connect the Test Leads: Red to Hz, Black to COM.

5.Connect the Test Probes to the signal source.

6.Read the display.

6

5

38XR-A

 

3

2

1

4

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Measuring Dutycycle

1.Set the Function Switch to %.

2.If Hz is displayed, press the yellow button to display %.

3.Connect the Test Leads: Red to %, Black to COM.

4.Connect the Test Probes to the signal source.

5.Read the display.

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38XR-A

2

1

4

3

Measuring dBm

The 38XR-A measures dBm relative to 1 mW referenced to 50 Ω. That is, 10 dBm = 10 mW, 0 dBm = 1 mW, -10 dBm = 0.1 mW, etc.

1.Set the Function Switch to k.

2.Press the yellow button. The display shows dBm to verify the selection.

3.Connect the Test Leads: Red to E, Black to COM.

4.Connect the Test Probes to the signal source.

5.Read the display.

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5

38XR-A

2

4

1

3

Measuring 4-20 mA Loop Current

1.Set the Function Switch to the loop-current function, W.

2.Connect the Test Leads: Red to mA, Black to COM.

3.Turn off power to the circuit being measured.

4.Open the test circuit (X) to establish measurement points.

5.Connect the Test Probes in series with the load (to the measurement points).

6.Turn on power to the circuit being measured.

7.Read the display. 0 % = 4 mA, 100 % = 20 mA.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Input Test Lead Warning

The meter emits a continuous tone when a test lead is placed in the mA or 10A input jack and the Function/ Range Switch is not set to a correct current position. (If the meter is connected to a voltage source with leads connected for current, very high current could result). All current ranges are protected by fast acting fuses.

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True-rms Measurements

For ac measurements most DMMs average the ac input signal and display the result as an estimated rms value. This average-responding method is accurate for sinusoidal waveforms, but can be very inaccurate for distorted waveforms. To ensure the most accurate measurements, always use a true-rms DMM when measuring ac voltage or ac current on circuits for the following kinds of applications:

Power Supplies - diodes

Controllers

Power Limiting - SCR or Triac

Starting - motors

Florescent Lighting - ballasts

Speed Control - motors

Pulsed Signals

Any non-sinusoidal ac waveform

The 38XR-A displays the dc, ac, or ac+dc components of a voltage or current measurment. The dc component is the shift level or baseline. The ac component is the

area under the waveshape. The ac+dc component is the combined effect of the ac and dc components.

MIN MAX AVG Measurements

Note: The MIN MAX AVG feature does not work the dBm nor the dutycycle function.

The MIN MAX AVG feature reads and updates the display to show the maximum, minimum, or average value measured after you press the MIN MAX AVG button. Pressing the MIN MAX AVG button for less than 1 second will put the meter into a mode of displaying the maximum, minimum, average, or actual readings. Each time the button is pressed, the meter will cycle to the next display mode as shown in the table below. Press the MIN MAX AVG button for more than 2 seconds to disable this feature.

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Button

Display

Value Displayed

< 1 second

REC MAX

Maximum value after

feature activated

 

 

 

REC MIN

Minimum value after

 

feature activated

 

 

< 1 second

REC AVG

Average value after

feature is activated

 

 

< 1 second

REC

Actual reading, min

max being recorded

 

 

> 2 seconds

Exit MIN MAX AVG

Normal measurement,

 

 

actual reading

Peak Hold Measurements

Note: The peak hold feature calibrates itself to meet the specifications.

The function of the peak hold feature is to record and store the positive and negative peak values that occur while measuring ac current or ac voltage. To enable the peak hold feature press the PEAK ± button for more than 2 seconds. The display will show CAL to indicate the calibration cycle is in process. After the CAL indication clears, press the PEAK ± button again to display the maximum (P+) value for the ac voltage or ac current being measured. The display will toggle between the P+ and P- readings each time the PEAK ± button is pressed. Press the PEAK ± button for more than 1 second to exit

the PEAK function.

Beeper Off

The beeper is an aural indicator to identify when the DMM is performing a function, making a range change, detecting a limit, and so on. To disable the beeper use the following procedure:

1.Set the Function Switch to OFF.

2.Press and hold the HOLD button while turning the Function Switch to the desired function. The no-beep symbol N shows on the display.

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3.Release the HOLD button. The beeper feature will remain disabled until the meter is turned off and then on.

Note: To disable both the beeper and Auto Power Off press and hold the REL button while turning on the DMM.

Auto Power Off

Auto Power Off is a battery saving feature that puts the meter into a sleep mode if the Function/Range Switch has not changed position in the last 30 minutes. To wake the meter turn the Function/Range Switch to another position.

The Auto Power Off feature can be disabled to keep the meter from going to sleep. This feature is useful when using the MIN MAX AVG mode for extended periods. To disable the Auto Power Off feature use the following procedure:

1.Set the Function Switch to OFF.

2.Press and hold the MIN MAX AVG button while turning the Function Switch from OFF to the desired function. The SLEEP OFF message shows on the display.

3.Release the MIN MAX AVG button. The Auto Power Off feature will remain disabled until the meter is turned off and then on.

Note: To disable both Auto Power Off and the beeper press and hold the REL button while turning on the DMM.

REL (Relative) Measurements

Note: The REL feature does not work with the dBm or the dutycycle function.

The Relative mode displays the difference between the actual reading and a reference value. It may be used with any function or range. To make a relative measurement first establish a reference value by measuring a value and then pressing the REL button after the reading has

stabilized. This stores the measured value as the reference and sets the display to zero. The meter subtracts the reference value from subsequent measurements and displays this difference as the relative value. Measurement values greater than the reference value will be positive and values less than the reference value will be negative.

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To exit the Relative Mode, Press and hold the REL button for 2 seconds.

HOLD Measurements

The HOLD button causes the meter to capture and continuously display a measurement reading. To use the HOLD feature make a measurement, and then, after the reading has stabilized, momentarily press the HOLD button. You can remove the test leads and the reading will remain on the display. Pressing the HOLD button again releases the display.

RS232 Download Software (38SW)

The 38XR-A includes an RS232 IR communication port for downloading measurement data (value, function, and range) to a PC. The 38SW Accessory Kit (software and cable) povides a graphical user interface for the PC to collect, store, and display measurement data.

Backlight

Pressing the m button illuminates the display with a blue backlight. Pressing the m button again will turn off the backlight. When turned on the backlight will automatically turn off in about 60 seconds. Frequent use of the backlight will noticeably decrease battery life.

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PRODUCT MAINTENANCE

Cleaning

To clean the meter, use a soft cloth moistened with water. To avoid damage to the plastic components do not use benzene, alcohol, acetone, ether, paint thinner, lacquer thinner, ketone or other solvents to clean the meter.

Troubleshooting

If the meter appears to operate improperly, check the following items first.

1.Review the operating instructions to ensure the meter is being used properly.

2.Inspect and test the continuity of the test leads.

3.Make sure the battery is in good condition. The low battery symbol B appears when the battery falls below the level where accuracy is guaranteed. Replace a low-battery immediately.

4.Check the condition of the fuses if the current ranges operate incorrectly.

Battery and Fuse Replacement

XW WARNING

To avoid electrical shock remove the test leads from both the meter and the test circuit before accessing the battery or the fuses.

To access the battery and the mA fuse remove the two screws holding the Battery/Fuse Cover in place, and lift the cover from the meter.

To replace the mA fuse, pry it from its clips using a small screwdriver. A spare mA fuse is located between the battery and the mA fuse.

mA Fuse: Fast Blow .5A/1000V, minimum interrupt rating 30 kA (6.3 x 32 mm) (Amprobe® FP500)

To replace the 10 A fuse: 1) Remove the battery. 2) Remove the four rear-case screws. 3) Separate the case. 4) Remove the 10 A fuse cover. 5) Remove and replace the 10A fuse. 6) Re-install the fuse cover. 7) Reassemble the meter.

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10A Fuse: Fast Blow 10A/1000V, minimum interrupt rating 30 kA (10 x 38 mm) (Amprobe® FP100).

(2)

 

9 V Battery

Pile 9 V

 

9 V Batterie

Pila de 9 V

Batería de 9 V

Spare 500 mA fuse

Fusible 500 mA de rechange

500 mA Ersatzsicherung

Fusibile di ricambio da 500 mA

Fusible de recambio de 500 mA

500 mA Fuse

Fusible 500 mA

500 mA Sicherung

Fusibile da 500 mA

Fusible de 500 mA

(2)

(4)

10 A Fuse

 

Fusible de 10 A

10 A Sicherung

Fusibile da 10 A

Fusible de 10 A

SPECIFICATIONS

 

4¾ digit liquid crystal display (LCD)

Display

(9999 count) with a 41-segment

 

analog bar-graph.

Auto ranging

9999 counts.

 

 

Manual ranging

9999 counts.

Polarity

Automatic, positive implied, negative

polarity indication.

 

Overrange

0o or - 0o is displayed.

Zero

Automatic.

 

 

Low battery

The B symbol is displayed when the

battery voltage drops below the

indication

operating level.

 

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Auto power off

Approx. 30 minutes.

 

 

Measurement

2 times per second, nominal.

rate

 

Operating

0 °C to 50 °C at <70 % R.H.

environment

 

Storage

-20 °C to 60 °C, 0 to 80 % R.H.

temperature

with battery removed from meter.

Temperature

0.1 × (specified accuracy) per °C.

Coefficient

(0 °C to 18 °C, 28 °C to 50 °C).

Altitude

6562 feet (2000 m)

 

 

Power

Single standard 9-volt battery, NEDA

1604, JIS 006P, IEC 6F22.

 

Battery life

75 hours typical with carbon-zinc.

150 hours typical with alkaline.

 

Dimensions

196 mm (H) ×96 mm (W) ×60 mm (D)

 

 

Weight

Approx. 492 g including battery.

 

 

SAFETY

General: IEC 61010-1: Pollution Degree 2

Measurement: IEC 61010-2-033: CAT IV 600 V / CAT III 1000 V IEC 61326-1: Portable Electromagnetic Environment;

IEC 61326-2-2

CISPR 11: Group 1, Class A

Group 1: Equipment has intentionally generated and/or use conductively coupled radio-frequency energy which is

necessary for the internal functioning of the equipment itself. Class A: Equipment is suitable for use in all establishments other than domestic and those directly connected to

a low voltage power supply network which supplies buildings used for domestic purposes. There may be

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potential difficulties in ensuring electromagnetic compatibility in other environments, due to conducted and radiated disturbances.

Caution: This equipment is not intended for use in residential environments and may not provide adequate protection to radio reception in such environments.

ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS

(Accuracy at 23 °C ±5 °C, <75 % relative humidity)

DC VOLTS

Ranges

1000 mV, 10 V, 100 V, 1000 V

(auto/manual ranging)

 

Resolution

100 μV

Accuracy

±(0.25 % rdg + 5 dgts)

Input impedance

10 MΩ

Overload

1000 V dc or 750 V ac rms

protection

 

AC VOLTS true rms (45 Hz to 2 kHz)

Ranges

1000 mV, 10 V, 100 V, 750 V

(auto/manual ranging)

 

Resolution

100 μV

 

±(1.2 % rdg + 10 dgts) 45 Hz to 500 Hz

Accuracy

±(2.0 % rdg + 10 dgts) 500 Hz to 2 kHz

±(2.0 % rdg + 10 dgts) 45 Hz to 1 kHz

 

 

on 750 V range

Peak Hold

±(3.0 % + 200 dgts) on 100 V,

750 V range; 1000 mV, 10 V ranges

accuracy

unspecified

 

Crest Factor

≤ 3

Input impedance

10 MΩ

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