B&K Precision 5492BGPIB User Manual

Model: 5492B, 5492BGPIB

5 ½ Bench Digital Multimeter

USER MANUAL

Safety Notice

As described in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard IEC 664, digital
multimeter measuring circuits (e.g., B&K Models 5492B) and the USB terminal are Installation
Category II (CAT II). All other instruments’ signal terminals are Installation Category I and must
not be connected to mains.

This equipment is a POLLUTION DEGREE 2, INDOOR USE product.

Safety Summary

The following safety precautions apply to both operating and maintenance personnel and
must be observed during all phases of operation, service, and repair of this instrument.
Before applying power, follow the installation instructions and become familiar with the
operating instructions for this instrument.

GROUND THE INSTRUMENT

To minimize shock hazard, the instrument chassis and cabinet must be connected to an
electrical ground. This instrument is grounded through the ground conductor of the
supplied, three-conductor ac power cable. The power cable must be plugged into an
approved three-conductor electrical outlet. Do not alter the ground connection. Without the
protective ground connection, all accessible conductive parts (including control knobs) can
render an electric shock. The power jack and mating plug of the power cable meet IEC
safety standards.

DO NOT OPERATE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE

Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gases or fumes. Operation of
any electrical instrument in such an environment constitutes a definite safety hazard.

KEEP AWAY FROM LIVE CIRCUITS

Instrument covers must not be removed by operating personnel. Component replacement
and internal adjustments must be made by qualified maintenance personnel. Disconnect the
power cord before removing the instrument covers and replacing components. Under certain
conditions, even with the power cable removed, dangerous voltages may exist. To avoid
injuries, always disconnect power and discharge circuits before touching them.

DO NOT SERVICE OR ADJUST ALONE

Do not attempt any internal service or adjustment unless another person, capable of
rendering first aid and resuscitation, is present.

DO NOT SUBSTITUTE PARTS OR MODIFY THE INSTRUMENT

2

Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modifications to this instrument.

WARNING:

Do not alter the ground connection. Without the protective ground
connection, all accessible conductive parts (including control knobs) can
render an electric shock. The power jack and mating plug of the power cable
meet IEC safety standards.

WARNING:

To avoid electrical shock hazard, disconnect power cord before removing
covers. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

CAUTION:

Before connecting the line cord to the AC mains, check the rear panel AC line
voltage indicator. Applying a line voltage other than the indicated voltage can
destroy the AC line fuses. For continued fire protection, replace fuses only
with those of the specified voltage and current ratings.

CAUTION:

This product uses components which can be damaged by electro-static
discharge (ESD). To avoid damage, be sure to follow proper procedures for
handling, storing and transporting parts and subassemblies which contain
ESD-sensitive components.

Return the instrument to B&K Precision for service and repair to ensure that safety features
are maintained.

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

WARNING and CAUTION statements, such as the following examples, denote a hazard

and appear throughout this manual. Follow all instructions contained in these statements.
A WARNING statement calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or condition,

which, if not followed correctly, could result in injury or death to personnel.
A CAUTION statement calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or condition,

which, if not followed correctly, could result in damage to or destruction of parts or the
entire product.

3

This symbol serves as a warning to users of the input safety ratings. Refer to the
operating instructions for details.

Electrical Shock hazard.
Chassis ground symbol.

CAT I
(1000V)

IEC Measurement Category I.
Inputs may be connected to
mains (up to 300 VAC) under
Category II overvoltage conditions.

CAT II
(300V)

IEC Measurement Category II.

This product is subject to Directive 2002/96/EC of the European
Parliament and the Council of the European Union on waste
electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) , and in jurisdictions
adopting that Directive, is marked as being put on the market after
August 13, 2005, and should not be disposed of as unsorted
municipal waste. Please utilize your local WEEE collection facilities
in the disposition of this product and otherwise observe all applicable
requirements.

SAFETY SYMBOL

Compliance Statements

Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European
Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)

.

4

CE Declaration of Conformity

The 5492B and 5492BGPIB meets the requirements of 2006/95/EC Low Voltage Directive and
2004/108/EC Electromagnet Compatibility Directive.

Low Voltage Directive

- EN61010-1: 2001 (2nd edition)

Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use.

EMC Directive

- EN 61326-1:2006

- EN 61326-2-2: 2006

Electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use.

5

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 General Information ..................................................................................................... 9

1.1 Feature Overview ................................ ................................................................ ............... 9

1.2 Input Power and Fuse Requirements ................................................................................. 9

1.3 Package Contents ............................................................................................................ 11

Chapter 2 Overview ........................................................................................................................ 12

2.1 Front Panel Overview ....................................................................................................... 12

2.2 Screen Display ................................................................................................................. 14

2.3 Front Panel Menu Options ................................................................................................ 14

2.4 Front Panel Menu Overview ............................................................................................. 16

2.5 Rear Panel Summary ....................................................................................................... 17

2.6 Power up .......................................................................................................................... 18

2.6.1 Power Line Connection .................................................................................................... 18

2.6.2 Power-up Sequence ......................................................................................................... 18

2.6.3 High Energy Circuit Safety Precautions ........................................................................... 19

2.6.4 Power-on Defaults ............................................................................................................ 19

2.6.5 Warm-up time ................................................................................................................... 21

Chapter 3 Basic Measurements .................................................................................................. 22

3.1 Overview .......................................................................................................................... 22

3.2 Measuring Voltage ............................................................................................................ 22

3.2.1 Connections ...................................................................................................................... 22

3.2.2 Crest factor ....................................................................................................................... 24

3.3 Measuring Current ............................................................................................................ 24

3.3.1 Connections ...................................................................................................................... 24

3.3.2 Front Panel Fuse Replacement ........................................................................................ 25

3.4 Measuring Resistance ...................................................................................................... 26

3.4.1 Connections ...................................................................................................................... 26

3.4.2 Shielding ........................................................................................................................... 27

3.5 Measuring Frequency and Period ..................................................................................... 28

3.5.1 Trigger Level and Measurement Errors ............................................................................ 28

3.5.2 Gate Time ......................................................................................................................... 28

3.5.3 Connections ...................................................................................................................... 28

3.6 Measuring Continuity ........................................................................................................ 29

3.6.1 Connections ...................................................................................................................... 29

3.6.2 Threshold resistance level ................................................................................................ 30

3.7 Testing Diode ................................................................................................................... 30

3.7.1 Connections ...................................................................................................................... 30

3.7.2 Current Range .................................................................................................................. 31

3.8 Math Functions ................................................................................................................. 32

6

3.8.1 mX+b................................................................................................................................. 32

3.8.2 Percent .............................................................................................................................. 33

3.8.3 dB Calculation ................................................................................................................... 34

3.8.4 dBm Calculation ................................................................................................................ 35

Chapter 4 Measurement Options .............................................................................................. 37

4.1 Measurement configuration .............................................................................................. 37

4.1.1 Range ............................................................................................................................... 37

4.1.2 Filter .................................................................................................................................. 38

4.1.3 Relative ............................................................................................................................. 39

4.1.4 Rate .................................................................................................................................. 40

4.2 Trigger Operations ............................................................................................................ 41

4.2.1 Trigger Model .................................................................................................................... 41

4.2.2 EXT Trig & VM Comp ....................................................................................................... 44

4.3 Buffer Operations ............................................................................................................. 44

4.3.1 Store Reading ................................................................................................................... 45

4.3.2 Recall Readings ................................................................................................................ 46

4.3.3 Buffer Statistics ................................................................................................................. 47

4.4 Limit Operations ............................................................................................................... 47

4.4.1 Enabling limits ................................................................................................................... 48

4.4.2 Setting Limit Values .......................................................................................................... 48

4.4.3 Configure Limit Beep ........................................................................................................ 49

4.5 System Operations ........................................................................................................... 49

4.5.1 Beeper Control .................................................................................................................. 50

4.5.2 Save Settings .................................................................................................................... 50

4.5.3 Restore Settings ............................................................................................................... 51

4.5.4 Display Control ................................................................................................................. 51

4.5.5 Key Sound ........................................................................................................................ 52

4.5.6 Self-test ............................................................................................................................. 52

4.5.7 Calibration ......................................................................................................................... 53

Chapter 5 Remote Operation....................................................................................................... 54

5.1 Selecting an Interface ....................................................................................................... 54

5.1.1 USB (Virtual COM) Interface ............................................................................................ 54

5.1.2 RS-232 Serial Interface .................................................................................................... 55

5.1.3 GPIB Interface (model 5492BGPIB only) ......................................................................... 55

5.2 USB & RS-232 Interface Operation .................................................................................. 56

5.2.1 RS-232 Connection .......................................................................................................... 56

5.2.2 Sending and receiving data .............................................................................................. 57

5.2.3 Selecting Baud Rate ......................................................................................................... 57

5.2.4 Selecting Parity Mode ....................................................................................................... 57

5.2.5 Selecting Terminal Character ........................................................................................... 58

5.2.6 Selecting Echoing ............................................................................................................. 58

5.2.7 Software Protocol ............................................................................................................. 59

7

5.3 GPIB Interface operation (model 5492BGPIB only) .......................................................... 60

5.3.1 GPIB Connection .............................................................................................................. 60

5.3.2 GPIB Interface Capability ................................................................................................. 61

5.3.3 GPIB Addressing .............................................................................................................. 61

5.4 Data Format ..................................................................................................................... 61

Chapter 6 SCPI Command Reference ....................................................................................... 62

6.1 Command Structure ......................................................................................................... 62

6.2 Command Syntax ............................................................................................................. 63

6.2.1 Commands and command parameters ............................................................................ 63

6.2.2 Short-form Rules ............................................................................................................... 64

6.2.3 Basic Rules of Command Structure ................................................................................. 65

6.2.4 Multiple Command Rules ................................................................................................. 65

6.2.5 Command Path Rules ...................................................................................................... 65

6.3 Command Reference ....................................................................................................... 66

6.3.1 Measurement Commands ................................................................................................ 66

6.3.2 DISPlay subsystem........................................................................................................... 70

6.3.3 CALCulate Subsystem ..................................................................................................... 70

6.3.4 SENSe subsystem command ........................................................................................... 79

6.3.5 SYSTem Subsystem ......................................................................................................... 92

6.3.6 UNIT Subsystem ............................................................................................................... 94

6.3.7 TRIGger Subsystem ......................................................................................................... 97

6.3.8 Common Commands ........................................................................................................ 99

Chapter 7 Troubleshooting Guide .......................................................................................... 100

7.1 Frequently Asked Questions ........................................................................................... 100

7.2 Error Messages .............................................................................................................. 101

Chapter 8 Specifications ............................................................................................................. 102

8.1 Technical Specifications ................................................................................................. 102

SERVICE INFORMATION ............................................................................................................ 110

LIMITED THREE-YEAR WARRANTY ..................................................................................... 110

8

General information

AC Input

FUSE

~110 V / 60 Hz

T1AL, 250 V

~220 V / 50 Hz

T500mAL, 250 V

Chapter 1 General Information

This chapter is outlined as follows:

1.1 Feature Overview

1.2 Input Power and Fuse Requirements

1.3 Package Contents

1.1 Feature Overview

5492B is a 5½ digital multimeter with high accuracy, stability and speed. It has a 0.01% DC voltage
basic accuracy, 0.03% basic resistance accuracy and broad ranges that can measure:

 DC voltage up to 1000 V
 AC (RMS) voltage up to 750 V, or about 1000 V Peak
 DC current up to 12 A
 AC (RMS) current up to 12 A
 Two and four-wire resistance up to 120 MΩ
 Frequency from 5 Hz to 1 MHz

1.2 Input Power and Fuse Requirements

The 5492B digital multimeter can operate on 110 V or 220 V with +/- 10% tolerance at 60 Hz or 50 Hz
with +/- 5% tolerance respectively. Before powering the instrument, please check for correct power
input setup that corresponds to the line voltage to be used for operation. Note the label in the rear label,
as shown below:

There are two items to check for:

1. Check that the correct fuse is placed inside the fuse box. Referring to the above table, use a 1
A fuse for 110 V/ 60 Hz operation, and 500 mA fuse for 220 V/50 Hz operation.

2. Check the fuse holder position. There is a voltage indicator window on the front face of the fuse
box that indicates the selected line voltage. To change or select the appropriate line voltage,
remove the fuse box and pull out and rotate the fuse holder, as illustrated below:

9

General information

Fuse Box

110

To remove, use a flat head screw driver or a coin to
insert into the slid and turn counter-clockwise to
open. Similarly to put back the fuse box, push the
box down and turn clockwise.

Voltage Indicator Window

Fuse Holder

Fuse Box

110

110

220

Press both sides indicated by the arrows and pull to
remove fuse box.

There is a second fuse with a fuse holder located in the front panel of the multimeter. This is an over
current protection fuse for the low current measurement input. It is rated for a T2AL, 250 V fuse. To
remove and replace this fuse, see the illustration below:

There is a third fuse located inside the instrument which protects the 12 A input terminal if current
exceeds the maximum rating. It is a 6 x 32 mm 250V, 20 A fast acting high energy ceramic fuse.

10

General information

1.3 Package Contents

Please inspect the instrument mechanically and electrically upon receiving it. Unpack all items from
the shipping carton, and check for any obvious signs of physical damage that may have occurred
during transportation. Report any damage to the shipping agent immediately. Save the original
packing carton for possible future reshipment. Every meter is shipped with the following contents:

 5492B/5492BGPIB 5½ digit multimeter
 TL35B Test Leads (one set)
 AC Power cord
 Spare fuses
 User Manual
 USB Cable
 Certificate of Calibration and Test Report

Verify that all items above are included in the shipping container. If anything is missing, please
contact B&K Precision.

11

Overview

Chapter 2 Overview

This chapter is outlined as follows:

2.1 Front Panel Overview

2.2 Screen Display

2.3 Front Panel Menu Options

2.4 Front Panel Menu Overview

2.5 Rear Panel Summary

2.6 Power up

2.1 Front Panel Overview

The front panel of the B&K 5492B is shown in Figure 2-1. This figure includes some important
abbreviated information that should be reviewed before operating the instrument.

Figure 1 - Front Panel View

12

Overview

1. Measurement function keys
Select measurement function: DC voltage and current, AC voltage and current, 2-wire and 4-wire

resistance, frequency, period, continuity and diode test.

2. Math function keys
Select math function: mX+b, %, dB, dBm and Rel.

3. Menu operation keys

→ Open/Close menu

→ Recall the menu performed last

Move through selections within menu level, sub-menu level or parameter level

Move through selections within menu level, sub-menu level or parameter level.

Move up a level.
Move down a level.
(ENTER) Save the changes made on “parameter” level, and return to the “sub-menu” level.

(ESC) Cancel the changes made on “parameter” level, and return to the “sub-menu”

level.

4. Range and measurement speed keys

Select a higher range and disable auto ranging.
Select a lower range and disable auto ranging.

Toggle between auto ranging and manual ranging.

→ Set measurement speed to Fast.

→ Set measurement speed to Medium.

→ Set measurement speed to Slow.

5. Trig/Hold Key

Trigger a measurement from the front panel.

→ Hold a stable reading on the display when selected numbers of samples are

6. Shift/Local keys

Used to access shifted keys (labels are in blue).
(LOCAL) Exit remote operation and set back to local operation.

within the selected tolerance.

13

Overview

2.2 Screen Display

Figure 2-2 Display Annunciators

* (asterisk) Instrument is ready to store readings (when in system menu) /

Reading is being stored (when in measurement mode)

(Diode) Instrument is in diode testing function

(Speaker) Beeper on for continuity testing function
4W Multimeter is in 4-wire resistance measurement mode.
ADRS Multimeter is addressed to listen or talk over the GPIB interface
AUTO Auto ranging enabled
ERR Hardware or remote control error detected
FAST Fast reading rate
FILT Digital filter enabled
HOLD Reading HOLD is enabled
MATH A math operation is enabled (mX+b, %, dB, dBm).
MED Medium reading rate
MEM Turns on when reading memory is enabled
REL Relative reading displayed
RMT Multimeter is in remote mode
SHIFT Accessing shifted keys
SLOW Slow reading rate

TRIG Multimeter is waiting for a trigger (manual, bus, or external trigger).

2.3 Front Panel Menu Options

A : MEASurement MENU

1:CONTINUITY → 2:FILTER → 3:FILT TYPE → 4:FILT COUNT

1. CONTINUITY Select the continuity beeper threshold: 1 Ω to 1000 Ω

2. FILTER Enable or disable FILTER function.

3. FILT TYPE Select the type of filter.
Select MOVNG AV (Moving Average) or REPEAT (Repeating Average).

4. FILT COUNT Set the number of readings to be filtered or averaged.

B : MATH MENU

1:SET M → 2:SET B → 3:PERCENT → 4:dB REF → 5:dBm REF → 6:LIMIT TEST → 7:HIGH LIMIT

→ 8:LOW LIMITT→ 9:LIMIT BEEP

1. SET M Set the scale factor M for MX+B function.

2. SET B Set the offset factor B for MX+B function.

14

Overview

3. PERCENT Set the reference value for PERCENT function.

4. dB REF Set the dB reference voltage value.

5. dBm REF Set the dBm reference impedance value.

6. LIMIT TEST Enable or disable the limit testing.

7. HIGH LIMIT Set the high limit for limit testing.

8. LOW LIMIT Set the low limit for limit testing.

9. LIMIT BEEP Set the beep mode for limit testing. Select from: NEVER, HI, IN, LO, OUT.

C : TRIGger MENU

1:TRIG MODE → 2:TRIG DELAY

1. TRIG MODE Select the trigger source.
Select IMM (Immediate), MAN (Manual), BUS, or EXT (External) trigger
source.

2. TRIG DELAY Select AUTO or MANUal trigger delay mode. Selecting manual will allow
you to specify a time interval which is inserted before a measurement.

D : SYStem MENU

1:RDGS STORE → 2:RDGS COUNT → 3:SAVED RDGS → 4:BEEP →5:SAVE CNFG
→ 6:LOAD CNFG → 7:DISPLAY → 8:KEY SOUND → 9:TEST

1. RDGS STORE Enable or disable reading memory.

2. RDGS COUNT Set the number of readings to be saved (2 to 512).

3. SAVED RDGS Recall readings stored in memory.

4. BEEP Enable or disable the beeper function

5. SAVE CNFG Save the present configuration as one of the 10 user’s settings.

6. LOAD CNFG Restore factory or one of the 10 user’s settings

7. DISPLAY Enable or disable the front panel display.

8. KEY SOUND Enable or disable the key sound when you press a key.

9. TEST Perform a complete self-test.

E : Input / Output MENU

1:GPIB ADDR → 2:INTERFACE → 3:BAUD RATE→ 4:PARITY→ 5:TX TERM→ 6:RETURN

1. GPIB ADDR Set the GPIB bus address. (0 to 31)

2. INTERFACE Select between GPIB and USB/RS232 as the remote control interface.

3. BAUD RATE Select the baud rate for USB/RS232C operation.
Select from: 115.2K, 57.6K, 38.4K, 19.2K, 9600,4800, 2400.

4. PARITY Select the parity mode for USB/RS232C operation.
Select from: NONE, EVEN, ODD.

5. TX TERM Select the terminal character for USB/RS232C communication.
Selection from: LF, CR, LFCR

6. RETURN Enable or disable echoing command strings.

F : CALibration MENU (This function is not available)

1:SECURED → 3:CAL DATE → 4:CAL COUNT

15

Overview

MESSAGES

DESCRIPTION

CHANGE SAVED

The change made on the “parameter” level is saved. This message will
be displayed after you press (ENTER) to save the changes.

TOO SMALL

The value you specified on the “parameter” level is too small for the
selected command. The minimum value allowed is displayed for you to
edit.

TOO LARGE

The value you specified on the “parameter” level is too large for the
selected command. The maximum value allowed is displayed for you to
edit.

FILE SAVING

System configuration file is being saved.

FILE LOADING

System configuration file is being restored.

SAVE SUCCEED

System configuration file is successfully saved.

LOAD SUCCEED

System configuration file is successfully restored.

Menus

Submenus

Parameters

2.4 Front Panel Menu Overview

The menu is organized in a top-down tree structure with three levels (menus, submenus and parameters)
as shown in Figure 2-3. You can use down ( ) or up ( ) keys to browse through the menu tree
from one level to another. Each of the three levels has several choices which you can view by using left
( ) or right ( ) keys.

Figure 2-3 Menu Tree

 To turn on the menu, press → (Menu).

 To turn off the menu, press → (Menu), or press any of the function or math keys

on the top row of front panel keys (i.e. DC V, Freq, etc.).

 To confirm a change on the “parameter” level, press (ENTER).
 To cancel a change on the “parameter” level, press (ESC).

 To recall the last menu command that was executed, press → (Recall)

The messages displayed during menu operation are listed in the following Table 2-1.

Table 2-1 Messages Displayed During Menu Operation

16

Overview

Note: If you press on the “menu” level, nothing will happen because it is at the top
menu level of already. Likewise, if you press on the “parameter” level, nothing will
happen because it is at the lowest menu level.

2.5 Rear Panel Summary

The rear panel of BK 5492B is shown in Figure 2-4. This section includes important information that
should be reviewed before operating the instrument.

Figure 2-4 Rear Panel

1. Power line fuse holder
The multimeters can be configured for line voltage of 110/220 V ± 10 % AC at line frequency of 50/60
Hz ± 5%.
Power line fuse is used for instrument protection. (220 V/500 mA or 110 V/1 A)

Note: Please use the same-type of fuse as it is in the fuse holder. To verify and replace the

fuse, remove the power cable and pull out the fuse holder. See section 1.2 for
details.

2. (optional) GPIB (IEEE-488) interface (model 5492BGPIB)

3. Chassis ground screw terminal

4. RS-232 (Serial) interface

5. USB interface

6. External Trigger BNC input terminal

7. VM Comp (Voltmeter complete) BNC output terminal

8. Serial number label

17

Overview

2.6 Power up

2.6.1 Power Line Connection

CAUTION: Operating the instrument on an incorrect line voltage may cause damage to the
instrument, possibly voiding the warranty.

BEFORE connecting the 5492B multimeter to a power line, please check that the correct fuse is
in place, and the fuse box inside the fuse holder is adjusted correctly. See section 1.2 for
details.

Follow the procedure below to connect the 5492B to line power and turn on the instrument.

1. Check the line voltage and be sure it is within the acceptable range of the meter BEFORE

connecting into the AC input in the rear panel of the instrument. Applying an incorrect voltage

may cause damage to the instrument and void its warranty.

2. Check the fuse box position inside the fuse holder to make sure it is in the correct position that

corresponds to the line voltage the unit will be connected to. The fuse holder will have a selected
voltage label on the front to indicate the selected voltage tab for operation. Change the fuse box
position to change between 110 and 220. If you’re not sure, see section 1.2 for details.

3. Check that the correct line fuse is properly inserted into the fuse box. The fuse rating between

110V and 220V operation is different. Refer to section 1.2 for details.

4. Before plugging in the power cord, make sure that the front panel power switch is in the off (out)

position.

5. Connect the female end of the supplied power cord to the AC input on the rear panel. Connect the

other end of the power cord to a grounded AC outlet.

WARNING: The power cord supplied with the Model 5492B contains a separate ground wire for

use with grounded outlets. When proper connections are made, instrument chassis
is connected to power line ground through the ground wire in the power cord. Failure
to use a grounded outlet may result in personal injury or death due to electric shock.

6. Turn on the instrument by pressing the front panel power switch.

2.6.2 Power-up Sequence

On power-up, the multimeter performs self-tests on its EPROM and RAM and lights all segments and
annunciators for about 1 second. If a failure is detected, the instrument momentarily displays an error
message and the ERR annunciator will turn on.

If the instrument passes self-tests, the firmware version and the model number will display momentarily
before it is ready for use.

18

Overview

2.6.3 High Energy Circuit Safety Precautions

To optimize safety when measuring voltage in high energy distribution circuits, read and use the
directions in the following warning.

WARNIG: Dangerous arcs of an explosive nature in a high energy circuit can cause severe

personal injury or death. If the multimeter is connected to a high energy circuit
when set to a current range, low resistance range, or any other low impedance
range, the circuit is virtually shorted. Dangerous arcing can result even when the
multimeter is set to a voltage range if the minimum voltage spacing is reduced in the
external connections.

When making measurements in high energy circuits, use test leads and accessories that meet the
following requirements:

 Test leads and accessories must be fully insulated and adhere to proper ANSI IEC CAT ratings.
 Do not use test leads or accessories that decrease voltage spacing. This diminishes arc

protection and creates a hazardous condition.

WARNING: The maximum common-mode voltage (voltage between INPUT LO and the chassis

ground) is 500 V peak. Exceeding this value may cause a breakdown in insulation,
creating a shock hazard.

2.6.4 Power-on Defaults

The multimeter uses the factory default settings for the power-on settings.

All the procedures in this manual assume factory default settings, therefore reset the instrument to the
factory settings when following the step-by-step procedures in later sections. Table 2-2 lists the factory
default settings.

19

Setting

Factory Default

Autozero
Buffer
Continuity
Beeper
Digits
Rate
Threshold
Current(AC and DC)
Digits(AC)
Digits(DC)
Filter
Count
Mode
Range
Relative
Value
Rate(AC)
Rate(DC)
Diode test
Digits
Range
Rate
Frequency and Period
Digits
Range
Relative
Value
Rate

Function
GPIB
Address
Language
Limits
Beeper
High limit
Low limit
mX+b
Scale factor
Offset
Percent
Reference

On
No effect

On
4 1/2
Fast(0.1 PLC)
10 Ω

5 1/2
5 1/2
On
5
Moving average
Auto
Off

0.0
Medium(10PLC)
Medium( 1 PLC)

5 1/2
1 mA
Medium(1 PLC)

5 1/2
12 V
Off

0.0
Slow(1 sec)
DCV
No effect
8
SCPI
Off
ON
+1

-1
Off

1.0

0.0
Off

1.0

Overview

Table 2-2 Factory Default Settings

20

Overview

Resistance(2-wire and 4-wire)
Digits
Filter
Count

Mode
Range
Relative
Value
Rate
RS-232(USB)
Baud
Triggers
Continuous
Delay
Source
Voltage(AC and DC)
dB reference
dBm reference
Digits(AC)
Digits(DC)
Filter
Count

Mode
Range
Relative
Value
Rate(AC)
Rate(DC)

5 1/2
On
5
Moving average
Auto
Off

0.0
Medium(1 PLC)
On
9600

On
Auto
Immediate

No effect
75 Ω
5 1/2
5 1/2
On
5

Moving average
Auto
Off

0.0
Medium(10PLC)
Medium( 1PLC)

Table 2-2 Factory Default Settings (cont.)

2.6.5 Warm-up time

The 5492B is ready for use after power-up sequence (boot and self test) is completed. However, to
achieve specified accuracy and stability, allow the instrument to warm up for half an hour. If the
instrument has been subjected to extreme temperatures, allow additional time for internal temperature to
stabilize

21

Basic Measurements

Chapter 3 Basic Measurements

This chapter is outlined as follows:

3.1 Overview

3.2 Measuring Voltage

3.3 Measuring Current

3.4 Measuring Resistance

3.5 Measuring Frequency and Period

3.6 Measuring Continuity

3.7 Testing Diode

3.8 Math Functions

3.1 Overview

The front panel has two rows of keys to select various functions and operations. Most keys have a
shifted function printed in blue above the key. To perform a shifted function, press (the Shift

annunciator will turn on). Then, press the key that has the desired label above it. For example, to select
the AC current function, press then press (AC I).

If you accidentally press , just press it again to turn off the Shift annunciator.

3.2 Measuring Voltage

Voltage ranges: 120 mV, 1.2 V, 12 V, 120 V, 1000 V (750 VAC)
Maximum resolution: 1 μV (on 120 mV range)

3.2.1 Connections

Assuming the multimeter is under factory default conditions, the basic procedure for measuring voltage
is as follows:

1. Connect test leads to INPUT HI and LO terminals.

2. Select DC or AC voltage measurement by pressing or respectively.

3. Press to toggle between auto and manual ranging. Notice the AUTO annunciator is
displayed with auto ranging. For manual range, use the RANGE and keys to select
the appropriate range for measurement.

4. Connect test leads to the sources as shown in Figure 3-1.

CAUTION: Do not apply more than 1000 V peak to the input or it will damage the instrument.

5. If the “OVR.FLW” message is displayed, press the up key to select a higher range until a
normal reading is displayed (or press key for auto ranging). Use the lowest possible range for

the best resolution. The measured reading is displayed.

22

Basic Measurements

DC Voltage
Source

▲

▲

▲

▲

DC V AC V 2W Freq

Auto

Tri g

MX+B

Shif t

Cont Rel

¦¸

Period

dB/m

FastMenu Recall Med Slow Hold

CHOICES

LEVEL

ENTER

ESC

LOCAL

%

IDC IAC 4W

Ω

FAST
MED
SLOW

ADRS RMT HOLD TRIG*MEM AUTO REL FILT MATH SHIFT

4W

ERR

POWER

T2AL 250V

SENSE

VΩ

LO

HI

！

10A

CATⅡ(300V)

CATⅠ(1000V)

350V

MAX

1000V

MAX

12A
MAX

mA

12A

INPUT

R

5

5492B

1

2

/

Digit Multimeter

1000V

MAX

AC Voltage
Source

▲

▲

▲

▲

DC V AC V 2W Freq

Auto

Tri g

MX+B

Shif t

Cont Rel

¦¸

Period

dB/m

FastMenu Recall Med Slow Hold

CHOICES LEVEL ENTER

ESC

LOCAL

%

IDC IAC 4W

Ω

FAST
MED
SLOW

ADRS RMT HOLD TRIG*MEM AUTO REL FILT MATH SHIFT

4W

ERR

POWER

T2AL 250V

SENSE

Ω4W

VΩ

LO

HI

！

10A

350V

MAX

12A
MAX

mA

12A

INPUT

CATⅡ(300V)

CATⅠ(1000V)

R

5

5492B

1

2

/

Digit Multimeter

Input Resistance = 10 MΩ on 1000 V and 120 V ranges;

> 10 GΩ on 12 V, 1.2 V and 120 mV ranges

CAUTION: Maximum Input = 1010 V peak

Input Impedance = 1 MΩ,100 pF

CAUTION: Maximum Input = 750 V RMS or 1000 V peak

Figure 3-1 DC and AC Voltage Measurement Connections

23

Basic Measurements

Crest Factor

Fundamental Frequency

2
3
4-5

50 kHz
3 kHz
1 kHz

3.2.2 Crest factor

AC voltage and current accuracies are affected by the crest factor of the waveform, the ratio of the peak
value to the RMS value. Table 3-1 lists the fundamental frequencies at which the corresponding crest
factor must be taken into account for accuracy calculations.

Table 3-1 Crest Factor Limitations

3.3 Measuring Current

Current ranges: 12 mA, 120 mA (DCI only, not available for ACI), 1.2 A, 12 A
Maximum resolution: 100 nA (on 12 mA range)

Note: Auto range is only available for 12 mA and 120 mA (DCI only) ranges. For 1.2 A and 12 A
range, manual range must be used.

3.3.1 Connections

Assuming the multimeter is under factory default conditions, the basic procedure for measuring current
is as follows:

1. Connect test leads to INPUT LO and SENSE LO terminals

2. Select DCI or ACI measurement function by pressing → or →
respectively.

3. Press to toggle between auto and manual ranging. Notice the AUTO annunciator is displayed
with auto ranging. For manual range, use the RANGE and keys to select a
measurement range consistent with expected current.

Auto range is only available for 12 mA and 120 mA (DCI only) ranges. Manual range must be
used for 1.2 A and 12 A ranges.

Therefore, it is recommended to use manual range when measuring current greater than 1 A with

1.2 A or 12 A range.

4. Connect test leads to the source as shown in Figure 3-2:

CAUTION: Do not apply more than 2 A between INPUT LO and SENSE LO terminals or the

protective fuse on the front panel will blow. Use the 10 A terminal for measuring
current above 1 A. See Figure 3-2 for details.

5. If the “OVR.FLW” message is displayed, press up key to select a higher range until a normal
reading is displayed (or press key for auto ranging). Use the lowest possible range for the

best resolution. Note that auto ranging is only available for 12 mA and 120 mA (DCI only) ranges.

24

Basic Measurements

CATⅡ(300V)

CATⅠ(1000V)

1000V

MAX

Current Source

▲

▲

▲

▲

DC V AC V 2W Freq

Aut o

Tri g

MX+B

Shift

Cont Rel

¦¸

Period

dB/m

FastMenu Recall Med Slow Hold

CHOICES

LEVEL ENTER

ESC

LOCAL

%

IDC IAC 4W

Ω

FAST
MED
SLOW

ADRS RMT HOLD TRIG*MEM AUTO REL FILT MATH SHIFT

4W

ERR

POWER

T2AL 250V

SENSE

Ω4W

VΩ

HI

！

10A

CATⅡ(300V)

350V

MAX

12A
MAX

mA

12A

INPUT

R

5

5492B

1

2

/

Digit Mult imet er

1000V

MAX

12A
MAX

12A

Current Source

▲

▲

▲

▲

DC V AC V 2W Freq

Auto

Tri g

MX+B

Shift

Cont Rel

¦¸

Period

dB/m

FastMenu Recall Med Slow Hold

CHOICES

LEVEL

ENTER

ESC

LOCAL

%

IDC IAC 4W

Ω

FAST
MED
SLOW

ADRS RMT HOLD TRIG*MEM AUTO REL FILT MATH SHIFT

4W

ERR

POWER

T2AL 250V

SENSE

Ω4W

VΩ

LO

HI

！

10A

CATⅡ(300V)

CATⅠ(1000V)

350V

MAX

mA

INPUT

R

5

5492B

1

2

/

Digit Mult imeter

For low current measurement: INPUT LO and SENSE LO terminals are used.

CAUTION: Maximum input = 1 A DC or RMS

For 1 A or higher current measurement: 10 A and INPUT LO terminals are used.

CAUTION: Maximum Input = 12 A DC or RMS

Note: Auto range is not available for 1.2 A and 12 A ranges

Figure 3-2 DC and AC Current Measurements

3.3.2 Front Panel Fuse Replacement

WARNING: Make sure the instrument is disconnected from the power line and other equipment

before replacing the fuse.

1. Turn off the power and disconnect the power line and test leads.

2. From the front panel, use a screwdriver to rotate the fuse holder several turns counter-clockwise.
Take the fuse carrier out of the socket.

3. Remove the fuse and replace it with the same type (T2AL, 250 V, 5×20mm)

CAUTION: Do not use a fuse with a higher current rating than specified or instrument damage

may occur. If the instrument repeatedly blows fuses, try to find out the reason
before replacing the fuse.

25

Basic Measurements

Fuse Box

110

To remove, use a flat head screw driver or a coin to
insert into the slid and turn counter-clockwise to
open. Similarly to put back the fuse box, push the
box down and turn clockwise.

3.4 Measuring Resistance

Resistance measurement range: 120 Ω, 1.2 kΩ, 12 kΩ, 120 kΩ, 1.2 MΩ, 12 MΩ, 120 MΩ
Maximum resolution: 1 mΩ (on 120 Ω range)

3.4.1 Connections

Assuming the multimeter is under factory default conditions, the basic procedure for measuring
resistance is as follows:

1. Connect test leads to the multimeter as follows:

A: For Ω2-wire, connect the test leads to INPUT HI and LO.
B: For Ω4-wire, connect the test leads to INPUT HI and LO, and SENSE Ω 4W HI and LO. Kelvin

test probes are recommended for this setup.

2. Select Ω 2-wire or Ω 4-wire measurement function by pressing or →
respectively.

3. Press to toggle between auto and manual ranging. Notice the AUTO annunciator is
displayed with auto ranging. For manual range, use the RANGE and keys to select a
measurement range.

4. Connect test leads to the resistance as shown in Figure 3-3:

CAUTION: Do not apply more than 1000 V peak between INPUT HI and LO or it will damage the

instrument

5. If the “OVR.FLW” message is displayed, press up key to select a higher range until a normal
reading is displayed (or press key for auto ranging). Use the lowest possible range for the

best resolution.

6. The measured reading is displayed.

26

Basic Measurements

Shielded
Coble

Optional
Shield

Resistance
Under Test

▲

▲

▲

▲

DC V AC V 2W Freq

Auto

Tri g

MX+B

Shift

Cont Rel

¦¸

Period

dB/m

FastMenu Recall Med Slow Hold

CHOICES

LEVEL ENTER

ESC

LOCAL

%

IDC IAC 4W

Ω

FAST
MED
SLOW

ADRS RMT HOLD TRIG*MEM AUTO REL FILT MATH SHIFT

4W

ERR

POWER

T2AL 250V

SENSE

Ω4W

VΩ

LO

HI

！

10A

CATⅡ(300V)

CATⅠ(1000V)

350V

MAX

1000V

MAX

12A
MAX

mA

12A

INPUT

R

5

5492B

1

2

/

Digit Multimeter

T2AL 250V

SENSE

Ω4W

VΩ

LO

HI

！

10A

CATⅡ(300V)

CATⅠ(1000V)

350V

MAX

1000V

MAX

12A
MAX

mA

12A

INPUT

Shielded
Coble

Optional
Shield

Resistance
Under Test

▲

▲

▲

▲

DC V AC V 2W Freq

Auto

Tri g

MX+B

Shift

Cont Rel

¦¸

Period

dB/m

FastMenu Recall Med Slow Hold

CHOICES

LEVEL

ENTER ESC

LOCAL

%

IDC IAC 4W

Ω

FAST
MED
SLOW

ADRS RMT HOLD TRIG*MEM AUTO REL FILT MATH SHIFT

4W

ERR

POWER

R

5

5492B

1

2

/

Digit Mult imeter

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT HI to INPUT LO terminals

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT HI to INPUT LO terminals

Figure 3-3 Two- and Four- wire Resistance Measurements

3.4.2 Shielding

To achieve a stable accurate reading, it helps to shield resistances greater than 100 kΩ. Place the
resistance in a shielded enclosure and connect the shield to the INPUT LO terminal of the instrument
electrically.

27

Basic Measurements

3.5 Measuring Frequency and Period

Frequency measurement range: 5 Hz to 1 MHz.
Period measurement range: 0.2 s to 1 μs.
Input signal range: 120 mV AC to 750 V AC RMS.

The instrument uses the volts input terminals (INPUT HI and INPUT LO) to measure frequency and
period. The AC voltage range can be changed with the RANGE and keys. However, the
signal voltage must be greater than 10% of the full-scale range.

Note: Auto ranging is not available for frequency and period measurement function.

3.5.1 Trigger Level and Measurement Errors

Frequency and Period apply a zero-crossing trigger, meaning that a count is taken when the signal
crosses the zero level.
The multimeter uses an interactive counting technique to measure frequency and period. This method
generates constant measurement resolution for any input frequency. All frequency counters are
subject to errors when measuring low voltage, low frequency signals. Both internal noise and external
noise are also critical when measuring low voltage, low frequency signals. Measurement errors will
also occur if you attempt to measure the frequency (or period) of an input following a dc offset voltage
change. You must allow the multimeter’s DC input blocking capacitor to fully settle before making
frequency measurements.

3.5.2 Gate Time

Gate time is the amount of time the multimeter uses to sample frequency or period readings. For model
5492B, all RATE settings (Fast, Med and Slow) yield a gate time of one second.

3.5.3 Connections

Assuming the multimeter is under factory default conditions, the basic procedure for measuring
frequency or period is as follows:

1. Connect test leads to INPUT HI and LO terminals.

2. Select frequency or period measurement functions by pressing or →
respectively.

3. Connect test leads to the source as shown in Figure 3-4:

CAUTION: Do not exceed 1000 V peak between INPUT HI and INPUT LO or instrument damage

may occur.

4. The measured reading is displayed.

28

Basic Measurements

T2AL 250V

SENSE

Ω4W

VΩ

LO

HI

！

10A

CATⅡ(300V)

CATⅠ(1000V)

350V

MAX

1000V

MAX

12A
MAX

mA

12A

INPUT

AC Voltage

Source

▲

▲

▲

▲

DC V AC V 2W Freq

Auto

Tri g

MX+B

Shif t

Cont Rel

¦¸

Period

dB/m

FastMenu Recall Med Slow Hold

CHOICES

LEVEL ENTER

ESC

LOCAL

%

IDC IAC 4W

Ω

FAST
MED
SLOW

ADRS RMT HOLD TRIG*MEM AUTO REL FILT MATH SHIFT

4W

ERR

POWER

R

5

5492B

1

2

/

Digit Multimeter

Input Impedance = 1 MΩ in parallel with <100 pF

CAUTION: Maximum Input = 750 RMS, or 1000 V Peak

Figure 3-4 Frequency and Period Measurements

3.6 Measuring Continuity

The multimeter uses the 1 kΩ range to measure circuit continuity. A threshold resistance level (1 Ω to
1000 Ω) should be set. The factory default value is 10 Ω. The multimeter alerts you with a beep when a
reading is below the set level.

Note: Continuity function defaults to FAST (0.1 PLC) rate and cannot be changed.

3.6.1 Connections

Assuming the multimeter is under factory default conditions, the basic procedure for continuity testing is
as follows:

1. Connect test leads to the INPUT HI and LO terminals.

2. Select Continuity measurement function by pressing .

3. Connect test leads to the resistance under test as shown in Figure 3-5.

4. The measured reading is displayed.

29

Basic Measurements

T2AL 250V

SENSE

Ω4W

VΩ

LO

HI

！

10A

CATⅡ(300V)

CATⅠ(1000V)

350V
MAX

1000V

MAX

12A
MAX

mA

12A

INPUT

Resistance
Under Test

▲

▲

▲

▲

DC V AC V 2W Freq

Aut o

Tri g

MX+B

Shift

Cont Rel

¦¸

Period

dB/m

FastMenu Recall Med Slow Hold

CHOICES

LEVEL

ENTER

ESC

LOCAL

%

IDC IAC 4W

Ω

FAST
MED
SLOW

ADRS RMT HOLD TRIG*MEM AUTO REL FILT MATH SHIFT

4W

ERR

POWER

R

5

5492B

1

2

/

Digit Multimet er

Note: Source current flows from the INPUT HI to INPUT LO terminals.

Figure 3-5 Continuity Measurement

3.6.2 Threshold resistance level

You can define a threshold resistance from 1 Ω to 1000 Ω. Factory default value is 10 Ω. Follow the steps
below to define the resistance level:

1. Press for Continuity Measurement.

2. Press → to enter the submenu level, “1: CONTINUITY” will be displayed.

3. Press to enter the parameter level, the current LEVEL value will be displayed.

4. Use and keys to change the cursor position and use and keys to
increment or decrement the digits respectively. Enter a value from 1 to 1000.

5. Press (ENTER) to confirm your setting. Message “CHANGE SAVED” will be displayed for a
moment.

6. Press or → to exit the menu and return to the continuity measurement.

3.7 Testing Diode

The multimeter can also be used to measure the forward voltage drop of general-purpose diodes and
zener diodes. A current range (1 mA, 100 μA, or 10 μA) can be selected for diode measurement.

Note: Diode testing defaults to MED (1 PLC) rate and cannot be changed.

3.7.1 Connections

Assuming the multimeter is under factory default conditions, the basic procedure for diode testing is as
follows:

1. Connect test leads to INPUT HI and LO terminals.

2. Press → for diode measurement function.

3. Connect test leads to the diode under test as shown in Figure 3-6.

4. Take a reading from the display.

30