5490C Series
5 ½ and 6 ½ Digit Multimeters
Models: 5492C/5492CGPIB, 5493C/5493CGPIB
USER MANUAL
Safety Summary
The following safety precautions apply to both operating and maintenance personnel and must
be followed during all phases of operation, service, and repair of this instrument.
Before applying power to this instrument:
Read and understand the safety and operational information in this manual.
Apply all the listed safety precautions.
Verify that the voltage selector at the line power cord input is set to the correct line
voltage. Operating the instrument at an incorrect line voltage will void the warranty.
Make all connections to the instrument before applying power.
Do not operate the instrument in ways not specified by this manual or by B&K Precision.
Failure to comply with these precautions or with warnings elsewhere in this manual violates the
safety standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the instrument. B&K Precision
assumes no liability for a customer’s failure to comply with these requirements.
Category rating
The IEC 61010 standard defines safety category ratings that specify the amount of electrical
energy available and the voltage impulses that may occur on electrical conductors associated
with these category ratings. The category rating is a Roman numeral of I, II, III, or IV. This rating
is also accompanied by a maximum voltage of the circuit to be tested, which defines the voltage
impulses expected and required insulation clearances. These categories are:
Category I (CAT I): Measurement instruments whose measurement inputs are not intended to
be connected to the mains supply. The voltages in the environment are typically derived from a
limited-energy transformer or a battery.
Category II (CAT II): Measurement instruments whose measurement inputs are meant to be
connected to the mains supply at a standard wall outlet or similar sources. Example
measurement environments are portable tools and household appliances.
Category III (CAT III): Measurement instruments whose measurement inputs are meant to be
connected to the mains installation of a building. Examples are measurements inside a
building's circuit breaker panel or the wiring of permanently-installed motors.
Category IV (CAT IV): Measurement instruments whose measurement inputs are meant to be
connected to the primary power entering a building or other outdoor wiring.
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Do not use this instrument in an electrical environment with a higher category rating than what
is specified in this manual for this instrument.
You must ensure that each accessory you use with this instrument has a category rating equal to
or higher than the instrument's category rating to maintain the instrument's category rating.
Failure to do so will lower the category rating of the measuring system.
Electrical Power
This instrument is intended to be powered from a CATEGORY II mains power environment. The
mains power should be 120 V RMS or 240 V RMS. Use only the power cord supplied with the
instrument and ensure it is appropriate for your country of use.
Ground the Instrument
To minimize shock hazard, the instrument chassis and cabinet must be connected to an
electrical safety ground. This instrument is grounded through the ground conductor of the
supplied, three-conductor AC line power cable. The power cable must be plugged into an
approved three-conductor electrical outlet. The power jack and mating plug of the power cable
meet IEC safety standards.
Do not alter or defeat the ground connection. Without the safety ground connection, all
accessible conductive parts (including control knobs) may provide an electric shock. Failure to
use a properly-grounded approved outlet and the recommended three-conductor AC line power
cable may result in injury or death.
Unless otherwise stated, a ground connection on the instrument's front or rear panel is for a
reference of potential only and is not to be used as a safety ground.
Do not operate in an explosive or flammable atmosphere
Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gases or vapors, fumes, or finelydivided particulates.
The instrument is designed to be used in office-type indoor environments. Do not operate the
instrument
In the presence of noxious, corrosive, or flammable fumes, gases, vapors, chemicals, or
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finely-divided particulates.
In relative humidity conditions outside the instrument's specifications.
In environments where there is a danger of any liquid being spilled on the instrument or
where any liquid can condense on the instrument.
In air temperatures exceeding the specified operating temperatures.
In atmospheric pressures outside the specified altitude limits or where the surrounding
gas is not air.
In environments with restricted cooling airflow, even if the air temperatures are within
specifications.
In direct sunlight.
This instrument is intended to be used in an indoor pollution degree 2 environment. The
operating temperature range is 0 °C to 40 °C and the operating humidity range is up to 80%
relative humidity with no condensation allowed.
Measurements made by this instrument may be outside specifications if the instrument is used
in non-office-type environments. Such environments may include rapid temperature or
humidity changes, sunlight, vibration and/or mechanical shocks, acoustic noise, electrical noise,
strong electric fields, or strong magnetic fields.
Do not operate instrument if damaged
If the instrument is damaged, appears to be damaged, or if any liquid, chemical, or other
material gets on or inside the instrument, remove the instrument's power cord, remove the
instrument from service, label it as not to be operated, and return the instrument to B&K
Precision for repair. Notify B&K Precision of the nature of any contamination of the instrument.
Clean the instrument only as instructed
Do not clean the instrument, its switches, or its terminals with contact cleaners, abrasives,
lubricants, solvents, acids/bases, or other such chemicals. Clean the instrument only with a
clean dry lint-free cloth or as instructed in this manual.
Not for critical applications
This instrument is not authorized for use in contact with the human body or for use as a
component in a life-support device or system.
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Do not touch live circuits
Instrument covers must not be removed by operating personnel. Component replacement and
internal adjustments must be made by qualified service-trained maintenance personnel who
are aware of the hazards involved when the instrument's covers and shields are removed.
Under certain conditions, even with the power cord removed, dangerous voltages may exist
when the covers are removed. To avoid injuries, always disconnect the power cord from the
instrument, disconnect all other connections (for example, test leads, computer interface
cables, etc.), discharge all circuits, and verify there are no hazardous voltages present on any
conductors by measurements with a properly-operating voltage-sensing device before touching
any internal parts. Verify the voltage-sensing device is working properly before and after making
the measurements by testing with known-operating voltage sources and test for both DC and AC
voltages. Do not attempt any service or adjustment unless another person capable of rendering
first aid and resuscitation is present.
Do not insert any object into an instrument's ventilation openings or other openings.
Hazardous voltages may be present in unexpected locations in circuitry being tested when a
fault condition in the circuit exists.
Fuse replacement
Fuse replacement must be done by qualified service-trained maintenance personnel who are
aware of the instrument's fuse requirements and safe replacement procedures. Disconnect the
instrument from the power line before replacing fuses. Replace fuses only with new fuses of the
fuse types, voltage ratings, and current ratings specified in this manual or on the back of the
instrument. Failure to do so may damage the instrument, lead to a safety hazard, or cause a fire.
Failure to use the specified fuses will void the warranty.
Servicing
Do not substitute parts that are not approved by B&K Precision or modify this instrument.
Return the instrument to B&K Precision for service and repair to ensure that safety and
performance features are maintained.
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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.
Cooling fans
This instrument contains one or more cooling fans. For continued safe operation of the
instrument, the air inlet and exhaust openings for these fans must not be blocked nor must
accumulated dust or other debris be allowed to reduce airflow. Maintain at least 25 mm
clearance around the sides of the instrument that contain air inlet and exhaust ports. If
mounted in a rack, position power devices in the rack above the instrument to minimize
instrument heating while rack mounted. Do not continue to operate the instrument if you
cannot verify the fan is operating (note some fans may have intermittent duty cycles). Do not
insert any object into the fan's inlet or outlet.
For continued safe use of the instrument
Do not place heavy objects on the instrument.
Do not obstruct cooling airflow to the instrument.
Do not place a hot soldering iron on the instrument.
Do not pull the instrument with the power cord, connected probe, or connected test
lead.
Do not move the instrument when a probe is connected to a circuit being tested
Compliance Statements
Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European
Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)
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CE Declaration of Conformity
This instrument meets the requirements of 2014/35/EU Low Voltage Directive and 2014/30/EU
Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive with the following standards.
Low Voltage Directive
- EN 61010-1: 2010
EMC Directive
- EN 61326-1: 2013
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Refer to the user manual for warning information
to avoid hazard or personal injury and prevent
damage to instrument.
Electric Shock hazard
This is the AC mains connect/disconnect
mechanical power switch.
On (Power). This is the In position of the power
switch when instrument is ON.
Off (Power). This is the Out position of the power
switch when instrument is OFF.
Power standby. The unit is not completely
disconnected from the AC mains in off state.
Alternating current (line)
Chassis (earth ground) symbol
Ground terminal
Protective earth ground
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, will result in minor or moderate injury
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in death or serious injury
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
Safety Symbols
viii
Contents
Safety Summary ....................................................................................................................................................... ii
Compliance Statements .......................................................................................................................................... vi
CE Declaration of Conformity ................................................................................................................................ vii
Safety Symbols ...................................................................................................................................................... viii
1 General Information ...................................................................................................................................3
1.1 Operating Environment ..................................................................................................................................... 3
1.2 Package Contents ............................................................................................................................................... 3
1.3 Product Dimensions ........................................................................................................................................... 4
1.4 Front Panel Overview ........................................................................................................................................ 4
1.5 Rear Panel Overview .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Getting Started ...........................................................................................................................................6
2.1 Input Power and Fuse Requirements................................................................................................................. 6
2.2 Check and/or Change Fuse ................................................................................................................................ 7
2.3 Carrying Handle Adjustment ............................................................................................................................. 8
Front Panel Operation .................................................................................................................................9
3.1 Front Panel Menu Reference ............................................................................................................................. 9
3.2 Display ............................................................................................................................................................. 11
3.2.1 Change Display Mode .......................................................................................................................... 11
3.2.2 Display Label Text ................................................................................................................................ 12
3.2.3 Digit Mask ............................................................................................................................................ 13
3.2.4 Probe Hold Function ............................................................................................................................ 13
3.2.5 Screen Capture and File Transfer ......................................................................................................... 14
3.3 Basic Measurements ........................................................................................................................................ 14
3.3.1 DC Voltage ........................................................................................................................................... 14
3.3.2 DCV Ratio ............................................................................................................................................. 16
3.3.3 AC Voltage............................................................................................................................................ 16
3.3.4 DC Current ........................................................................................................................................... 18
3.3.5 AC Current ........................................................................................................................................... 19
3.3.6 Resistance 2W (2-wire) ........................................................................................................................ 21
3.3.7 Resistance 4W (4-wire) ........................................................................................................................ 22
3.3.8 Capacitance Measurement .................................................................................................................. 23
3.3.9 Diode ................................................................................................................................................... 24
3.3.10 Continuity .......................................................................................................................................... 25
3.3.11 Temperature test ............................................................................................................................... 26
3.3.12 Frequency measurement ................................................................................................................... 27
Secondary Measurement .......................................................................................................................... 29
Math Functions......................................................................................................................................... 29
5.1 Null Operation ................................................................................................................................................. 29
5.2 Statistics ........................................................................................................................................................... 29
5.3 Limit ................................................................................................................................................................. 30
5.4 dB Calculation .................................................................................................................................................. 30
5.5 dBm Calculation ............................................................................................................................................... 30
5.6 mX+b ................................................................................................................................................................ 30
5.7 Percent ............................................................................................................................................................. 30
Save / Recall ............................................................................................................................................. 31
6.1 Save Readings .................................................................................................................................................. 31
6.2 Save Settings .................................................................................................................................................... 31
6.3 Recall Settings .................................................................................................................................................. 31
6.4 Power On ......................................................................................................................................................... 32
System Settings ........................................................................................................................................ 33
7.1 Set the language .............................................................................................................................................. 33
7.2 Setting the date/time ...................................................................................................................................... 33
7.3 Setting the buzzer and brightness ................................................................................................................... 33
7.4 Setting the format of the digital display .......................................................................................................... 33
Interface ................................................................................................................................................... 34
8.1 RS232 interface ................................................................................................................................................ 34
8.1.1 RS232 Interface Operation .................................................................................................................. 34
8.2 USB Interface ................................................................................................................................................... 37
8.2.1 USB Device ........................................................................................................................................... 37
8.2.2 USB Host .............................................................................................................................................. 37
8.3 LAN Interface ................................................................................................................................................... 37
8.4 GPIB Interface .................................................................................................................................................. 38
8.4.1 GPIB Bus .............................................................................................................................................. 38
8.4.2 Setting the GPIB Address ..................................................................................................................... 40
8.4.3 General Bus Commands ...................................................................................................................... 40
8.4.4 Setting through the interface .............................................................................................................. 40
Specifications - 5492C / 5492CGPIB ............................................................................................................ 41
Specifications - 5493C / 5493CGPIB .......................................................................................................... 43
10.1 Supplementary specifications – 5493C / 5493CGPIB .................................................................................... 46
Service Information ................................................................................................................................. 47
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1 General Information
The 5490C Series 5 ½ and 6 ½-digit benchtop multimeters offer a broad measurement range with
speeds up to 1000 readings per second, and a basic DC Voltage accuracy up to 35 ppm delivering
measurement results quickly and accurately.
5492C/5493C has broad measurement ranges:
DC voltage from 0.1 μV to 1000 V
AC voltage from 0.1 μV to 750 VAC, peak value of 1000 V
DC current from 10 nA to 10 A
AC current from 10 nA to 10 A
Resistance measurement from 0.01 mΩ to 120 MΩ
Capacitance from 0.1 pF to 10 mF
Frequency from 2.2 Hz to 1 MHz
Some additional capabilities:
Full range of functions: In addition to those listed above, 5492C/5493C functions include period,
dB, dBm, continuity, DC V ratio, diode testing, arithmetical operation (mX+b), and percentage
calculation.
Programming languages and remote control interfaces: This instrument supports SCPI
commands. The remote control interface ports include USB Device, RS232, LAN, and optional
GPIB interface (Model 5492CGPIB/5493CGPIB)
Readings and instrument settings: Up to 10,000 readings can be stored in local mode.
Completed calibration: The unit can be calibrated through a remote control interface.
1.1 Operating Environment
Power supply: 110V/220V ±10%
Line frequency: 50Hz / 60Hz ±5%
Power consumption: ≤ 30 VA
Operating temperature: 0 to 40
Humidity: ≤ 90% RH
1.2 Package Contents
5492C/5493C was carefully inspected mechanically and electrically before shipment. After unpacking
all items from the shipping carton, please 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 shipments. The following items are included with every
5490C Series model:
1 x Model 5492C/5492CGPIB, 5493C/5493CGPIB Digital Multimeter
1 x Test leads (Model TL37)
3
USB host port
4.3-inch LCD
Main function keys
Input terminals
Power standby button
Softkeys
Null/Screenshot key
Shift/Local key
Rear panel input button (on 6 ½-digit models only)
1 2 3
4
5 6 7
8
9
1 2 3
4 5 6
7 8 9
1 x USB interface connection cable
1 x AC power cord
1 x T500 mAL fuse
1 x Test report
1 x Certificate of Calibration
Verify that you have received all the items above when you get the multimeter. If anything is missing,
please contact B&K Precision.
1.3 Product Dimensions
Dimensions (W×H×D): 225mm×100mm×355mm
Net weight: Approximately 5.51 lbs (2.5 kg)
1.4 Front Panel Overview
Front Panel Description
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Rear input terminals (6 ½-digit models only)
Cooling fan
GPIB interface (5492CGPIB/5493CGPIB models only)
AC power input receptacle & fuse box
External Trigger BNC connector
LAN interface
USB interface
RS232 interface
Chassis ground
1 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 1 2 3 2 4 5 6 7 8 9
1.5 Rear Panel Overview
Rear Panel Description
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RATING
FUSE
~ 110V/60Hz
T1 AL
~ 220 V/50Hz
T500mAL
The included AC power cord is safety certified for this
instrument operating in rated range. To change a
cable or add an extension cable, be sure that it can
meet the required power ratings for this instrument.
Any misuse with wrong or unsafe cables will void the
warranty.
SHOCK HAZARD:
The power cord provides a chassis ground through a
third conductor. Verify that your power outlet is of the
three-conductor type with the correct pin connected
to earth ground.
Getting Started
Before connecting and powering up the instrument, please review the instructions in this chapter.
2.1 Input Power and Fuse Requirements
The 5490C Series digital multimeters can operate on 110 V or 220 V with +/-10% tolerance at 60 Hz or
50 Hz. Before powering the instrument, please check for the correct power input setup that
corresponds to the line voltage to be used for operation. Note the label on the rear panel of the
instrument as shown below:
Table 2.1 – Fuse Table
Before connecting to an AC outlet or external power source, verify that the AC power cord, including
the extension line, is compatible with the rated voltage/current and that there is sufficient circuit
capacity for the power source. Once verified, connect the cable firmly.
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For safety, no power should be applied to the
instrument while changing line voltage operation.
Disconnect all cables connected to the instrument
before proceeding.
Any disassembling of the case or changing the fuse
should be performed by an authorized service
technician.
2.2 Check and/or Change Fuse
Check and/or Change Fuse
- Locate the fuse box next to the AC input connector in the rear panel
- Remove the fuse box as shown in Figure 2.2 – AC Input Fuse Removal below
- Check and replace fuse if necessary
Figure 2.2 – AC Input Fuse Removal
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Be sure the handle is locked in position and avoid
twisting movements while transporting as the handle
can damage and drop the instrument.
To remove the fuse holder and access the fuse, use a flat head screw driver and
turn counter-clockwise. Similarly, push the fuse holder inward and turn clockwise
to replace the fuse.
Bench Operation
There is a second fuse with a fuse holder located in the rear panel of the multimeter. This is an
overcurrent protection fuse for the low current measurement input. It is a 5 x 20 mm 250 V, 3.15 A
slow blow 50T glass fuse.
A third fuse is located inside the instrument which protects the 10 A input terminal if the input current
exceeds the maximum rating. It is a 6 x 32 mm 250 V, 12 A fast blow fuse.
2.3 Carrying Handle Adjustment
To adjust the position, grasp the handle on both sides of the instrument at the pivot point and rotate
the handle to the desired position. Be sure the handle locks in its new position.
Handle transport position
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Key
Usage
DCV(DCI)
To configure the DC voltage measurement, including DC ratio measurement
Range: 100mV, 1V, 10V, 100V, 1000V
Range is set to Auto by default
NPLC: {0.02, 0.2, 1, 10, 100} Default: 10 PLC
Auto zero setting: OFF or ON (default: ON)
Input impedance: 10M or HighZ (>1G)
DC ratio: OFF (default) or ON
Shift + DCV(DCI)
To configure the DC current measurement
Range: 3 A terminal (100uA, 1mA, 10mA, 100mA, 1A, 3A) auto range (default)
10A port 10A range
NPLC: {0.02, 0.2, 1, 10, 100} Default: 10 PLC
Range is set to Auto by default
NPLC: {0.02, 0.2, 1, 10, 100} Default: 10 PLC
Auto zero setting: OFF or ON (default: ON)
ACV(ACI)
To configure the ACV AC voltage
Range: Auto (default), 100mV, 1V, 10V, 100V, 750V
Filter: 3Hz (slow speed)
20Hz (medium, slow speed)
200Hz (fast, medium and slow speed)
Default: 20Hz filter, medium speed
Shift + ACV(ACI)
To configure the ACV AC current measurement
Test terminal: 3 A 10 A
Range: 3 A terminal (100uA, 1mA, 10mA, 100mA, 1A, 3A) auto range (default)10
A port 10 A range
Filter: 3Hz (slow speed)
20Hz (medium, slow speed)
200Hz (fast, medium and slow speed)
Default: 20Hz filter, medium speed
Ω2W(Ω4W)
To configure the two-wire resistance test
Range: Auto Range (default) {10Ω, 100Ω, 1kΩ, 10kΩ, 100kΩ, 1MΩ, 10MΩ,
100MΩ}
NPLC: {0.02, 0.2, 1, 10, 100} Default: 10 PLC
Auto zero setting: OFF or ON (default: ON)
Shift
+Ω2W(Ω4W)
To configure the four-wire resistance test
Range: Auto Range (default) {10Ω, 100Ω, 1kΩ, 10kΩ, 100kΩ, 1MΩ, 10MΩ,
100MΩ}
Front Panel Operation
This chapter covers available function settings and how to make basic measurements.
3.1 Front Panel Menu Reference
9
NPLC: {0.02, 0.2, 1, 10, 100} Default: 10 PLC
Freq (Temp)
To configure the frequency and period measurements
Filter: 3 Hz, 20 Hz, 200 Hz
Gating time: 10ms, 100ms (default), 1s
Shift + Freq
(Temp)
To configure the temperature test
Probe type: two-wire test (default) or four-wire test
R0: resistance at 0 °C, default: 100 Ω
NPLC: {1, 10, 100} Default: 10 PLC
Unit: °C, °F, K,
Cont (diode)
Conduction (continuous) configuration
Test range: 1 kΩ
Test current: 1 mA
Buzzer: ON (default) or OFF
Door threshold: default 10 Ω, can be set separately
Shift + Cont
(diode)
Diode configuration
Test voltage range: 0~5V
Test current: 1 mA
Buzzer: ON (default) or OFF
CAP(MATH)
Capacitance measurement configuration
Range: Auto (default) {1nF, 10F, 100nF, 1uF, 10uF, 100uF, 1mF, 10mF}
Shift+
CAP(MATH)
Math zero calculation (NULL), you can set parameters
dB/dBm operation
smoothing
scal: Mx+b, Percent
Statistics, Limit
NULL (PrtScn)
Mathematical zeroing calculation, the calculated value is the current measured
data
Shift+NULL
(PrtScn)
Print the picture and save the current display interface
R/S
Run or Stop
Trigger
Single trigger
Menu
Menu Settings
Display: display settings
Acquire: trigger option
Utility: general function
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