Conrad M 3860-M Operation Manual
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1. Introduction
This Mulitmeter is equipped with several special features and useful functions which are indispensable for electrical and electronic measurement: back-light, illuminates display in poor lighting conditions during
measurement, or the quadro-display, a multiple display with four simultaneous reading outputs e.g. during “POWER“ measurement display of
real power input, current input of the consumer, AC voltage and power
factor (Cos Phi).
AUTO RANGE always selects the correct measuring range, to archieve
best accuracy. The function REL allows the operator to measure value
with respect to a preset reference value, in the secondary displays the
Offset is shown, the deviation in ± % and the preset reference value and
the main display shows the present measuring value. With the function
CMP, comparative measurement can be made, the upper and the lower
limit can be defined. With the function MEM (for Memory = store) and
RCL (for Recall), 10 measurements can be stored in memory and recalled.
AUTO-POWER-CUT-OFF extends the life of the battery by turning off the
meter (Stand-by) if neither the rotary function switch nor a button is
operated for 12 minutes.
The DMM can be used for hobby, industry (with restrictions) and school.
etc.
2. Safety Rules
• The multimeter M-3860M is EMC-tested and corresponds to the following EG-standard: 89/336/EWG
• This unit is constructed and checked according to DIN 57 411
Part 1/VDE 0411 Part 1, Safety Requirement for Electronic Measuring
Units. This unit left the factory in safe and perfect condition. To maintain the unit in this condition and to guarantee a safe operation, the
user must observe the safety rules and warnings which are contained
in this manual, by all means.
• This multimeter may only be used in fuse lines which are protected
with 16 A. The voltage existing/appearing must not exceed 250 VDC/
VAC and the maximum load must not exceed 4000 VA. It is not allowed to use the unit for installations in the overload range III according
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Digital-Multimeter M 3860-M
Order No.: 12 39 00
The proper operation of the measuring unit includes:
• measurement of DC voltage up to 1000 VDC max.
• measurement of AC voltage up to 750 VAC.
• measurement of DC and AC current to 20 A (fused)
• measurement of resistance to 40 MΩ max.
• measurement of capacitance of 400 µF
• continuity check, diode and transistor test, logic test
• measurement of frequency to 40 MHz max.
• measurement of temperatures from -40 °C to +1200°C max.
• CMOS-signal output to 10.24 KHz in 10 steps
• it is not allowed to operate the unit in wet or damp environment!
• any other usage as described above is forbidden
Attention!
Read before Operation!
Read this manual carefully and completely. In the case of damage caused by non-observance of the instruction, the claims under guarantee
lapse. No legal liability can be accepted for any damage from the multimeter being used for the wrong purpose or operated improperly. We
cannot take any liability for consequential damage.
Contents
Page
1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2. Safety Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
3. Description of the Control Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4. Usage of the Multimeter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
5. Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
6. Maintenance and Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
7. Technical Data and Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
GB
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Such voltage might cause a life-dangerous electrical shock when electrical conductors are touched.
First switch off voltage source, connect the measuring unit with the
terminals of the voltage source to be measured, set the measuring
unit to the necessary voltage range and afterwards switch on voltage
source.
After measurement has been finished, switch off the voltage source
and remove the measuring cables from the terminals of the voltage
source.
• Make sure before each voltage measurement the unit is not set to the
amperage range.
• Before changing the measuring range remove the probe tips from the
object to be measured.
• Control before each measurement the measuring unit and your test
leads to make sure they are not damaged.
• Do not use this measuring unit in environments or rooms with adverse environmental conditions where flammable gases, steams or dusts
exist or may exist. For your own safety avoid under all circumstances
that the measuring unit or the test leads become damp or wet.
Avoid the usage near
a) strong magnetic fields (loudspeakers, magnets)
b) electromagnetic fields (transformers, motors, coils, relays, contac-
tors, electromagnets etc. )
c) electrostatic fields (charge/discharge).
d) transmission antennas or hf-generators
• For measurement use only those test leads which are supplied with
the measuring unit. Only these are admissible.
• To avoid an electrical shock, don’t touch directly or indirectly the test
probes and the test points during measurement.
• To avoid serious electrical shock and/or instrument damage do not
apply more than 500 VDC/VACrms between any terminal of the measuring unit and the earth ground.
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to IEC 664. The unit and the measuring cables are not protected
against arcing (IEC 1010-2-031, section 13.101).
• Keep children away from measuring units!
• Pay attention to the rules for prevention of accidents in industrial
enterprises prescibed by the Industrial Trade Associations for Electrical
Installations and Production Facilities.
• When using the unit in schools and hobby-workshops the usage and
the measurement has to be controlled by the responsible teachers or
skilled personell.
• If covers are opened or parts are removed, except it is possible without tools, voltage-carrying components may be accessable. Terminals
can also carry voltage. If it is necessary to open the unit before adjustment, maintenance, repairing or exchange of parts or modules, the
measuring unit has to be separated from all voltage sources and measuring circuits. Repairs or maintenance to the measuring unit must
only be carried out by qualified service personell or qualified electricians who know the dangers and the respective rules (VDE 0100, VDE0701, VDE-0683).
• Capacitors in the unit can still carry voltage, even if the unit has been
separated from all voltage sources.
• Please make sure to use new fuses of the proper rating. Do not use
repaired fuses and do not bridge the fuse holders.
To replace the fuse separate the measuring unit from the measuring
circuit, remove any input signal and switch it off. Remove all connected cables and probe tips. Use a suitable crosspoint screw driver
carefully open the case. Remove the defective fuse(s) and replace it
with a new one of the same type and nominal current 0.8 A quick blow,
250 V; usual name: F 0.8 A/250 V or F 800 mA/250V. For the amperage
range 20 A ultra rapid, 250 V; usual name: FF 20 A/250 V (BUSS ABC20).
After the fuse has been exchanged close the cabinet. Do not operate
the unit before it has been closed and screwed safely.
• Use special caution when working with voltage above 25 V (AC) and
above 35 V (DC).
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6. DOWN Button
This key is needed in the manual range mode to select the next lower
range.
7. Display Back Light
Press button short and several small LEDs illuminate the displaybackground, it is sufficient to read display even in poor lighting conditions.
8. Transistor Socket
This socket is for testing the hfe-parameter of different semiconductors (except power transistors and FETs, triacs and thyristors).
9. Capacitance and Temperature & Signal Output, Input Socket
This socket is for testing discharged! capacitors or temperatures.
10. Rotary Function Switch to select the different modes (voltage and
current measurement, etc.)
11. 20-A Input Socket
This input socket is designed for measuring DC and AC current to
max. 20 A and is fused with 20 A.
12. mA-input
This socket is for measuring DC and AC current to 400 mA max.
13. COM-Input Socket (COM or Minus Terminal)
14. V-Ohm-(+) Input Socket (Plus Terminal)
15. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) (3 3/4digit, max. display value 4000)
16. Analogous Bargraph
17. Bargraph-Segments
Figure see folding page
18. Overload “OL“-Indication
“OL“ is displayed and an acoustic signal is emitted when the range is
exceeded = overflow (no acoustic signal during resistance measurement, diode test or temperature measurement).
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• If there are doubts whether a safe usage is still possible the unit has
to be put out of operation and be secured against unintentional use.
It must be assumed that a safe usage is not possible if
- the unit shows visible damage
- the unit does not work and
- longterm storage under unfavourable conditions
or
- transport strain took place
• Don’t switch on the measuring unit immediately after bringing it in
from a cold to warm room. Condensed water might impair or destroy
your unit. Give the unit time to warm up to room temperature without switching it on.
3. Description of the Operation Elements
Picture see folding page
1. Power ON/OFF
2. Push Button for Function
With this key you can set the different sub-function as, MIN/MAX,
REL, CMP etc.
3. Set/Reset Button “SET/R“
With this key the unit is reset, the selected function mode is exited.
In certain function modes the Reset function does not work!
4. DC OHM /AC Push Button
Press this button to toggle between DC and AC when function switch
is set to voltage or current, or when function switch is set to resistance to change between resistance measurement to (acoustic) continuity check.
5. UP Button
The key is needed in the manual range mode to select the next
higher range.
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33. CAP = Capacitance
CAP is for Capacitance => Measurement of capacitors
34. hFE
This symbol indicates the transistor test.
35. LOGI = Logic Test
This symbol indicates the Logic Test Function
36. 1. 2. and 3. Sub-Display
These three small sub-displays with 3 3/4digits are activated during
the different function modes.
37. = Low Battery
When this symbol is displayed, it is time to change the battery
38. Different Units of the Display Values
4. Usage of the Multimeter
4.1 Inserting the Battery - Battery Exchange
To guarantee precise measurement, insert a standard 9 V battery. If the
battery symbol appears in the display, it is time to change the battery.
Proceed as follows:
• Disconnect your measuring unit from the measuring circuit, disconnect
the test-leads from the measuring unit and turn off the power.
Remove with a crosspoint screw driver the fastening screw to open the
battery compartment. Now lift the cover carefully (use a small screw
driver).
Separate the old battery from the battery snap and fasten a new one
of the same type. Do not forget to use the provided battery insulation
capsule.
After the battery has been changed reinsert the battery into the battery case and close it carefully, secure it with the screw.
+
-
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Attention!
Observe the max. input limits.
19. Data Hold D-H
Data Hold means the meter will “freeze“ a display reading.
20. REL = Relative = Reference Value
21. CMP = Comparison = Compare a Reading
22. R-H = Range Hold
= Holding the current preset measuring range e.g. 40 KOhm
23. A-H = Auto Hold
= Min-, Max- and AVG-holding with simultaneous display
24. MEM = Memory
= to memorize the value
25. RCL= Recall
= to get back the memorized reading on the display.
26. Reference No. (0 to 9)
27. = Diode Test
28. AC = Symbol for AC current or voltage
29. = Symbol for Acoustic Continuity Check
30. “ - “ = Minus Sign or Symbol for Negative Polarity
31. FREQ = Frequency
This symbol is displayed in the Frequency Count Mode
32. TEMP = Temperature
This symbol is displayed during temperature measurement.
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4.4 Operation
4.4.1 Basic Settings
Hint!
The numbers which are put in brackets in the following text refer to
“Description of the Operation Elements“, point 3.
Press the button “ON“ (1). Turn the rotary function switch to the desired
position. Now the meter is ready for “normal“ operation without additional function. Even without additional functions “small“ displays (subdisplays) support measurement.
To select an additional function press the key FUNCTION (2). Press it
again to scroll through the different sub-functions.
To exit the menu press SET/R-key twice: press SET/R-key once to enter,
press button twice to exit/reset (depending on the preset sub-function).
4.4.2 Terminal and Switch Imprint
a) Press the ON/OFF-key (1) to turn the unit on and off: Press the key
once to turn the power on, press it again to turn the DMM off.
AUTO-POWER-CUT-OFF extends the life of the battery: if neither the
rotary function switch nor a button is operated for 12 minutes the
DMM is automatically turned off. During “communication“ of the
multimeter with a PC, i.e exchange of data, AUTO-POWER-OFF is disabled.
b) FUNC
Press this button to select the function modes. The following symbols
appear in the display when you scroll in the function modes:
D-H -> R-H -> A-H -> REL -> MEM -> RCL -> CMP
c) SET/R
Press this button once to activate or to enter the selected function
mode.
• Press in the function mode the button D-H again to exit (wait for
beeper sound).
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Attention!
Never use the measuring unit before the cover has been closed completely, to avoid an electrical shock!
Never leave empty batteries in the measuring unit, as even corrosionfree batteries might leak and chemicals could be released, which are
detrimental to your health and disturb the battery compartment.
Please remember batteries - due to their heavy metal content - are no
ordinary refuse. They must be disposed of in special containers or in a
safe manner that complies with all applicable laws.
4.2 Connection of the Measuring Cables
For measurement use only the type of test-leads which are supplied with
your measuring unit. Only these are admissible. Ensure the connection
plugs and test probes are in good condition before usage, pay attention
that the insulation is undamaged.
These test-leads are rated for max. 1200 V. The maximum rating of the
multimeter M-3860M is 1000 VDC max or 750 VACrms. Use special caution when working with voltage above 25 V AC and above 35 V DC.
Attention!
To avoid the risk of electrical shock, instrument damage and/or equipment damage, input limits must not be exceeded.
4.3 Using the Stand
Your meter has a stand on the rear side for bench use which can be
opend away from the meter. You can prop the unit for improvement of
reading.
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sistor socket as in the drawing according to transistor type, remove
voltage before measurement.
b) Capacity- and Temperature Measuring Socket (poles “+“ and “-“)
In this socket discharged capacitors can be checked, observe correct
polarity. Make sure the connector pins are long enough to avoid
unreliable measurement.
For temperature measurement plug in type “K“ temp probes (NiCrNi),
observe the correct polarity.
Plug in adapter for function „SIG OUT“.
Attention!
The outer contacts are only for capacitance measurement, the inner
contacts are only! for temperature measurement & signal output
checking. Never confuse the sockets to avoid damage of the meter.
c) Rotary Function Switch = Measuring Function Switch (10)
Attention!
Never turn the rotary function switch during measurement, as there is
the risk of instrument damage and danger to life.
The different basic measuring ranges are selectable by turning the switch
(clockwise).
SIG OUT = CMOS signal output - no function mode possible
mV = millivolt AC/DC (milli = 10 exp. -3) no manual range selction
V = Volt AC/DC - Auto-Range and manual range selection (R-H)
is possible
FREQ = frequency measurement - Auto Range and manual range
selection (R-H) is possible
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• In the function mode R-H simply press button again to exit.
• In the function mode A-H (MIN-MAX and AVG) the R-H symbol (for
manual range setting) and the A-H symbol is displayed. After the
first push of the SET/R key the A-H symbol is set and will stop blinking. The R-H-symbol continues flashing to be able to set the
manual measuring range with buttons UP and DOWN. If the SET/Rkey is pressed again, the R-H symbol is fixed. You can commence
measurement. Another (third) push of the SET/R key discards the
function and the previous normal mode is restored.
• In the function modes REL, MEM, RCL and CMP, push SET/R button
several times to return to normal mode.
Another possibility to exit from these modes is either to press the
button FUNC, DC/AC or ON/OFF once or to move the rotary function
switch to an adjacent position (observe all safety rules!).
d) DC Ohm/AC ( )
Press this button to toggle between DC and AC when the rotary function switch is set to resistance measurement, continuity check, to voltage or current or to switch from resistance measurement to acoustic
continuity check.
e) UP/DOWN
Press UP or Down button to determine the reference value in the function modes REL or CMP or to address the stored value in the modes
MEM or RCL (reference numbers). In the function mode R-H (= Range
Hold) you can set manually the measuring range with these buttons.
f) Back Light
To switch on/off the back light (the back light is LED operated to save
energy) push the yellow button. After 15 s the back light will automatically extinguish.
4.4.3 Terminal and Switch Imprint
a) Transistor Socket hfe
The eight pole transistor terminal is lettered symmetrically with (E)
Emitter, (B) Base, (C) Collector. Insert the transistor pins into the tran-
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f) COM = Common Input Terminal
For all measurements, except capacity, temperature and transistor
measurement, the Black test-lead must be connected. (common-terminal means minus or “-“ or earthing jack)
g) V/Ohm-Socket
For measurement of voltage, frequency, resistance, continuity, diodes
and logic tests plug in the Red test-lead in this terminal.
h) For power measurement insert in all sockets the measuring adapter.
4.4.4 Display Explanation and Symbols
a) Digital Display
Digital readings are displayed the main- and the sub-displays (small
displays) on a 4000-count basis (“3999“) with automatic polarity indiction (-) (for negative voltage or reversed polarity). There are three
decimal point positions.
b) Analogous Bargraph
The bargraph consists of 43 segments and is faster than the digital
display. It functions as the needle of an analogous measuring instrument, but without its mechanical disadvantages. Is is especially for
quick changing measuring signals, for which the digital display is too
“slow“. So you can quickly see tendencies in the measuring values.
If the measuring range is exceeded “OL“ for Overload is displayed the
bargraph is flashing and a warning sound is emitted (no acoustic signal during measurement of resistance, diode, temperature - “OL“
without thermo-element).
c) Data-Hold “D-H“
In this mode you can freeze a reading in the second (“small“) display
by pressing the SET/R button.
d) Range Hold “R-H“
In this function you can switch off the automatic range selection
(Auto Range) and set the measuring range manually. Each time the
UP or DOWN button is pressed the decimal point is moved one position to the left or to the right, the units of measure are changed respectively (e.g. from kHz to MHz during frequency measurement). To
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LOGIC = Logic Test - no function mode possible
/Ohm = acoustic continuity test - no Auto-Range during continuity
test, in the resistance measuring range Auto-Range and
manual range selction (R-H) is possible
= diode test - no R-H possible
CAP = capacitance measurement, A-R and R-H is possible
hFE = transistor test - no R-H possible
TEMP = temperature measurement in °C - no R-H possible
4 mA = DC and AC current measurement to max. 4 mA - A-R and R-
H possible
400 mA = DC and AC current measurement to max. 400 mA - A-R and
R-H possible
20 A = DC and AC current measurement to max. 20 A - A-R and
R-H possible
POWER = power measurement in [W] = Watt = unit for real power
d) 20-A-Input Socket
For DC- and AC-current measurements to max. ! 20 A. Insert the Red
test-lead into the input socket.
Attention !
During current measurement the rotary function switch must not be set
to voltage measurement (mV or V or other positions than 4 mA, 400 mA,
20 A).
e) mA-Measuring Socket
For measurements to 400 mA max.!, connect the Red test-lead, pay
attention that the rotary function switch is set to position “4 mA“ or
“400 mA“.
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