Each Fluke product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and
service. The warranty period is one year and begins on the date of shipment. Parts, product repairs, and
services are warranted for 90 days. This warranty extends only to the original buyer or end-user customer of
a Fluke authorized reseller, and does not apply to fuses, disposable batteries, or to any product which, in
Fluke's opinion, has been misused, altered, neglected, contaminated, or damaged by accident or abnormal
conditions of operation or handling. Fluke warrants that software will operate substantially in accordance
with its functional specifications for 90 days and that it has been properly recorded on non-defective media.
Fluke does not warrant that software will be error free or operate without interruption.
Fluke authorized resellers shall extend this warranty on new and unused products to end-user customers
only but have no authority to extend a greater or different warranty on behalf of Fluke. Warranty support is
available only if product is purchased through a Fluke authorized sales outlet or Buyer has paid the
applicable international price. Fluke reserves the right to invoice Buyer for importation costs of
repair/replacement parts when product purchased in one country is submitted for repair in another country.
Fluke's warranty obligation is limited, at Fluke's option, to refund of the purchase price, free of charge repair,
or replacement of a defective product which is returned to a Fluke authorized service center within the
warranty period.
To obtain warranty service, contact your nearest Fluke authorized service center to obtain return
authorization information, then send the product to that service center, with a description of the difficulty,
postage and insurance prepaid (FOB Destination). Fluke assumes no risk for damage in transit. Following
warranty repair, the product will be returned to Buyer, transportation prepaid (FOB Destination). If Fluke
determines that failure was caused by neglect, misuse, contamination, alteration, accident, or abnormal
condition of operation or handling, including overvoltage failures caused by use outside the product’s
specified rating, or normal wear and tear of mechanical components, Fluke will provide an estimate of repair
costs and obtain authorization before commencing the work. Following repair, the product will be returned to
the Buyer transportation prepaid and the Buyer will be billed for the repair and return transportation charges
(FOB Shipping Point).
THIS WARRANTY IS BUYER'S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. FLUKE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE
FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES,
INCLUDING LOSS OF DATA, ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY.
Since some countries or states do not allow limitation of the term of an implied warranty, or exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages, the limitations and exclusions of this warranty may not
apply to every buyer. If any provision of this Warranty is held invalid or unenforceable by a court or other
decision-maker of competent jurisdiction, such holding will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other
provision.
Fluke Corporation
P.O. Box 9090
Everett, WA 98206-9090
U.S.A.
Fluke Europe B.V.
P.O. Box 1186
5602 BD Eindhoven
The Netherlands
11/99
To register your product online, visit register.fluke.com
Table of Contents
Chapter Title Page
1 Introduction and Specifications......................................................... 1-1
The 8845A and 8846A are 6-1/2 digit, dual-display multimeters designed for bench-top,
field service, and system applications. Their full complement of measurement functions
plus its RS-232, IEEE 488, and Ethernet Remote Interfaces makes these multimeters
ideal candidates for precision manual measurements and use in automated systems. For
portability, these multimeters include a carrying handle that also serves as a bail for
bench top operation.
There are a few feature differences between these two multimeters, and some
specifications are tighter for the 8846A. Features that exist in only one multimeter will be
identified with the addition of “8846A Only” by each feature that is found only in that
model. Separate specification tables are also used to clarify the differences between these
two models.
The following is a list of some of the features and functions:
• Bright, large-digit, wide-viewing-angle display
• Dual display for displaying two properties of an input signal (e.g., ac voltage in one
display and frequency in the other).
• Remote operation via IEEE 488, RS-232, and Ethernet interface.
• Trigger in and measurement-complete out
• Front panel USB port for optional memory (8846A Only)
• 6-1/2 digit resolution
• Half-rack width
• True rms ac
• 2 and 4-wire resistance measurements
• Extended 10 Ω and 1 GΩ ranges (8846A Only)
• Frequency measurements to 300 kHz (8846A to 1 MHz)
• Capacitance measurements (8846A Only)
• Temperature measurement (8846A Only)
• 10 A current capability
• Decibels (dB and dBm) with variable reference impedance and audio power
measurement capability
• Input terminals on both front and rear panels of the meter
• Closed-case calibration (no internal calibration adjustments)
Manual Set
The manual set for these multimeters consists of a Users Manual and Programmers
Manual on a CD ROM. The Users Manual contains information on specifications, setup,
and operating from the front panel. The Programmers Manual covers operating the Meter
from a PC or controller.
1-3
8845A/8846A
Users Manual
About this Manual
Safety Information
This is the Users Manual for the 8845A and 8846A Digital Multimeters (hereafter
referred to as the Meter). It contains all of the information a new user will need to operate
the Meter effectively. The manual is divided into the following chapters:
Chapter 1 “Introduction and Specifications” provides information on how to safely
use the Meter, standard and optional accessories, and specifications.
Chapter 2 “Preparing for Operation” provides information on setting the Meter’s line
voltage, connecting it to a power source, and turning the Meter on.
Chapter 3 “Front Panel Operation” introduces the controls and connections on the
front and rear panels of the Meter.
Chapter 4 “Making Measurements” provides detailed information on using the Meter
to make electrical measurements.
Appendices
This section addresses safety considerations and describes symbols that may appear on
the Meter or in the manual.
A X Warning statement identifies conditions or practices that could result in injury or
death.
A W Caution statement identifies conditions or practices that could result in damage to
the Meter or equipment to which it is connected.
To avoid electric shock, personal injury, or death, carefully read
the information under “Safety Information” before attempting to
install, use, or service the Meter.
General Safety Summary
This instrument has been designed and tested in accordance with the European standard
publication EN 61010-1:2001 and U.S. / Canadian standard publications UL 61010-1A1
and CAN/CSA-C22.2 No.61010.1. The Meter has been supplied in a safe condition.
This manual contains information and warnings that must be observed to keep the
instrument in a safe condition and ensure safe operation.
To use the Meter correctly and safely, read and follow the precautions in Table 1-1, and
follow all the safety instructions or warnings given throughout this manual that relate to
specific measurement functions. In addition, follow all generally accepted safety
practices and procedures required when working with and around electricity.
XW Warning
1-4
Introduction and Specifications
Table 1-1. Safety Information
Safety Information 1
XW Warning
To avoid possible electric shock, personal injury, or death, read the following before using
the Meter:
• Use the Meter only as specified in this manual, or the protection provided by the Meter
might be impaired.
• Do not use the Meter in wet environments.
• Inspect the Meter before using it. Do not use the Meter if it appears damaged.
• Inspect the test leads before use. Do not use them if insulation is damaged or metal is
exposed. Check the test leads for continuity. Replace damaged test leads before using
the Meter.
• Verify the Meter's operation by measuring a known voltage before and after using it. Do
not use the Meter if it operates abnormally. Protection may be impaired. If in doubt, have
the Meter serviced.
• Whenever it is likely that safety protection has been impaired, make the Meter inoperative
and secure it against any unintended operation.
• Have the Meter serviced only by qualified service personnel.
• Do not apply more than the rated voltage, as marked on the Meter, between the terminals
or between any terminal and earth ground.
• Always use the power cord and connector appropriate for the voltage and outlet of the
country or location in which you are working.
• Remove test leads from the Meter before opening the case.
• Never remove the cover or open the case of the Meter without first removing it from the
main power source.
• Never operate the Meter with the cover removed or the case open.
• Use caution when working with voltages above 30 V ac rms, 42 V ac peak, or 42 V dc.
These voltages pose a shock hazard.
• Use only the replacement fuse(s) specified by the manual.
• Use the proper terminals, function, and range for your measurements.
• Do not operate the Meter around explosive gas, vapor, or dust.
• When using probes, keep your fingers behind the finger guards.
• When making electrical connections, connect the common test lead before connecting
the live test lead; when disconnecting, disconnect the live test lead before disconnecting
the common test lead.
• Disconnect circuit power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before testing
resistance, continuity, diodes, or capacitance.
• Before measuring current, check the Meter's fuses and turn OFF power to the circuit
before connecting the Meter to the circuit.
•When servicing the Meter, use only specified replacement parts.
1-5
8845A/8846A
Users Manual
Symbols
Table 1-2 is a list of safety and electrical symbols that appear on the Meter or in this
manual.
Table 1-2. Safety and Electrical Symbols
Symbol Description Symbol Description
W
X
B
F
D
or
C
R
Y
T
h
Risk of danger. Important
information. See manual
Hazardous voltage. Voltage > 30 V
dc or ac peak might be present
AC (Alternating Current)
DC (Direct Current)
AC or DC (Alternating or Direct
Current)
Continuity test or continuity beeper
tone
Potentially hazardous voltage
Double insulated
Static awareness. Static discharge
can damage part(s)
O
J
E
G
I
Y
U
CAT II
<
~
Display ON / OFF
Earth ground
Capacitance
Diode
Fuse
Digital signal
Maintenance or Service
IEC 61010 Overvoltage (installation or
measurement) Category 2.
Recycle
Do not dispose of this product as unsorted
municipal waste. Contact Fluke or a qualified
recycler for disposal
1-6
Instrument Security Procedures
This section describes the Meter’s memory elements and the procedures for clearing
them.
Volatile Memory
Table 1-3 lists the Meter’s volatile memory elements.
To clear the 128 MB of non-volatile flash memory listed in Table 1-4:
1. Press M.
2. Select the MANAGEMEMORY soft key.
3. Select the ERASEMEMORY soft key.
This process clears only the user accessible portion of memory.
Note
The 4 MB non-volatile memory element is not usable and cannot be cleared
by the user.
Media Memory (8846A Only)
The 8846A has a front-panel USB port for connecting flash memory modules up to 2
Gigabytes to store Meter configuration and measurement data. To clear a memory
module while connected to the 8846A:
1. Press M.
2. Select the MANAGEMEMORY soft key.
3. Select the ERASEUSBMEMORY soft key.
Accessories
Table 1-3 lists the available accessories for the 8845A and 8846A.
Table 1-5. Accessories
Model/Fluke PN Description
TL71 Premium Test Lead Set
6303 Kelvin Probes
6730 Kelvin Lead Set with Alligator Clips
5940 Kelvin clip set
5143 SMD Test Tweezer Leads
6275 Precision Electronic Probe Set
6344 Basic Electronic DMM Test Set
884X-Short 4-Wire Short
884X-Case Black plastic case
1-7
8845A/8846A
Users Manual
Table 1-3. Accessories (cont)
Model/Fluke PN Description
TL910 Precision Electronic Probe Set
TL80A Basic Electronic DMM Test Set
TL2X4W-PT 2X4 Wire Ohms Test Lead
TL2X4W-TWZ 2X4 Wire Ohms SMD Test Tweezer
6262-02 Test Probe Tip Adapter, Extended Fine Point
6263-02 Test Probe Tip Adapter, IC Probe Tip
803293 Fuse, 11 A, 1000 V, Fast, 406INX1.5IN, Buik
Vibration and Shock................................................ Complies with Mil-T-28800E Type III, Class 5 (Sine Only)
28 °C to 40 °C <80 %
40 °C to 55 °C <50 %
Safety
Designed to comply with IEC 61010-1:2000-1, UL 61010-1A1, CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 61010.1, CAT I 1000V/CAT II 600V
EMC
Designed to comply with IEC 61326-1:2000-11 (EMC) when used with shielded communications cables. This Meter has
shown susceptibity to radiated frequencies greater than 1 V/m from 250 to 450 MHz while in the 100 µA range.
Triggering
Samples per Trigger ...........................................1 to 50,000
Trigger Delay ...................................................... 0 S to 3600 S; in 10 µS increments
External Trigger Delay ........................................ <1 mS
AC Voltage specifications are for ac sinewave signals >5 % of range. For inputs from 1 % to 5 % of range and <50 kHz,
add an additional error of 0.1 % of range, and for 50 to 100 kHz, add 0.13 % of range.
Maximum Input...................................................... 750 V rms or 1000 V peak (8845A), 1000 V rms or 1414 V peak
(8846A) or 8 x 10
range.
Measurement Method ........................................... AC-coupled true-rms. Measures the ac component of input with up to
Specifications are for 4-wire resistance function, 2 x 4-wire resistance, or 2-wire resistance with zero. If zero is not used,
add 0.2 Ω for 2-wire resistance plus lead resistance, and add 20 mΩ for 2 x 4-wire resistance function.
Measurement Method ........................................... Current source referenced to LO input.
1-13
8845A/8846A
Users Manual
Max. Lead Resistance (4-wire ohms) ..................10 % of range per lead for 100 Ω, 1 kΩ ranges. 1 kΩ per lead on all
Input Protection .................................................... 1000 V on all ranges.
The following ac current specifications are for sinusoidal signals with amplitudes greater than 5 % of range. For inputs
from 1% to 5 % of range, add an additional error of 0.1 % of range.
Input Protection .................................................... Tool accessible 11 A/1000 V and 440 mA/1000 V fuses.
Measurement Method ........................................... ac-coupled true-rms, dc-coupled to the fuse and shunt (no blocking
AC Filter Bandwidth
Maximum Crest Factor .........................................5:1 at full scale
Additional Crest Factor Errors (<100 Hz) ........... Crest Factor 1-2, 0.05 % of full scale
Input Characteristics
100 µA
1 mA
10 mA 10.00000 mA
100 mA 100.0000 mA 10 µA
1 A 1.000000 A 100 µA 10 µA
3 A[2] 3.00000 A 1 mA 100 µA
10 A 10.00000 A 1 mA 100 µA 10 µA
capacitor)
Slow .................................................................... 3 Hz to 10 kHz
Medium ............................................................... 20 Hz to 10 kHz
Fast..................................................................... 200 Hz to 10 kHz
Crest Factor 2-3, 0.2 % of full scale
Crest Factor 3-4, 0.4 % of full scale
Crest Factor 4-5, 0.5 % of full scale
Range
[1] 8846A Only
[2] Part of 10 A range
Full Scale
(6½ Digits)
[1]
100.0000 µA
[1]
1.000000 mA 100 nA 10 nA 1 nA
4½ Digits 5½ Digits 6½ Digits
10 nA 1 nA 100 pA
1 µA
Resolution
100 nA 10 nA
1 µA
100 nA
1 µA 0.01 Ω
10 µA 0.01 Ω
Shunt Resistance
(Ohms)
100Ω
100Ω
1 Ω
1 Ω
0.01 Ω
Burden Voltage
<0.015 V
<0.15 V
<0.025 V
<0.25 V
<0.05 V
<0.05 V
<0.5 V
8846A Accuracy
Accuracy is given as ± (% measurement + % of range)