Gossen MetraWatt METRAHIT MULTICAL Operating Instructions Manual

METRACAL⏐MC

Multimeter, Calibrator

Operating Instructions

3-349-566-03

7/2.15

2 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Standard Equipment Contact Persons

Scope of Delivery

1 Multimeter, calibrator
1 KS29 measurement cable set
2 Batteries
1 Condensed operating instructions
1 CD ROM (content: operating instructions, data sheet and

more)

1 DAkkS calibration certificate

Overview of Features included

1)

For 46,000 measured values, sampling rate adjustable from 0.1 second
to 9 hours

Functions Multimeter

Calibrator /

Simulator

V AC / Hz TRMS

•

—

V DC

••

Hz (V AC)

•

Pulse generator /

frequency
generator

A AC / Hz TRMS

•

—

A DC

•

Current sensor /

current sink

Hz (A AC)

•

—

Resistance Ω

••

Continuity

•

—

Diode ... 6 V

•

—

Temperature TC

••

Temperature RTD

••

Capacitance

•

—

Min-Max / data hold

•

—

16 MBit memory

1)

•

—

Features

IR Interface

•

Power pack socket

•

Protection (housing)

IP 65

Measuring category

300 V CAT II

—

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 3

Contact Persons

Accessories (sensors, plug inserts, adapters, consumable materials)

The accessories available for your instrument are checked for
compliance with currently valid safety regulations at regular inter­vals, and are amended as required for new applications.
Currently up-to-date accessories which are suitable for your mea­suring instrument are listed at the following web address along
with photo, order number, description and, depending upon the
scope of the respective accessory, data sheet and operating in­structions:
www.gossenmetrawatt.com

See also section 11 on page 80.

Product Support

Technical queries (use, operation, software registration)
If required please contact:

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Product Support Hotline

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]

Software Enabling for METRAwin 10

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Front Office

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]

Training

Training in Nürnberg, on-site training at customer facilities
(scheduling, prices, registration, travel, accommodation)

If required please contact:

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Training Division

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]

4 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Standard Equipment Contact Persons

Recalibration Service

Our service center calibrates and recalibrates (e.g. after one year as
part of your test equipment monitoring system, prior to use etc.)
all instruments from GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH and other
manufacturers, and offers free test equipment management.

Repair and Replacement Parts Service
Calibration Center* and Rental Instrument Service

If required please contact:

GMC-I Service GmbH
Service Center
Thomas-Mann-Str. 20
90471 Nürnberg · Germany
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]
www.gmci-service.com

This address is only valid in Germany. Please contact our repre­sentatives or subsidiaries for service in other countries.

* DAkkS Calibration laboratory for measured electrical quantities,

D-K-15080-01-01, accredited in accordance with
DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2005

Accredited measured quantities: direct voltage, direct current values,
DC resistance, alternating voltage, alternating current values, AC active
power, AC apparent power, DC power, capacitance, frequency and
temperature

Competent Partner

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH is certified in accordance with
DIN EN ISO 9001:2008.

Our DAkkS calibration laboratory is accredited by the Deutsche
Akkreditierungsstelle GmbH (National accreditation body for the
Federal Republic of Germany) in accordance with DIN EN ISO/IEC
17025:2005 under registration number D-K-15080-01-01.

We offer a complete range of expertise in the field of metrology:
from test reports and proprietary calibration certificates right on up to
DAkkS calibration certificates.

Our spectrum of offerings is rounded out with free test equipment
management.

As a full service calibration laboratory, we can calibrate
instruments from other manufacturers as well.

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 5

Contact Persons

6 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Table of Contents

Contents Page Contents Page

1 Safety Features and Precautions ....................................... 8

1.1 Use for Intended Purpose ................................................................10

1.2 Meanings of Danger Symbols ..........................................................11

1.3 Meanings of Acoustic Warning Signals ............................................11

2

Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols 12

3 Initial Start-Up .................................................................. 16

3.1 Inserting Batteries or Rechargeable Batteries ...................................16

3.2 Switching the Instrument On ...........................................................16

3.3 Setting the Operating Parameters ....................................................16

3.4 Switching the Instrument Off ...........................................................17

4 Control Functions ............................................................. 18

4.1 Selecting Measuring Functions and Measuring Ranges .....................18

4.1.1 Automatic Range Selection .............................................................18

4.1.2 Manual Measuring Range Selection .................................................18

4.1.3 Quick Measurements ......................................................................19

4.2 Zero Offset / Relative Measurements ...............................................19

4.3 Display (LCD) .................................................................................20

4.3.1 Exceeding the Measuring Range .....................................................20

4.4 Measured Value Storage: DATA (auto-hold / compare) ......................21

4.4.1 Saving Minimum and Maximum Values – Min/Max Function .............22

4.5 Measurement Data Recording .........................................................23

5 Measurements ................................................................. 26

5.1 Switching from the Calibration Function to the Measuring Function ...26

5.2 Voltage Measurement .....................................................................27

5.2.1 Direct Voltage Measurement, V DC ..................................................28

5.2.2 Alternating Voltage and Frequency Measurement, V AC and Hz .........29

5.2.3 Transient Overvoltages ...................................................................30

5.3 Resistance Measurement Ω .........................................................31

5.4 Continuity Test ..............................................................................32

5.5 Diode Testing with Constant Current of 1 mA ..................................33

5.6 Temperature Measurement ............................................................34

5.6.1 Measurement with Thermocouples, Temp TC .................................. 34

5.6.2 Measurement with Resistance Thermometers ..................................35

5.7 Capacitance Measurement ............................................................37

5.8 Current Measurement .................................................................... 38

5.8.1 Direct Current Measurement, A DC .................................................39

5.8.2 Alternating Current and Frequency Measurement,

Direct Connection, mA AC and Hz ................................................... 40

5.8.3 Direct Current Measurement with Current Clamp Sensor, mA DC ......41

5.8.4 AC Measurement with Current Clamp Sensor, A AC and Hz ..............42

5.8.5 Direct and Alternating Current Measurement with Current Clamp

Transformer, mA DC, mA AC and Hz ...............................................43

6 Calibration Functions ........................................................ 44

6.1 Switching from the Measuring Function to the Calibration Function ...44

6.2 Voltage Source [V] ..........................................................................45

6.3 Pulse, Frequency Generator (positive square-wave pulse) [Hz] ..........46

6.4 Resistance Simulation [Ω] ..............................................................47

6.5 Temperature Simulation [°C / °F] .................................................... 48

6.5.1 Temperature Simulation for Resistance Thermometers –

RTD Temperature Setting ...............................................................49

6.5.2 Temperature Simulation for Thermocouples –

TC Temperature Setting ..................................................................49

6.6 Current Source and Current Sink [mA] .............................................51

6.6.1 Current Sink – Simulation of a 2-Wire Transmitter ..........................52

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 7

Table of Contents

Contents Page Contents Page

6.6.2 Current Source ............................................................................. 52

6.7 Interval Functions, Ramp Functions ................................................. 53

6.7.1 Interval Sequences – INT Function .................................................. 53

6.7.2 Read-Out a Periodic Ramp – RAMP Function .................................. 56

6.7.3 Dual Mode (simultaneous simulation and measurement) .................. 58

7 Device and Measuring Parameters ...................................60

7.1 Paths to the Various Parameters .................................................... 61

7.2 List of All Parameters .................................................................... 61

7.3 Querying Parameters – InFo Menu (as moving letters) ...................... 62

7.4 Entering Parameters – SETUP Menu ............................................... 62

7.5 Default Settings ............................................................................. 64

8 Interface Operation ...........................................................66

8.1 Activating the Interface ...................................................................66

8.2 Configuring Interface Parameters .................................................... 67

9 Technical Data .................................................................68

10 Maintenance and Calibration ............................................ 76

10.1 Displays – Error Messages ............................................................ 76

10.2 Batteries ....................................................................................... 76

10.3 Fuse ............................................................................................. 77

10.4 Housing Maintenance .................................................................... 78

10.5 Return and Environmentally Sound Disposal ....................................78

10.6 Recalibration ................................................................................. 79

10.7 Manufacturer’s Guarantee .............................................................. 79

11 Accessories .......................................................................80

11.1 General ......................................................................................... 80

11.2 Technical Data for Measurement Cables

(scope of delivery: KS29 safety cable set) ........................................ 80

11.3 NA X-TRA Power Pack (not included) .............................................. 80

11.4 Interface Accessories (not included) ................................................ 81

12 Keyword Index ..................................................................82

8 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Safety Precautions

1 Safety Features and Precautions

You have selected an instrument which provides you with high
levels of safety.

This instrument fulfills all requirements of applicable European and
national EC directive. We confirm this with the CE mark. The
relevant declaration of conformity can be obtained from
GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH.

The device has been manufactured and tested in accordance
with safety regulations IEC 61010–1/DIN EN 61010–1/
VDE 0411–1. When used for its intended purpose (see page 10),
safety of the operator, as well as that of the instrument, is as­sured. Their safety is however not guaranteed, if the
instrument is used improperly or handled carelessly.

In order to maintain flawless technical safety conditions, and to assure
safe use, it is imperative that you read the operating instructions
thoroughly and carefully before placing your instrument into service, and
that you follow all instructions contained therein.

Measuring Categories and their Significance per IEC 61010-1

The measuring category and the maximum rated voltage which
are printed on the device apply to your measuring instrument, e.g.
300 V CAT II.

Refer to section 11.2 regarding use of the measurement cables.

Observe the following safety precautions:

• The multimeter may not be used in potentially explosive

atmospheres.

• The multimeter may only be operated by persons who are

capable of recognizing contact hazards and taking the
appropriate safety precautions. Contact hazards according to
the standard exist anywhere, where voltages of greater than
33 V RMS or 70 V DC may occur. Avoid working alone when
taking measurements which involve contact hazards. Be
certain that a second person is present.

• Maximum permissible voltage

between the voltage measuring sockets or all connector sock­ets and ground is 300 V for measuring category II.

• Be prepared for the occurrence of unexpected voltages at

devices under test (e.g. defective devices). For example,
capacitors may be dangerously charged.

CAT Definition

I

Measurements in electrical circuits
which are not directly connected to the mains,

e.g. electrical systems in motor vehicles and aircraft, batteries etc.

II

Measurements in electrical circuits
which are directly connected to the low-voltage mains

via plug, e.g. in household, office and laboratory applications etc.

III

Measurements in building installations:
stationary consumers, distributor terminals, devices connected permanently to
the distributor

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 9

Safety Precautions

• Make certain that the measurement cables are in flawless
condition, e.g. no damage to insulation, no interruptions in
cables or plugs etc.

• Device functions may not be executed in electrical circuits with
corona discharge (high-voltage).

• Special care is required when measurements are made in HF
electrical circuits. Dangerous pulsating voltages may be
present.

• Measurements under moist ambient conditions are not
permitted.

• Be absolutely certain that the measuring ranges are not
overloaded beyond their allowable capacities. Limit values are
included in section 9, “Technical Data”, in the table entitled
“Measuring Functions and Measuring Ranges” in the
“Overload Capacity” column.

• The multimeter may only be operated with installed batteries or
rechargeable batteries. Dangerous currents and voltages are
otherwise not indicated, and the instrument may be damaged.

• The instrument may not be operated if the fuse cover or the
battery compartment lid has been removed, or if its housing is
open.

• The input for the current measuring range is equipped with a
fuse link. Maximum permissible voltage for the measuring
circuit (= rated voltage of the fuse) is 300 V AC/DC. Use speci­fied fuses only (see page 73)! The fuse must have a

breaking capacity of at least 1,5 kA.

Special Safety Precautions for the Calibrator

• If necessary, use the multimeter section of the instrument to
make sure that no dangerous contact voltages are present in
the signal circuits to which the instrument is to be connected.

• In order to prevent damage to the instrument, observe the
maximum allowable voltage and current values indicated at
the jacks.
With the exception of the resistance simulation and mA SINK
operating modes, the connected signal circuits should not
feed any voltage or current back to the calibrator.
In order to avoid damage to the instrument when interference
voltages are applied (within allowable limit values), the mA
SINK and mA SOURCE circuits are equipped with an fuse,
which makes this circuit highly resistive in the event that
excessive current should occur in case of a fault for the
duration of overloading.

10 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Safety Precautions

Opening of Equipment / Repair

The equipment may be opened only by authorized service per­sonnel to ensure the safe and correct operation of the equipment
and to keep the warranty valid.

Even original spare parts may be installed only by authorized ser­vice personnel.

In case the equipment was opened by unauthorized personnel,
no warranty regarding personal safety, measurement accuracy,
conformity with applicable safety measures or any consequential
damage is granted by the manufacturer.

Repair and Parts Replacement

When the instrument is opened, voltage conducting parts may be
exposed. The instrument must be disconnected from the
measuring circuit before performing repairs or replacing of parts.
If repair of a live open instrument is required, it may only be car­ried out by trained personnel who are familiar with the dangers
involved.

Defects and Extraordinary Strains

If it may be assumed that the instrument can no longer be
operated safely, it must be removed from service and secured
against unintentional use.
Safe operation can no longer be relied upon:

• If the device demonstrates visible damage

• If the instrument no longer functions, or if malfunctioning
occurs

• After long periods of storage under unfavorable conditions,
e.g. humidity, dust or extreme temperature (see
“Ambient Conditions” on page 73).

1.1 Use for Intended Purpose

• The multimeter is a portable device which can be held in the
hand during the performance of measurements.

• Only those types of measurements described in section 5 may
be performed with the measuring instrument.

• The measuring instrument, including measurement cables and
plug-on test probes, may only be utilized within the specified
measuring category (see section 9 and the table on page 8
regarding significance).

• Overload limits may not be exceeded. See technical data on
section 9 for overload values and overload limits.

• Measurements may only be performed under the specified
ambient conditions. See section 9 regarding operating
temperature range and relative humidity.

• The measuring instrument may only be used in accordance
with the specified degree of protection (IP code)
(see section 9).

Warning!

The instrument may not be operated in explosive
atmospheres, or connected to intrinsically safe electrical
circuits.

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 11

Safety Precautions

1.2 Meanings of Danger Symbols

Warning concerning a source of danger
(attention: observe documentation!)

1.3 Meanings of Acoustic Warning Signals

Warning for dangerous voltage at the measurement input:
U > 33 V AC or U > 70 V DC (double acoustic signal)

Warning for excessive current in the 300 mA measuring range:
> 310 mA (intermittent acoustic signal)

Voltage warning: > 310 V (intermittent acoustic signal)

!

(2x)

...

...

12 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols

2

Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols

1 Display (LCD) (see page 13 for significance of symbols)
2 MAN / AUTO Shift key for manual/automatic measuring range selection

 Increase parameter values

Operating mode menu: Selection of individual menu entries against
direction of flow

3

ON / OFF | LIGHT

key for switching device and display illumination on and off

4 OUT | ENTER

OUT: Switch calibrator output on and off
Operating mode menu: Acknowledge entry (ENTER)

5



Increase measuring range or move decimal point to the right (MAN function)

6 Rotary switch for measuring functions (white) and calibration functions

(red), (see page 13 for significance of symbols)
7 DAkkS calibration mark
8 Connector jacks for calibrator output
9 Connector jacks for measuring and sensing inputs

10 DATA / MIN / MAX

Key for freezing, comparing and deleting the measured value, and for the

Min-Max function

 Decrease values

Operating mode menu: Selection of individual menu entries in the
direction of flow

11 MEASURE / CAL | SETUP

Key for switching between measuring, calibration and menu functions

12 ZERO / SEL | ESC

Key for zero balancing and for selecting double functions

Operating mode menu: Exit current menu level and return to a higher level.

Exit parameters entry function without saving. Pause ramp/interval

13



Decrease measuring range or move decimal point to the left (MAN function)
14 Power pack connector jack
15 Infrared interface

1

3

4

15

5

6

8

→

section 4.3

→

section 3

→

section 5

→

section 8

→

section 7

→

section 3

ff

12

11

→

section 6

9

2

→

section 4.1.2

13

Max. 300 V !

10

14

section 4.1←

section 4.4

←

section 7

←

section 3

←

section 7

←

section 3.1

←

7

→

section 1.2

Not a measuring input!

Do not connect external voltage
except for current sink.

!

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 13

Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols

Symbols Used in the Digital Display

1 Battery level indicator
2 NUM: Numeric entry of the output signal
3 INT: Interval sequence active
4 RAMP: Ramp function active
5 SINK: Current sink active
6 SOURCE: Current source active
7 ON: Calibrator output active
8 IR: infrared interface indicator

9 Auxiliary display with decimal point and polarity display
10 STORE: memory mode active
11 Selected type of current
12 Transformation ratio (current clamp factor)
13 Diode measurement selected
14 Unit of measure
15 Continuity test with acoustic signal active
16 : Continuous operation (automatic shutdown deactivated)
17 Digital display with decimal point and polarity display
18 RTD: selected nickel or platinum resistance thermometer
19 TC: temperature measurement with thermocouple types B through U
20 MAN: manual measuring range selection active
21 DATA: display memory, “freeze measured value”
22 max/min: Min-Max value storage
23 Δ: relative measurement with reference to offset
24 ZERO: zero balancing active

1 28

9

14

16

18

654 7

9

3

Battery full

*

Battery OK

*

Battery weak

Battery (almost) dead, U < 1.8 V

Data transmission ↓ to / ↑ from calibrator active

IR interface in stand-by mode
(ready to receive power-up commands)

Battery Level Indicator

Interface Indicator (with rotary switch setting ≠ OFF)

11

13

10

15

22 242120

19

17

23

12

* Calibration function: current I

Sink

possible (U > 2.3 V)

14 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols

Symbols Used for Rotary Switch Positions

Rotary Switch

SEL

Display ZERO Measuring Function – White Printing

V —mV, V DC • Direct voltage
V~ 0/2 mV, V ~ AC TRMS • Alternating voltage, AC TRMS, full bandwidth
Hz (V) 1 Hz, kHz ~ AC — Voltage frequency, full bandwidth

Ω

0/2 Ω, kΩ, MΩ•(DC) resistance

Ω

1 ς — Continuity test Ω with acoustic signal

—

V DC — Diode voltage

Temp. T C —

°C types B ... U

— Temperature, type K thermocouple

Temp. R T D — °C Pt100/1000

°C Ni100/1000

• Temperature with resistance thermometer

—nF μF • Capacitance
mA —μA, mA DC • Direct current value
mA~ — μA, mA ~ AC TRMS • Alternating current amperage, AC TRMS

Rotary Switch

SEL

Display Calibration Function – Red Printing
V — V DC Direct voltage simulator
Hz — Hz Pulse / frequency generator

Ω

0/2 ς (DC) Resistance simulator

Temp. T C —

°C types B ... U

Thermocouple simulator

Temp. R T D — °C Pt100/1000

°C Ni100/1000

Resistance thermometer simulator

mA — mA Current sink
mA — mA Current sensor

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 15

Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols

User Interface Symbols in the Following Sections

 ...  Scroll through main menu

 ...  Scroll through submenu

  Select decimal point

 Increase/decrease value

time Submenu/parameter (7-segment font)

1nFo Main menu (7-segment font, boldface)

Symbols on the Device

Warning concerning a source of danger
(attention: observe documentation!)

Ground

CAT II

Overvoltage category II (see also “Measuring Categories
and their Significance per IEC 61010-1

” on page 8

)

Continuous, doubled or reinforced insulation

EC label of conformity

s IR t Position of the infrared interface, window on the top of

the instrument

See also section 3.1 regarding location of the
power pack adapter socket.

Fuse for current measuring ranges, see section 10.3

This device may not be disposed of with the trash. Fur­ther information regarding the WEEE mark can be
accessed on the Internet at
www.gossenmetrawatt.com by entering the search
term WEEE (see also section 10.5).

Calibration mark (blue seal):

See also “Recalibration” on page 79.

!

5V/600mA

Serial number

Registration number
Date of calibraion (year – month)

German Accrediation Body GmbH – Calibration lab

XY123

2012-08

D-K-

15080-01-01

16 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Initial Start-Up – Setup

3 Initial Start-Up

3.1 Inserting Batteries or Rechargeable Batteries

Be certain to refer to section 10.2 regarding correct battery
installation.

Momentary battery voltage can be queried in the Info menu (see
section 7.3).

Attention!

!

Disconnect the instrument from the measuring circuit before
opening the battery compartment lid in order to replace the
batteries.

Operation With Power Pack
(accessory, not included, see section 11.3)

Installed batteries are disconnected electronically if the power
pack is used, and need not be removed from the
instrument. If rechargeable batteries are used, they must be
recharged externally. If the external power supply is switched off,
the device is switched to battery operation without interruption.

3.2 Switching the Instrument On

Switching the Instrument On Manually

Ð Press the ON / OFF | LIGHT key until the display appears.

Power-up is acknowledged with a brief acoustic signal. As
long as the key is held depressed, all of the segments at the
liquid crystal display (LCD) are illuminated.
The LCD is depicted on page 13.
The instrument is ready for use as soon as the key is released.

Display Illumination

After the instrument has been switched on, background
illumination can be activated by briefly pressing the
ON / OFF | LIGHT key. Illumination is switched back off by once
again pressing the same key, or automatically after approximately
1 minute.

Switching the Instrument On with a PC

The multimeter is switched on after transmission of a data block
from the PC, assuming that the “irStb” parameter has been set to
“ir on” (see section 7.4).

However, we recommend using the power saving mode “ir off”.

Note

Electrical discharge and high frequency interference may
cause incorrect displays to appear, and may disable the
measuring or calibrating sequence.
Disconnect the device from the measuring circuit. Switch the
instrument off and back on again in order to reset. If the
problem persists, briefly dislodge the battery from the
connector contacts (see also section 10.2).

3.3 Setting the Operating Parameters

Setting Time and Date

See the “t iME” and “dAtE” parameter in section 7.4.

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 17

Initial Start-Up – Setup

3.4 Switching the Instrument Off

Switching the Instrument Off Manually

Ð Press the ON / OFF | LIGHT key until 0FF appears at the display.

Shutdown is acknowledged with a brief acoustic signal.
Ð Complete shutdown of all functions including the IR interface

is accomplished by turning the rotary switch to OFF.
In the calibration function, the output can be shut down
separately with the OUT | ENTER key.
Shutdown is acknowledged with a brief acoustic signal.
Exceptions:

If a dangerous voltage is present at the input, shutdown is blo­cked and an acoustic signal is generated. The instrument must be
disconnected from the measuring cables before being switched
off.

Automatic Shutdown – DMM

The instrument is switched off automatically if the measured value
remains unchanged for a long period of time (maximum measured
value fluctuation of approx. 0.8% of the measuring range per
minute, or 1° C or 1° F per minute), and if none of the keys or the
rotary switch have been activated before a selected period of time
in minutes has elapsed (see “APoFF” parameter on page 63).
Shutdown is acknowledged with a brief acoustic signal.
Exceptions:
Transmission and memory mode operation, continuous operation
and whenever a dangerous voltage is applied to the input
(U > 33 V AC or U > 70 V DC).

Automatic Shutdown – Calibrator

The device is switched off automatically after the selected time,
“APoFF ” (see page 63), has elapsed. The display is shut down
after one additional minute, assuming that neither the rotary
switch nor any of the keys are activated.
The display can also be switched off by pressing the
ON / OFF | LIGHT key.
Automatic shutdown of the outputs is disabled in the continuous
operation mode (AP oFF = on).

Disabling Automatic Shutdown

The instrument can be set to continuous operation.

Ð Simultaneously press the

and keys to this end.

or

Ð

Select AP oFF = on in the setup menu (see “

APoFF

” on page 63.)

Continuous operation is indicated at the display with the

symbol.

The “Continuous On” setting can only be canceled by changing the re­spective parameter, and not by switching the instrument off if automatic
shutdown has been deactivated in the setup menu (see “APoFF” on page

63).

ON / OFF

LIGHT

OUT

ENTER

18 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Control Functions

4 Control Functions

4.1 Selecting Measuring Functions and Measuring Ranges

The desired measuring function (white symbols) is selected with
the rotary switch. Double functions like Hz and continuity testing
are selected with the OUT | ENTER key.

4.1.1 Automatic Range Selection

The multimeter is equipped with auto-ranging for all measuring
functions except for temperature measurement, and diode and
continuity testing. Auto-ranging is active as soon as the
instrument is switched on. The instrument automatically selects
the measuring range which allows for highest possible resolution
of the applied quantity. When the instrument is switched to
frequency measurement, the previously selected voltage
measuring range remains active.

AUTO-Range Function

The multimeter is switched automatically to the next higher range
at ±(30,999 d + 1 d → 31,000 d) and to the next lower range at
±(2700 d - 1 d → 2699 d).

Exception, capacitance measurement:

The multimeter is switched automatically to the next higher range
at ±(3099 d + 1 d → 310 d) and to the next lower range
at ±(270 d - 1 d → 2699 d).

4.1.2 Manual Measuring Range Selection

Auto-ranging can be deactivated and measuring ranges can be
selected manually in accordance with the following table by
pressing the MAN / AUTO button.

The desired measuring range can then be selected with the

 or

 scroll key.

The instrument is automatically returned to range selection when
the MAN / AUTO key is pressed, the rotary switch is activated or the
instrument is switched off and back on again.

Overview: Auto-Ranging and Manual Range Selection

* Via manual measuring range selection only
** The momentary measured value is used as a reference point during zero

balancing, and is subtracted from future measured values.
Maximum correction is 50% of the measuring range. If the measuring
range is changed with the help of the MAN key, the ZERO function
remains active (at the display and in memory).

Note

Use short or shielded measurement cables in case of
high-impedance resistance (3 MΩ or 30 MΩ range).

Function Display

MAN / AUTO

Manual mode active:

Utilized measuring range is fixed

MAN

 or 

Range switching sequence for:

V

∗∗

: 60 mV* ↔ 300 mV* ↔ 3 V ↔ 30 V ↔ 300 V

Hz: 300 Hz

↔

3 kHz ↔ 30 kHz ↔ 300 kHz

Ω

∗∗

:

300 Ω ↔ 3 kΩ ↔ 30 k

Ω ↔

300 k

Ω ↔

3 M

Ω ↔

30 M

Ω

A∗∗:

300 μA ↔ 3 mA ↔ 30 mA ↔ 300 mA

F:

30 nF ↔ 300 nF ↔ 3 μF ↔ 30 μF ↔ 300 μF

MAN

MAN / AUTO

Return to automatic measuring range selection —

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 19

Control Functions

4.1.3 Quick Measurements

Measurements performed using a suitable fixed measuring range
are executed more quickly than those which utilize automatic
range selection. Quick measurement is made possible with the
following two functions:

• Manual measuring range selection, i.e. selection of the measuring

range with the best resolution (see section 4.1.2)

or

•With the DATA function (see section 4.4). In this way, the

appropriate measuring range is selected automatically after the
first measurement, and the second measurement is executed
more quickly.

The selected measuring range remains active for the subsequent
series of measurements with these two functions.

4.2 Zero Offset / Relative Measurements

Zero balancing or a reference value for relative measurements can
be stored to memory depending upon deviation from the zero
point:

The relevant reference or correction value is deducted individually
for the respective measuring function as an offset from all future
measurements and remains in memory until deleted, or until the
multimeter is switched off.

Zero balancing and reference value adjustment can be used for
auto-ranging, as well as for manual measuring range selection.

Zero Balancing

Ð Plug the measuring cables into the instrument and connect the

free ends to each other, except for capacitance measurement
in which case the ends of the cables are not connected to
each other.

Ð Briefly press the ZERO / SEL | ESC key.

The instrument acknowledges zero balancing with an acoustic
signal, and the “D ZERO” symbol appears at the LCD. The
value measured at the moment the key is pressed serves as a
reference value.

Ð Zero balancing can be cleared by once again pressing the

ZERO / SEL | ESC key.

Note

As a result of TRMS measurement, the multimeter displays a
residual value of 1 to 30 digits with short-circuited
measurement cables as the zero point for V AC/I AC
measurements (non-linearity of the TRMS converter). This
has no influence on specified accuracy above 2% of the
measuring range (or 3% in the mV range).

Deviation from zero point
– with short-circuited measurement cables for V, Ω, mA, RTD
– with open input for capacitance unit of measure F

Display

0 to 200 digits Δ ZERO

> 200 to 15000 digits Δ

20 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Control Functions

4.3 Display (LCD)

4.3.1 Exceeding the Measuring Range

Measured Value, Unit of Measure, Type of Current, Polarity

The measured value appears at the digital display with decimal
and plus or minus sign. The selected unit of measure and current
type are displayed as well. A minus sign appears to the left of the
value during the measurement of zero-frequency quantities, if the
plus pole of the measured quantity is applied to the “⊥” input.

Overranging
If the upper range limit of 31,000 digits is exceeded “0L” (overload)

appears at the display.
Exceptions: “0L” appears as of 3100 digits for capacitance
measurement, and as of 61,000 digits for diode testing.

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 21

Control Functions

4.4 Measured Value Storage: DATA (auto-hold / compare)

An individual measured value can be automatically “frozen” with
the DATA function (auto-hold). This is useful, for example, when
contacting the measuring points with the test probes requires
your full attention. After the measuring signal has been applied
and the measured value has settled in in accordance with the
“condition” listed in the table below, the measured value is frozen
in the top left section of the auxiliary display as well as the associ­ated „freeze time“ in the top right section and an acoustic signal is
generated. The test probes can now be removed from the mea­suring points, and the measured value can be read from the digi­tal display. If the
measuring signal falls below the value specified in the table, the
function is reactivated for storage of the next value.

Measured Value Comparison (DATA Compare)

If the currently frozen value deviates from the first saved value by
less than 100 digits, the acoustic signal is generated twice. If
deviation is greater than 100 digits, only a brief acoustic signal is
generated.

Note

However, when the digital display is “frozen”, the decimal
point is fixed as well (fixed measuring range, symbol: MAN).
The selected measuring range should not be manually
changed as long as the DATA function is active.

The DATA function is deactivated by pressing and holding the
DATA/MIN/MAX key (approx. 1 second), when the measuring func­tion is changed or when the instrument is switched off and back
on again.

1)

Reactivation results from falling short of specified measured value limits.

2)

Two acoustic signals are generated the first time a measured value is
saved as a reference value. For subsequent data hold, two acoustic sig­nals are only generated if the currently frozen value deviates from the first
saved value by less than 100 digits.

Key: MV = measured value, MR = measuring range

DATA

Function

Data/

Min/Max

Key

Condition Response from Instrument

Measuring

Function

Measuring

Signal

Auxiliary Display Acous-

tic Sig-

nal

top left top right

Activate Brief Once

Save
(stabilized
measured

value)

V, A, F, Hz,

> 10%

rdg.

frozen

MV is

indicated

„Freeze
time“ is

indicated

Once

Twi ce

2)

RTD TC Ω

≠ 0L

Reactivate

1)

V, A, F, Hz,

< 10%

rdg.

Stored

MV

RTD TCΩ

= 0L

Change to

Min/Max

Brief See table, section 4.4.1

Exit Long

Is deleted Is deleted

Tw ic e

V, mA, Hz

t [s]

100%

10%

Activated

Reactivated

Save

Save

30,000 Digits

of Measuring Range

F

31,000 Digits

OL

22 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Control Functions

Example

The voltage measuring range is set manually to 10 V.
The first measured value is 5 V and is stored to memory because
it is greater than 10% of the measuring range. As soon as the
measured value drops to less than 10% of the measuring range,
i.e. amounts to less than 1 V which corresponds to removal of the
test probes from the measuring point, the instrument is ready to
store a new value.

4.4.1 Saving Minimum and Maximum Values – Min/Max Function

Minimum and maximum measured values applied to the
measuring instrument’s input after the Min/Max function has been
activated can be “frozen” at the display. The most important use
of this function is the determination of minimum and maximum
values during long-term measured value observation.

The Min/Max function can be activated in all measuring functions.
Apply the measured quantity to the instrument and set the mea-

suring range with the MAN / AUTO key before activating the Min/
Max function.

The Min/Max function is deactivated by pressing and holding the
DATA/MIN/MAX key (approx. 1 second), when the measuring func­tion is changed or when the instrument is switched off and back
on again.

Note

As opposed to the DATA function, the Min/Max function can
also be used for temperature measurement.

Min-Max
Function

Data/

Min/Max

Key

Min. and Max.

Measured Values

Response from Instrument

Display

Acous

tic

Sig-

nal

Digital

Measured

Valu e

Max.

Min.

1

Activate

and save

1 x brief Are saved

Current

measured

value

Min.

Once

2

Save and

display

Brief

Storage continues in back­ground, new min. and max.

values are displayed together

with the point in time of

occurrence.

Saved min.

value

Min.

Once

Brief

Saved max.

value

Max.

Once

Stop Long Are deleted

Current

measured

value

Is

deleted

Twi ce

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 23

Control Functions

4.5 Measurement Data Recording

The multimeter is capable of recording measurement data using
an adjustable sampling rate for long periods of time in the form of
measurement series. Data are stored to a battery backed
memory module, and are retained even after the multimeter is
switched off. The system acquires measured values relative to
real-time.

Stored measured values can subsequently be read out with the
help of METRAwin 10 software. The only prerequisite is a PC which
is connected by means of an interface cable to the
USB X-TRA bidirectional interface adapter, which is plugged onto
the digital multimeter. See also section 8.

Memory Parameters Overview

The STORE Menu Function

Ð First set the sampling rate for memory mode operation

(see section 7.4 the rAtE parameter), and then start memory
mode operation.

Ð Select the desired measuring function and an appropriate

measuring range.

Ð Check the battery charge level before starting long-term

measurement recordings (see section 7.3).
Connect the NA X-TRA power pack if applicable.

Starting Recording via Menu Functions

Ð Switch to the “SETUP” mode by pressing MEAS / CAL | SETUP and

select the “StorE” menu.

1nFo

 ...  StorE StArt StorE

Ð Memory mode operation is started by acknowledging with

OUT | ENTER. The small STORE segment appears, indicating that
the memory mode has been activated.
“Store” appears at the digital display, indicating that you’re still
in the menu function.

Ð Press MEAS / CAL | SETUP in order to return to the measuring

function.

Parameter Page: Header

CLEAr

24: Clear Memory

EMpty

24: Clear Memory – appears after CLEAr

0CCvP

24: Querying Memory Occupancy

rAtE

62: rAtE – set the sampling rate

StArt

23: Starting Recording via Menu Functions

StoP

24: Ending Recording

MEAS / CAL

SETUP

OUT

ENTER

OUT

ENTER

STORE

24 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

Control Functions

During Recording

In order to be able to observe measured values during recording,
switch to the measuring function by pressing
MEAS / CAL | SETUP. After pressing MEAS / CAL | SETUP once again,
the display is returned to the 1nfo menu where memory
occupancy can be queried with the 0CuPP parameter.

Note

As soon as memory is full, the “Store” segment is cleared
from the display.

A new memory block is created when another measuring function
is selected with the rotary switch or the OUT | ENTER key. Data stor­age then continues automatically.

Ending Recording

store stop store

Ð Press MEAS / CAL | SETUP in order to return to the measuring

function.

Ð Memory mode operation can also be exited by switching the

multimeter off.

Querying Memory Occupancy

Memory occupancy can be queried during recording with the
help of the “1nFo” menu (see also section 7.3).

Memory occupancy range: 000.1% to 099.9%.

1nFo

bAtt: 

... 

0CCvP

%:

017.4

%

Memory occupancy can be queried before recording is started via
the “1nfo” menu.

1nFo

 ...  StorE 017.4 %  StArt

Clear Memory

This function deletes all measured values from memory! This
function cannot be executed during memory mode operation.

1nFo

 ...  StorE StArt

 Clear 

yes

empty → StorE

OUT

ENTER

OUT

ENTER

MEAS / CAL

SETUP

OUT

ENTER

MEAS / CAL

SETUP

OUT

ENTER

MEAS / CAL

SETUP

OUT

ENTER

OUT

ENTER

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 25

Control Functions

26 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH

V/Hz, Ω, Temperature, and A/Hz Measurements

5 Measurements

5.1 Switching from the Calibration Function to the Measuring Function

If any calibration function is active, press and hold the
MEASURE / CAL | SETUP key in order to activate the measuring func­tion.

0230.6

V

AC

0050.0

Hz

V~

Hz

MEAS/CAL

SETUP

V~

CALIBRATOR MULTIMETER

Hz

15.000 calibV

Long

–+ +

–+ +

–+ +