183
Digital Multimeter
Instruction Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. INTRODUCTION
page
1. Congratulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
2. Product Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
3. EC Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . .4
B. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
C. TECHNICAL DATA
1. Features and Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
2. Product Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
3. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
D. MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES
1. Controls and Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
a) Disable Auto Power Off . . . . . . . . . .13
b) Activating PC Communications . . . .13
2. Step by Step Procedures:
a) Measuring DC Volts . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
b) Measuring AC Volts . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
c) Measuring DC Amps . . . . . . . . . . . .18
d) Measuring AC Amps . . . . . . . . . . . .20
e) Measuring Resistance . . . . . . . . . . .21
f) Measuring Diodes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
g) Continuity Buzzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
h) Measuring Capacitance . . . . . . . . . .24
i) Measuring Frequency . . . . . . . . . . .25
j) Record Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
k) Compare Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
l) Relative % Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
m) Two-Hold System . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
n) RS-232C Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
E. ACCESSORIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
F. MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
G. TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
2 3
A. INTRODUCTION
1. Congratulations!!
Thank you for purchasing a TPI Digital Multimeter. The
Triple Display 183 is an innovative new concept in DMM
design. The unique display enables you to view more than
one event at a time. This eliminates the hassle of switching
back and forth to review minimum, maximum or preset
comparative values. The meter is also easy to use and built
to last. The 183 is covered by a 3 Year Limited Warranty.
2. Product Description
The 183 is a hand-held autoranging DMM. The backlit LCD
can display three readings at one time. In addition to basic
functions of ACV, DCV, ACA, DCA, , Diode Test and
Continuity, the 183 measures Frequency (Hz) and
Capacitance. The 183 also has RS232 output and software
for recording information into a PC.
The 183 also features:
• REC Records Min/Max and Average readings during
specified measurement intervals. Time reference can also be displayed to determine when
the values were recorded.
• COMP Compare actual reading to preset HI and LOW
values for Pass/Fail testing of components.
• HOLD Two-hold system automatically holds the
previous stable reading when a new one is
obtained.
The 183 comes complete with the following
accessories:
Battery
Rubber Boot
Test Lead Set
Instruction Manual
3. EC Declaration of Conformity
This is to certify that model 183 conforms to the protection
requirements of the council directive 89/336/EEC, in the
approximation of laws of the member states relating to
Electromagnetic compatibility and 73/23/EEC, The Low
Voltage Directive by application of the following standards:
EN 50081-1 1992 Emissions Standard
EN 50082-1 1992 Immunity Standard
EN61010-1 1993 Safety Standard
EN61010-2-031 1995 Safety Standard
To ensure conformity with these standards, this instrument
must be operated in accordance with the instructions and
specifications given in this manual.
CAUTION:
Even though this instrument complies with the
immunity standards, the accuracy can be affected
by strong radio emissions not covered in the
above standards. Sources such as hand held radio
transceivers, radio and TV transmitters, vehicle
radios and cellular phones generate electromagnetic radiation that could be induced into the test
leads of this instrument. Care should be taken to
avoid such situations or alternatively, check to
make sure that the instrument is not being
influenced by these emissions.
4
3. EC Declaration of Conformity
This is to certify that model 183 conforms to the protection
requirements of the council directive 89/336/EEC, in the
approximation of laws of the member states relating to
Electromagnetic compatibility and 73/23/EEC, The Low
Voltage Directive by application of the following standards:
EN 50081-1 1992 Emissions Standard
EN 50082-1 1992 Immunity Standard
EN61010-1 1993 Safety Standard
EN61010-2-031 1995 Safety Standard
To ensure conformity with these standards, this instrument
must be operated in accordance with the instructions and
specifications given in this manual.
CAUTION:
Even though this instrument complies with the
immunity standards, the accuracy can be affected
by strong radio emissions not covered in the
above standards. Sources such as hand held radio
transceivers, radio and TV transmitters, vehicle
radios and cellular phones generate electromagnetic radiation that could be induced into the test
leads of this instrument. Care should be taken to
avoid such situations or alternatively, check to
make sure that the instrument is not being
influenced by these emissions.
4
B. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
WARNING: Please follow manufacturers test
procedures whenever possible. Do not attempt to
measure unknown voltages or components until a
complete understanding of the circuit is obtained.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
ALWAYS
• Test the 183 before using to make sure it is
operating properly.
• Inspect the test leads before using to make sure there
are no breaks or shorts.
• Double check all connections before testing.
• Have someone check on you periodically if working
alone.
• Have a complete understanding of the circuit being
measured.
• Disconnect power to circuit, then connect test leads
to the 183, and then to circuit being measured.
NEVER
• Attempt to measure unknown high voltages.
• Attempt to measure current with the meter in parallel
to the circuit.
• Connect the test leads to a live circuit before setting
up the instrument.
• Touch any exposed metal part of the test lead
assembly.
5
INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS
CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
AC (ALTERNATING CURRENT)
DC (DIRECT CURRENT)
REFER TO INSTRUCTION MANUAL
GROUND
FUSE
DOUBLE INSULATION
C. TECHNICAL DATA
1. Features and Benefits
Safety Meets CE and IEC 1010 requirements.
UL Listed to U.S. and Canadian Safety
Standards.
True RMS Needed to accurately measure non-sinu-
soidal AC voltage and current waveforms
found on many controls and circuits.
Triple Display Shows more than one reading simultaneously.
Analog Bar Shows rapidly changing input signals
Graph that the normal display will not.
Two-Hold Holds two readings on the display at
System the same time.
Auto Off Automatically powers instrument off after 30
minutes of inactivity. Pressing any push
button or turning the rotary switch returns
the 183 to normal.
Record Records Min/Max and Average values. Time
reference when value was obtained.
Compare Compares stored value with measured value
for matching components.
Relative Displays measured value as a % of stored
Percentage value for checking component tolerances.
RS232 Output Transfers data directly to a PC while measuring.
Back Light Allows viewing in any light condition.
Autorange Automatically selects the best range for
the measurement.
76
2. Product Applications
Perform the following tests and/or measurements
with the TPI 183 and the appropriate function:
HVAC/R
DCmV • Thermocouples in furnaces or gas
applications.
ACA • Heat anticipator current in thermostats.
ACV • Line voltage.
ACV or DCV • Control circuit voltage.
DCµA • Flame safeguard control current.
OHMS • Heating element resistance (continuity).
OHMS • Compressor winding resistance.
OHMS • Contactor and relay coil resistance.
OHMS • Continuity of wiring.
CAP • Motor start and run capacitance.
Hz/FREQ • Frequency on controls and line voltage.
REC • Record min/max voltage of controls and line
voltages.
DCmV • Temperature with optional temperature
adapter (A310).
ALL • Bar graph to indicate rapid fluctuations in
measurements.
ELECTRICAL
ACV • Measure line voltage.
OHMS • Continuity of circuit breakers.
Hz/FREQ • Frequency of line and control voltage.
DCV • Voltage of direct drive DC motors.
ELECTRONIC
ACV • Measure power supply voltage.
OHMS • Continuity of circuit breakers.
REL% • Match components
COMP • Compare readings in circuits or components
Hz/FREQ • Frequency of line and control voltage.
3. Specifications
IEC 1010 Over Voltage:
CAT II - 1000V
CAT III - 600V
Pollution Degree 2
UL 3111-1
a. DCV
Range Resolution Accuracy Impedance
400mV 0.1mV ±0.3% of reading, 10MΩ
4V 0.001V ±2 digits
40V 0.01V
400V 0.1V
1000V 1V
b1. ACV (45Hz to 450Hz)
Range Resolution Accuracy Impedance
4V 0.001V ±0.75% of reading, 10MΩ
40V 0.01V ±5 digits
400V 0.1V
750V 1V
b2. ACV (450Hz to 5kHz)
Range Resolution Accuracy Impedance
4V 0.001V unspecified 10MΩ
40V 0.01V ±2% of reading,
400V 0.1V ±5 digits
750V 1V
b3. ACV (5kHz to 20kHz)
Range Resolution Accuracy Impedance
4V 0.001V unspecified 10MΩ
40V 0.01V ±2.5% of reading,
400V 0.1V ±5 digits
750V 1V unspecified
98
3. Specifications (cont.)
c. DCA
Range Resolution Accuracy Overload
400µA 0.1µA ±0.5% of reading,
4000µA 1µA ±5 digits
40mA 0.01mA
400mA 0.1mA
4A 0.001A ±0.75% of reading, Fuse**(fast blow)
10A 0.01A ±5 digits F600V, 10A, 31CM
Protection
Fuse**(fast blow)
F600V, .5A, 31CM
d. ACA
Range Resolution Accuracy Overload
400µA 0.1µA ±0.75% of reading,
4000µA 1µa ±5 digits
40mA 0.01mA
400mA 0.1mA
4A 0.001A ±1% of reading,
10A 0.01A ±5 digits
Protection
Fuse**(fast blow)
F600V, .5A, 31CM
Fuse**(fast blow)
F600V, 10A, 31CM
e. OHM (Resistance, )
Range Resolution Accuracy Overload
400Ω 0.1Ω ±0. 5% of reading, 600V DC or
4kΩ 0.001kΩ ±5 digits AC Peak
40kΩ 0.01kΩ
400kΩ 0.1kΩ
4MΩ 0.001MΩ ±1% of reading,
40MΩ 0.01MΩ ±10 digits
Protection
f. Diode Test
Test Voltage Max Test Current Over Load Protection
3V Approx. 2.5mA 600 V DC or Peak AC
**Warning: Use only correct size, voltage and current rated fuses.
Test Leads: Use only correct type and overvoltage category rating.
10
3. Specifications (cont.)
g. Continuity Buzzer
Test Voltage Threshold Over Load Protection
3V 1000 digits 600 V DC or Peak AC
h. Capacitance
Range Resolution Accuracy Over Load Protection
10µF 0.01µF ±2% of reading, 600V DC or
100µF 0.1µF ±5 digits Peak AC
1000µF 1µF
10,000µF 1µF ±3% of reading, ±7 digits
i. Frequency
Range Resolution Accuracy Over Load Protection
200.00Hz 0.01Hz ±0.05% of reading, 600V DC or
2.0000kHz 0.0001kHz ±2 digits Peak AC
20.000kHz 0.001kHz
200.00kHz 0.01kHz
l. General Specifications
Max. Volt. between 1000V
any Input and Ground
Fuse Protection mA: 0.5Amp/600VAC; A: 10Amp/600VAC
Display Type, Digital: 4,000 Count, 4 times per second update
Operating Temp. -0° to 40°C (32° to 113°F)
Storage Temp. -20° to 60°C (-4° to 140°F)
Relative Humidity 0% to 80%: (0° - 35°C/32° - 95°F)
Temp. Coefficient 0.1 x (Specified Accuracy) per °C for
Power Supply 9 Volt Battery
Battery Life 100 hrs. Alkaline
Size (H x L x W) 33mm x 86mm x 187mm (1.3” x 3.4” x
7.4”)
Weight 380g (14.4oz)
Analog: 2x41 segments, 20 times per sec. update
0% to 70%: (35° - 55°C/95° - 131°F)
temperature <18°C to >28°C
11
D. MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES
1. Controls and Functions:
Push Buttons
Activates Back Light for the LCD (automatically
turns off after approx. 70 sec.)
REC Activates the Min/Max/Ave mode.
COMP Activates the Compare mode.
REL% Activates the REL% mode.
RANGE Activates manual ranging.
EDIT Activates the EDIT mode for the Compare and
Relative % functions.
HOLD Activates two-hold data-hold mode.
Activates special dual functions on LCD.
(Min/Max time reference)
Rotar
y Switch
Off Turns the instrument off.
mV Selects the DC mV function.
V Selects the DCV function.
VHz Selects the ACV function. (Push the yellow button
to display frequency of measured voltage on
lower display.)
Selects the diode test function.
Ω
mA Selects the DC mA function.
A Selects the DCA function. (10A max.)
A Selects the ACA function. (10A max.)
mA Selects the AC mA function.
Selects resistance function. (Push yellow button
to activate continuity buzzer.)
Selects the Capacitance function.
Hz Selects the Frequency function.
Input Jacks
A Red test lead connection for current
measurements on the A and A functions.
mAµA Red test lead connection for current
measurement on the mA and mA functions.
COM Black test lead connection for all functions.
Ω
V
Red test lead connection for all Volt, Ohm, Diode
and Continuity measurements.
RS-232C
Jack on See section on RS-232C interface.
right side
2. Power On Options:
Disable Auto Off Hold down the REC button while turning on
the instrument.
Activate RS-232C Hold down the COMP button while
Computer turning on the instrument. Also disables
Communication Auto Power Off when using computer
communication function.
1312
Application Notes
When measuring DC Voltage of a
battery, the most accurate reading can
be attained by testing the battery
under load. To accomplish this, follow
steps 1 through 4 shown on page 15
and the following (with the battery in
holder and device turned on):
• Connect the red test lead from the
meter to the positive (+) terminal
of the battery.
• Connect the black test lead to the
negative (-) terminal of the battery.
• Reconnect power to the circuit and
read the voltage on the 183.
3. Step by Step Procedures:
a. Measuring DC Volts
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement if
a test lead is plugged in the A or mA input jack.
Instrument damage and/or personal injury may
result.
ARNING!
W
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement of
more than 1000V or of a voltage level that is
unknown.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
mV COM VΩ Hz 0.1mV 400.0mV
V COM VΩ Hz 0.001V 1000V
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Plug black test lead into the COM input jack.
3 Plug red test lead into the V input jack.
4. Set rotary switch to either the mV or V range,
depending on the voltage to be measured.
5. Connect test leads to circuit to be measured.
6. Reconnect power to circuit to be measured.
7. Read the voltage on the 183.
1514
Application Notes
Disconnect power from the termi-
nal block, find the fuse or circuit
breaker that controls the block
and turn it off.
Set up the meter following the
steps under “Measurement
Procedure” on page 17. Then
proceed with the following:
• Connect the red test lead to the hot side of the
block and the black lead to the neutral side of the
block. Reconnect power to the block and read the
voltage on the meter. The reading should be
approximately 110V to 130V.
• Disconnect power from the block and move the
red wire to ground. Reconnect power to the
block and read the voltage on the meter. Typically
less than 20V should exist from neutral to
ground. If 110V or above exists, the block may
be wired incorrectly.
b. Measuring AC Volts
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement if
a test lead is plugged in the A or µmA input jack.
Instrument damage and/or personal injury may
result.
ARNING!
W
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement of
more than 750V or of a voltage level that is
unknown.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
VΩ Hz COM VΩ Hz 0.001V 750V
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Plug black test lead into COM input jack.
3. Plug red test lead into the VΩ input jack.
4. Set the rotary switch to the VHz function
depending on the voltage to be measured.
5. Connect test leads to circuit to be measured.
6. Reconnect power to circuit to be measured.
7. Read the voltage on the 183.
Optional Function
8. Press the gray button on the 183.
9. Read the frequency of the voltage being measured in the lower left hand corner of the LCD.
1716
c. Measuring DC Amps
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a current measurement
with the test leads connected in parallel with the
circuit to be tested. Test leads must be connected
in series with the circuit.
ARNING!
W
Do not attempt to make a current measurement of
circuits with more than 600V present. Instrument
damage and/or personal injury may result.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
umA COM mA 0.01mA 400.0mA
A COM A 0.001A 10.00A
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Plug black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug red test lead into the mA or A input jack
depending on the value of current to be
measured.
4. Set the rotary switch to the mA, or A function.
5. Connect the test leads in series to the
circuit to be measured.
6. Reconnect power to circuit to be measured.
7. Read the current on the 183.
Application Notes
When measuring the DC current of a
flame controller, follow the steps
under “Measurement Procedure” on
page 18 and then proceed with the
following:
• Set up the meter for making a
mA measurement.
• Connect the meter to the flame
controller lead by opening the
circuit and inserting the leads in
series with the circuit as shown
in the picture above.
1918
d. Measuring AC Amps
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a current measurement
with the test leads connected in parallel with the
circuit to be tested. Test leads must be connected
in series with the circuit.
ARNING!
W
Do not attempt to make a current measurement of
circuits with more than 600V present. Instrument
damage and /or personal injury may result.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
umA COM mA 0.01mA 400.0mA
A COM A 0.001A 10.00A
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Plug black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug the red test lead into the mA or A input
jack depending on the value of current to be
measured.
4. Set the rotary switch to the mA or A function.
5. Connect test leads in series to circuit to be
measured.
6. Reconnect power to circuit to be measured.
7. Read the current on the 183.
e. Measuring Resistance
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make resistance measurements
with circuit energized. For best results, remove
the resistor completely from the circuit before
attempting to measure it.
NOTE:
To make accurate low ohm measurements, short
the ends of the test leads together and record the
resistance reading. Deduct this value from actual
readings.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
Ω COM VΩ Hz 0.1Ω 40.00MΩ
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Plug black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug red test lead into VΩ Hz input jack.
4. Set the rotary switch on the 183 to the
function.
5. Connect the test leads to the circuit to be
measured.
6. Read the resistance value on the 183.
2120
f. Measuring Diodes
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make diode measurements with
circuit energized. The only way to accurately test
a diode is to remove it completely from the
circuit before attempting to measure it.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
COM VΩ Hz 0.001V 2.000V
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Plug black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug red test lead into VΩHz input jack.
4. Set the rotary switch to the function.
5. Connect the black test lead to the banded end
of the diode and the red test lead to the nonbanded end of the diode.
6. Reading on the display should be between 0.5
and 0.8 volts.
7. Reverse test lead connections in 5 above.
8. Reading on the display should be OFL
(Overload).
NOTE: If diode reads 0 in both directions, diode
is shorted. If diode reads OFL in both directions,
diode is open.
g. Continuity Buzzer
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make continuity measurements
with circuit energized.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD
COM VΩ Hz
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Plug black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug the red test lead into the VΩ Hz input
jack.
4. Set the rotary switch to the function.
5. Press the gray push button to activate the continuity buzzer.
6. Connect test leads to circuit to be measured.
7. Listen for the buzzer to confirm continuity.
2322
h. Measuring Capacitance
WARNING!
All capacitance measurements are to be made
on de-energized circuits with all capacitors
discharged only. Failure to de-energize and discharge capacitors before attempting to measure
them could result in instrument damage and/or
personal injury.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
COM VΩ Hz 0.01µF 10000µF
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Remove capacitor from the circuit and
discharge it.
3. Plug black test lead into the COM input jack.
4. Plug the red test lead into the VΩ Hz input
jack.
5. Set the rotary switch to the function.
6. Connect test leads to capacitor to be
measured.
7. Read the capacitor value on the LCD.
i. Measuring Frequency
W
ARNING!
Never attempt a frequency measurement with a
voltage source greater than 600V. Determine the
voltage of any unknown frequency source before
connecting the instrument in frequency mode.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
Hz COM VΩ Hz 0.01Hz 200.00KHz
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Plug black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug red test lead into the VΩHz input jack.
4. Set the rotary switch to the Hz function.
5. Reconnect power to circuit to be measured.
6. Read the frequency on the LCD.
2524
j. Record Mode
The record mode saves minimum (MIN) and
maximum (MAX) values measured for a series of
readings. The main part of the LCD displays the
actual reading, the MAX value is constantly displayed on the lower left hand sub-display while the
MIN value is constantly displayed on the lower right
hand sub-display. Activate the function as follows:
1. Depress the REC button on the 183.
2. The 183 will immediately start to record and
display MIN/MAX values on the two lower subdisplays. A confirmation beep will sound every
time a new value is recorded.
3. Press REC button a second time and the AVE
(average) reading will be displayed.
4. Press the REC button again to return to normal
record mode.
5. To terminate the record mode, hold the REC
button down for approximately 2 seconds or
turn the rotary switch to a different function.
Optional Function (Time Reference on Min/Max Readings)
While in Record Mode push the gray button, the
two sub-displays will show the elapsed time in
seconds since the last Min/Max values were
obtained. By setting a clock at the start of the
recording session, you can easily determine the
approximate time that values were measured.
k. Compare Mode
The compare mode takes the actual reading on the
main display and compares it to LOW and HIGH
values, programmed by the user, on the subdisplays. This is used to compare components or
measurements for acceptable readings. Activate the
function as follows:
1. To use Compare Mode manually select the
correct range for the function.
2. Depress the COMP button.
3. Depress the EDIT button. The right hand digit
under the HIGH sub-display will start to flash.
4. Depress the REL% or HOLD buttons until the
correct number is selected for the position.
5. Depress the REC button. The next digit to the
right of 3 above will start to flash.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until the correct values
for all eight digits under LOW and HIGH subdisplays are entered.
7. After the correct LOW and HIGH values are
entered, depress the EDIT button.
8. Measure the circuit or component being
compared to the programmed values. Results
will be displayed as PASS for the acceptable
readings, LO for low readings, and HI for high
readings.
9. Depress the COMP button or turn the rotary
switch to exit the function.
2726
l. Relative % Mode
The Relative % mode takes the actual reading on
the main display and compares it to a reference
value programmed by the user on the right hand
sub-display. The left hand sub-display will show the
percentage the actual reading varies from the reference value. Activate the function as follows:
1. To use Relative % mode manually select the
range for the function.
2. Depress the REL% button.
3. Depress the EDIT button. The right hand digit
under the REF sub-display will start to flash.
4. Depress REL% or HOLD buttons until correct
number is selected for that display position.
5. Depress the REC button. The next digit to the
right of 3 above will start to flash.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until correct values for
all four digits under REF sub-display are
entered.
7. After the correct REF value is entered, depress
the EDIT button.
8. Measure the circuit or component being compared to the programmed reference value.
Results will be displayed as a percentage in the
lower left hand sub display.
9. Depress the REL% button or turn the rotary
switch to exit the function.
m. Two-Hold System
The two-hold system is a data hold feature that will
automatically store a stable reading under the 1
HOLD sub-display in the lower left hand corner of
the LCD. When a new, stable reading is obtained,
the reading under 1 HOLD will be moved to 2 HOLD
and the new reading will be displayed under 1
HOLD.
Depress the HOLD button to activate the feature.
Push the button again to de-activate the feature.
2928
n. RS-232C Interface
Demonstration software is provided with the 183. The program is written for windows using Visual Basic. For your
own applications, consult the following:
1. Specification:
Baud Rate 1200
Parity Bit None
Data Bit 7
Stop Bit 1
2. Data Formats: FAR_DDDDDDT
Indicator Description
F Function Code
A Indicates Auto or Manual Range
R Range Code
_ Space
DDDDDD Reading Data (with decimal pointer
T Data Delimiters
Function Codes
Code Function Code Function Code Function
0 ACV 4 ACA 8 –
1 OHMS 5 DCA 9 ACmA
2 DCV 6 Diode A Capacitance
3 DCmV 7 CmA B Frequency
Range Codes
Func. Ranges
Code 0 1 2 3 4 5
0, 2 4.00V 40.00V 400.0V 1000V – –
7, 9 40.00MA 400.0MA – – – –
4, 5 4.000A 10.00A – – – –
1 400.0 4.000k 40.00k 400.0k 4.000M 40.00M
B 200.00Hz 2.0000kHz 20.000kHz 200.00kHz – –
A 400.0nF 4.000µF 40.00µF – – –
3 400mV – – – – –
6 4.000V – – – – –
and sign)
Auto or Manual Range Codes
Code Mode
0 Manual Range
1 Auto Range
Example Application Program:
cls
gosub ComOpen
on Com (2) on
WaitLoop:
goto WaitLoop
CompOpen:
close #1
open “com2:1200,n,7,1,rs,cs,ds,cd” as#1
return
GetCom:
com (2) off
input#1,rd$
if len (rd$)>9 then
RdgData$=right$ (rd$,&)
FunCode$=left$ (rd$,1)
ModCode$=mid$ (rd$,2,1)
RgeCode$=mid$ (rd$,3,1)
print FunCodes$, “ “;ModCode$;” “;RgeCode$;RdgData$
end if
com (2) on
return
3130
E. ACCESSORIES*
Standard Accessories Part No.
9 Volt Alkaline Battery A009A
Fuse, 0.5 Amp A104
Fuse, 10 Amp A110
Test Lead Set A050
Rubber Boot A101
Optional Accessories Part No.
Demonstration Software A108
Deluxe Test Lead Set SDK1
IEC 1010 Deluxe Test Lead Kit TLS2000B
Temperature Adapter A301
Boot Hook A103
Soft Carrying Case A100
*These accessories have not been evaluated by UL and are not considered as part of the UL Listing of this product.
F. MAINTENANCE
1. Battery Replacement: The 183 will display BAT
when the 9 Volt battery needs replacement.
Battery replaced as follows:
a. Disconnect and remove all test leads from
live circuits and from the 183.
b. Remove 183 from protective boot.
c. Remove the three screws from back of
housing.
d. Carefully pull apart front and rear instrument
housing.
e. Remove old batteries and replace with new
batteries.
f. Reassemble instrument in reverse order
from above.
2. Fuse Replacement: Both the A and mAµA input
jacks are fuse protected. Use only Fast Blow, 600
Volt fuses with correct current ratings. Failure to
do so will void all warranties. If either do not
function, replace as follows:
a. Disconnect and remove all test leads from
live circuits and from the 183.
b. Remove 183 from protective boot.
c. Remove the three screws from back of
housing.
d. Carefully pull apart the front and rear instru-
ment housing.
e. Remove old fuse(s) and replace it with new
fuse(s).
f. Reassemble instrument in reverse order
from above.
3. Cleaning your 183
Use a mild detergent and a slightly damp cloth to
clean the surfaces of the 183.
3332
G. TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
Problem Probable Causes
Does not power up
• Dead or defective battery
• Broken wire from battery
snap to PCB
Won’t display current readings
• Open fuse
• Open test lead
• Improperly connected to
circuit under test
All functions except ohms read high
• Very weak battery that will
not turn on the low battery
indicator on the LCD
ACV do not read
• Very weak battery that will
not turn on the low battery
indicator on the LCD
34
WARRANTY
Please refer to product warranty card for
warranty statement.
Test Products International, Inc.
9615 SW Allen Blvd., Ste. 104
Beaverton, OR USA 97005
503-520-9197 • Fax: 503-520-1225
info@tpi-thevalueleader.com
L183M • 07/02/02 copyright © 2002 Test Products International, Inc.
183 SPECIFICATIONS ±0.5% Basic DCV Accuracy
Function Range Resolution
DCV 400mV 0.1mV
ACV 4V 0.001V
DCA 400µA 0.1µA
ACA 400µA 0.1µA
OHM 400 0.1
Capacitance 10µF 0.01µF
(183) 100µF 0.1µF
Capacitance 4nF 1pF
(185) 40nF 10pF
4V 0.001V
40V 0.01V
400V 0.1V
1000V 1V
40V 0.01V
400V 0.1V
750V 1V
4000µA 1µA
40mA 0.01mA
400mA 0.1mA
4A 0.001A
10A 0.01A
4000µA 1µa
40mA 0.01mA
400mA 0.1mA
4A 0.001A
10A 0.01A
4k 0.001k
40k 0.01k
400k 0.1k
4M 0.001M
40M 0.01M
1000µF 1µF
10,000µF 1µF
400nF 100pF
4µF 1nF
Frequency 200.00Hz 0.01Hz
2.0000kHz 0.0001kHz
20.000kHz 0.001kHz
200.00kHz 0.01kHz
est V
oltage Max T
T
est Current
Diode 3V Approx. 2.5mA
est Voltage Threshold
T
Continuity 3V 1000 digits
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