Agilent U1273A/U1273AX Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide Agilent Technologies
Notices © Agilent Technologies, Inc., 2012–2014 Warranty No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form or by any means (including electronic storage and retrieval or translation into a foreign language) without prior agreement and written consent from Agilent Technologies, Inc. as governed by United States and international copyright laws. The material contained in this document is provided “as is,” and is subject to change, without notice, in future editions.
Safety Symbols The following symbols on the instrument and in the documentation indicate precautions which must be taken to maintain safe operation of the instrument.
Safety Considerations Read the information below before using this multimeter. The descriptions and instructions in this manual apply to the Agilent U1273A/U1273AX Handheld Digital Multimeter (hereafter referred to as the multimeter). CAUTION • Disconnect circuit power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before testing resistance, continuity, diodes, or capacitance. • Use the proper terminals, function, and range for your measurements. • This device is for use at altitudes of up to 3,000 m.
WA R N I N G • Never use the multimeter in wet conditions or when there is water on the surface. If the multimeter is wet, ensure that the multimeter is dried only by trained personnel. • Before use, verify the multimeter's operation by measuring a known voltage. • When measuring current, turn off the circuit power before connecting the multimeter in the circuit. Remember to place the multimeter in series with the circuit. • When servicing the multimeter, use only the specified replacement parts.
Environmental Conditions This instrument is designed for indoor use and in an area with low condensation. The table below shows the general environmental requirements for this instrument.
Regulatory Markings The CE mark is a registered trademark of the European Community. This CE mark shows that the product complies with all the relevant European Legal Directives. The C-tick mark is a registered trademark of the Spectrum Management Agency of Australia. This signifies compliance with the Australia EMC Framework regulations under the terms of the Radio Communication Act of 1992. ICES/NMB-001 indicates that this ISM device complies with the Canadian ICES-001.
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC This instrument complies with the WEEE Directive (2002/96/EC) marking requirement. This affixed product label indicates that you must not discard this electrical or electronic product in domestic household waste. Product Category: With reference to the equipment types in the WEEE directive Annex 1, this instrument is classified as a “Monitoring and Control Instrument” product. The affixed product label is as shown below.
Declaration of Conformity (DoC) The Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for this instrument is available on the Agilent website. You can search the DoC by its product model or description at the Web address below. http://regulations.corporate.agilent.com/DoC/search.htm NOTE U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide If you are unable to search for the respective DoC, please contact your local Agilent representative.
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Table of Contents 1 Introduction About This Manual 2 Documentation map Safety notes 2 2 Preparing Your Multimeter 3 Check the shipment 3 Install the batteries 3 Turn on your multimeter 6 Automatic power-off 6 OLED Auto Dim function 7 Increase the OLED brightness 7 Select the range 8 Alerts and warnings during measurement Adjust the tilt stand 11 Connect the IR-USB cable 11 Power-on options 13 Your Multimeter in Brief Dimensions 14 Overview 16 Rotary switch 18 Keypad 20 Display screen 24 Input terminals 3
Using the LPF (Low Pass Filter) function for AC measurements 37 Measuring DC Voltage 39 Using the Filter Function for DC measurements 42 Measuring AC and DC Signals 43 Using the LPF (Low Pass Filter) Function for AC+DC measurements 45 Making dB Measurements 46 Using ZLOW for Voltage Measurements Measuring Resistance 51 Measuring conductance Testing for Continuity 49 53 54 Using Smart Ω for Resistance Measurements Testing Diodes 57 60 Using Auto-diode for Diode Tests Measuring Capacitance 66 Mea
Capturing Peak Values (Peak) 94 Freezing the Display (TrigHold and AutoHold) 96 Recording Measurement Data (Data Logging) Performing manual logs (HAND) 98 Performing interval logs (AUTO) 98 Performing event logs (TRIG) 100 97 Reviewing Previously Recorded Data (View) Sanitizing the Log Memories 103 4 102 Multimeter Setup Options Using the Setup Menu 106 Editing numerical values 107 Setup Menu Summary 108 Setup Menu Items 113 Changing the variation count 113 Changing the recording option 113 Chang
Changing the parity check 124 Enabling the echo feature 125 Enabling the print feature 125 Enabling the overvoltage alert 126 Changing the user scale conversion value and unit Enabling smooth mode 128 Resetting the multimeter’s setup options 129 Changing the battery type 129 Enabling the filter 130 5 127 Characteristics and Specifications Product Characteristics Specification Assumptions 134 136 Measurement Category 136 Measurement category definition 136 Electrical Specifications 138 DC specificatio
List of Figures Figure 1-1 Figure 1-2 Figure 1-3 Figure 1-4 Figure 1-5 Figure 1-6 Figure 1-7 Figure 1-8 Figure 1-9 Figure 1-10 Figure 1-11 Figure 1-12 Figure 1-13 Figure 1-14 Figure 1-15 Figure 1-16 Figure 2-1 Figure 2-2 Figure 2-3 Figure 2-4 Figure 2-5 Figure 2-6 Figure 2-7 Figure 2-8 Figure 2-9 Figure 2-10 Figure 2-11 Figure 2-12 Figure 2-13 Figure 2-14 Figure 2-15 Figure 2-16 Figure 2-17 Figure 2-18 U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide Installing the batteries 4 Change battery display 5 Start-up display 6 Input
Figure 2-19 Figure 2-20 Figure 2-21 Figure 2-22 Figure 2-23 Figure 2-24 Figure 2-25 Figure 2-26 Figure 2-27 Figure 2-28 Figure 2-29 Figure 2-30 Figure 2-31 Figure 2-32 Figure 2-33 Figure 2-34 Figure 2-35 Figure 2-36 Figure 2-37 Figure 2-38 Figure 2-39 Figure 2-40 Figure 3-1 Figure 3-2 Figure 3-3 Figure 3-4 Figure 3-5 Figure 3-6 Figure 3-7 Figure 3-8 Figure 3-9 Figure 3-10 Figure 3-11 XVI Measuring leakage current 59 Diode display 60 Open diode display 61 Testing a forward-bias diode 62 Testing a reverse-b
List of Tables Table 1-1 Table 1-2 Table 1-3 Table 1-4 Table 1-5 Table 1-6 Table 1-7 Table 1-8 Table 1-9 Table 2-1 Table 2-2 Table 2-3 Table 2-4 Table 2-5 Table 2-6 Table 2-7 Table 2-8 Table 2-9 Table 2-10 Table 2-11 Table 2-12 Table 2-13 Table 2-14 Table 2-15 U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide Power-on options 13 Front panel parts 16 Rear panel parts 17 U1273A/U1273AX rotary switch functions 19 Keypad functions 20 General annunciators 25 Measurement units display 28 Analog bar graph display 29 Terminal connecti
Table 2-16 Rotary switch position allowing temperature measurements 68 Table 2-17 Rotary switch positions allowing current measurements 72 Table 2-18 Rotary switch positions allowing current measurements 78 Table 2-19 % Scale measurement range 79 Table 2-20 Rotary switch positions allowing frequency measurements 81 Table 3-1 Available scale conversions 90 Table 3-2 Data logging maximum capacity 97 Table 3-3 Event log trigger conditions 100 Table 4-1 Setup menu key functions 106 Table 4-2 Setup menu item des
measurements 151 Table 5-19 Display update rate (approximate) 152 Table A-1 U1273A/U1273AX default and shift functions 154 Table B-1 U1273A/U1273AX dual display combinations 158 U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide XIX
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U1273A/U1273AX Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide 1 Introduction About This Manual 2 Documentation map 2 Safety notes 2 Preparing Your Multimeter 3 Check the shipment 3 Install the batteries 3 Turn on your multimeter 6 Automatic power-off 6 OLED Auto Dim function 7 Increase the OLED brightness 7 Select the range 8 Alerts and warnings during measurement 8 Adjust the tilt stand 11 Connect the IR-USB cable 11 Power-on options 13 Your Multimeter in Brief 14 Dimensions 14 Overview 16 Rotary switch 18 Keyp
1 Introduction About This Manual About This Manual Documentation map The following manuals and software are available for your multimeter. For the very latest version, please visit our website at http://www.agilent.com/find/hhTechLib. Check the manual revision on the first page of each manual. • User’s Guide. This manual. • Quick Start Guide. Printed copy for outdoor use, included with shipment. • Service Guide. Free download at the Agilent website.
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 Preparing Your Multimeter Check the shipment When you receive your multimeter, check the shipment according to the following procedure. 1 Inspect the shipping container for damage. Signs of damage may include a dented or torn shipping container or cushioning material that indicates signs of unusual stress or compacting. Save the packaging material in case the multimeter needs to be returned.
1 Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 Open the battery cover. Lift the tilt stand, loosen the screws with a suitable Phillips screwdriver, and remove the battery cover as shown in Figure 1- 1. 2 Insert the battery. Observe the proper battery polarity. The terminal ends of each battery are indicated inside the battery compartment. 3 Close the battery cover. Place the battery cover back in its original position and tighten the screws.
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 When the Change Battery warning (Figure 1- 2) is shown on the display, the multimeter will power- off automatically after 5 seconds (even if the APO feature is disabled). Figure 1-2 Change battery display WA R N I N G To avoid false readings, which could lead to possible electric shock or personal injury, replace the battery as soon as the low battery indicator appears.
1 Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter Turn on your multimeter To power ON your multimeter, turn the rotary switch to any other position. Figure 1-3 Start-up display To power OFF your multimeter, turn the rotary switch to the position. Automatic power-off Your multimeter automatically turns off if the rotary switch is not moved or a key is not pressed for 10 minutes (default). Pressing any key will turn the multimeter back on after it is powered off automatically.
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 OLED Auto Dim function Your multimeter’s OLED automatically dims if the rotary switch is not moved or a key is not pressed for 90 seconds (default). This auto dim behavior is enabled by default. Pressing any key or changing the rotary switch position will cancel this effect and reset the auto dim timer. To disable the auto dim, refer to “Changing the OLED behavior” on page 121. Increase the OLED brightness NOTE The auto dim function is enabled by default.
1 Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter Select the range The multimeter’s selected range is always displayed above the right- hand end of the bar graph, as the range indicator. Pressing switches the multimeter between manual and auto- ranging. It also cycles through the available multimeter ranges when manual ranging is enabled. Range Auto Auto- ranging is convenient because the multimeter automatically selects an appropriate range for sensing and displaying each measurement.
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 Your multimeter provides a voltage alert for voltage measurements in both auto- ranging and manual range modes. The multimeter starts beeping periodically once the measured voltage exceeds the alert value (regardless of polarity) set in the setup menu. By default, this feature is turned off. Be sure to set the alert voltage according to your test requirements. To change the alert voltage level, refer to “Enabling the overvoltage alert” on page 126.
1 Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter Figure 1-4 Input warning display (A INPUT) Figure 1-5 Input warning display (mA INPUT) This warning is intended to stop you from attempting to measure voltage, continuity, resistance, capacitance, diode, or temperature values when the leads are plugged into a current terminal.
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 Adjust the tilt stand To adjust the multimeter to a 60° standing position, pull the tilt- stand outward to its maximum reach.
1 Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter Refer to the Agilent GUI Data Logger Software Help and Quick Start Guide for more information on the IR communication link and the Agilent GUI Data Logger software. Figure 1-7 Agilent GUI Data Logger Software The Agilent GUI Data Logger software and its supporting documents (Help and Quick Start Guide) are available for free download at http://www.agilent.com/find/hhTechLib. You may purchase a U1173A IR- USB cable from an Agilent Sales Office nearest to you.
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 Power-on options Some options can be selected only while you turn the multimeter on. These power- on options are listed in the table below. To select a power- on option, press and hold the specified key while turning the rotary switch to any other position (OFF to ON). Power- on options remain selected until the multimeter is turned off. Table 1-1 Power-on options Key Null Scale Checks firmware version.
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Your Multimeter in Brief Dimensions Front view 92 mm Figure 1-8 Width dimensions 14 U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Rear and side view 59 mm 207 mm Figure 1-9 Height and depth dimensions U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide 15
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Overview Front panel The front panel parts of your multimeter are described in this section. Click the respective “Learn more” pages for more information on each part.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Rear panel The rear panel parts of your multimeter are described in this section. Click the respective “Learn more” pages for more information on each part.
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Rotary switch The measurement functions for each rotary switch position are described in Table 1- 4. Turning the rotary switch changes the measurement function and resets all other measurement options. Click the respective “Learn more” pages for more information on each function. NOTE Some rotary switch positions have a shifted function printed in orange. Press to switch between the shifted and default function. See page 23 for more information on the key.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Table 1-4 U1273A/U1273AX rotary switch functions Legend ZLOW Description Learn more on: Low impedance AC or DC voltage measurement for eliminating ghost voltages page 49 Off page 6 AC voltage measurement with Low Pass Filter AC voltage measurement (up to millivolts) with Low Pass Filter AC, DC, or AC+DC voltage measurement AC, DC, or AC+DC voltage measurement (up to millivolts) Smart Auto page 34 and page 37 page 34, page 39, and page 42 Resistance measu
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Keypad The operation of each key is explained below. Pressing a key enables a function, displays a related symbol, and emits a beep. Turning the rotary switch to another position resets the current operation of the key. Click the respective “Learn more” pages for more information on each function.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Table 1-5 Keypad functions (continued) Function when pressed for: Legend Less than 1 second Starts the MaxMin recording. Starts and stops the Peak recording. MaxMin Peak MaxMin Peak • Press again to cycle through maximum (REC MAX), minimum (REC MIN), average (REC AVG), and present (REC NOW) readings. • Press for more than 1 second to exit this mode. MaxMin Peak Freezes the present reading in the display (T-HOLD mode).
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Table 1-5 Keypad functions (continued) Function when pressed for: Legend Less than 1 second More than 1 second Learn more on: Starts and stops the Data Logging. • If data logging is set as HAND (manual data logging), pressing for more than 1 second will log the present reading into the memory. The display will return to normal after a short while (≈ 1 second). To manually log another reading, press again for more than 1 second.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Table 1-5 Keypad functions (continued) Function when pressed for: Learn more on: Legend Less than 1 second More than 1 second Enters the Log Review menu. Shift Esc View Shift Esc View Switches between the default and shifted measurement function (icon printed in orange above the rotary switch position — if available). Press again to switch back to the default measurement function.
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Display screen The display annunciators of your multimeter are described in this section. See also “Measurement units” on page 28 for a list of available measurement signs and notations and “Analog bar graph” on page 29 for a tutorial on the analog bar graph located at the bottom of your display screen. General display annunciators The general display annunciators of your multimeter are described in the table below.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Table 1-6 General annunciators Legend Description Learn more on: Remote control enabled page 11 Bias voltage or leakage current indication for Smart Ω measurements page 57 Data logging in progress page 97 Scale transfer enabled page 90 View mode for reviewing previously logged data page 102 Secondary measurement display - AC, DC, and AC+DC indication for secondary display page 45, page 49, and page 81 Elapsed time for Peak and Recording mode page 9
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Table 1-6 General annunciators (continued) Legend Description Learn more on: Maximum reading shown on primary display Minimum reading shown on primary display page 92 Averaged reading shown on primary display Present reading shown on primary display Relative (Null) enabled page 88 Relative value when Null is enabled page 88 Audible continuity test selected page 54 Normal open continuity indication page 54 Normal close continuity indication page 54 J-type
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Table 1-6 General annunciators (continued) Legend Description AC (alternating current) AC+DC • Capacitor is charging (during capacitance measurement) • Positive slope for pulse width (ms) and duty cycle (%) measurements • Capacitor is discharging (during capacitance measurement) • Negative slope for pulse width (ms) and duty cycle (%) measurements Primary measurement display page 34 and page 72 page 42 page 66 and page 81 - Battery capacity indication page 3
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Measurement units The available signs and notations for each measurement function in your multimeter are described in Table 1- 7. The units listed below are applicable to the primary display and secondary display measurements of your multimeter. Table 1-7 Measurement units display 28 Sign/Notation Description M Mega 1E+06 (1000000) k kilo 1E+03 (1000) n nano 1E–09 (0.000000001) μ micro 1E–06 (0.000001) m milli 1E–03 (0.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Analog bar graph The analog bar emulates the needle on an analog multimeter, without displaying the overshoot. When measuring peak or null adjustments and viewing fast- changing inputs, the bar graph provides a useful indication because it has a faster updating rate[1] to cater for fast- response applications.
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief An unstable bar graph and unmatched primary display when measuring DC voltage usually means the presence of AC voltages in the circuit. Input terminals The terminal connections for the different measurement functions of your multimeter are described in the table below. Observe the rotary switch position of your multimeter before connecting the test leads to the connector terminals.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Table 1-9 Terminal connections for different measuring functions Rotary switch position Input terminals Overload protection 1000 VRMS ZLOW 1000 VRMS for short circuit <0.
1 Introduction Cleaning Your Multimeter Cleaning Your Multimeter WA R N I N G To avoid electrical shock or damage to the multimeter, ensure that the insides of the casing stay dry at all times. Dirt or moisture in the terminals can distort readings. Follow the steps below to clean your multimeter. 1 Turn the multimeter off, and remove the test leads. 2 Turn the multimeter over, and shake out any dirt that may have accumulated in the terminals.
U1273A/U1273AX Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide 2 Making Measurements Crest Factor 34 Measuring AC Voltage 35 Using the LPF (Low Pass Filter) function for AC measurements 37 Measuring DC Voltage 39 Using the Filter Function for DC measurements 42 Measuring AC and DC Signals 43 Using the LPF (Low Pass Filter) Function for AC+DC measurements 45 Using ZLOW for Voltage Measurements 49 Measuring Resistance 51 Measuring conductance 53 Testing for Continuity 54 Using Smart Ω for Resistance Measurements 57
2 Making Measurements Crest Factor Crest Factor The crest factor may be determined by using this formula: Peak value Crest factor = ------------------------------------------True RMS value You may refer to “Capturing Peak Values (Peak)” on page 94 on how to obtain the peak values. The crest factor may be up to 3.0 at full- scale except for the 1000 V range where it is 1.
Making Measurements Measuring AC Voltage 2 Measuring AC Voltage Set up your multimeter to measure AC voltage as shown in Figure 2- 2. Probe the test points, and read the display.
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC Voltage NOTE • For measuring AC voltage signals with DC offset, refer to the “Using the Filter Function for DC measurements” section later in this manual. • Press to cycle through the available dual display combinations. See Appendix B, “Dual Display Combinations Using the Dual Key,” starting on page 157 to learn more. Dual Exit • Press to measure the frequency of the AC voltage source. See “Measuring Frequency” on page 81 to learn more.
Making Measurements Measuring AC Voltage 2 Using the LPF (Low Pass Filter) function for AC measurements Your multimeter is equipped with an AC low- pass filter to help reduce unwanted electronic noise when measuring AC voltage or AC frequency. Table 2-2 Rotary switch positions allowing AC voltage measurements with LPF Legend Default function Function when AC V AC V with LPF AC mV AC mV with LPF Shift Esc View is pressed Set up your multimeter to measure AC voltage as shown in Figure 2- 2.
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC Voltage Figure 2-3 AC voltage with LPF display WA R N I N G • To avoid possible electric shock or personal injury, do not use the Low Pass Filter option to verify the presence of hazardous AC voltages. AC voltage values greater than what are indicated may be present when the Low Pass Filter is enabled. • First, make an AC voltage measurement with the filter OFF to detect the possible presence of hazardous voltages.
Making Measurements Measuring DC Voltage 2 Measuring DC Voltage Set up your multimeter to measure DC voltage as shown in Figure 2- 5. Probe the test points, and read the display. Table 2-3 Rotary switch positions allowing DC voltage measurements Legend Default function Function when Shift Esc View is pressed Cycles between DC V • AC V, • AC+DC V, or • DC V Cycles between DC mV NOTE • AC mV, • AC+DC mV, or • DC mV This multimeter displays DC voltage values as well as their polarity.
2 Making Measurements Measuring DC Voltage NOTE • For firmware version 1.64 and below, the Filter function is switched off by default. Customers are advised to update their products to the latest firmware version to take advantage of the latest safety features and measurement improvements. • Press to cycle through the available dual display combinations. See Appendix B, “Dual Display Combinations Using the Dual Key,” starting on page 157 to learn more.
Making Measurements Measuring DC Voltage 2 4 3 DC 2 1 Figure 2-5 Measuring DC voltage U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide 41
2 Making Measurements Measuring DC Voltage Using the Filter Function for DC measurements Turn on the Filter Function when measuring DC voltage and/or current from a mixed signal (AC+DC components) in the DC voltage measurement mode. See “Enabling the filter” on page 130 for more information. The Filter Function blocks and attenuates AC signals to help you read the DC measurement from a mixed signal.
Making Measurements Measuring AC and DC Signals 2 Measuring AC and DC Signals Your multimeter is capable of displaying both AC and DC signal components, voltage or current, as two separate readings or one AC+DC (RMS) value combined.
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC and DC Signals Figure 2-7 AC+DC voltage display Figure 2-8 AC+DC current display NOTE • For better accuracy when measuring the DC offset of an AC voltage, measure the AC voltage first. Note the AC voltage range, then manually select a DC voltage range equal to or higher than the AC range. This procedure improves the accuracy of the DC measurement by ensuring that the input protection circuits are not activated.
Making Measurements Measuring AC and DC Signals 2 Using the LPF (Low Pass Filter) Function for AC+DC measurements Your multimeter is equipped with an AC low pass filter to help reduce unwanted electronic noise when measuring a mixed signal. 1 Enable the LPF (You may refer to “Enabling the filter” on page 130) 1 Rotate the multimeter’s rotary switch to / . Shift Esc View 2 Press to activate the low pass filter function ( ).
2 Making Measurements Making dB Measurements Making dB Measurements Your multimeter is capable of displaying voltage as a dB value, either relative to 1 milliwatt (dBm) or a reference voltage of 1 volt (dBV). Displaying dBm values To set the multimeter to display voltage values in dBm, first set up your multimeter to measure voltage as shown in Figure 2- 2 or Figure 2- 5. Probe the test points, and read the display. Then, press until the voltage measurements are displayed as a dBm value.
Making Measurements Making dB Measurements 2 Figure 2-10 dBm display Press Dual Exit for more than 1 second to exit the dBm function. Displaying dBV values To set the multimeter to display voltage values in dBV, first change the dB (decibel) display from dBm to dBV in the setup menu. See “Changing the decibel display” on page 115 to learn more. NOTE This change is permanent.
2 Making Measurements Making dB Measurements Table 2-6 Rotary switch positions allowing dBV measurements Legend Default function Function when AC V AC V with LPF AC mV AC mV with LPF Shift Esc View is pressed Cycles between DC V • AC V, • AC+DC V, or • DC V Cycles between DC mV NOTE • AC mV, • AC+DC mV, or • DC mV A dBV measurement uses a 1 volt reference voltage to compare the present measurement against a stored relative value.
Making Measurements Using ZLOW for Voltage Measurements 2 Using ZLOW for Voltage Measurements CAUTION Do not use the ZLOW function to measure voltages in circuits that could be damaged by this function’s low impedance (≈2 kΩ). The ZLOW function in your multimeter presents a low impedance across the leads to obtain a more accurate measurement.
2 Making Measurements Using ZLOW for Voltage Measurements Figure 2-12 ZLOW display NOTE During ZLOW measurements, autoranging is disabled and the multimeter’s range is set to 1000 V in the manual ranging mode. The analog bar graph represents the AC+DC voltage value combined. Use ZLOW to test a battery’s health Aside from reading a battery’s voltage level using the DC voltage measurement function, you can also use the ZLOW function to test a battery’s health.
Making Measurements Measuring Resistance 2 Measuring Resistance Set up your multimeter to measure resistance as shown in Figure 2- 14. Probe the test points, and read the display.
2 Making Measurements Measuring Resistance 4 3 2 Smart 1 Figure 2-14 Measuring resistance 52 U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide
Making Measurements Measuring Resistance NOTE 2 Keep the following in mind when measuring resistance. • The test leads can add 0.1 Ω to 0.2 Ω of error to resistance measurements. To test the leads, touch the probe tips together and read the resistance of the leads. To remove lead resistance from the measurement, hold the test lead tips together and press . Now the resistance at the probe tips will be subtracted from all future display readings.
2 Making Measurements Testing for Continuity Testing for Continuity Set up your multimeter to test for continuity as shown in Figure 2- 16. Probe the test points, and read the display.
Making Measurements Testing for Continuity 2 Table 2-10 Threshold resistance values (continued) Measuring range Threshold resistance 3.0000 MΩ <120 ± 60 kΩ 30.000 MΩ <120 ± 60 kΩ 300.00 MΩ <120 ± 60 kΩ The beeper will sound as a continuity indication. Press to switch between normal open ( ) and normal close ( contacts. Dual Exit ) • Normal open: Circuit is normally open, the beeper will sound when a short is detected.
2 Making Measurements Testing for Continuity NOTE • The continuity function detects intermittent shorts and opens lasting as short as 1 ms. A brief short or open causes the multimeter to emit a short beep. • You can enable or disable the audible alert via the multimeter’s setup. See “Changing the beep frequency” on page 120 for more information on the audible alert option.
Making Measurements Using Smart Ω for Resistance Measurements 2 Using Smart Ω for Resistance Measurements To use the Smart Ω function, set up your multimeter to test for resistance as shown in Figure 2- 17. Probe the test points, and read the display.
2 Making Measurements Using Smart Ω for Resistance Measurements Figure 2-17 Smart Ω (with bias voltage) display Figure 2-18 Smart Ω (with leakage current) display Use Smart Ω to measure the resistance of a thermocouple sensor It is useful to measure the resistance of a thermocouple temperature sensor. The thermovoltage is proportional to the temperature and the impact of the resistance measurement. Using the Smart Ω function will help you achieve precise readings regardless of the temperature.
Making Measurements Using Smart Ω for Resistance Measurements 2 5 3 4 Shift Esc View IR VR R 2 Smart 1 Figure 2-19 Measuring leakage current U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide 59
2 Making Measurements Testing Diodes Testing Diodes Set up your multimeter to test diodes as shown in Figure 2- 22. Probe the test points, and read the display. Table 2-12 Rotary switch position allowing diode tests Legend Auto CAUTION NOTE Default function Function when Diode test Auto-diode test Shift Esc View is pressed To avoid possible damage to your multimeter or to the equipment under test, disconnect the circuit power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before testing diodes.
Making Measurements Testing Diodes NOTE 2 • Your multimeter can display diode forward-bias of up to approximately 3.1 V. The forward-bias of a typical diode is within the range of 0.3 V to 0.8 V; however, the reading can vary depending on the resistance of other pathways between the probe tips. • If the beeper is enabled during diode test, the multimeter will beep briefly for a normal junction and sound continuously for a shorted junction, below 0.050 V.
2 Making Measurements Testing Diodes 4 3 2 Auto 1 Figure 2-22 Testing a forward-bias diode 62 U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide
Making Measurements Testing Diodes 2 4 3 2 Auto 1 Figure 2-23 Testing a reverse-bias diode U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide 63
2 Making Measurements Using Auto-diode for Diode Tests Using Auto-diode for Diode Tests Set up your multimeter to test diodes as shown in Figure 2- 22. Probe the test points, and read the display. Table 2-13 Rotary switch position allowing auto-diode tests Legend Auto NOTE Default function Function when Diode test Auto-diode test Shift Esc View is pressed The auto-diode function will help you test both forward- and reverse-bias directions simultaneously.
Making Measurements Using Auto-diode for Diode Tests 2 Figure 2-24 Auto-diode display (GOOD status) Figure 2-25 Auto-diode display (NGOOD status) U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide 65
2 Making Measurements Measuring Capacitance Measuring Capacitance Set up your multimeter to measure capacitance as shown in Figure 2- 27. Probe the test points, and read the display.
Making Measurements Measuring Capacitance NOTE 2 For measuring capacitance values greater than 1000 μF, discharge the capacitor first, then select a suitable range for measurement. This will speed up the measurement time and also ensure that the correct capacitance value is obtained.
2 Making Measurements Measuring Temperature Measuring Temperature WA R N I N G Do not connect the thermocouple to electrically live circuits. Doing so will potentially cause fire or electric shock. CAUTION Do not bend the thermocouple leads at sharp angles. Repeated bending over a period of time can break the leads. The multimeter uses a type- K (default setting) temperature probe for measuring temperature. To measure temperature, set up your multimeter as shown in Figure 2- 29.
Making Measurements Measuring Temperature 2 Range Auto Press to change the temperature units between °C or °F (you must first change the temperature unit to switch between °C and °F or °F and °C). See “Changing the temperature unit” on page 117 for more information. CAUTION NOTE The option to change the temperature unit is locked for certain regions. Always set the temperature unit display per the official requirements and in compliance with the National laws of your region.
2 Making Measurements Measuring Temperature 5 4 3 Shift Esc View 2 1 Type-K Thermocouple Probe Figure 2-29 Measuring surface temperature 70 U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide
Making Measurements Measuring Temperature 2 Temperature measurement without ambient compensation If you are working in a constantly varying environment, where ambient temperatures are not constant, do the following: 1 Press to select compensation. This allows a quick measurement of the relative temperature. Dual Exit 2 Avoid contact between the thermocouple probe and the surface to be measured. 3 After a constant reading is obtained, press to set the reading as the relative reference temperature.
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current Measuring AC or DC Current Set up your multimeter to measure AC or DC current as shown in Figure 2- 32 and Figure 2- 33. Open the circuit path to be tested. Probe the test points, and read the display.
Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current NOTE 2 • To measure current, you must open the circuit under test, then place the multimeter in series with the circuit. • Turn off power to the circuit. Discharge all high-voltage capacitors. Insert the black test lead into the COM terminal. Insert the red test lead in an input appropriate for the measurement range. • If you are using the A terminal, set the rotary switch to .
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current CAUTION • For measuring AC current signals with a DC offset, refer to the “Using the Filter Function for DC measurements” on page 42. • For measuring DC current from a mixed signal in DC measurement mode, ensure that the Filter is enabled (Refer to “Enabling the filter” on page 130). NOTE • Press to cycle through the available dual display combinations. See Appendix B, “Dual Display Combinations Using the Dual Key,” starting on page 157 to learn more.
Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current 2 4 3 LOAD DC 2 1 Figure 2-32 Measuring DC current U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide 75
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current 5 4 AC LOAD 3 Shift Esc View 2 1 Figure 2-33 Measuring AC current 76 U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide
Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current 2 Figure 2-34 Current measurement setup U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide 77
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current % Scale of 4-20 mA or 0-20 mA To display the current measurement in % scale, position your multimeter’s rotary switch position to and set up your multimeter to measure DC current by following the steps listed in the “Measuring AC or DC Current” section.
Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current 2 Figure 2-35 4-20 mA % Scale display The analog bar graph displays the current measurement value. (In the example above, 24 mA is represented as 125% in the 4- 20 mA % scale.) Table 2-19 % Scale measurement range % Scale of 4-20 mA or 0-20 mA 999.99% DC mA measurement range 30 mA or 300 mA[1] 9999.9% [1] Applies to both autoranging and manual range selection. You can change the % scale range (4- 20 mA or 0- 20 mA) by accessing the multimeter’s setup.
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current 5 4 3 Shift Esc View 2 1 Pressure transmitter Figure 2-36 Measuring DC current using the 0-20 mA % scale 80 U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide
Making Measurements Measuring Frequency 2 Measuring Frequency WA R N I N G Never measure the frequency where the voltage or current level exceeds the specified range. Manually set the voltage or current range if you want to measure frequencies below 20 Hz. Your multimeter allows simultaneous monitoring of realtime voltage or current with frequency, duty cycle, or pulse width measurements. Table 2- 20 highlights the functions allowing frequency measurements in your multimeter.
2 Making Measurements Measuring Frequency NOTE • Measuring the frequency of a signal helps detect the presence of harmonic currents in neutral conductors and determines whether these neutral currents are the result of unbalanced phases or non-linear loads. • Frequency is the number of cycles a signal completes each second. Frequency is defined as 1/Period. Period is defined as the time between the middle threshold crossings of two consecutive, like-polarity edges, as shown in Figure 2-37.
Making Measurements Measuring Frequency 2 Figure 2-38 Frequency display The frequency of the input signal is shown in the primary display. The voltage or ampere value of the signal is shown in the secondary display. The bar graph does not indicate frequency but indicates the voltage or ampere value of the input signal. NOTE Observe the following measurement techniques: • If a reading shows as 0 Hz or is unstable, the input signal may be below or near the trigger level.
2 Making Measurements Measuring Frequency Measuring pulse width NOTE The pulse width function measures the amount of time a signal is high or low, as shown in Figure 2-37. It is the time from the middle threshold of the rising edge to the middle threshold of the next falling edge. The measured waveform must be periodic; its pattern must repeat at equal time intervals. 1 To measure pulse width, position the rotary switch to one of the functions allowing frequency measurements shown in Table 2- 20.
Making Measurements Measuring Frequency 2 Measuring duty cycle NOTE The duty cycle (or duty factor) of a repetitive pulse train is the ratio of the positive or negative pulse width to the period expressed as a percentage, as shown in Figure 2-37. The duty-cycle function is optimized for measuring the on or off time of logic and switching signals.
2 Making Measurements Measuring Frequency Hz % ms Log Press to cycle through the frequency, pulse width, and duty cycle measurements. Press for more than 1 second to exit the duty cycle measurement function.
U1273A/U1273AX Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide 3 Multimeter Features Making Relative Measurements (Null) 88 Making Scale Transfers (Scale) 90 Capturing Maximum and Minimum Values (MaxMin) 92 Capturing Peak Values (Peak) 94 Freezing the Display (TrigHold and AutoHold) 96 Recording Measurement Data (Data Logging) 97 Performing manual logs (HAND) 98 Performing interval logs (AUTO) 98 Performing event logs (TRIG) 100 Reviewing Previously Recorded Data (View) 102 Sanitizing the Log Memories 103 The fo
3 Multimeter Features Making Relative Measurements (Null) Making Relative Measurements (Null) When making null measurements, also called relative, each reading is the difference between a stored (selected or measured) null value and the input signal. One possible application is to increase the accuracy of a resistance measurement by nulling the test lead resistance. Nulling the leads is also particularly important prior to making capacitance measurements.
Multimeter Features Making Relative Measurements (Null) NOTE 3 • In resistance measurement, the multimeter will read a non-zero value even when the two test leads are in direct contact, because of the resistance of these leads. Use the null function to zero-adjust the display. • For DC voltage measurements, the thermal effect will influence the accuracy of the measurements. Short the test leads and press when the displayed value is stable to zero-adjust the display.
3 Multimeter Features Making Scale Transfers (Scale) Making Scale Transfers (Scale) The Scale operation emulates a transducer by helping you to convert the measured readings proportionally to the specified ratio and unit display. Use Scale to transfer voltage readings to proportional readings when using clamp- on current probes or high voltage probes. The available scale conversions are shown in the table below.
Multimeter Features Making Scale Transfers (Scale) NOTE The Hz % ms Log 3 is disabled during Scale operations. Press to measure the frequency of the voltage and current source during Scale operations. Dual Exit Press and hold for more than 1 second. Null Scale Press Dual Exit . Hz % ms Log Press or after 3 seconds of inactivity.
3 Multimeter Features Capturing Maximum and Minimum Values (MaxMin) Capturing Maximum and Minimum Values (MaxMin) The MaxMin operation stores the maximum, minimum, and average input values during a series of measurements. When the input goes below the recorded minimum value or above the recorded maximum value, the multimeter beeps and records the new value. The elapsed time since the recording session was started is stored and shown on the display at the same time.
Multimeter Features Capturing Maximum and Minimum Values (MaxMin) 3 3 The elapsed time is shown on the secondary display. Press to restart the recording session. Dual Exit NOTE • Changing the range manually will also restart the recording session. • You can also use the MaxMin function while measuring frequency (see “Measuring Frequency” on page 81). If the measured frequency shown is not reflected accurately, press again to restart the recording session.
3 Multimeter Features Capturing Peak Values (Peak) Capturing Peak Values (Peak) This function allows the measurement of peak voltage for analysis of such components as power distribution transformers and power factor correction capacitors. 1 To activate the peak mode, press the than 1 second. MaxMin Peak key for more MaxMin Peak 2 Press again to display the maximum (P-HOLD+) or minimum (P-HOLD–) peak values along with their respective time stamps.
Multimeter Features Capturing Peak Values (Peak) 3 To calculate the crest factor: Crest factor is a measure of signal distortion and is calculated as a signal’s peak value over its RMS value. This is an important measurement when looking at power quality issues. In the measurement example shown below (Figure 3- 6), the crest factor is calculated as: Peak value 2.2669 V Crest factor = ------------------------------------------- = ---------------------- = 1.414 True RMS value 1.
3 Multimeter Features Freezing the Display (TrigHold and AutoHold) Freezing the Display (TrigHold and AutoHold) TrigHold operation To freeze the display for any function, press the Trig Auto Hold key. AutoHold operation Trig Auto Hold Pressing the for more that 1 second activates the AutoHold if the multimeter is not in the MaxMin, Peak, or Data Logging recording modes.
Multimeter Features Recording Measurement Data (Data Logging) 3 Recording Measurement Data (Data Logging) The Data Logging function provides you the convenience of recording test data for future review or analysis. Since data is stored in the nonvolatile memory, the data remains saved even when the multimeter is turned OFF or if the battery is replaced. The Data Logging feature collects measurement information over a user- specified duration.
3 Multimeter Features Recording Measurement Data (Data Logging) Performing manual logs (HAND) Ensure that HAND is selected as the data logging option in the multimeter’s setup. 1 Press for more than 1 second to store the present input signal value. Hz % ms Log and the log entry number are displayed at the right of the display. The display will return to normal after a short while (around 1 s). Figure 3-7 Manual log display 2 Repeat step 1 again to save the next input signal value.
Multimeter Features Recording Measurement Data (Data Logging) 3 The duration set in the multimeter’s setup will determine how long each recording interval takes. The input signal value at the end of each interval will be recorded and saved into the multimeter’s memory. Start the interval log mode 1 Press mode. Hz % ms Log for more than 1 second to start interval log and the log entry number are displayed at the right of the display.
3 Multimeter Features Recording Measurement Data (Data Logging) NOTE When the interval log recording session is running, all other keypad operations are disabled; except for , which, when pressed for more than 1 second, will stop and exit the recording session. Furthermore, APO (auto power-off) is disabled during the recording session. Hz % ms Log Performing event logs (TRIG) Ensure that TRIG is selected as the data logging option in the multimeter’s setup.
Multimeter Features Recording Measurement Data (Data Logging) 3 Start the event log mode 1 Select one of the four modes stated in Table 3- 3. 2 Press mode. Hz % ms Log for more than 1 second to start event log and the log entry number are displayed at the right of the display. Subsequent readings are automatically recorded into the multimeter’s memory every time the trigger condition specified in Table 3- 3 is satisfied. Figure 3-9 Event log display 3 Press mode.
3 Multimeter Features Reviewing Previously Recorded Data (View) Reviewing Previously Recorded Data (View) Viewing data stored in the multimeter’s memory is performed through the key. Shift Esc View 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s View mode. Press again to cycle through the manual (H), interval (A), or event (E) previously stored records.
Multimeter Features Reviewing Previously Recorded Data (View) 3 2 Select the desired recording category to view its entries. i Press MaxMin Peak to jump to the first stored entry. Range Auto ii Press to jump to the last stored entry. iii Press to view the next stored entry. The index number increases by one. Dual Exit iv Press to view the previous stored entry. The index number decreases by one. Setup v Press for more than 1 second to clear all entries for the selected log type.
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U1273A/U1273AX Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide 4 Multimeter Setup Options Using the Setup Menu 106 Editing numerical values 107 Setup Menu Summary 108 Setup Menu Items 113 The following sections describe how to change the preset features of your multimeter.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Using the Setup Menu Using the Setup Menu The multimeter’s setup menu allows you to change a number of nonvolatile preset features. Modifying these settings affects the general operation of your multimeter across several functions. Select a setting to edit to perform one of the following actions: • Switch between two values, such as on or off. • Cycle through multiple values from a predefined list. • Decrease or increase a numerical value within a fixed range.
Multimeter Setup Options Using the Setup Menu 4 Editing numerical values When editing numerical values, use the position the cursor on a numerical digit. • Press • Press MaxMin Peak MaxMin Peak and Range Auto to to move the cursor to the left, and Range Auto to move the cursor to the right. When the cursor is positioned over a digit, use the keys to change the numerical digit. Dual Exit and Setup • Press • Press Dual Exit Setup to increment the digit, and to decrement the digit.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Summary Setup Menu Summary The setup menu items are summarized in the table below. Click the respective “Learn more” pages for more information on each menu item. Table 4-2 Setup menu item descriptions Menu Legend Available settings AHOLD 0050 to 9999 Description Learn more on: Set the multimeter’s AutoHold threshold count from 50 to 9 999 counts. Default is 500 counts.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Summary 4 Table 4-2 Setup menu item descriptions (continued) Menu Legend Available settings T-TYPE J or K Description Set the multimeter’s thermocouple type (type J or type K). Default is type K. T-UNIT °C, °F/°C, °C/°F, or °F Set the multimeter’s temperature unit (Celsius, Fahrenheit/Celsius, Celsius/Fahrenheit, or Fahrenheit). Learn more on: page 68 and page 116 page 68 and page 117 Default is °C (Celsius).
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Summary Table 4-2 Setup menu item descriptions (continued) Menu Legend Available settings BEEP 3200 Hz, 3491 Hz, 3840 Hz, 4267 Hz, or OFF APO 01 M to 99 M (E or D) Description Learn more on: Set the multimeter’s beep frequency from 3200 Hz to 4267 Hz. You can also disable this feature (off). page 120 Default is 3491 Hz. Set the auto power-off timer period from 1 to 99 minutes (1 hour, 39 minutes). You can also disable this feature (D).
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Summary 4 Table 4-2 Setup menu item descriptions (continued) Menu Legend Available settings BAUD 9600 or 19200 Description Set the baud rate for remote communication with a PC (9600 or 19200). Default is 9600. DATA BIT 7 or 8 Set the data bit length for remote communication with a PC (7-bit or 8-bit). Default is 8-bit. MENU 4 PARITY NONE, EVEN, or ODD Set the parity bit for remote communication with a PC (none, even, or odd). Default is none.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Summary Table 4-2 Setup menu item descriptions (continued) Menu Legend Available settings DEFAULT YES or NO BATTERY PRI or SEC MENU 6 Description Learn more on: Reset the multimeter to its factory default settings. Change the battery selection from primary to secondary. Default is primary. FILTER DC, DCAC, or OFF Enable the Filter (LPF) for DC, AC, and AC+DC voltage and current measuring paths.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Setup Menu Items Changing the variation count This setting is used with the multimeter’s AutoHold feature (see page 96). When the variation of the measured value exceeds the value of the variation count, the AutoHold feature will be ready to trigger. Parameter Range Default setting AHOLD (50 to 9999) counts 0500 To change the variation count: 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Parameter Range Default setting D-LOG HAND, AUTO, or TRIG HAND To change the recording option: 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu. Setup 2 Browse to Menu 1 > D-LOG, and press Hz % ms Log edit the value. 3 Use the arrow keys to change the recording option. 4 Press to save your changes (or press discard your changes).
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 5 Press and hold until the multimeter restarts to return to normal operation. Setup Changing the decibel display This setting is used with dB measurements (see page 45). You can enable the multimeter to display voltage as a dB value, either relative to 1 milliwatt (dBm) or a reference voltage of 1 volt (dBV).
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items To change the dBm reference impedance value: 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu. Setup 2 Browse to Menu 1 > dBm-R, and press Hz % ms Log edit the value. 3 Use the arrow keys to change the dBm reference impedance value. 4 Press to save your changes (or press discard your changes). Hz % ms Log Shift Esc View to 5 Press and hold until the multimeter restarts to return to normal operation.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Changing the temperature unit CAUTION This setup item is locked for certain regions. Always set the temperature unit display per the official requirements and in compliance with the National laws of your region. This setting is used with temperature measurements (see page 68). Four combinations of displayed temperature unit(s) are available: • Celsius only: Temperature measured in °C.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Changing the % scale range This setting is used with % scale current measurements (see page 78). The multimeter converts DC current measurements to a percentage scale readout of 0% to 100% based on the selected range in this menu. For example, a 25% readout represents a DC current of 8 mA on the 4- 20 mA % scale, or a DC current of 5 mA on the 0- 20 mA % scale.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 To change the continuity alert: 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu. Setup 2 Browse to Menu 2 > CONTINUITY, and press value. Hz % ms Log edit the 3 Use the arrow keys to change the continuity alert. Select OFF to disable the continuity alert. 4 Press to save your changes (or press discard your changes). Hz % ms Log Shift Esc View to 5 Press and hold until the multimeter restarts to return to normal operation.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Changing the beep frequency The multimeter’s beeper alerts users to the presence of circuit continuities, operator errors such as incorrect lead connections for the selected function, and newly sensed values for MaxMin and Peak recordings. Parameter Range Default setting BEEP 3200 Hz, 3491 Hz, 3840 Hz, 4267 Hz, or OFF 3491 Hz To change the beep frequency: 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 To change the APO timer period: 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu. Setup 2 Browse to Menu 3 > APO, and press Hz % ms Log edit the value. 3 Use the arrow keys to change the APO timer period. Select D to disable the APO feature. 4 Press to save your changes (or press discard your changes). Hz % ms Log Shift Esc View to 5 Press and hold until the multimeter restarts to return to normal operation.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Changing the power-on melody The multimeter’s plays a melody when it is powered on. The USER setting is factory reserved. Parameter Range Default setting MELODY FACTORY, USER, or OFF FACTORY To change the power- on melody: 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu. Setup 2 Browse to Menu 3 > MELODY, and press value. Hz % ms Log edit the 3 Use the arrow keys to change the power- on melody.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 To change the power- on greetings: 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu. Setup 2 Browse to Menu 3 > GREETING, and press value. Hz % ms Log edit the 3 Use the arrow keys to change the power- on greetings. Select OFF to disable the power- on greetings. 4 Press to save your changes (or press discard your changes). Hz % ms Log Shift Esc View to 5 Press and hold until the multimeter restarts to return to normal operation.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Changing the data bits This setting changes the number of data bits (data width) for remote communications with a PC. The number of stop bit is always 1, and this cannot be changed. Parameter Range Default setting DATA BIT 8-bit or 7-bit 8 To change the data bit: 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu. Setup 2 Browse to Menu 4 > DATA BIT, and press value. Hz % ms Log edit the 3 Use the arrow keys to change the data bit.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Press to save your changes (or press discard your changes). Hz % ms Log Shift Esc View 4 to 5 Press and hold until the multimeter restarts to return to normal operation. Setup Enabling the echo feature When the echo feature is enabled, the multimeter echoes (returns) all the characters it receives when it is connected to a remote PC.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Parameter Range Default setting PRINT OFF or ON OFF To enable the print feature: 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu. Setup 2 Browse to Menu 4 > PRINT, and press Hz % ms Log edit the value. 3 Use the arrow keys to enable the print feature. 4 Press to save your changes (or press discard your changes). Hz % ms Log Shift Esc View to 5 Press and hold until the multimeter restarts to return to normal operation.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Press to save your changes (or press discard your changes). Shift Esc View Hz % ms Log 4 to 5 Press and hold until the multimeter restarts to return to normal operation. Setup Changing the user scale conversion value and unit You can set the user scale conversion value and unit. The ratio can be set from 0000.1 to 1000.0 and the unit can be set to V/V, A/V, or (no unit/V). The default is 1000 V/V.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Enabling smooth mode Smooth is used to smoothen the refresh rate of the readings in order to reduce the impact of unexpected noise and to help you achieve a stable reading. The smooth refresh rate can be set from 0001 to 9999. The smooth time is defined as the set value +1. Smooth will be restarted when the variation count is exceeded, when the range is changed, or after a multimeter function or feature is enabled.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Resetting the multimeter’s setup options The multimeter’s setup options can be reset to its default values through the setup menu. Parameter Range Default setting DEFAULT YES or NO NO 1 Press for more than 1 second to enter the multimeter’s setup menu. Setup 2 Browse to Menu 6 > DEFAULT, and press value. Hz % ms Log edit the 3 Use the arrow keys to select YES. 4 Press and hold for more than 1 second to perform the reset.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 3 Use the arrow keys to change the battery type. 4 Press to save your changes (or press discard your changes). Hz % ms Log Shift Esc View to 5 Press and hold until the multimeter restarts to return to normal operation.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Table 4-3 Filter (LPF) options Filter setting Measurement DC[1] DCAC OFF AC/AC+DC OFF Low Pass Filter OFF DC Filter (blocks AC) Filter (blocks AC) OFF Dual Display OFF Low Pass Filter OFF [1] The Filter (DC) will be set to ON as the factory default. You may change it to an alternate setting, and the multimeter will remember the chosen setting for consecutive uses. You may enable the Filter for DC coupling of voltage and/or current measurements.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Press to save your changes (or press to discard your changes). 5 Press and hold until the multimeter restarts to return to normal operation.
U1273A/U1273AX Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide 5 Characteristics and Specifications Product Characteristics 134 Specification Assumptions 136 Measurement Category 136 Measurement category definition 136 Electrical Specifications 138 DC specifications 138 AC specifications 141 AC+DC specifications 143 Capacitance specifications 145 Temperature specifications 146 Frequency specifications 147 Duty cycle and pulse width specifications 147 Frequency sensitivity specifications 149 Peak hold specificatio
5 Characteristics and Specifications Product Characteristics Product Characteristics POWER SUPPLY Battery type: • 4 × 1.5 V Alkaline batteries (ANSI/NEDA 24A or IEC LR03) — included with U1273A, • 4 × 1.5 V Lithium Iron Disulfide batteries (ANSI/NEDA 24LF or IEC FR03) — included with U1273AX, or • 4 × 1.
Characteristics and Specifications Product Characteristics 5 STORAGE COMPLIANCE –40 °C to 70 °C, 0% to 80% RH SAFETY COMPLIANCE EN/IEC 61010-1:2001, ANSI/UL 61010-1:2004, and CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 61010-1-04 MEASUREMENT CATEGORY CAT III 1000 V/CAT IV 600 V ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY (EMC) Commercial limits compliance with EN61326-1 IP RATING IP-54 TEMPERATURE COEFFICIENT 0.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Specification Assumptions Specification Assumptions • Accuracy is given as ±(% of reading + counts of least significant digit) at 23 °C ± 5 °C, with relative humidity less than 80% RH. • AC V and AC µA/mA/A specifications are AC coupled, true RMS and are valid from 5% of range to 100% of range. • The crest factor may be up to 3.0 at full- scale except for the 1000 V range where it is 1.
Characteristics and Specifications Measurement Category 5 Measurement CAT III are measurements performed in the building installation. Examples are measurements on distribution boards, circuit- breakers, wiring, including cables, bus- bars, junction boxes, switches, socket outlets in the fixed installation, and equipment for industrial use, and some other equipment including stationary motors with permanent connection to the fixed installation.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications Electrical Specifications NOTE Specification assumptions are given on page 136. DC specifications Table 5-1 DC voltage specifications Function Voltage Range Resolution Accuracy Input impedance 30 mV[1] 0.001 mV 0.05% + 20 10 MΩ 300 mV[1] 0.01 mV 0.05% + 5 10 MΩ 3V 0.0001 V 0.05% + 5 11.11 MΩ 30 V 0.001 V 0.05% + 2 10.1 MΩ 300 V 0.01 V 0.05% + 2 10 MΩ 1000 V 0.1 V 0.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 Table 5-2 Resistance specifications Function Range Resolution Accuracy Test current 30 Ω[4] 0.001 Ω 0.2% + 10 0.65 mA [4] 0.01 Ω 0.2% + 5 0.65 mA 3 kΩ[4] 0.0001 kΩ 0.2% + 5 65 μA 30 kΩ 0.001 kΩ 0.2% + 5 6.5 μA 300 kΩ 0.01 kΩ 0.2% + 5 0.65 μA 3 MΩ 0.0001 MΩ 0.6% + 5 93 nA/10 MΩ 30 MΩ[6] 0.001 MΩ 1.2% + 5 93 nA//10 MΩ 100 MΩ[6][8] 0.01 MΩ - 93 nA//10 MΩ 300 MΩ[8] 0.01 MΩ 300 nS[7] 0.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications Table 5-3 Diode specifications Function Range Resolution Accuracy Test current 3 V[3] 0.0001 V 0.5% + 5 Approx. 1 mA to 2 mA Auto[4] 0.0001 V 0.5% + 5 Diode Approx. 0.1 mA to 0.3 mA Notes for diode specifications: 1 Overload protection: 1000 VRMS for short circuits with <0.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 AC specifications Table 5-5 True RMS AC voltage specifications Accuracy Function Voltage Range Resolution 45 Hz to 65 Hz 20 Hz to 45 Hz[6] 65 Hz to 1 kHz 1 kHz to 5 kHz 5 kHz to 20 kHz 20 kHz to 100 kHz[5] 30 mV 0.001 mV 0.6% + 20 0.7% + 25 1.0% + 25 1.0% + 40 3.5% + 40 300 mV 0.01 mV 0.6% + 20 0.7% + 25 1.0% + 25 1.0% + 40 3.5% + 40 3V 0.0001 V 0.6% + 20 1.0% + 25 1.5% + 25 2.0% + 40 3.5% + 40 30 V 0.001 V 0.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications Table 5-6 True RMS AC current specifications Accuracy Function Range 20 Hz to 45 Hz[6] Resolution Burden voltage 45 Hz to 65 Hz 65 Hz to 2 kHz Current 300 μA[1][5] 0.01 μA 0.6% + 25 0.9% + 25 <0.04 V 3000 μA[1][5] 0.1 μA 0.6% + 25 0.9% + 25 <0.4 V 30 mA[1][5] 0.001 mA 0.6% + 25 0.9% + 25 <0.08 V 300 mA[1][3] 0.01 mA 0.6% + 25 0.9% + 25 <1.00 V 3 A[2] 0.0001 A 0.8% + 25 1.0% + 25 <0.1 V 10 A[2][4] 0.001 A 0.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 AC+DC specifications Table 5-7 True RMS AC+DC voltage specifications Accuracy Function Range Resolution 45 Hz to 65 Hz 20 Hz to 45 Hz[4] 65 Hz to 1 kHz 1 kHz to 5 kHz 5 kHz to 20 kHz 20 kHz to 100 kHz[3] 30 mV 0.001 mV 0.7% + 40 0.8% + 45 1.1% + 45 1.1% + 60 3.6% + 60 300 mV 0.01 mV 0.7% + 25 0.8% + 30 1.1% + 30 1.1% + 45 3.6% + 45 3V 0.0001 V 0.7% + 25 1.1% + 30 1.6% + 30 2.1% + 45 3.6% + 45 30 V 0.001 V 0.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications Table 5-8 True RMS AC+DC current specifications Accuracy Function Current Range Resolution 45 Hz to 65 Hz 20 Hz to 45 Hz[6] Burden voltage 65 Hz to 2 kHz 300 μA[1][5] 0.01 μA 0.8% + 30 1.1% + 30 <0.04 V 3000 μA[1][5] 0.1 μA 0.8% + 30 1.1% + 30 <0.4 V 30 mA[1][5] 0.001 mA 0.8% + 30 1.1% + 30 <0.08 V 300 mA[1][3] 0.01 mA 0.8% + 30 1.1% + 30 <1.00 V 3 A[2] 0.0001 A 0.9% + 35 1.3% + 30 <0.1 V 10 A[2][4] 0.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 Capacitance specifications Table 5-9 Capacitance specifications Measuring rate (at full scale) Range Resolution Accuracy 10 nF 0.001 nF 1% + 5 100 nF 0.01 nF 1% + 2 1000 nF 0.1 nF 1% + 2 10 μF 0.001 μF 1% + 2 100 μF 0.01 μF 1% + 2 1000 μF 0.1 μF 1% + 2 0.5 times/second 10 mF 0.001 mF 1% + 2 0.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications Temperature specifications Table 5-10 Temperature specifications Thermal type Range Resolution Accuracy –200 °C to 1372 °C 0.1 °C 1% + 1 °C –328 °F to 2502 °F 0.1 °F 1% + 1.8 °F –200 °C to 1200 °C 0.1 °C 1% + 1 °C –328 °F to 2192 °F 0.1 °F 1% + 1.8 °F K J Notes for temperature specifications: 1 The specifications above is specified after 60 minutes of warm-up time.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 Frequency specifications Table 5-11 Frequency specifications Range Resolution Accuracy Minimum input frequency 99.999 Hz 0.001 Hz 0.02% + 5 999.99 Hz 0.01 Hz 0.005% + 5 9.9999 kHz 0.0001 kHz 0.005% + 5 99.999 kHz 0.001 kHz 0.005% + 5 999.99 kHz 0.01 kHz 0.005% + 5 >1 MHz 0.1 kHz 0.005% + 5 @ <1 MHz 0.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications Table 5-12 Duty cycle and pulse width specifications (continued) Function Mode Range Resolution Accuracy at full scale - 999.99 ms 0.01 ms (duty cycle accuracy/frequency) + 0.01 ms - 2000.0 ms 0.1 ms (duty cycle accuracy/frequency) + 0.1 ms Pulse width Notes for pulse width specifications: 1 The accuracy for duty cycle and pulse width measurements is based on a 3 V square wave input to the DC 3 V range.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 Frequency sensitivity specifications For voltage measurements Table 5-14 Frequency sensitivity and trigger level specifications for voltage measurements Trigger level for DC coupling Minimum sensitivity (RMS sine wave) Input range[1] 0.5 Hz to 15 Hz 15 Hz to 100 kHz Up to 1 MHz 0.5 Hz to 200 kHz 100 kHz to 200 kHz 30 mV 3 mV 3 mV - 5 mV 300 mV 7 mV 8 mV 38 mV 15 mV 3V 0.12 V 0.12 V 0.48 V 0.15 V 30 V 0.8 V 0.8 V 3.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications For current measurements Table 5-15 Frequency sensitivity specifications for current measurements Input range[1] Minimum sensitivity (RMS sine wave) 2 Hz to 30 kHz 300 μA 70 μA 3000 μA 120 μA 30 mA 1.2 mA 300 mA 12 mA 3A 0.12 A 10 A 1.2 A Notes for frequency sensitivity specifications for current measurements: 1 Maximum input for specified accuracy, refer to “AC specifications” on page 141.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 Decibel (dB) specifications Table 5-17 Decibel specifications dB base Reference Default reference 1 mW (dBm) 1 Ω to 9999 Ω 50 Ω 1 V (dBV) 1V 1V Notes for decibel specifications: 1 The reading of dBm is indicated in decibels of power above or below 1 mW, or decibels of voltage above or below 1 V. The formula is calculated according to the voltage measurement and specified reference impedance.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications Display update rate (approximate) Table 5-19 Display update rate (approximate) 152 Function Times/second AC V (V or mV) 7 DC V (V or mV) 7 Ω 14 Ω with offset compensation 3 Diode 14 Auto-diode 3 Capacitance 4 (<100 μF) DC A (μA, mA, or A) 7 AC A (μA, mA, or A) 7 Temperature 7 Frequency 2 (>10 Hz) Duty cycle 1 (>10 Hz) Pulse width 1 (>10 Hz) U1273A/U1273AX User’s Guide
U1273A/U1273AX Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide Appendix A Shift Functions Using the Shift Key Table A-1 U1273A/U1273AX default and shift functions 154 The table below lists the function shown in the primary display when the key is pressed, with respect to the multimeter’s rotary switch position. Press to cycle through the available shift functions.
A Shift Functions Using the Shift Key Table A-1 U1273A/U1273AX default and shift functions Function shown in the primary display: Rotary switch position Default ZLOW When Shift Esc View is pressed Low impedance (ZLOW) AC or DC voltage measurement (AC/DC V)[1] - AC voltage measurement (AC V) AC voltage measurement (AC V) with low-pass filter (LPF) AC voltage measurement (AC mV) AC voltage measurement (AC mV) with low-pass filter (LPF) AC voltage measurement (AC V) DC voltage measurement (DC V) AC
Shift Functions Using the Shift Key A Table A-1 U1273A/U1273AX default and shift functions (continued) Function shown in the primary display: Rotary switch position Default DC current measurement (DC μA) When Shift Esc View is pressed AC current measurement (AC μA) AC+DC current measurement (AC+DC μA) [1] Press to switch the function shown in the primary display (AC V) with the function shown in the secondary display (DC V). Press again to switch back the displays.
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U1273A/U1273AX Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide Appendix B Dual Display Combinations Using the Dual Key Table B-1 U1273A/U1273AX dual display combinations 158 The table below lists the function shown in the secondary display when the key is pressed, with respect to the multimeter’s rotary switch position. Press to cycle through the available dual display combinations. Press for more than 1 second to return to the default secondary display function (ambient temperature measurement).
B Dual Display Combinations Using the Dual Key In the dual display DC voltage decibel and DC voltage measurement mode, the WA R N I N G icon will not appear on the screen regardless of voltage.
Dual Display Combinations Using the Dual Key B Table B-1 U1273A/U1273AX dual display combinations (continued) Function shown (when Dual Exit is pressed) in the: Rotary switch position Primary display Secondary display DC coupling frequency measurement (Hz) DC voltage measurement (DC V) AC voltage measurement (AC V) DC voltage decibel display (dBm) is enabled when is pressed.
B Dual Display Combinations Using the Dual Key Table B-1 U1273A/U1273AX dual display combinations (continued) Function shown (when Dual Exit is pressed) in the: Rotary switch position Smart Primary display Secondary display Resistance measurement (Ω) Ambient temperature (°C)[2] Continuity test ( Ω) Resistance measurement (Ω) with offset compensation (Smart Ω) Diode test (V) Auto Press to switch between the normal open or normal closed state.
Dual Display Combinations Using the Dual Key B Table B-1 U1273A/U1273AX dual display combinations (continued) Function shown (when Dual Exit is pressed) in the: Rotary switch position Primary display DC current measurement (DC μA) AC current measurement (AC μA) Secondary display DC coupling frequency measurement (Hz) AC current measurement (AC μA) AC coupling frequency measurement (Hz) DC current measurement (DC μA) AC coupling frequency measurement (Hz) AC+DC current measurement (AC+DC μA) AC curr
B Dual Display Combinations Using the Dual Key THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.
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