What’s a Clamp Meter? Here’s a Visual Guide
It’s an advanced variation of the regular multimeter with a jaw-like structure. And it’s contactless, too! So you can totally vouch for its safety. One of the best clamp multimeters you can score in the market is Fluke’s True RMS Clamp Meter.
How does it work?
True to its name, you can clamp the meter around wires and cables to measure current and probe measure voltage — without disconnecting or de-energizing it.
It’s also used to repair existing systems, troubleshoot installation problems, perform final circuit steps, and supervise electricians while installing equipment. It can also perform scheduled and preventive maintenance as well as system troubleshooting. It’s really a utilitarian tool for electricians.
Anatomy of a Clamp Meter
To know more about its features that make it a cut above the rest, here’s an anatomy of the Fluke’s Clamp Meter, as detailed in the photo:
- Current-sensing jaw
- Tactile barrier (protects you from shocks)
- Hold button (freezes the display reading
- Dial (aka rotary switch)
- Display
- Backlight button
- Min Max button (works in current, voltage and frequency modes)
- Inrush current button
- Zero button (yellow): Removes dc offset from dc current measurements
- Jaw release lever
- Alignment marks
- Common input jack
- Volts/ohm input jack
- Input for flexible current probe
So what makes this clamp meter tick? It’s all these amazing features plus the accurate measurement, safe quality, and efficiency. Oh, and did we mention its ability to measure high currents, ranging from 0 A to 100 A?
Where do we use clamp meters?
Fluke’s True RMS Clamp Meters can be used on industrial equipment, industrial controls, residential/commercial/industrial electrical systems, and commercial/industrial Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
It’s safe to say that a clamp meter is one of the most important tools (and investments) in an electrician’s life.
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