Agilent U1231A, U1232A, and U1233A Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide Agilent Technologies
Notices © Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2011 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 instrument. The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operation, service, and repair of this instrument. Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety standards for design, manufacture, and intended use of the instrument. Agilent Technologies assumes no liability for the customer’s failure to comply with these requirements.
WA R N I N G • Never use the meter in wet conditions or when there is water on the surface. If the meter is wet, ensure that the meter is dried only by trained personnel. • Before use, verify the meter's operation by measuring a known voltage. • When measuring current, turn off the circuit power before connecting the meter in the circuit. Remember to place the meter in series with the circuit. • When servicing the meter, 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 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 Checking the shipment 3 Installing the batteries 3 Turning on your multimeter 6 Automatic Power-Off (APO) 6 Enabling the backlight 7 Enabling the flashlight 7 Selecting the range 9 Alerts and warnings during measurement Adjusting the tilt stand 11 Connecting the IR-USB cable 11 Power-on options 13 Your Multimeter in Brief Dimensions 15 Overview 17 Rotary switch 19 Keypad 22 Display screen 2
Measuring AC/DC mV 34 Using VZLOW for Voltage Measurements Measuring Resistance Testing for Continuity Testing Diodes 39 41 45 Measuring Capacitance 49 Measuring Temperature 51 Measuring AC or DC Current Measuring Frequency 3 36 56 61 Multimeter Features Detecting AC Voltage Presence (Vsense) Making Relative Measurements (Null) 66 68 Capturing Maximum and Minimum Values (MaxMin) 70 Freezing the Display (Trig Hold-Log and Auto Hold-Log) Trig Hold-Log operation 72 Auto Hold-Log operation 72
Enabling and changing the voltage alert level 86 Changing the beep frequency 87 Changing the auto power-off (APO) timeout 88 Changing the LCD backlight timeout 89 Adjusting the LCD backlight intensity 90 Enabling the LED flashlight timeout 91 Adjusting the LED flashlight intensity 92 Changing the minimum measurable frequency 93 Changing the continuity test alerts 93 Changing the power-on greeting tone 95 Resetting the Setup items 96 Changing the scale conversion value 96 Enable the AC/DC mV measurement 98 E
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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 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 Figure 2-19 Figure 2-20 Figure 2-21 Figure 2-22 Figure 2-23 Figure 2-24 Figure 2-25 U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide Installing the batteries 4 Powering on the multimeter 6 Tilt-stand adjustment and
Figure 2-26 Figure 2-27 Figure 2-28 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 4-1 Figure 4-2 Figure 4-3 Figure 4-4 Figure 4-5 Figure 4-6 Figure 4-7 Figure 4-8 Figure 4-9 Figure 4-10 Figure 4-11 Figure 4-12 Figure 4-13 Figure 4-14 Figure 4-15 Figure 4-16 Figure 4-17 XVI Frequency definition 62 Frequency display 62 Measuring frequency 63 Detecting voltage presence 67 Null display 68 Null operation 69 MaxMin display 71 Trig Hold-Log display 72 Auto Hold-Lo
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 1-10 Battery level indicator 5 Power-on options 13 Front panel parts 17 Rear panel parts 18 U1231A/U1232A/U1233A rotary switch functions 20 Keypad functions 22 General annunciators 24 Measurement units display 26 Analog bar graph display 27 U1231A terminal connections for different measuring functions 28 Table 1-11 U1232A and U1233A terminal connections for different measuring functions 29 Table 2
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U1231A/U1232A/U1233A Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide 1 Introduction About This Manual 2 Documentation map 2 Safety notes 2 Preparing Your Multimeter 3 Checking the shipment 3 Installing the batteries 3 Turning on your multimeter 6 Automatic Power-Off (APO) 6 Enabling the backlight 7 Enabling the flashlight 7 Selecting the range 9 Alerts and warnings during measurement 10 Adjusting the tilt stand 11 Connecting the IR-USB cable 11 Power-on options 13 Your Multimeter in Brief 15 Dimensions 15 Overvie
1 Introduction About This Manual About This Manual The descriptions and instructions in this manual apply to the Agilent U1231A, U1232A, and U1233A handheld digital multimeters (hereafter referred to as the multimeter). The model U1233A appears in all illustrations. 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.
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 Preparing Your Multimeter Checking 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. Loosen the screw with a suitable Phillips screwdriver and remove the battery cover as shown in Figure 1- 1. 2 Insert the batteries. 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 screw.
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 Table 1-1 Battery level indicator Indication Battery capacity Full capacity 2/3 capacity 1/3 capacity (Flashing periodically) Almost empty[1] [1] Batteries change advised. Always use the specified battery type listed in page 102. WA R N I N G To avoid false readings, which could lead to possible electric shock or personal injury, replace the batteries as soon as the low battery indicator appears.
1 Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter Turning on your multimeter To power ON your multimeter, turn the rotary switch to any other position (other than the position). The model number of your multimeter will be shown on the display briefly. Figure 1-2 Powering on the multimeter To power OFF your multimeter, turn the rotary switch to the position. Automatic Power-Off (APO) Your multimeter automatically turns off if the rotary switch is not moved or a key is not pressed for 15 minutes (default).
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter NOTE 1 To change the timeout period or completely disable the automatic power-off, refer to “Changing the auto power-off (APO) timeout” on page 88. Enabling the backlight If viewing the display becomes difficult in low- light conditions, press to activate the LCD backlight. Press NOTE again to deactivate the LCD backlight. • To conserve battery life, a user-adjustable timeout controls how long the backlight stays on. The default timeout is 15 seconds.
1 Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter NOTE • To conserve battery life, a user-adjustable timeout can be set to control how long the flashlight stays on. To set a timeout period, refer to “Enabling the LED flashlight timeout” on page 91. • You can also adjust the flashlight’s intensity to conserve battery life. The default intensity is high. To change the flashlight’s intensity level refer to “Adjusting the LED flashlight intensity” on page 92.
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 Selecting 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 autoranging. It also cycles through the available multimeter ranges when manual ranging is enabled. Range Auto Autoranging is convenient because the multimeter automatically selects an appropriate range for sensing and displaying each measurement.
1 Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter Alerts and warnings during measurement Voltage alert WA R N I N G For your own safety, please do not ignore the voltage alert. When the multimeter cautions you with a voltage alert, you are advised to take note of the existence of high voltage and pay closer attention when performing measurements. Your multimeter provides a voltage alert for voltage measurements in both autoranging and manual range modes.
Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter 1 Adjusting the tilt stand To adjust the multimeter to a 60° standing position, pull the tilt stand outward as shown in Figure 1- 3.
1 Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter Ensure that the Agilent logo on the U1173A IR- USB cable (purchased separately) connected to the multimeter is facing up. Firmly push the IR head into the multimeter’s IR communication port until it snaps into place (see Figure 1- 3). NOTE Communication settings for U1231A/U1232A/U1233A The baud rate, data bits, and parity bit are fixed respectively to 9600 bps, 8-bit, and none for the U1231A/U1232A/U1233A handheld digital multimeter.
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 in Table 1- 2 while turning the rotary switch from OFF to any other position. Power- on options remain selected until the multimeter is turned off. Table 1-2 Power-on options Key Description Enters the multimeter’s Setup menu.
1 Introduction Preparing Your Multimeter Table 1-2 Power-on options (continued) Key Description Enables Scale until the multimeter is turned off. Max Min To learn more about Scale, see “Making Scale Transfers (Scale)” on page 76. Activates the LED flashlight without multimeter operation. Max Min • Press or to adjust the LED flashlight’s intensity level (either Lo, 02, 03, ME, 05, 06, or Hi). Press to save your changes, or press to discard your changes.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Your Multimeter in Brief Dimensions Front view 86 mm Figure 1-5 Width dimension U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide 15
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Rear and side view 52 mm 169 mm Figure 1-6 Height and depth dimensions 16 U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Overview Front panel The front panel parts of your multimeter are described in this section. Click the respective “Learn more” pages in Table 1- 3 for more information on each part.
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Rear panel The rear panel parts of your multimeter are described in this section. Click the respective “Learn more” pages in Table 1- 4 for more information on each part.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Rotary switch The measurement functions for each rotary switch position are described in Table 1- 5 on page 20. Turning the rotary switch changes the measurement function and resets all other measurement options. Click the respective “Learn more” pages in Table 1- 5 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 regular function.
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Table 1-5 U1231A/U1232A/U1233A rotary switch functions Legend U1233A U1232A Functions shown in the primary display U1231A Default When Esc Shift is pressed Learn more on: Cycles between Hz Hz Hz VZLOW Auto (AC/DC) V • VZLOW DC (AC) V, • VZLOW AC (DC) V, or • VZLOW Auto (AC/DC) V.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Table 1-5 U1231A/U1232A/U1233A rotary switch functions (continued) Legend U1233A U1232A Functions shown in the primary display U1231A Default When Esc Shift is pressed Learn more on: U1233A/U1232A: Cycles between Hz Hz Hz AUX U1233A/U1232A: DC A U1231A: Clamp-on AC A (Aux) • AC A, • AC Hz, or • DC A U1231A: Cycles between • Clamp-on DC A (Aux), • AC Hz, or • Clamp-on AC A (Aux) U1233A/U1232A: DC μA Hz Hz AUX U1231A: Auxiliary temperature measurement
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 in Table 1- 6 for more information on each function. Table 1-6 Keypad functions Function when pressed for: Legend Less than 1 second Null Recall Sets the Null/Relative mode.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Table 1-6 Keypad functions (continued) Function when pressed for: Learn more on: Legend Less than 1 second Trig Hold Auto Log More than 1 second Freezes and stores the present reading in the display ( mode). Automatically freezes the present reading once the reading is stable ( mode) • In Trig Hold-Log mode, press to manually trigger the holding of the next measured value. • Press for more than 1 second to exit this mode.
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 26 for a list of available measurement signs and notations and “Analog bar graph” on page 27 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 1-7 General annunciators (continued) Legend Description Learn more on: Trigger hold enabled page 72 Auto hold enabled page 72 Maximum reading shown on primary display Minimum reading shown on primary display page 70 Averaged reading shown on primary display Present reading shown on primary display Relative (Null) enabled Primary measurement display - Analog bar graph page 27 Remote control enabled page 11 Measuring units U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User
1 Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief Table 1-7 General annunciators (continued) Legend Description Learn more on: Battery capacity indication Overload (the reading exceeds the display range) page 5 - Measurement units The available signs and notations for each measurement function in your multimeter are described in Table 1- 8. The units listed below are applicable to the primary display measurements of your multimeter.
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 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. WA R N I N G Ensure that the probe accessories are connected to the correct input terminals for the selected measurement function before starting any measurement.
Introduction Your Multimeter in Brief 1 Table 1-11 U1232A and U1233A terminal connections for different measuring functions Rotary switch position Input terminals Overload protection U1233A U1232A Hz Hz 600 Vrms 600 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.
U1231A/U1232A/U1233A Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide 2 Making Measurements Measuring AC Voltage 32 Measuring DC Voltage 34 Measuring AC/DC mV 34 Using VZLOW for Voltage Measurements 36 Measuring Resistance 39 Testing for Continuity 41 Testing Diodes 45 Measuring Capacitance 49 Measuring Temperature 51 Measuring AC or DC Current 56 Measuring Frequency 61 This chapter describes how to take measurements with your multimeter.
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC Voltage 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. NOTE AC voltage measurements measured with this multimeter are returned as true rms (root mean square) readings. These readings are accurate for sine waves and other waveforms (with no DC offset) such as square waves, triangle waves, and staircase waves.
Making Measurements Measuring AC Voltage 2 4 3 Voltage source AC 2 Hz 1 Figure 2-2 Measuring AC voltage U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide 33
2 Making Measurements Measuring DC Voltage Measuring DC Voltage Set up your multimeter to measure DC voltage as shown in Figure 2- 4. Probe the test points and read the display. NOTE This multimeter displays DC voltage values as well as their polarity. Negative DC voltages will return a negative sign on the left of the display. Figure 2-3 DC voltage display Measuring AC/DC mV You can choose to set the multimeter to measure AC or DC mV at the rotary positions shown below.
Making Measurements Measuring DC Voltage 2 4 3 Voltage source DC 2 1 Figure 2-4 Measuring DC voltage U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide 35
2 Making Measurements Using VZLOW for Voltage Measurements Using VZLOW for Voltage Measurements Set up your multimeter to make a VZLOW (low input impedance) voltage measurement as shown in Figure 2- 6. Probe the test points and read the display. CAUTION NOTE Do not use the VZLOW function to measure voltages in circuits that could be damaged by this function’s low impedance (≈3 kΩ).
Making Measurements Using VZLOW for Voltage Measurements 2 4 Energized wiring 3 Adjacent unused wiring 2 1 Figure 2-6 Measuring VZLOW voltage NOTE • The multimeter will automatically identify the voltage measurement based on the following criteria: • If AC V > 0.5 V or AC V ≥ the absolute of DC V, AC V will be selected. • Otherwise, DC V will be selected. • Press once to lock the initial signal identification (AC V or DC V).
2 Making Measurements Using VZLOW for Voltage Measurements Auto identification Press Press Esc Shift Esc Shift to lock the Press initial signal identification to exchange the signal indication to AC V Press Esc Shift Esc Shift to lock the initial signal identification to exchange the signal indication to DC V Press to restart Auto Identification Esc Shift Figure 2-7 VZLOW auto identification flow Using VZLOW to test a battery’s health Aside from reading a battery’s voltage level using the
Making Measurements Measuring Resistance 2 Measuring Resistance Set up your multimeter to measure resistance as shown in Figure 2- 9. Probe the test points and read the display. CAUTION To avoid possible damage to your multimeter or to the equipment under test, disconnect the circuit power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before measuring resistance. NOTE Resistance (opposition to the current flow) is measured by sending a small current out through the test leads to the circuit under test.
2 Making Measurements Measuring Resistance NOTE • Because the multimeter’s test current flows through all possible paths between the probe tips, the measured value of a resistor in a circuit is often different from the resistor’s rated value. • The resistance function can produce enough voltage to forward-bias silicon diodes or transistor junctions, causing them to conduct. If this is suspected, press to apply a lower current in the next higher range.
Making Measurements Testing for Continuity 2 Testing for Continuity Set up your multimeter to test for continuity as shown in Figure 2- 11. Probe the test points and read the display. CAUTION 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 for continuity. NOTE Continuity is the presence of a complete path for current flow.
2 Making Measurements Testing for Continuity Open continuity is disabled by default NOTE The open continuity test option must be enabled in the Setup menu before it can be selected via the key. See “Enable open continuity test by default” on page 99 to learn more.
Making Measurements Testing for Continuity NOTE 2 • You can set the beeper to sound and the backlight to flash as a continuity indication whether the circuit-under-test is less than (short) or more than or equal to (open) the threshold resistance. • 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 and flash. • You can enable or disable the audible and visual alert via the Setup menu.
2 Making Measurements Testing for Continuity 4 OFF (open) 5 ON (closed ) 3 Esc cShift 2 1 Figure 2-11 Testing for continuity 44 U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide
Making Measurements Testing Diodes 2 Testing Diodes Set up your multimeter to test diodes as shown in Figure 2- 14. Probe the test points and read the display. CAUTION NOTE 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. • Use the diode test to check diodes, transistors, silicon controlled rectifiers (SCRs), and other semiconductor devices.
2 Making Measurements Testing Diodes NOTE 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. See “Changing the beep frequency” on page 87 to disable the beeper. Reverse the probes (as shown in Figure 2- 15) and measure the voltage across the diode again. Assess the diode according to the following guidelines: • A diode is considered good if the multimeter displays in reverse bias mode.
Making Measurements Testing Diodes 2 4 3 Forward bias diode 2 1 Figure 2-14 Testing forward bias diode U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide 47
2 Making Measurements Testing Diodes 4 3 Reverse bias diode 2 1 Figure 2-15 Testing reverse bias diode 48 U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide
Making Measurements Measuring Capacitance 2 Measuring Capacitance Set up your multimeter to measure capacitance as shown in Figure 2- 17. Probe the test points and read the display. CAUTION To avoid possible damage to the multimeter or to the equipment under test, disconnect circuit power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before measuring capacitance. Use the DC voltage function to confirm that the capacitor is fully discharged.
2 Making Measurements Measuring Capacitance 4 3 Capacitance 2 1 Figure 2-17 Measuring capacitance 50 U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide
Making Measurements Measuring Temperature 2 Measuring Temperature Set up your multimeter to measure temperature as shown in Figure 2- 19. Probe the test points and read the display. 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.
2 Making Measurements Measuring Temperature CAUTION Always set the temperature unit display per the official requirements and in compliance with the national laws of your region. NOTE • The multimeter uses a type-K thermocouple probe (U1186A, purchased separately) for measuring temperature. • Shorting the terminal to the COM terminal will display the temperature at the multimeter’s terminals.
Making Measurements Measuring Temperature 2 3 2 AUX 1 Plug the adapter into the terminal Plug the sensor into the adapter Ambient temperature Figure 2-20 Using the Auxillary Temperature measurement function U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide 53
2 Making Measurements Measuring Temperature NOTE The bead-type thermocouple probe is suitable for measuring temperatures from –40 °C to 204 °C (399 °F) in Teflon-compatible environments. Above this temperature range, the probe may emit toxic gas. Do not immerse this thermocouple probe in any liquid. For best results, use a thermocouple probe designed for each specific application — an immersion probe for liquid or gel, and an air probe for air measurement.
Making Measurements Measuring Temperature 2 Available options: • °C - Temperature measured in °C only. • °C°F - During temperature measurements, press switch between °C and °F. Range Auto to Range Auto to • °F - Temperature measured in °F only. • °F°C - During temperature measurements, press switch between °F and °C. 4 Press to save the changes.
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- 24 and Figure 2- 25. Probe the test points and read the display. WA R N I N G Never attempt an in-circuit current measurement where the open-circuit potential to earth is greater than 1000 V. Doing so will cause damage to the multimeter and possible electric shock or personal injury.
Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current 2 Figure 2-22 DC current display Figure 2-23 AC current display NOTE Reversing the leads will produce a negative reading, but will not damage the multimeter. CAUTION Placing the probes across (in parallel with) a powered circuit when a lead is plugged into a current terminal can damage the circuit you are testing and blow the multimeter's fuse.
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current 3 Voltage source LOAD AC 4 Voltage source LOAD DC 2 Hz 1 Figure 2-24 Measuring DC/AC current (up to A) 58 U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide
Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current 3 2 Voltage source LOAD DC 4 Voltage source LOAD AC 2 Hz 1 Figure 2-25 Measuring AC/DC current (up to μA) U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide 59
2 Making Measurements Measuring AC or DC Current Using the μA function to measure flame rectification circuits The multimeter’s μA measurement function can be used to measure flame rectification circuits (flame sensors) down to 0.01 μA. Flame sensors, whether they are used in a home furnace or on a large industrial boiler, indicate the presence of a flame and are part of the safety circuit. These types of flame sensors use a process of flame rectification to sense that the flame is lit.
Making Measurements Measuring Frequency 2 Measuring Frequency Your multimeter allows simultaneous monitoring of realtime voltage or current with frequency measurements. Table 2- 2 highlights the functions allowing frequency measurements in your multimeter. Table 2-2 Functions allowing frequency measurement Legend U1233A U1232A U1231A Hz Hz Hz Hz Hz WA R N I N G NOTE Hz Hz AUX Hz Never measure the frequency where the voltage or current level exceeds the specified range.
2 Making Measurements Measuring Frequency Rise Time Fall Time 90% 50% 10% + Width – Width Period Figure 2-26 Frequency definition NOTE • Pressing controls the input range of the primary function (voltage or ampere) and not the frequency range. Range Auto • The frequency of the input signal is shown in the primary display, and the bar graph does not indicate the frequency value but indicates the voltage or ampere value of the input signal.
Making Measurements Measuring Frequency NOTE 2 • If a reading seems to be a multiple of what you expect, the input signal may be distorted. Distortion can cause multiple triggerings of the frequency counter. Selecting a higher voltage range might solve this problem by decreasing the sensitivity of the multimeter. In general, the lowest frequency displayed is the correct one.
2 64 Making Measurements Measuring Frequency U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s Guide
U1231A/U1232A/U1233A Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide 3 Multimeter Features Detecting AC Voltage Presence (Vsense) 66 Making Relative Measurements (Null) 68 Capturing Maximum and Minimum Values (MaxMin) 70 Freezing the Display (Trig Hold-Log and Auto Hold-Log) 72 Trig Hold-Log operation 72 Auto Hold-Log operation 72 Recalling Previously Recorded Readings (Recall) 74 Making Scale Transfers (Scale) 76 The chapter describes the additional features available in your multimeter.
3 Multimeter Features Detecting AC Voltage Presence (Vsense) Detecting AC Voltage Presence (Vsense) The Vsense detector is a non- contact voltage detector (for U1233A model only) that detects the presence of AC voltages nearby. WA R N I N G You are advised to test on a known live circuit within the rated AC voltage range of this product before and after each use to ensure that the Vsense detector works. Voltage could still be present even if there is no Vsense alert indication.
Multimeter Features Detecting AC Voltage Presence (Vsense) NOTE 3 • Place the top of the multimeter (with the Vsense indicator) close to a conductor when sensing for AC voltages (as low as 24 V in the Hi.SE setting). • The low sensitivity setting can be used on flush mounted wall sockets or outlets and various power strips or cords.
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 (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 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 multimeter also calculates an average of all readings taken since the MaxMin mode was activated.
Multimeter Features Capturing Maximum and Minimum Values (MaxMin) 3 Figure 3-4 MaxMin display NOTE • Changing the range manually will also restart the recording session. • If an overload is recorded, the averaging function will be stopped. shown in place of the average value. is • The APO (auto power-off) function is disabled when MaxMin is enabled.
3 Multimeter Features Freezing the Display (Trig Hold-Log and Auto Hold-Log) Freezing the Display (Trig Hold-Log and Auto Hold-Log) NOTE Trig Hold-Log and Auto Hold-Log readings are recorded automatically for future review or analysis by default. See “Recalling Previously Recorded Readings (Recall)” on page 74 to learn more. Trig Hold-Log operation To freeze the display for any function, press the Tri g Hold Auto Log key.
Multimeter Features Freezing the Display (Trig Hold-Log and Auto Hold-Log) 3 Figure 3-6 Auto Hold-Log display NOTE • The Auto Hold-Log operation monitors the input signal and updates the display and, if enabled, emits a beep whenever a new stable measurement is detected. The multimeter is ready to update the display once the variation of the reading exceed the setting of the variation count. • The reading. annunciator will flash while attempting to acquire a stable Press and hold mode.
3 Multimeter Features Recalling Previously Recorded Readings (Recall) Recalling Previously Recorded Readings (Recall) Trig Hold- Log and Auto Hold- Log readings are recorded automatically for future review or analysis by default. NOTE • Up to a maximum of 10 records can be stored at a time. The Trig Hold-Log and Auto Hold-Log records share the same memory space. When the memory’s index is full, the next reading to be recorded will overwrite the last reading recorded (the 10th index).
Multimeter Features Recalling Previously Recorded Readings (Recall) 3 Figure 3-8 Empty view display 2 Use the following steps to navigate the Recall menu. i Press to jump to the last stored entry, or press and hold for more than 1 second to jump to the first stored entry. Max Min Max Min ii Press to view the next stored entry or press to view the previous stored entry. The index number (shown by the analog bar graph) increases or decreases by one.
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, high voltage probes, or temperature auxiliary probes. The available scale conversions are shown in the table below.
Multimeter Features Making Scale Transfers (Scale) 3 1 Press and hold while powering on the multimeter to enable the Scale operation. Max Min 2 If successful, the annunciator is shown on the left of the display. The multimeter automatically starts the conversion of the selected Scale item for all voltage measurements. 3 You can only change the selected Scale item from the Setup menu. See “Changing the scale conversion value” on page 96 to learn more.
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U1231A/U1232A/U1233A Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide 4 Multimeter Setup Options Using the Setup Menu 80 Editing numerical values 81 Setup Menu Summary 82 Setup Menu Items 84 Changing the variation count 84 Enabling and changing the Smooth refresh rate 85 Enabling and changing the voltage alert level 86 Changing the beep frequency 87 Changing the auto power-off (APO) timeout 88 Changing the LCD backlight timeout 89 Adjusting the LCD backlight intensity 90 Enabling the LED flashlight timeout 91 Adju
4 Multimeter Setup Options Using the Setup Menu Using the Setup Menu The 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: • 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, first press or to position the cursor over the first numerical digit (most right digit). Max Min Next, use the and numerical digit(s). Null Recall • Press • Press Null Recall Range Auto Range Auto to move the cursor to the other to move the cursor to the left, and to move the cursor to the right. When the cursor is positioned over a digit, use the keys to change the numerical 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 in Table 4- 2 for more information on each menu item. Table 4-2 Setup menu item descriptions Legend Available settings Description (001 to 999) counts Set the multimeter’s Auto Hold-Log variation count from 1 count to 999 counts. Default is 50 counts.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Summary 4 Table 4-2 Setup menu item descriptions (continued) Legend Available settings bE.bL, – –.bL, to.nE, – –.– –, or bE.– – MELo, USEr, bEEE, or oFF rES.n or rES.Y 1000 A/V, 1000 °C(°F)/V, 1000 V/V, 100 A/V, 10 A/V, 1 A/V, or 0.1 A/V Description Learn more on: Enable or disable the continuity test alerts (beeping sound and/or flashing backlight). Default is enabled for both beeper and backlight (bE.bL).
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Setup Menu Items Changing the variation count This setting is used with the Auto Hold- Log function (see page 72). When the variation of the measured value exceeds the value of the variation count, the Auto Hold- Log function will be ready to trigger. Use this Setup item to change the variation count for the Auto Hold- Log function between 1 to 999 counts.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Enabling and changing the Smooth refresh rate 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. Use this Setup item to enable or disable Smooth, and to change the refresh rate for Smooth between 1 to 999. Parameter Range Default setting Smooth (001 to 999).(d or E) 009.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Enabling and changing the voltage alert level This setting is used with the multimeter’s voltage alert (see page 10). The multimeter will start beeping periodically once the measured voltage exceeds the level set, regardless of polarity. Use this Setup item to enable or disable the voltage alert, and to change the voltage alert level between 1 to 660 V. Parameter Range Default setting V(oltage Alert) (1 to 660).(d or E) V 030.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Changing the beep frequency The multimeter’s beeper alerts users to the presence of newly sensed values for static recordings, sensed values that are out of tolerance or limits set, and invalid key operations. Use this Setup item to change the driving frequency of the beeper (either 3.2, 3.4, 3.8, or 4.2 kHz), or to disable the beeper (–.–) Parameter Range Default setting bF (3.2, 3.4, 3.8, 4.2) kHz or –.– (off) 3.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Changing the auto power-off (APO) timeout The multimeter’s automatic power- off (see page 6) function uses a timer to determine when to automatically turn the multimeter off. Use this Setup item to enable or disable the auto power- off function and to change its timeout period from 1 to 99 minutes. Parameter Range Default setting A(PO) (01 to 99).(d or E) minutes (15.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Changing the LCD backlight timeout The multimeter’s LCD backlight (see page 7) uses a timer to determine when to turn off the LCD backlight. Use this Setup item to adjust the LCD backlight timeout and to change its timeout period from 1 to 99 seconds. Parameter Range Default setting b(acklight) (01 to 99).(d or E) seconds (15.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Adjusting the LCD backlight intensity The multimeter’s LCD backlight (see page 7) can be adjusted to seven different intensity levels. Use this Setup item to adjust the LCD backlight’s intensity level (either Lo, 02, 03, ME, 05, 06, or Hi).
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Enabling the LED flashlight timeout The multimeter’s LED flashlight (see page 7) uses a timer to determine when to turn off the LED flashlight. Use this Setup item to enable or disable the LED flashlight timeout and to change its timeout period from 1 to 99 seconds. Parameter Range Default setting t(orchlight) (01 to 99).(d or E) seconds (15.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Adjusting the LED flashlight intensity The multimeter’s LED flashlight (see page 7) can be adjusted to seven different intensity levels. Use this Setup item to adjust the LED flashlight’s intensity level (either Lo, 02, 03, ME, 05, 06, or Hi).
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Changing the minimum measurable frequency This setting is used with frequency tests (see page 61). Changing the minimum measurable frequency will influence the display update rates for frequency measurements. The typical display update rate as defined in the specification is based on a minimum measurable frequency of 0.5 Hz. Use this Setup item to adjust the minimum measurable frequency value (either 0.5 Hz or 5.0 Hz).
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Use this Setup item to change the continuity test alerts (either beeper and backlight, backlight only, tone, or beeper only), or to disable the alerts (––.––). Parameter Range Default setting bE.bL, – –.bL, to.nE, – –.– –, or bE.– – bE.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Changing the power-on greeting tone The multimeter plays a short greeting tone each time it is powered up. Use this Setup item to change the greeting tone (either melody, user, or beep), or to disable the greeting tone (off).
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Resetting the Setup items The Setup items can be reset to their default values through this Setup item. Select and press to perform the reset. The multimeter will beep once and return to the first Setup item. Tri g Hold Auto Log Parameter Range Default setting rSt rES.n or rES.Y rES.n Press Press Figure 4-13 Resetting the Setup items Changing the scale conversion value This setting is used with the Scale function (see page 76).
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items NOTE Parameter Range Default setting Scale 1000 A/V, 1000 °C(°F)/V, 1000 V/V, 100 A/V, 10 A/V, 1 A/V, or 0.1 A/V 1000 A/V 4 The temperature-voltage scale conversion 1000 °C/V or 1000 °F/V is dependent on the temperature unit setup (see page 99). • If °C or °C°F is selected, 1000 °C/V is shown during the scale conversion. • If °F or °F°C is selected, 1000 °F/V is shown during the scale conversion.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items Enable the AC/DC mV measurement You can choose to set the multimeter to measure AC or DC mV at the rotary positions shown below. • U1233A: • U1232A: AUX • U1231A: Hz AUX Use this Setup item to enable AC/DC mV measurements. You are recommended to use the AC/DC mV measurements to precisely measure low voltages.
Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items 4 Enable open continuity test by default This setting is used with continuity tests (see page 41). Enable this option for the beeper to sound and the backlight to flash as a continuity indication when the circuit- under- test is more than or equal to (open) the threshold resistance. Use this Setup item to enable the open continuity tests.
4 Multimeter Setup Options Setup Menu Items • Fahrenheit only: Temperature measured in °F. • Fahrenheit/Celsius: During temperature measurements, press to switch between °F and °C. Range Auto Use this Setup item to change the default temperature unit for temperature measurements. Press and hold Setup item.
U1231A/U1232A/U1233A Handheld Digital Multimeter User’s Guide 5 Characteristics and Specifications Product Characteristics 102 Specification Assumptions 103 Measurement Category 104 Measurement category definition 104 Electrical Specifications 105 DC specifications 105 AC specifications 108 Capacitance specifications 109 Temperature specifications 110 Frequency specifications 111 Frequency sensitivity specifications 111 Scale transfer (mV) 112 Display update rate (approximate) 113 This chapter lists the c
5 Characteristics and Specifications Product Characteristics Product Characteristics NOTE Product characteristics specified in the table below are applicable for both U1231A, U1232A, and U1233A models unless stated otherwise. POWER SUPPLY Battery type: • 4 × 1.5 V AAA Alkaline battery (ANSI/NEDA 24A or IEC LR03), or • 4 × 1.
Characteristics and Specifications Specification Assumptions 5 ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY (EMC) Commercial limits compliance with EN61326-1 TEMPERATURE COEFFICIENT 0.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Measurement Category • For non- sinusoidal waveforms, add (2% reading + 2% full scale) typical. • After VZLOW (low input impedance) voltage measurements, wait at least 20 minutes for thermal impact to cool before proceeding with any other measurement. Measurement Category The Agilent U1231A/U1232A/U1233A Handheld Digital Multimeters have a safety rating of CAT III, 600 V.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 Electrical Specifications Specification assumptions are given on page 103. NOTE DC specifications Table 5-1 DC specifications Test current Accuracy Function Voltage Range Resolution U1231A U1232A U1233A Burden voltage Input impedance (where applicable) 600 mV[1] 0.1 mV 0.5% + 2 0.5% + 2 0.5% + 2 - - 11.18 MΩ 6V 0.001 V 0.5% + 2 0.5% + 2 0.5% + 2 - - 11.18 MΩ 60 V 0.01 V 0.5% + 2 0.5% + 2 0.5% + 2 - - 10.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications Table 5-1 DC specifications (continued) Test current Accuracy Function Range Input impedance U1231A U1232A U1233A 0.1 Ω 0.9% + 3 0.9% + 3 0.9% + 3 0.57 mA - - 6 kΩ[4] 0.001 kΩ 0.9% + 3 0.9% + 3 0.9% + 3 57 μA - - 60 kΩ 0.01 kΩ 0.9% + 3 0.9% + 3 0.9% + 3 5.7 μA - - 600 kΩ 0.1 kΩ 0.9% + 3 0.9% + 3 0.9% + 3 570 nA - - 6 MΩ[5] 0.001 MΩ 0.9% + 3 0.9% + 3 0.9% + 3 100 nA //10 MΩ - - 60 MΩ [5] 0.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 Table 5-1 DC specifications (continued) Test current Accuracy Function Current Range [1] 60 μA 600 μA[1] [2] 6A 10 A[2][3] Resolution Burden voltage Input impedance U1231A U1232A U1233A (where applicable) 0.01 μA - 1.0% + 2 1.0% + 2 - <2.5 V - 0.1 μA - 1.0% + 2 1.0% + 2 - <2.5 V - 0.001 A - 1.0% + 3 1.0% + 3 - <0.2 V - 0.01 A - 1.0% + 3 1.0% + 3 - <0.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications AC specifications Table 5-2 AC specifications Accuracy Function Voltage Range Burden voltage Resolution 45 Hz to 500 Hz 500 Hz to 1 kHz (where applicable) 600 mV 0.1 mV 1.0% + 3 2.0% + 3 - 6V 0.001 V 1.0% + 3 2.0% + 3 - 60 V 0.01 V 1.0% + 3 2.0% + 3 - 600 V 0.1 V 1.0% + 3 2.0% + 3 - 600 V (VZLOW)[3] 0.1 V 2.0% + 3 4.0% + 3 - Notes for true rms AC voltage specifications: 1 Overload protection: 600 Vrms.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 Capacitance specifications Table 5-3 Capacitance specifications Accuracy Range Resolution U1231A U1232A U1233A Measuring rate (at full scale) 1000 nF 1 nF 1.9% + 2 1.9% + 2 1.9% + 2 10 μF 0.01 μF 1.9% + 2 1.9% + 2 1.9% + 2 100 μF 0.1 μF 1.9% + 2 1.9% + 2 1.9% + 2 1000 μF 1 μF 1.9% + 2 1.9% + 2 1.9% + 2 1 time/second 10 mF 0.01 mF 1.9% + 2 1.9% + 2 1.9% + 2 0.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications Temperature specifications Table 5-4 Temperature specifications Accuracy Thermal type Range Resolution U1233A –40 °C to 1372 °C 0.1 °C 1% + 1 °C –40 °F to 2502 °F 0.1 °F 1% + 1.8 °F K Notes for temperature specifications: 1 The specification above is specified after the multimeter has been left stationary in the same operating environment for 1 hour at least.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 Frequency specifications Table 5-5 Frequency specifications Accuracy Range Resolution U1231A U1232A U1233A 99.99 Hz 0.01 Hz 0.1% + 2 0.1% + 2 0.1% + 2 999.9 Hz 0.1 Hz 0.1% + 2 0.1% + 2 0.1% + 2 9.999 kHz 0.001 kHz 0.1% + 2 0.1% + 2 0.1% + 2 99.99 kHz 0.01 kHz 0.1% + 2 0.1% + 2 0.
5 Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications For current measurements Table 5-7 Frequency sensitivity and trigger level specifications for current measurements Input range Minimum sensitivity (rms sine wave) Maximum input for specified accuracy[1] 45 Hz to 5 kHz U1232A U1233A 60 μA 30 μA 30 μA 600 μA 30 μA 30 μA 6A 0.5 A 0.5 A 10 A 0.5 A 0.
Characteristics and Specifications Electrical Specifications 5 Display update rate (approximate) Table 5-9 Display update rate (approximate) Times/second Function U1231A U1232A U1233A AC V (V or mV) 5 5 5 DC V (V or mV) 5 5 5 AC V/DC V (VZLOW) 1 1 1 Scale transfer (mV) 5 5 5 Ω 5 5 5 Diode 5 5 5 Capacitance 4 (<100 μF) 4 (<100 μF) 4 (<100 μF) DC A (μA, mA, or A) - 5 5 AC A (μA, mA, or A) - 5 5 Frequency 1 (>10 Hz) 1 (>10 Hz) 1 (>10 Hz) U1231A/U1232A/U1233A User’s
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