Fluke

Fluke

The Fluke Corporation manufactures electronic test equipment that can be used in the field as well as the lab. Their products range from calibrators to bench multimeters. The Fluke company also offers a line of handheld digital multimeters and a line of clamp-style devices.

These devices are used to measure and monitor different things. Fluke's multimeters function as measurement devices for voltage with added current-measurement capabilities. Their clamp meters operate as measurement devices for current with added voltage-measurement capabilities. Digital multimeters (DMM) are often used with electronics. Clamp devices measure in lower resolutions. Detachable-display equipment reads data remotely between a clamp and the main unit. A general use guideline can be broken down as follows:

• Basic digital multimeter - Used for basic measurements of continuity and voltage
• High-end digital multimeter - Used for higher resolutions of power that clamps cannot measure
• Basic clamp meter - Used for basic measurements of current
• Logging clamp meter - Used to resolve intermittent breaker trips
• Advanced clamp meter - Used for measurements of motor inrush and variable frequency drive output

While there are differences between devices, Fluke's handheld multimeters use alkaline batteries for power. Depending on the model, they will use multiple AA or AAA batteries. Battery life can vary greatly as well. The majority of Fluke’s handheld devices have battery life ranges between 200 to 400 hours. These numbers drop with the use of functions such as the backlight feature. Devices like the Fluke 787 ProcessMeter have 50 hours of maximum battery life.

Measuring resistance helps to determine the condition of a component. If possible, the component should be removed from its circuit. Remember, if left in the circuit,the readings may be influenced by other parts that are in parallel with it. Follow these steps to obtain a reading:

• Power down the circuit and discharge any capacitor
• Turn the Fluke dial to the OHMS or RESISTANCE setting
• Insert the black lead into the COM and the red lead into the RESISTANCE jacks
• Place the test leads securely across the component
• Read the displayed measurement

Yes, Fluke test leads are available separately from their line of measuring devices. This includes the Hardpoint, Premium, Retractable Tip, and TwistGuard leads. Other pins, probes, and test leads are available in sets or as part of a themed test kit.