VOLTCRAFT VC-20 Operating Instructions Manual

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29

TABLE OF CONTENTS G

..............................................................................................................................................Page

1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................30

2. Intended use ......................................................................................................................31

3. Description of individual parts ...........................................................................................32

4. Explanation of symbols .....................................................................................................34

5. Safety instructions .............................................................................................................35

6. Product description ............................................................................................................37

7. Scope of delivery ...............................................................................................................38

8. Initial operation ..................................................................................................................38

9. Measuring ..........................................................................................................................39

a) DC/AC voltage measurement ......................................................................................39

b) Frequency measurement .............................................................................................40

c) Duty cycle.....................................................................................................................40

d) Resistance measurement ............................................................................................41

e) Diode test .....................................................................................................................42

f) Continuity check ...........................................................................................................43

g) Capacity measurement ................................................................................................43

h) Non-contact voltage detection......................................................................................44

i) DC/AC current measurement .......................................................................................45

10. Torch operation ..................................................................................................................45

11. Maintenance and cleaning ................................................................................................46

12. Inserting/changing the batteries ........................................................................................47

13. Disposal .............................................................................................................................48

a) General ........................................................................................................................48

b) Batteries/rechargeable batteries ..................................................................................48

14. Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................49

15. Technical Data ...................................................................................................................50

30

1. INTRODUCTION

Dear Customer,

By purchasing this Voltcraft

®

product, you have made a very good decision. Thank you.

You have acquired an above-average quality product from a brand family which has

distinguished itself in the eld of measuring, charging and network technology by particular

competence and permanent innovation.

With Voltcraft

®

, you will be able to tackle difcult tasks, no matter whether you are an ambitious

hobbyist or a professional user. Voltcraft

®

offers you reliable technology at extraordinary value

for money.

We are certain: starting to use Voltcraft

®

will also be the beginning of a long, successful

relationship.

We hope you enjoy your new Voltcraft

®

product!

If there are any technical questions, please contact:

International: www.conrad.com/contact

United Kingdom: www.conrad-electronic.co.uk/contact

31

2. INTENDED USE

• Measuring in the range of overvoltage category CAT IV up to maximum 600V when using

cover caps on the measuring leads against ground potential, pursuant to EN 61010-1 or

lower and display of the electric parameters

• Alternating and direct current measuring up to max. 600 V

• Measurement of direct and alternating currents up to max. 200 mA

• Measurement of resistance values of up to 40 MOhm

• Continuity check (< 100 Ohms acoustic)

• Diode test

• Capacity testing of condensers up to 200 µF

• Measuring frequencies of up to 10 KHz and display of the pos. pulse ratio in % (duty cycle)

• Non-contact alternating voltage detector in the range of 100 - 600 V/AC

• Use as a LED torch

• One-handed operation possible due to plug-in device for test prods on rear

The meter complies with IP54 protection and is dust and splashwater-proof. The meter must

not be operated when it is open, when the battery compartment is open or the compartment

cover is missing.

Operation is only permissible with AAA batteries.

Measurements must not be carried out under unfavourable ambient conditions.

Unfavourable ambient conditions include:

- Combustible gases, vapours or solvents

- Electrical storms or conditions as during a storm, e.g. strong electrostatic elds, etc.

Any use other than that described above will damage the product and may involve other risks,

such as short-circuit, re, electric shock, etc. Do not change or modify any part of the product!

The safety instructions must be observed without fail!

32

3. DESCRIPTION OF INDIVIDUAL PARTS (see fold-out page)

1 Rotary switch for setting the measuring functions

2 Light button for torch function

3 MODE button for switching the measuring functions

4 Display (LCD) with function and measuring unit display

A Battery change display

B Prex with negative measuring values

C Indicator for direct (DC) or alternating current (AC)

D Indicator for automatic range selection (Auto-Range)

E Digital measuring value display (4000 digits)

F Diode test symbol

G Symbol for the acoustic continuity check

H Display of the measuring unit

5 NCV sensor (non-contact voltage detector)

6 Illuminated NCV display (NVC = non-contact voltage detector)

7 LED torch

8 Rear plug-in device for measuring leads

9 Button for frequency and duty cycle measuring function

10 Battery compartment

11 Grip section marking on the test prods

12 Measuring contact with plug in CAT III/CAT IV covering

33

Display indications and symbols

AC value for alternating voltage and current

DC value for direct voltage and current

V Volt (unit of electric potential)

mV milli-Volt (exp.-3)

mA milli-Ampere (unit of electric current, exp.-3)

µA Micro-Ampere (exp.-6)

Ω Ohm (unit of electric resistance)

kΩ kilo-Ohm (exp.3)

MΩ mega-Ohm (exp.6)

Hz Hertz (unit of frequency)

% pulse-pause ratio specied in %

µF micro-Farad (unit of electric capacity, exp.-6)

nF nano-Farad (exp.-9)

34

4. EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS

A triangle containing an exclamation mark indicates important information in these

operating instructions which is to be observed without fail.

The triangle containing a lightning symbol warns of danger of an electric shock or of

the impairment of the electrical safety of the device.

The “arrow” symbol indicates special information and advice on operation of the

device.

This product has been CE-tested and meets the necessary European guidelines.

Insulation class 2 (double or reinforced insulation)

CAT II Measuring category II for electric and electronic devices that receive current

through a power plug This category includes all smaller categories (for example

CAT I for the measurement of signal and driving current). Measurement operation

without a cover plug on the test prods is permissible.

CAT III Measuring category III for measurements in construction installations (for example

power plugs or distributors). This category includes all smaller categories (for exam-

ple CAT II for the measurement of electrical equipment). Measurement operation is

only permitted with a cover plug on the test prods.

CAT IV Measuring category IV for measuring at the source of low voltage installations (for

example, main distributors, house transfer stations from the electrical supplier,

etc.). This category includes all smaller categories. Measurement operation is only

permitted with a cover plug on the test prods.

Ground potential

35

5. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Please read through the operating instructions completely before using the

product for the rst time; they include important information necessary for

correct operation.

The guarantee will lapse if damage is incurred as a result of non-compliance

with the operating instructions. We will not assume any responsibility for

consequential damage!

We will also not assume any responsibility for damage to assets or persons

caused by improper handling or failure to observe the safety instructions.

The warranty will be rendered null and void in such cases.

• This device left the factory in perfect condition in terms of safety engineering.

• To maintain this state and ensure safe operation, the user must observe the

safety instructions and warnings contained in these operating instructions.

• The following symbols must be observed: For safety and licensing reasons (CE),

unauthorised conversion and/or modication of the device is not permitted.

• Consult suitably qualied staff, if you have doubts about how the appliance oper-

ates or about how to connect it safely.

• Measuring instruments and accessories are not toys and have no place in the

hands of children.

• The accident prevention regulations of the relevant trade associations for

electrical systems and operating materials are to be observed in commercial

institutions.

• In schools, training centres, computer and self-help workshops, handling of

measuring instruments must be supervised by trained personnel in a responsible

manner.

• Always make sure before measuring voltages that the measuring instrument is

not set to a current measuring range.

• The voltage between the two measuring device and the ground potential must

not exceed 600 V DC/AC in overvoltage category IV.

36

• Measurements between measuring instrument and ground potential are not tob

e carried out above overvoltage category CAT II when using the measuring leads

without cover caps. When measuring in the measurement categories CAT III and

CAT IV the cover plugs must be on the test prods in order to avoid unintentional

short circuits during the measuring operation.

• Push the cover plugs onto the test prods until these lock on. To remove them pull

the covers with some force from the prods.

• Before changing the measuring range, the test prods have to be removed from

the measured object.

• Take particular care when dealing with voltages exceeding 33 V AC or 70 V DC!

Even at these voltages it is possible to get a fatal electric shock if you touch

electric conductors.

• Prior to each measurement, check your instrument and its measuring leads for

damage. Never carry out measurements when the protective insulation is dam-

aged (ripped, torn off etc.).

• In order to avoid an electric shock, ensure that you do not touch the connections

to be measured, even indirectly, during measurements. Do not exceed the

perceivable grip range markings (11) on the test prods during measuring!

• Do not use the multimeter just before, during or just after an electrical storm

(electrical shock! / high-energy over-voltages!). Please make certain that your

hands, shoes, clothing, the oor, circuits and parts etc. are absolutely dry.

• Avoid operation in direct proximity of:

- strong magnetic or electromagnetic elds

- transmitting aerials or HF generators.

• These could falsify the value measured.

• If you have reasons to assume that the device can no longer be operated safely,

disconnect it immediately and secure it against being operated unintentionally. It

can be assumed that safe operation is no longer possible if:

- the device is visibly damaged,

- it does not function any longer

- if it has been stored for long periods of time under unfavourable conditions

- if it has been subject to considerable stress during transportation.

37

• Do not switch the measuring instrument on immediately after it has been taken

from a cold to a warm environment. The condensation water generated could

destroy the device. Allow the device to reach room temperature before switching

it on.

• Do not leave the packaging material lying around carelessly since such materials

can become dangerous toys in the hands of children.

• You should also observe the safety instructions in each chapter of these instruc-

tions.

6. PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

The multimeter (referred to as DMM in the following) indicates measured values on the digital

display. The DMM measured value display comprises 4,000 digits (digit = smallest display

value).

The individual measuring ranges are selected via the rotary switch in which „auto range“, the

automatic range selection, is active. The appropriate range of measurement is set for each

application individually.

The automatic cutoff is always active in order to protect the batteries of the measuring device.

If no button is pressed for 15 minutes, the DMM shuts off automatically. To reactivate the

device, press „MODE“, „Hz %“ or actuate the rotary switch.

The current range has an exceptional feature. With this measuring device, it is no longer

necessary to replace a fuse that has accidentally tripped. The installed fuse resets automati-

cally after tripping.

The measuring leads are permanently attached to the measuring device. The test prod holder

on the rear allows you to use the device with one hand only and serves to conveniently stow

away the test prods. The gummed housing and IP54 protection make the DMM ideally suited

for heavy-duty measuring tasks.

The device is powered with two AAA batteries. These are supplied with the device.

The measuring device can be used for hobby or professional applications.

38

7. SCOPE OF DELIVERY

• Multimeter with permanently attached measuring leads

• 2 Cover plugs for the test prods

• 2 AAA batteries

• Operating instructions

8. INITIAL OPERATION

Prior to working with the measuring device, you have to insert the enclosed batteries.

Insert the batteries as described in the chapter „Cleaning and Maintenance“.

Rotary switch

The individual measuring functions can be set via the rotary switch. If

the rotary switch is set to „OFF“, the measuring device is switched off.

Always turn the measuring device off when it is not in use.

Attaching the test prods

Attach the test prods to the rear of the device’s

housing when it is not in use (protection during

transport).

You can also attach the measuring leads in a way

that allows measurements with one hand only.

Slide the two test prods into the rear holder as

shown on the diagram.

39

9. MEASURING

Never exceed the max. permitted input values. Do not contact circuits or parts of

circuits if the voltages applied to them could be higher than 33 V ACrms or 70 V

DC! Danger to life! Before measuring, check the connected measuring leads for

damage such as cuts, cracks or pinched sections, for example. Defective measur-

ing leads must no longer be used! Danger to life!

a) DC/AC voltage measurement

Proceed as follows to measure DC voltages:

- Turn the DMM on at the rotaryswitch (1) and select

measuring range „V“. The display shows „DC“

- Now connect the two test prods with the object to be

measured (battery, circuit etc.).

- The display (4) shows the polarity of the measured

value concerned together with the currently measured

value.

To measure alternating voltage, press the button „MODE“

(3) to switch to the AC range. If you press the button

again, the device switches back to DC etc.

The voltage range „V DC/AC“ shows an input resistance of >7.5 MOhm. As soon as a

minus „-“ appears for direct voltage in front of the measured value, the measured volt-

age is negative (or the measuring leads have been mixed up).

40

b) Frequency measurement

The DMM can be used to measure and indicate signal voltage frequencies.

Proceed as follows to measure frequencies:

- Turn the DMM on at the rotary switch (1) andselect measuring

range „V Hz %“. Press „Hz %“ (9) to change to the frequency

range. The display reads „Hz“.

- Now connect the two test prods with the object to be measured

(signal generator, circuit etc.).

- The frequency and corresponding unit are displayed.

c) Duty cycle

The duty cycle function determines the ratio of the positive half-

wave of a signal voltage to the entire signal waveform within a

certain period in percent.

Proceed as follows to measure the duty cycle:

- Turn the DMM on at the rotary switch (1) andselect measuring range „V Hz %“. Press „Hz %“

(9) twice to switch to duty cycle mode. The display indicates „%“.

- Now connect the two test prods with the object to be measured (signal generator, circuit etc.).

- The duty-cycle is indicated on the display.

41

d) Resistance measurement

Make sure that all the circuit parts, circuits and components to be measured

as well as other objects of measurement are disconnected from the voltage.

Proceed as follows to measure the resistance:

- Turn the DMM on at the rotaryswitch (1) and

select the measuring range „Ω“ .

- Check the measuring leads for continuity by

connecting both test prods to one another. After

that the resistance value must be approx. 0.5

Ohm.

- Now connect the measuring prods to the object

to be measured. As long as the object to be

measured is not high-resistive or interrupted, the

measured value will be indicated on the display

(4).

- As soon as „O.L“ (overow) appears on the display, you have exceeded the measuring

range or the measuring circuit has been interrupted.

If you carry out a resistance measurement, make sure that the measuring points which

you contact with the test prods are free from dirt, oil, solderable lacquer or the like. Such

circumstances may falsify the measured result.

42

e) Diode test

Make sure that all the circuit parts, circuits and components as well as other

objects of measurement are disconnected from the voltage.

Select the measuring range

To activate the function of the acoustic continuity tester, press the button „MODE“ (3). Pressing

this button again takes you to the next measuring function (continuity check) etc.

- The display indicates the diodesymbol.

- Check the measuring leads for continuity by

connecting both measuring prods to one another.

After that the value must be approx. 0 V.

- Now connect the two measuring prods with the

object to be measured (diode).

- The display shows the continuity voltage in volt

(V). If „OL“ is indicated, the diode is measured in

reverse direction or the diode is faulty (interrupti-

on).

43

f) Continuity check

Make sure that all the circuit parts, circuits and components to be measured

as well as other objects of measurement are disconnected from the voltage.

Select measuring range

To activate the function of the acoustic continuity tester, press the button „MODE“ (3) twice.

Pressing this button again takes you to the next measuring function (capacity measurement)

etc.

- The display indicates the symbol „Continuitytest“.

- A measuring value of less than 100 Ohm is identied as continuity;

in this case a beep sounds.

- As soon as „OL.“ (overow) on the display, you have exceeded

the measuring range or the measuring circuit has been interrup-

ted.

g) Capacity measurement

Make sure that all the circuit parts, circuits and components to be measured

as well as other objects of measurement are disconnected from the voltage.

Select measuring range „CAP“

To activate the capacity measurement function, press the button „MODE“ (3) three times.

Pressing this button again takes you to the next measuring function (resistance) etc.

- The display shows the unit „nF“.

- Now connect the two test prods with the object to be measured

(condenser). After a short while the display shows the capacity.

- As soon as „OL.“ (overow) on the display, you have exceeded

the measuring range or the measuring circuit has been interrup-

ted.

44

h) Non-contact voltage detection

The measuring device features a non-contact voltage detector. The detector also works with

alternating voltages of 100 to 600 V / 50 - 60 Hz, even when the measuring device is turned

off.

The voltage sensor (5) is located onthe top of

the device.

The detector serves to nd cable breaks in live

cables, for example.

Guide the measuring device along the object to

be tested with the sensor surface (5).

If alternating voltage is detected, the NCV display

(6) lights up.

The possible distance depends on the among of

alternating voltage.

The voltage detector only serves as a quick test and does not replace contact

voltage measuring. This function is not allowed to determine the absence of

voltage.

The display also responds in the event of static charges, as the detector

detects electric elds. This is normal and not a defect.

45

i) DC/AC current measurement

Current measuring operations are possible in two ranges. The rst range is 0 to 4000 µA,

the second is 0 to 200 mA. Both current measuring ranges are provided with fuses and thus

protected against overload.

Proceed as follows to measure DC currents:

- If you want to measure currents of up to 4,000 µA, set

the rotary switch (1) to setting „µA“ and to setting „mA“

for currents of up to 200 mA. The display shows „DC“.

- Now connect the two test prods in series with the object

to be measured (battery, circuit etc.); the display indica-

tes the polarity of the measured value together with the

currently measured value.

Proceed as described above to measure alternating

currents.

Press „MODE“ (3) to switch to the AC range. Pressing this

button again, takes you back etc.

Never measure currents above 200 mA in the µA/mA range, since this would cause

the fuse to trip.

If the fuse tripped (measured value does not change etc.), turn the DMM off (OFF) and

wait about ve minutes. The self-resetting fuse cools down and then functions again.

10. TORCH OPERATION

The DMM features an LED torch that can also be used when the DMM is switched off.

Press the light button (2) to switch it on. The lamp only lights up if the button is pressed down

in order to save battery power.

46

11. MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING

General information

To ensure the accuracy of the multimeter over a longer period of time, it should be calibrated

once a year.

The battery change is described below.

Periodically check the technical safety of the instrument and the measuring leads,

e.g. check for damage to the housing or pinched sections etc.

Cleaning

Always observe the following safety instructions before cleaning the device:

Live components may be exposed if covers are opened or parts are removed

(unless this can be done without tools).

Before cleaning or carrying out maintenance work all leads must be disconnected

from the objects to be measured.

Do not use carbonated cleaning agents, petrol, alcohol or the like. These agents corrode

the surface of the measuring instrument. Also, the vapours are detrimental to health and are

explosive. Nor should sharp-edged tools, screwdrivers, metal brushes etc. be used for clean-

ing purposes.

To clean the device or the display and measurement leads, use a clean lint-free anti-static and

dry cloth.

47

12. INSERTING/CHANGING THE BATTERIES

Operation of the measuring device requires two AAA batteries. You need to insert new,

charged batteries prior to initial operation or when the battery change symbol (4A) appears on

the display.

Proceed as follows to insert or change the batteries:

- Disconnect the measuring device from the measuring circuit and turn it off.

- Undo the screw of the battery compartment cover (10) and remove the cover.

- Now place 2 new batteries into the battery compartment, observing the correct polarity.

- Place the cover back on and screw it tight.

Never operate the measuring device when it is open.

DANGER TO LIFE!

Do not leave at batteries in the device. Even batteries protected against leaking can corrode

and thus release chemicals which may be detrimental to your health or destroy the device.

You can order suitable alkaline batteries stating the following item no.:

Item no.: 652303 (please order 2).

Only use alkaline batteries, since these are powerful and have a long life.

48

13. DISPOSAL

a) General

Electronic products are recyclable material and do not belong in the household

waste. When the device has become unusable, dispose of it in accordance with the

current statutory regulations.

Remove any inserted batteries and dispose of them separately from the product.

b) Batteries/rechargeable batteries

As the end user, you are required by law (Battery Ordinance) to return all used batteries/

rechargeable batteries; disposal of them in the household waste is prohibited!

Batteries/rechargeable batteries containing hazardous substances are labelled

with these symbols to indicate that the disposal of them in the household waste is

forbidden.

The symbols for dangerous heavy metal constituents are: Cd=Cadmium,

Hg=Mercury, Pb=Lead (name written on the battery/rechargeable battery, e.g.,

under the rubbish bin symbol on the left).

You can return your used batteries/rechargeable batteries free of charge at the ofcial col-

lection points of your community, in our stores, or at places where batteries or rechargeable

batteries are sold!

You thereby full your statutory obligations and contribute to the protection of the environment.

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VOLTCRAFT VC-20 Operating Instructions Manual

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