AEMC instruments MN261 User manual

ENGLISH
Model MN261
User Manual
ENGLISH
CURRENT MEASUREMENT PROBE
WITH AEMC
®
INSTRUMENTS
AC Current
Oscilloscope Probe

Copyright©Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC®Instruments. All rights reserved.
No part of this documentation may be reproduced in any form or by any means (including electronic
storage and retrieval or translation into any other language) without prior agreement and written consent
from Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc., as governed by United States and International copyright laws.
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC®Instruments
15 Faraday Drive • Dover, NH 03820 USA
Tel: [phone] or [phone] • Fax: [phone]
This documentation is provided “as is,” without warranty of any kind, express, implied, or otherwise.
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. has made every reasonable e󰀨ort to ensure that this documentation is accurate;
but does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of the text, graphics, or other information contained
in this documentation. Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. shall not be liable for any damages, special, indirect,
incidental, or inconsequential; including (but not limited to) physical, emotional or monetary damages
due to lost revenues or lost prots that may result from the use of this documentation, whether or not the
user of the documentation has been advised of the possibility of such damages.

Statement of Compliance
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC® Instruments
certies that this instrument has been calibrated
using standards and instruments traceable to
international standards.
We guarantee that at the time of shipping your
instrument has met its published specications.
An NIST traceable certicate may be requested
at the time of purchase, or obtained by returning
the instrument to our repair and calibration
facility, for a nominal charge.
The recommended calibration interval for this
instrument is 12 months and begins on the date of
receipt by the customer. For recalibration, please
use our calibration services. Refer to our repair and
calibration section at www.aemc.com.
Serial #:
Catalog #: 2115.82
Model #: MN261
Please ll in the appropriate date as indicated:
Date Received:
Date Calibration Due:
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc.
d.b.a AEMC®Instruments
www.aemc.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................5
1.1 RECEIVING YOUR SHIPMENT ................................................ 6
1.2 ORDERING INFORMATION..................................................... 6
1.2.1 Accessories and Replacement Parts ................................. 6
2. PRODUCT FEATURES .......................................................7
2.1 DESCRIPTION ........................................................................... 7
2.2 COMPATIBILITY ........................................................................ 7
2.3 CONTROL FEATURES ............................................................. 8
3. SPECIFICATIONS ...............................................................9
3.1 ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS ............................................. 9
3.2 MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS ......................................... 10
3.3 ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS.................................. 10
3.4 SAFETY SPECIFICATIONS ................................................... 10
3.5 TYPICAL RESPONSE CURVES ............................................ 11
4. OPERATION ...................................................................... 13
4.1 CURRENT MEASUREMENT .................................................. 13
5. MAINTENANCE ................................................................ 14
5.1 CLEANING................................................................................ 14
5.2 REPAIR AND CALIBRATION ................................................. 15
5.3 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE .................................................... 15
5.4 LIMITED WARRANTY............................................................. 16
5.4.1 Warranty Repairs.............................................................. 16

AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261 5
1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing an AEMC®Instruments AC Current Oscilloscope
Probe Model MN261.
For the best results from your instrument and for your safety, you must
read the enclosed operating instructions carefully and comply with the
precautions for use. Only qualied and trained operators should use this
product.
Symbols and Denitions
Signies that the instrument is protected by double or reinforced insulation
CAUTION - Risk of Danger! Indicates a WARNING. Whenever this symbol
is present, the operator must refer to the user manual before operation
Indicates a risk of electric shock. The voltage at the parts marked with this
symbol may be dangerous
Application or withdrawal authorized on conductors carrying dangerous
voltages. Type A current sensor per IEC 61010-2-032
Important information to acknowledge
This product complies with the Low Voltage & Electromagnetic Compatibility
European directives (73/23/CEE & 89/336/CEE)
Denition of Measurement Categories (CAT)
CAT IV corresponds to measurements performed at the primary electrical
supply (< 1000 V).
Example: primary overcurrent protection devices, ripple control units, and
meters.
CAT III corresponds to measurements performed in the building installa-
tion at the distribution level.
Example: hardwired equipment in xed installation and circuit breakers.
CAT II corresponds to measurements performed on circuits directly con-
nected to the electrical distribution system.
Example: measurements on household appliances and portable tools.

6 AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261
PRECAUTIONS FOR USE
These safety warnings are provided to ensure the safety of personnel and
proper operation of the instrument.
Connect the probe to the oscilloscope or voltage measuring instrument
before clamping the probe around a conductor.
Never use the probe on circuits rated higher than 600V, Cat III.
Never leave the probe clamped around a conductor while not connected
to an oscilloscope or voltage measuring instrument.
Carefully center the conductor inside the probe jaws and ascertain that
the probe is perpendicular to the conductor.
Avoid, if possible, the proximity of other conductors which may create
noise.
Check the magnetic mating surfaces of the probe jaws; these should be
free of dirt, rust, or other foreign matter.
Do not use a probe which is cracked, damaged, or has defective leads.
1.1 RECEIVING YOUR SHIPMENT
Upon receiving your shipment, make sure that the contents are consistent
with the packing list. Notify your distributor of any missing items. If the equip-
ment appears to be damaged, le a claim immediately with the carrier and
notify your distributor at once, giving a detailed description of any damage.
Save the damaged packing container to substantiate your claim.
1.2 ORDERING INFORMATION
AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261..........................Cat. #2115.82
Includes user manual and a product warranty and registration card.
1.2.1 Accessories and Replacement Parts
Adapter - BNC (Female) to 4 mm
Banana (Male) 600 V CAT III .................................................... Cat. #2119.94
Order Accessories and Replacement Parts Directly Online
Check our Storefront at www.aemc.com/store for availability

AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261 7
2. PRODUCT FEATURES
2.1 DESCRIPTION
The AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261 expands oscilloscope
applications in industrial or power environments, and is ideal for analysis
and measurement of distorted current waveforms and harmonics.
The Model MN261 permits accurate display and measurement of currents
from (0.1 to 240) Arms, 40 Hz to 10 kHz (with current derating) without
breaking into the circuit. A passive lter eliminates noise, ring on rapid
rising (di/dt) waveforms, and ensures accurate screen displays.
The probe connects directly to an oscilloscope through an insulated coax-
ial cable with an insulated BNC.
2.2 COMPATIBILITY
The Model MN261 is compatible with any analog or digital oscilloscope
or other voltage-measuring instrument which has the following features:
• BNC input connector
• Range capable of displaying (0.2 to 0.5) V per division, or 2 V range
• Minimum input impedance of 1 MΩ

8 AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261
2.3 CONTROL FEATURES
1. Jaw Opening: 0.83 in (21 mm)
2. Maximum dimension of conductor: 0.78 in (20 mm)
3. Two position switch
4. 6.5 ft (2 m) output cable
5. Arrow indicates direction of current ow. Current ows in a positive
direction when it travels from supply to load.
2.56" (65 mm)
5.31" (135 mm)
.83" (21 mm)
.73"
2.01" (51 mm)
(18.5 mm)
.1.18" (30 mm)
1
2
3
4
5

AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261 9
3. SPECIFICATIONS
3.1 ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS
*Reference conditions: 23 °C ± 3 °K, 20 to 75 % RH, 48 to 65 Hz, external
magnetic eld < 40 A/m, no DC component, no external current carrying
conductor, test sample centered.
Current Range: 0.1 to 24 Arms
0.5 to 240 Arms
Output Signal: mV output signal; 2 range switch selectable on handle
100mV/A: 0.1 to 24 Arms
10mV/A: 0.5 to 240 Arms
Load Impedance: ≥1 MΩ@ ≤100 pF
Range: 10 mV/A (2 V at 200 A)
Primary
Current (0.5 to 10) A (10 to 40) A (40 to 100) A (100 to 240) A
Accuracy ≤ 3.5 % ± 5 mV ≤3 % ± 5 mV ≤ 2.5 % ± 5 mV ≤ 1.5 % ± 5 mV
Phase Shift N/A ≤ 6 ° ≤ 4 ° ≤ 3 °
Overload: 240 A for 10 mn ON, 30 mn OFF
Range: 100 mV/A (2 V at 20 A)
Overload: 120 A continuous
Accuracy: 2 % ± 50 mV
Phase Shift: not specied
Frequency Range (with current derating): 40 Hz to 10 kHz (@ -3 dB)
See Typical Response Curves (§ 3.5)
Load Impedance: 100 kΩmin
Working Voltage: 600 V CAT III
Common Mode Voltage: 600 V CAT III
Inuence of Adjacent Conductor: <15 mA/AAC @ 50 Hz
Inuence of Conductor Position in Jaw Opening:
0.5 % of Reading @ ((50/60) Hz)
Inuence of Frequency:
Range 20 A: 40 Hz to 1 kHz: 10 % of mV output
(1 to 10) kHz: 15% of mV output
Range 200 A: 40 Hz to 1 kHz: 3% of mV output
(1 to 10) kHz: 12% of mV output

10 AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261
3.2 MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: (5.47 x 2.00 x 1.18) in (139 x 51 x 30) mm
Weight: 6.5 oz (150g)
Maximum Cable Diameter: 0.78 in (20 mm)
Jaw Opening: 0.83 in (21 mm) max
Maximum Conductor Size: 0.78 in (20 mm)
Envelope Protection: IP 40 (IEC 529)
Drop Test: 1 m (IEC 68-2-32)
Mechanical Shock: 100 g (IEC 68-2-27)
Vibration: (10/55/10) Hz @ 0.15 mm (IEC 68-2-6)
Output: 6 ft (2 m) insulated lead with insulated BNC Connector
3.3 ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS
Operating Temperature/RH: (14 to 131) °F (-10 to 55) °C; < 85 % RH
Storage Temperature: (-40 to 158) °F (-40 to 70) °C
Inuence of Temperature: ≤0.15 % / 10 K
Inuence of Humidity: (10 to 90) %; 0.2 %
Altitude: ≤ 2000 m
3.4 SAFETY SPECIFICATIONS
Indoor Use
Electrical:
Double insulation or reinforced insulation between the primary or second-
ary and the outer case of the handle per EN 61010-2-032.
Common Mode Voltage: 600V, CAT III, Pollution Degree: 2
Electromagnetic Compatibility:
Emission and immunity in an industrial environment according to the stan-
dard EN61326-1.
*Specications are subject to change without notice
E192383

AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261 11
3.5 TYPICAL RESPONSE CURVES
10 mV/A Range
-10.00
-8.00
-6.00
-4.00
-2.00
0.00
2.00
10.00 100.00 1000.00 10000.00 100000.00
-15.00
-20.00
-25.00
-10.00
-5.00
0.00
5.00
10.00
15.00
10.00 100.00 1000.00 10000.00
100000.00
Accuracy vs. Frequency
Phase Shift vs. Frequency
Frequency in Hz
Frequency in Hz
Accuracy in %Phase in °
100 A
200 A
100 A
200 A

12 AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261
100 mV/A Range
10.00
-25.00
-30.00
-15.00
-5.00
-20.00
-10.00
0.00
5.00
100.00 1000.00 10000.00
100000.00
10.00
-20.00
-40.00
-30.00
-10.00
0.00
10.00
20.00
30.00
40.00
100.00 1000.00 10000.00 100000.00
Accuracy vs. Frequency
Phase Shift vs. Frequency
Frequency in Hz
Frequency in Hz
Accuracy in %Phase in °
10 A
20 A
10 A
20 A

AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261 13
4. OPERATION
4.1 CURRENT MEASUREMENT
WARNING: Always connect the probe to the instrument before
clamping onto the circuit under test.
Before measuring insulation resistance, conrm that the sample is fully
• Connect the Model MN261 to the proper input channel on the
oscilloscope.
• Begin with the least sensitive range on the current probe (10 mV/A).
• Select the 0.5 V/Division range on the oscilloscope.
• Clamp the probe on the conductor to be measured and read the current
owing directly on your oscilloscope.
(Remember to unclamp the probe from the conductor before disconnecting
it from your meter or instrument.)
You may also use your oscilloscope to amplify the signal while using the
1 mV/A probe range (which o󰀨ers the best accuracy and least phase
shift).
NOTE: It is possible to change the range on the current probe
without removing the probe from the current carrying conductor,
but it is important to remember not to exceed the permissible peak
ratings of 340 mV peak or 680 mV peak to peak maximum. The
peak ratings by range are: 34 A peak @ 100 mV/A and 340 A peak
@ 10 mV/A.

14 AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261
5. MAINTENANCE
WARNING:
To ensure optimum performance, it is important to keep the probe jaw
mating surfaces clean at all times. Failure to do so may result in error in
readings.
For maintenance use only specied factory replacement parts.
To avoid electrical shock, do not attempt to perform any servicing
unless you are qualied to do so.
To avoid electrical shock and/or damage to the instrument, do not allow
water or other foreign substances into the case.
Disconnect the unit from all circuits and test cables before opening the
case.
Use caution with metallic tools that may short battery packs, power
supplies, etc.
5.1 CLEANING
WARNING: Before cleaning, disconnect all inputs to prevent
possible electric shock.
To clean the probe body, use a soft cloth dampened in a solution of
mild detergent and water. To clean the core, open the jaw and clean the
exposed core surfaces with a cotton swab dampened with isopropyl
alcohol or ethyl alcohol. Lubricate the jaws mating surfaces with a light
oil.
Do not use chemicals containing benzine, benzene, toluene, xylene,
acetone, or similar solvents.
Do not immerse the probe in liquids or use abrasive cleaners.

AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261 15
5.2 REPAIR AND CALIBRATION
To ensure that your instrument meets factory specications, we recom-
mend that it be sent back to our factory Service Center at one-year intervals
for recalibration or as required by other standards or internal procedures.
For instrument repair and calibration:
You must contact our Service Center for a Customer Service Authorization
Number (CSA#). Send an email to [email protected] requesting a CSA#,
you will be provided a CSA Form and other required paperwork along with
the next steps to complete the request. Then return the instrument along
with the signed CSA Form. This will ensure that when your instrument
arrives, it will be tracked and processed promptly. Please write the CSA#
on the outside of the shipping container. If the instrument is returned for
calibration, we need to know if you want a standard calibration or a cali-
bration traceable to N.I.S.T. (includes calibration certicate plus recorded
calibration data).
Ship To: Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC®Instruments
15 Faraday Drive ▪ Dover, NH 03820 USA
Phone:[phone] (Ext. 360) / [phone] (Ext. 360)
Fax: [phone]
E-mail:
[email protected]
(Or contact your authorized distributor.)
Contact us for the costs for repair, standard calibration, and calibration
traceable to N.I.S.T.
NOTE: You must obtain a CSA# before returning any instrument.
5.3 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
If you are experiencing any technical problems or require any assistance
with the proper operation or application of your instrument, please call,
e-mail or fax our technical support team:
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC®Instruments
Phone: [phone] (Ext. 351)
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
www.aemc.com

16 AC Current Oscilloscope Probe Model MN261
5.4 LIMITED WARRANTY
The instrument is warrantied to the owner for a period of two years from
the date of original purchase against defects in manufacture. date of origi-
nal purchase against defects in manufacture. This limited warranty is given by
AEMC®Instruments, not by the distributor from whom it was purchased.
This warranty is void if the unit has been tampered with, abused, or if the
defect is related to service not performed by AEMC®Instruments.
Full warranty coverage and product registration is available on our
website at www.aemc.com/warranty.html
Please print the online Warranty Coverage Information for your
records.
What AEMC® Instruments will do:
If a malfunction occurs within the warranty period, you may return the
instrument to us for repair, provided we have your warranty registration
information on le or a proof of purchase. AEMC®Instruments will repair
or replace the faulty material at our discretion.
REGISTER ONLINE AT: www.aemc.com/warranty.html
5.4.1 Warranty Repairs
What you must do to return an Instrument for Warranty Repair:
First, send an email to [email protected] requesting a Customer Service
Authorization Number (CSA#) from our Service Department. You will be
provided a CSA Form and other required paperwork along with the next
steps to complete the request. Then return the instrument along with the
signed CSA Form. Please write the CSA# on the outside of the shipping
container. Return the instrument, postage or shipment pre-paid to:
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC®Instruments
15 Faraday Drive, Dover, NH 03820 USA
Phone: [phone] (Ext. 360) / [phone] (Ext. 360)
Fax: [phone]
E-mail:
[email protected]
Caution: To protect yourself against in-transit loss, we recommend
that you insure your returned material.
NOTE: You must obtain a CSA# before returning any instrument.

NOTES:

NOTES:

NOTES:

AEMC® Instruments
15 Faraday Drive • Dover, NH 03820 USA
Phone: [phone] • [phone] • Fax: [phone]
www.aemc.com
02/23
99-MAN 100144 v11
© Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC®Instruments. All Rights Reserved.