AEMC FlexProbe 24-3001 User manual

FLEXIBLE
AC CURRENT PROBE
FlexProbe
®
24-3001
ENGLISH User Manual
®
INSTRUMENTS
CAT III
1000V
300A
3000A
OFF
ON OL
FlexProbe
®
24-3002

Notes:

Notes:

Statement of Compliance
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC®Instruments
certifies 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 specifications.
An NIST traceable certificate 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 #: 2120.81
Model #: 24-3001
Please fill 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
INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................... 1
1.1 International Electrical Symbols ...............................................1
1.2 Denition of Measurement Categories .....................................2
1.3 Receiving Your Shipment .........................................................2
1.4 Ordering Information.................................................................2
1.4.1 Accessories and Replacement Parts............................2
PRODUCT FEATURES............................................................................. 3
2.1 Description ...............................................................................3
2.2 General Features ......................................................................4
2.3 FlexProbe®24-3001 Features...................................................5
SPECIFICATIONS................................................................................... 6
3.1 Electrical ...................................................................................6
3.2 Environmental...........................................................................7
3.3 Mechanical Specications........................................................7
3.4 Safety Specications................................................................8
OPERATION........................................................................................... 9
4.1 Making Measurements with the FlexProbe®.............................9
4.2 Tips for Making Precise Measurements .................................10
MAINTENANCE ................................................................................... 12
Warning ..................................................................................12
5.1 Changing the Battery..............................................................12
5.2 Cleaning..................................................................................12
Repair and Calibration ....................................................................13
Technical and Sales Assistance......................................................13
Limited Warranty.............................................................................14
Warranty Repairs ............................................................................14

FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe 1
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
WARNING
•Read the instruction manual completely and follow all the safety
information before attempting to use or service this instrument.
• Wear protective clothing and gloves as required.
• Use caution on any circuit: potentially high voltages and currents
may be present and may pose a shock hazard.
• Read the safety specications section prior to using the current
probe. Never exceed the maximum voltage ratings given.
• Safety is the responsibility of the operator. The FlexProbe®must be
used only by qualied personnel using applicable safety precautions.
• ALWAYS de-energize the circuit before wrapping the FlexProbe®
around bare conductors, bus bars, or near live parts. Do not wrap on
live conductors.
• ALWAYS connect the electronic module to the display device before
wrapping the FlexProbe®around the sample being tested.
• ALWAYS inspect the module, sensor, sensor cable, and output termi-
nals prior to use. Replace any defective parts immediately. Use only
factory parts.
• NEVER use the FlexProbe®on electrical conductors rated above
1000V CAT III and 600V CAT IV.
1.1 International Electrical Symbols
This symbol signifies that the instrument is protected by double or reinforced
insulation.
This symbol on the instrument indicates a WARNING and that the operator must
refer to the user manual for instructions before operating the instrument. In this
manual, the warning instructions above indicate that if the instructions are not
followed, bodily injury, installation/sample and product damage may result.
Risk of electric shock. The voltage at the parts marked with this symbol may be
dangerous.
This symbol refers to a type B current sensor. Do not apply around or remove from
HAZARDOUS LIVE conductors without additional protective means (de-energizing
the circuit or wearing protective clothing suitable for high voltage work).
In conformity with WEEE 2002/96/EC

2 FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe
1.2 Definition of Measurement Categories
CAT II: For measurements performed on circuits directly connected to
the electrical distribution system. Examples are measurements
on household appliances or portable tools.
CAT III: For measurements performed in the building installation at
the distribution level such as on hardwired equipment in xed
installation and circuit breakers.
CAT IV: For measurements performed at the primary electrical supply
(<1000V) such as on primary overcurrent protection devices,
ripple control units, or meters.
1.3 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
equipment 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.
1.4 Ordering Information
FlexProbe®24-3001 (300/3000AAC, 24", 10mV/A/1mV/A, with lead) .... Cat. #2120.81
Includes a exible probe with electronic module, 9V battery and a user manual.
1.4.1 Accessories and Replacement Parts
Banana (Female) / BNC (Male) Adapter............................. Cat. # 2118.46
For connection of FlexProbe®to BNC terminals on scopes and other
displaying instruments.
Order Accessories and Replacement Parts Directly Online
Check our Storefront at www.aemc.com/store for availability

FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe 3
CHAPTER 2
PRODUCT FEATURES
2.1 Description
The FlexProbe® is a exible AC current transformer composed of a exible
sensor and an electronic module. The exible sensor permits measure-
ments on conductors where standard clamp-on probes could not be
used. In particular, it can be installed in tight spaces, around breaker
panels, around cable bundles, around wide or large bus bars, or even
wrapped around irregular shapes.
The Shape Memory feature enables the user to “pre-shape” the sensor
before inserting it between or around conductors. This feature facilitates
closing, enhances user safety, and alleviates the drooping e󰀨ect typically
associated with exible sensors.
The FlexProbe®is lightweight. It does not use magnetic cores like standard
transformers. The transformation principle is based on an air core. It
presents virtually no load to the system under test, has a low phase shift
and excellent frequency response, and cannot be damaged by overloads.
The sensor assembly is waterproof and insulated for 1000V CAT III;
600V CAT IV. The FlexProbe®meets EN 61010-1 and is CE marked.
The FlexProbe®has a mV output proportional to the current measured
for direct readings on DMMs, data loggers, oscilloscopes, and power or
harmonic meters. TRMS measurements are taken when connected to a
TRMS meter. The FlexProbe®is insensitive to DC currents and only the AC
component of the measured signal is measured. The sensor length is 24".

4 FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe
2.2 General Features
•Models to measure from 0.5 to 3000Arms
• Accuracy 1% of Reading ± 500mA
• TRMS measurements when connected to a TRMS instrument
• No core saturation or damage if overloaded
• Overrange LED for measurement circuitry
• EN 61010; 1000V CAT III; 600V CAT IV
• Waterproof sensor
• 9V battery for typical 150 hour continuous operations
• Shape Memory™ for custom pre-shaping of sensor before use
(no drooping)
• High frequency response
• Low phase shift for power measurements
• Insensitive to DC, measures only AC component on DC + AC
signals
• Excellent linearity
• Lightweight

FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe 5
2.3 FlexProbe®24-3001 Features
®
INSTRUMENTS
CAT III
1000V
300A
3000A
OFF
ON OL
FlexProbe
®
24-3002
1
2
3
6
4
5
8
7
1. Flexible sensor (Ø 0.5", 12.5mm)
2. Range selection switch
3. Power ON indicator (Green LED)
4. Overload indicator (Red LED)
5. Electronic module
6. Double insulated 14" (36cm) lead with 4mm safety banana plugs
7. FlexProbe®connector/latch
8. Sensor lead

6 FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe
CHAPTER 3
SPECIFICATIONS
Reference Conditions: 41°F ± 5°F (23°C ± 3°C), 20 to 70% RH, 50Hz, 1 minute warm-up, battery
at 9V ± 0.1V, external magnetic eld < 40A/m, no DC component, no external current carrying
conductor, 10MΩ load, conductor center.
3.1 Electrical
Current Range: 300/3000AAC
Output Signal: mV output (4000mV peak max)
Three position slide switch: 10mV/A 5A to 300Arms
1mV/A 50A to 3000Arms
ON/OFF
AC Current Accuracy (after calibration and for one year):
1% of Reading ± 500mA
Crest Factor: 4.5
Phase Shift: < 0.7° at 50 or 60Hz
Frequency Range: 40 to 5kHz
Residual Noise When I Measured = 0: 200mArms
Working Voltage: 1000Vrms CAT III; 600V CAT IV
Common Mode Voltage: 600Vrms max
Inuence of Frequency: Add 1% to the reference accuracy between 40
and 2000Hz, and up to 5% at 5kHz
Inuence of Adjacent Conductor: <2%
Inuence of Conductor Position in Jaw: <4%
Power Source: 9V alkaline (NEDA 1604A, IEC 6LR61)
Battery Life: 150 hours typical (continuous use)
300 hours with Lithium battery
Low Battery: Green LED O󰀨 when ≥ 7V
Overload Indication: Red LED indicates input greater than selected range

FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe 7
3.2 Environmental
Operating Temperature Range: 14° to 131°F (-10° to +55°C)
Storage Temperature Range: -40° to 158°F (-40° to +70°C)
Inuence of Temperature:
Sensor: -14° to 212°F (-10° to 100°C); <0.5% per 10°C
Module: -14° to 131°F (-10° to 55°C); <0.5% per 10°C
Operating Relative Humidity:
50° to 86°F (10° to 30°C); 85 ± 5% RH (without condensation)
104° to 122°F (40° to 50°C); 45 ± 5% RH (without condensation)
Altitude: Operating: 0 to 2000m
Non-operating: 0 to 12000m
3.3 Mechanical Specifications
Dimensions (Sensor): 24" ± 1" (610 x 25mm)
Color (Sensor): Red with black connector
Dimensions (Electronic Module): 4.9 x 2.5 x 1.1" (124 x 64 x 28mm)
Color (Electronic Module): Dark gray
Weight: 1.1 lb (0.5kg)
Output: Double insulated 14" (355Mm) lead with 4mm safety banana plugs
Maximum Cable Diameter: 7.6" (193mm)
Cable Length from Sensor to Module: 6.5 ft (2m)
Drop Test:
1.0m on 38mm of Oak on concrete. Test according to EN 61010.
Case Protection: Sensor: IP65 Electronic Module: IP40
Vibration: Test Per IEC 68-2-6
Frequency Range: 10 to 55Hz
Amplitude: 0.15mm
Mechanical Shock: 100G, Test Per IEC 68-2-32
Material: Module: Polycarbonate UL 94V1
Cable Assembly: Polyurethane UL94V0

8 FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe
3.4 Safety Specifications
Electrical Safety - Conformity to International Standards
The instrument is compliant with IEC 61010-2-032,
600V category IV or 1000V category III.
Double or reinforced insulation .
Type of current sensor per IEC 61010-2-032: type B .
Electromagnetic Compatibility:
The device is in conformity with standard IEC 61326-1.
*Specications are subject to change at any time without notice

FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe 9
CHAPTER 4
OPERATION
Please make sure that you have already read and fully understand the
WARNING section on page 1.
4.1 Making Measurements with the FlexProbe®
1. Connect the electronic module to the AC Volt range of your DMM or
measuring instrument.
2. Select the appropriate module output voltage range. If the current
magnitude is unknown, select the 3000A range.
3. Wrap the exible core around the conductor to be tested. Select the
300A range to obtain the best resolution, if the reading is less than
300mV.
Do not exceed specied current range for the output. Do not
use on selected range if Overload LED goes on.
4. Example:
a. Read the DMM displayed value: 2.59V
b. Determine the range and output used on the FlexProbe: 0.01V/A
for the 300A range; .001V/A for the 3000A range
c. Divide the reading by the output to determine the actual current
value: 2.59 ÷ 0.01 = 259A or 2.59 ÷ 0.001 = 2590A
For best accuracy, carefully center the conductor inside the exible core,
and avoid if possible, the proximity of other conductors which may create
noise and interference (particularly near the latch).
True RMS measurements are obtained when the FlexProbe®is connected
to a True RMS meter. Note that the DC component is not measured.

10 FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe
4.2 Tips for Making Precise Measurements
• When using the FlexProbe®with a meter, it is
important to select the range that provides the
best resolution. Failure to do this may result in
measurement errors.
• For best results, select the highest FlexProbe®
output signal possible and the most sensitive
meter range for this output.
• Make sure the DMM or measuring instrument can
accurately measure mVAC. Certain inexpensive
DMM have poor resolution and accuracy when
measuring low mVAC.
• For best accuracy, center the FlexProbe®around
the conductor to be measured.
• To increase the sensitivity or measure on low cur-
rents, the FlexProbe®may be wrapped several
times around the conductor. Remember to divide
your reading by the number of turns for the actual
measurement (See Figure 1).
• The overall measurement accuracy is the sum of
the FlexProbe® accuracy and the displaying instru-
ment accuracy.
• The FlexProbe®may be doubled around the con-
ductor to be measured to double the output. (See
Figures 1 and 2 to show the di󰀨erent values on a
DMM while measuring 250AAC.)

FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe 11
ACV DCV
COM +
500.0 MV
One turn around a
conductor carrying 250AAC
Figure 1
Figure 2
3000A
Range
3000A
Range
250A
®
INSTRUMENTS
CATIII
1000V
300A
3000A
OFF
ON OL
FlexProbe
®
24-3002
ACV DCV
COM
+
250.0 MV
®
INSTRUMENTS
CATIII1000V
300A
3000A
OFF
ON OL
FlexProbe
®
24-3002
Double the turns to double
the output in low current applications
or for higher sensitivity
250A

12 FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe
CHAPTER 5
MAINTENANCE
Warning
• For maintenance use only specied replacement parts.
• To avoid electrical shock, do not attempt to perform any servicing
unless you are qualied to do so.
• Do not perform any service while the FlexProbe®is on any
circuit.
• To avoid electrical shock and/or damage to the instrument, do
not get water or other foreign agents into the electronic module.
• Also see warning on page 1.
5.1 Changing the Battery
If the power ON indicator (green LED) blinks or does not light up, replace
the battery.
Disconnect the instrument from any source of electricity.
• To replace the battery, open rear case, replace battery and
re-assemble.
• The green LED should go on when the module is turned on.
5.2 Cleaning
• Use a soft cloth lightly dampened with soapy water, then dry with
a dry cloth.
• Do not splash water directly on the instrument.
• Do not use alcohol, solvents or hydrocarbons.
• Make sure the sensor, electronic module, and all leads are dry
before any further use.

FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe 13
Repair and Calibration
To ensure that your instrument meets factory specications, we recommend
that it be scheduled 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#). 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 calibration 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] x360
[phone] x360
Fax: [phone] or [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
(Or contact your authorized distributor)
Costs for repair, standard calibration, and calibration traceable to N.I.S.T. are
available.
NOTE: You must obtain a CSA# before returning any instrument.
Technical and Sales Assistance
If you are experiencing any technical problems, or require any assistance with
the proper operation or application of your instrument, please call, mail, fax or
e-mail our technical support team:
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC®Instruments
15 Faraday Drive
Dover, NH 03820
Phone: [phone] x351
[phone] x351
Fax: [phone] or [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
www.aemc.com

14 FlexProbe®- Flexible AC Current Probe
Limited Warranty
The FlexProbe®is warranted to the owner for a period of two years from the
date of original 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, at its
option, repair or replace the faulty material.
REGISTER ONLINE AT:
www.aemc.com
Warranty Repairs
What you must do to return an Instrument for Warranty Repair:
First, request a Customer Service Authorization Number (CSA#) by phone
or by fax from our Service Department (see address below), 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:
Ship To: Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC®Instruments
15 Faraday Drive • Dover, NH 03820 USA
Phone: [phone] x360
[phone] x360
Fax: [phone] or [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Caution: To protect yourself against in-transit loss, we recommend you insure
your returned material.
NOTE: You must obtain a CSA# before returning any instrument.

08/21
99-MAN 100272 v13
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC®Instruments
15 Faraday Drive • Dover, NH 03820 USA • Phone: [phone] • Fax: [phone]
www.aemc.com