AEMC K100 User manual

ENGLISH
DC/AC Microprobe
Models K100 & K110
User Manual
ENGLISH
CURRENT PROBES
WITH AEMC
®
INSTRUMENTS

2 DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110
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15 Faraday Drive • Dover, NH 03820 USA
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DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110 3
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 #: 1200.67 / 2111.73
Model #: K100 / K110
Please ll in the appropriate date as indicated:
Date Received:
Date Calibration Due:
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc.
d.b.a AEMC®Instruments
www.aemc.com

4 DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................6
1.1 PRECAUTIONS FOR USE ....................................................... 7
1.2 RECEIVING YOUR SHIPMENT................................................ 7
1.3 ORDERING INFORMATION..................................................... 7
2. PRODUCT FEATURES .......................................................8
2.1 DESCRIPTION ........................................................................... 8
2.2 MODEL K100 FEATURES ......................................................... 9
2.3 MODEL K110 FEATURES........................................................ 10
3. SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................. 11
3.1 ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS ........................................... 11
3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS.................................. 12
3.3 MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS ......................................... 12
3.4 SAFETY SPECIFICATIONS ................................................... 12
3.5 TYPICAL FREQUENCY RESPONSE .................................... 13
4. OPER ATION ...................................................................... 14
4.1 MAKING MEASUREMENTS WITH THE K100/K110 ............. 14
4.2 INDICATOR LIGHTS - GREEN AND RED LEDS.................. 14
4.3 MODEL K100 OPERATION EXAMPLES ............................... 15
4.3.1 DC Current Measurement Example (K100) ........................ 15
4.3.2 DC Current Measurement Example - Current Reversed
(K100) ............................................................................................. 15
4.3.3 Two-Wire Sum-of-Currents Example (K100) ..................... 16
4.3.4 Two-Wire Current Di󰀨erential Example (K100) .................. 16
4.3.5 Oscilloscope Measurement Example (K100) ..................... 17
4.3.6 Maximum Step Discontinuity Example (K100) ................... 17
4.4 MODEL K110 OPERATION EXAMPLES................................ 18
4.4.1 Measuring the DC Component of an (AC+DC) Waveform
(K110) .............................................................................................. 18
4.4.2 Measuring the AC Component of an (AC+DC) Waveform
(K110) .............................................................................................. 18
4.4.3 Oscilloscope Measurement Example (K110) ..................... 19
4.5 TIPS FOR MAKING PRECISE MEASUREMENTS............... 19
4.6 RESIDUAL READINGS FOLLOWING SEVERE
OVERLOADS ................................................................................................22

DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110 5
5. MAINTENANCE ................................................................23
5.1 BAT TERY INSTALL ATION ...................................................... 23
5.2 CLEANING ............................................................................... 24
5.3 REPAIR AND CALIBRATION ................................................. 25
5.4 TECHNICAL AND SALES ASSISTANCE .............................. 25
5.5 LIMITED WARRANTY............................................................. 26
5.5.1 Warranty Repairs.............................................................. 26

6 DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110
1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing an AEMC® Instruments DC/AC Microprobe K100/
K110.
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
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.

DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110 7
1.1 PRECAUTIONS FOR USE
These safety warnings are provided to ensure the safety of personnel and
proper operation of the instrument.
• Read the instruction manual completely and follow all the safety
information before attempting to use or service this instrument.
• 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 Model K100/
K110. Never exceed the maximum voltage ratings given.
• Safety is the responsibility of the operator.
• NEVER open the back of the instrument while connected to any circuit
or input.
• ALWAYS connect the Model K100/K110 adapter to the display device
before clamping the probe onto the sample under test.
• ALWAYS inspect the instrument, probe, probe cable and output
terminals prior to use. Replace any defective parts immediately.
• NEVER use the Model K100/K110 on electrical conductors rated above
300V CAT II, EN61010-1.
1.2 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 car-
rier and notify your distributor at once, giving a detailed description of any
damage.
1.3 ORDERING INFORMATION
DC/AC MicroProbe Model K100................................................ Cat. #1200.67
DC/AC MicroProbe Model K110 .................................................Cat. #2111.73
Both models include an electronic plug-in module with an attached current
probe, 9V battery, and user manual.
Order Accessories and Replacement Parts Directly Online
Check our Storefront at www.aemc.com/store for availability

8 DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110
2. PRODUCT FEATURES
2.1 DESCRIPTION
Model K100 and Model K110 are low current measurement instruments
that feature a compact, high sensitivity current probe. Unlike other instru-
ments, the Model K100 exhibits a wide dynamic operating range, which
extends from below 100µA to ± 4.5A peak, from DC to 2.0kHz*, without the
need for ranging. The K110 has an operating range of 100µA to ± 450mA
Peak, from DC to 1500Hz.*
Models K100 and K110 are designed to be operated in conjunction with a
digital multimeter, oscilloscope or recording device. The MicroProbe out-
puts the current measured in the form of a voltage that is the image of the
current, in shape and amplitude. The Model K100 outputs 1mV per mA of
measured current. The Model K110 outputs 10mV per mA of measured
current. To take advantage of the Model K100 high sensitivity, best results
are obtained through 4-1/2 digit (or more) DMM with a relative zero func-
tion. The Model K110 was designed to provide the operator with enhanced
low current linearity and accuracy, but is limited to 450mA Peak current.
The Model K100/K110 always outputs a signal proportional to the total
current (AC+DC) in the conductor under test. This has proven to be the
most versatile signal output format, and allows the user to isolate and
measure DC and AC components of measured current separately, if so
desired. Typical applications include 4 to 20mA loop measurements, auto-
motive current applications, benchtop electronic current consumption in
circuits, and other applications requiring very low current measurements
in crowded areas.
* See Electrical Specications

DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110 9
2.2 MODEL K100 FEATURES
Figure 1
1. Positive: Red banana plug (+)
2. Negative: Black banana plug (-)
3. Power ON indicator (green LED)
4. OVERLOAD indicator (red LED)
5. Power switch
6. Zero adjust knob (push in and turn to zero)
7. Probe window aperture
8. Probe handle
8
7
1
2
3
4
5
6

10 DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110
2.3 MODEL K110 FEATURES
Figure 2
1. Positive: Red banana plug (+)
2. Negative: Black banana plug (-)
3. Power ON indicator (green LED)
4. OVERLOAD indicator (red LED)
5. Power switch
6. Zero adjust knob (push in and turn to zero)
7. Probe window aperture
8. Probe handle
®
8
7
1
2
3
4
5
6

DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110 11
3. SPECIFICATIONS
3.1 ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL K100
Current Range:
0 to ± 4.5 ADC
(0 to 3) Arms (sinusoidal)
Output (Vout): 1 mV/mA
Resolution:
DC: 50 µA typical
AC: 100 µA typical
Accuracy:
DC: 1 % Reading ± 200 µA
AC: 2 % Reading ± 200 µA
Output Noise:
< 100 µV, DC to 3 kHz
Frequency Response:
DC to 2 kHz (@ -3 dB sine)
Zero Adjust:
± 25 mA
MODEL K100
Current Range:
0 to ± 4.5 ADC
(0 to 3) Arms (sinusoidal)
Output (Vout): 1 mV/mA
Resolution:
DC: 50 µA typical
AC: 100 µA typical
Accuracy:
DC: 1 % Reading ± 200 µA
AC: 2 % Reading ± 200 µA
Output Noise:
< 100 µV, DC to 3 kHz
Frequency Response:
DC to 2 kHz (@ -3 dB sine)
Zero Adjust:
± 25 mA
Rise Time: < 200 µS, (10 to 90) % Vout
Fall Time: < 200 µS, (90 to 10) % Vout
Output Impedance: 200 Ω
Probe Inductance: < 1 µH
Inuence of Adjacent Conductor: < 50 µA/A (K100); <1 00 µA/A (K110)
Inuence of Earth’s Field: < 120 µA, null to maximum
Overload LED (Red): Indicates momentary or continuous overload
Power LED (Green): Indicates power ON and good battery
LED (Green) ON between (6.5 to 10)V
Power Source: 9 V alkaline, NEDA 1604, 6LR61 or IEC 6LF22
Battery life 20 h approx. with alkaline battery
(Reference Conditions: 23 °C ± 3 °, (20 to 75) % RH; battery voltage
9 V ± 0.1 V; earth’s magnetic eld < 40 A/m; absence of AC elds;
input impedance of display device ≥ 1 MΩ/100 pF; DC or sinusoidal AC
current (45 to 65) Hz.

12 DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110
3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS
Operating Temperature: (-14 to 131) °F (-10 to 55) °C
Storage Temperature: (-40 to 176) °F (-40 to 80) °C
Humidity: < 95 % @ ≤35 °C, 75 % @ 55 °C
3.3 MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions (Probe): (4.4 x 0.6 x 1.0) in (111 x 15 x 25) mm
Dimensions (Electronic Module): (4.9 x 2.5 x 1.1) in (124 x 64 x 28) mm
Weight: 9 oz (250 g)
Connectors: (2) 4 mm banana plugs; standard 3/4 in (19 mm) spacing
Maximum Conductor Diameter: 3/16 in, 0.180 in (4.5 mm)
Cable Length: 5 ft (1.5 m)
3.4 SAFETY SPECIFICATIONS
Working Voltage:
EN61010-1, 300 V CAT II
CE mark for Electromagnetic Compatibility.
Immunity (EN 50082.1), IEC 1000-4-3 aptitude criteria A:
DC: 15 mV @ 0, AC (60 Hz): 2 dB from 10 mA to 4.5 A
Emmissivity (EN 50081.1): negligible
Drop Test: 1 m per IEC 1010
Shocks: 100 G per IEC 68-2-27
Vibrations: IEC 529
Protection Index: IP 40 per IEC 529
Electromagnetic Compatibility: EN 50082-1 class A EN 50081-1
*All specications are subject to change without notice.

DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110 13
3.5 TYPICAL FREQUENCY RESPONSE
Model K100
2200
2000
1800 1600
1400
1200
1000
800 600
400 200
50
0
-0.5
-1.0
-1.5
-2.0
-2.5
-3.0
-3.5
-4.0
30 mA
3.0 A
Frequency (Hz)
Decibels (dB)
Figure 3
Model K110
1600
1400
1200
1000
800 600
400 200
0
0
-0.5
-1.0
-1.5
-2.0
-2.5
-3.0
-3.5
-4.0
0 - 300 mA RMS
Frequency (Hz)
Decibels (dB)
Figure 4

14 DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110
4. OPERATION
4.1 MAKING MEASUREMENTS WITH THE K100/K110
• Remove any conductor from within the probe jaws.
• Plug the electronic module into the displaying device (e.g., DMM,
oscilloscope). Note the polarity of the module output banana plugs
(red = positive [+], black = negative [-]).
• Select the appropriate range on displaying device (e.g., DMM,
oscilloscope). Note that the module output is 1 mV/mA for Model K100 and
10 mV/A for Model K110.
• Turn displaying device power ON. Turn on the Model K100/K110 (the
green LED should be ON, and the red LED OFF).
• With the probe disconnected from test samples (no conductor in probe
jaw window), adjust the zero control (push in the knob and turn) to read
zero volts on the displaying device. In the unlikely event where the zero
point is unobtainable, refer to Residual Readings Following Severe
Overloads (§ 4.6) - the Model K100/K110 probe may be temporarily
magnetized.
• Clamp the probe around the conductor to be tested. The displaying
device should now display the measured conductor current. In DC, a
positive reading indicates current owing in the direction of the arrow
on the probe. A negative reading indicates current ow in the opposite
direction of the arrow.
4.2 INDICATOR LIGHTS - GREEN AND RED LEDS
• The Green LED indicates that the Model K100/K110 is ON and that
the battery is good. The Green LED will not light under low battery
conditions. Replace the 9 V battery if the green LED is not lit.
• The Red LED indicates a momentary or continuous overload of the
instrument. Readings taken while the Red LED is ON or FLASHING
should be considered inaccurate. Momentary or continuous currents
exceeding ± 4.7 A for Model K100 and 470 mA for Model K110, and
dynamic currents with large step discontinuities will cause the red LED
to turn ON.

DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110 15
4.3 MODEL K100 OPERATION EXAMPLES
4.3.1 DC Current Measurement Example (K100)
• Conductor carrying 20.0 mADC in the direction of the arrow
• Voltmeter placed in DC Volts mode
• Voltmeter displays 20.0 mV
20 mA DC
PUSH
DC Zero
20.0 mV
A
C
V
D
C
V
Figure 5
4.3.2 DC Current Measurement Example - Current Reversed
(K100)
• Conductor carrying 20.0 mADC in opposite direction of arrow
• Voltmeter placed in DC Volts mode
• Voltmeter displays -20.0 mV
20 mA DC
PUSH
DC Zero
-20.0 mV
A
C
V
D
C
V
Figure 6

16 DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110
4.3.3 Two-Wire Sum-of-Currents Example (K100)
• Two conductors in probe aperture (note orientations)
• Voltmeter placed in DC Volts mode
• Voltmeter displays 18.0 mV
PUSH
DC Zero
18.0 mV
A
C
V
D
C
V
7 mA DC 11 mA DC
Figure 7
4.3.4 Two-Wire Current Di󰀨erential Example (K100)
• Two conductors in probe aperture (note orientations)
• Voltmeter placed in DC Volts mode
• Voltmeter displays -4.0 mV
PUSH
DC Zero
-4.0 mV
A
C
V
D
C
V
7 mA DC 11 mA DC
Figure 8

DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110 17
4.3.5 Oscilloscope Measurement Example (K100)
• Conductor carrying a 2 A peak AC waveform
• Model K100 connected to oscilloscope
0
To Oscilloscope
Current Waveform
Oscilloscope
Output
• OFF
• 1 mV/mA
ON OL
AEMC
INSTRUMENTS
®DC/AC MicroProbe
Model K100
0
2.0 A
2.0 V
-2.0 V
Figure 9
4.3.6 Maximum Step Discontinuity Example (K100)
• Conductor carrying non-sinusoidal AC
• Model K100 connected to oscilloscope
• Maximum allowable step-discontinuity 2 A
0
To Oscilloscope
Current Waveform
Oscilloscope
Output
• OFF
• 1 mV/mA
ON OL
AEMC
INSTRUMENTS
®DC/AC MicroProbe
Model K100
0
2A
2.0 V
-2.0 V
-2A
Note: Step Discontinuities
Figure 10

18 DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110
4.4 MODEL K110 OPERATION EXAMPLES
4.4.1 Measuring the DC Component of an (AC+DC) Waveform
(K110)
• Conductor carrying 20.0 mADC + 15.0 mAAC
• Voltmeter placed in DC Volts mode
• Voltmeter displays 200.0 mV
15 mA AC
+
20 mA DC
PUSH
DC Zero
200.0 mV
A
C
V
D
C
V
Figure 11
4.4.2 Measuring the AC Component of an (AC+DC) Waveform
(K110)
• Conductor carrying 20.0 mADC + 15.0 mAAC
• Voltmeter placed in AC Volts mode
• Voltmeter displays 150.0 mV
PUSH
DC Zero
150.0 mV
A
C
V
D
C
V
15 mA AC
+
20 mA DC
Figure 12

DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110 19
4.4.3 Oscilloscope Measurement Example (K110)
• Conductor carrying a 0.2 A peak AC waveform
• Model K110 connected to oscilloscope
0
To Oscilloscope
Current Waveform
Oscilloscope
Output
• OFF
• 10 mV/mA
ON OL
AEMC
INSTRUMENTS
®DC/AC MicroProbe
Model K110
0
0.2 A
2.0 V
-2.0 V
-0.2 A
Figure 13
4.5 TIPS FOR MAKING PRECISE MEASUREMENTS
The Model K100/K110 is capable of making measurements of DC and low
frequency currents over a wide range. Here are some key considerations for
getting the most accuracy from your displaying instrument:
• When using the Model K100/K110 with a meter, it is important to select
the range that provides the best resolution. Failure to do this may
result in measurement errors. The examples shown on the next page
use an ordinary 3-1/2 digit DMM with the Models K100 and K110, to
measure 16.7 mADC.

20 DC/AC MicroProbe Models K100 and K110
Model K100
16.7mA
PUSH
DC Zero
2
0
V
2
V
2
0
0
m
V
PUSH
DC Zero
.02 V
2
0
V
2
V
2
0
0
m
V
PUSH
DC Zero
2
0
V
2
V
2
0
0
m
V
Resolution: 10mV
Display Error: 19.8%
Resolution: 1mV
Display Error: 1.8%
Resolution: 100µV
Display Error: 0%
Figure 14
Model K110
PUSH
DC Zero
2
0
V
2
V
2
0
0
m
V
PUSH
DC Zero
2
0
V
2
V
2
0
0
m
V
PUSH
DC Zero
2
0
V
2
V
2
0
0
m
V
Resolution: 10mV
Display Error: 1.8%
Resolution: 1mV
Display Error: 0%
Resolution: 100µV
Display Error: 0%
16.7mA
Figure 15