AEMC MTX 3282B Instruction manual

AEMC®Instruments d.b.a. Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc.
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USER MANUAL
AEMC®Instruments d.b.a. Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc.
15 Faraday Drive • Dover, NH 03820
Tel. [phone] • Fax: [phone]
99-MAN 100340 – v6– 06/14

General instructions
2 100,000-count Graphical Multimeters
Contents
General Instructions ..................................................................................................................................... 3
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................................3
Symbols used on the instrument ...................................................................................................................................3
Precautions and safety measures .................................................................................................................................3
Safety features .................................................................................................................................................................4
Maintenance, metrological verification..........................................................................................................................4
Warranty............................................................................................................................................................................4
Cleaning ............................................................................................................................................................................4
Measurement input protection systems........................................................................................................................5
Special functions .............................................................................................................................................................5
Description of the instrument ...................................................................................................................... 6
Front, keyboards (illustration) ........................................................................................................................................6
Rear (illustration, markings) ...........................................................................................................................................6
Measurement terminal block (illustration, markings) ..................................................................................................6
Front (description) ...........................................................................................................................................................7
Inputs.................................................................................................................................................................................9
Display...............................................................................................................................................................................9
Functional description................................................................................................................................ 10
Preparation for use ........................................................................................................................................................10
Initial settings .................................................................................................................................................................14
Specific configurations of the instrument...................................................................................................................15
Initialisation of the values .............................................................................................................................................16
Access to main functions..............................................................................................................................................17
Range management .......................................................................................................................................................18
Display HOLD management HOLD, REL, SURV, SPEC, MEM...................................................................................18
Access to secondary functions....................................................................................................................................25
MATH Function...............................................................................................................................................................27
Favorite function ............................................................................................................................................................29
SX-DMM Software kit (option) ......................................................................................................................................31
Bluetooth (on –BT version)...........................................................................................................................................31
Technical specifications ............................................................................................................................. 33
Voltage measurement....................................................................................................................................................33
Current measurement....................................................................................................................................................35
Frequency measurement ..............................................................................................................................................36
Resistance measurement..............................................................................................................................................37
Continuity mode.............................................................................................................................................................37
Test diode .......................................................................................................................................................................37
Capacitance measurement ...........................................................................................................................................38
Temperature measurement with Pt100 or Pt1000 sensor (MTX 3282B, MTX 3283B) .............................................38
Temperature measurement with J or K thermocouple ..............................................................................................38
dBm measurement.........................................................................................................................................................38
Positive or negative peak measurement .....................................................................................................................39
Resistive power..............................................................................................................................................................39
Duty ratio DC+, DC-........................................................................................................................................................39
Pulse counting CNT+, CNT- ..........................................................................................................................................39
Clock................................................................................................................................................................................40
Influences........................................................................................................................................................................40
Multimeter traceability, calibration...............................................................................................................................40
General specifications ................................................................................................................................ 41
Environmental conditions .............................................................................................................................................41
Power ..............................................................................................................................................................................41
Display.............................................................................................................................................................................41
Safety...............................................................................................................................................................................42
CEM .................................................................................................................................................................................42
RS232 DB9F and USB optical cables (options) ..........................................................................................................42
Mechanical characteristics......................................................................................................................... 42
Box...................................................................................................................................................................................42
Packaging .......................................................................................................................................................................42
Supply, accessories.................................................................................................................................... 43
Index............................................................................................................................................................. 44

General instructions
100,000-count Graphical Multimeters 3
General instructions
Introduction You have just acquired a 100,000-count graphical multimeter.
Thank you for your trust in our products.
It complies with safety standard EN 61010-1 (2001), double insulation, relative
to electronic measuring instruments.
For optimum service, read this MANUAL carefully and comply with the
operating precautions.
Symbols used on
the instrument
Warning: Risk of danger.
Refer to the operating MANUAL to find out the nature of the potential hazards and
the action necessary to avoid such hazards.
Earth terminal Equipment protected throughout by double insulation.
The rubbish bin with a line through it means that in the European Union, the product
must undergo selective disposal for the recycling of electric and electronic material,
in compliance with Directive WEEE 2002/96/EC.
Attention : Risk of electrical shock
Precautions and
safety measures
Read carefully all the notes preceded by the symbol .
If you use this instrument in a way which is not specified, the protection
which it provides may be compromised, putting you in danger.
The safety of any system incorporating this instrument is the responsibility of
the system assembler.
This instrument has been designed for use indoors:
- in an environment with pollution level 2,
- at an altitude of less than 2000 m,
- at a temperature between 0° C and 55° C
- with relative humidity of less than 80% up to 31° C.
Measurement category III for voltages no higher than 1000 V (AC or DC) in
relation to the earth.
Measurement category IV for voltages no higher than 600 V (AC or DC) in
relation to the earth.
Definition of
measurement
categories
CAT III: Measurement category III corresponds to measurements on building installations.
Example: measurements on distribution panels, cabling, etc.
CAT IV : Measurement category IV corresponds to measurements taken at the source of low-
voltage installations
Example: metering and measurements on overvoltage protection devices...
before use
Comply with environmental and storage conditions.
For your safety, only use the leads delivered with the instrument:
they comply with the norm EN 61010-1 (2001).
Before using it, systematically check that it is in perfect condition.
during use
As a safety measure, use only suitable leads and accessories supplied
with the instrument or approved by the manufacturer.
If the measurement category of the accessory is different from that of the
apparatus, the lowest category applies to the unit.
Never exceed the protection limit values indicated in the specifications for
each type of measurement.
Before changing the function, disconnect the measurement leads from the
circuit measured.
Never measure resistances on a live circuit.
When the instrument is connected to the measurement circuits, never touch
an unused terminal.

General instructions
4 100,000-count Graphical Multimeters
General instructions (cont’d)
Safety features
It is impossible to access the battery or fuse compartment without first
disconnecting the measurement leads.
When measuring voltages greater than 60 VDC or 30 VAC, the symbol
flashes on the display.
Automatic detection of a connection on the "Ampere" terminal.
When there is a persistent range overrun, an intermittent buzzer indicates the
risk of electric shock.
Maintenance and
metrological
verification
Any access to the internal circuits for adjustment, servicing or repair of the unit
under power must be undertaken only by qualified personnel, after reading the
instructions in this MANUAL.
A qualified person is a person who is familiar with the installation, its
construction, its use and the hazards that exist. They are authorized to activate
and deactivate the installation and equipment, in compliance with the safety
instructions.
For all repairs under or outside of the warranty, return the device to your retailer.
Warranty
This equipment is guaranteed for 3 years against any defect in materials or
workmanship, in accordance with the general terms and conditions of sale.
During this period, the equipment can only be repaired by the manufacturer. The
manufacturer reserves the right to carry out repair or replacement of all or part of
the equipment.
If the equipment is returned to the manufacturer, initial transport costs shall be
borne by the customer.
The warranty does not apply in the event of:
unsuitable use of the equipment or use with other incompatible equipment
modification of the equipment without explicit authorization from the
manufacturer’s technical services
repair carried out by a person not certified by the manufacturer
adaptation to a specific application, not provided for in the definition of the
equipment or by the operating MANUAL
an impact, a fall or flooding.
Unpacking -
repacking
All the equipment was verified mechanically and electrically before shipping.
When you receive it, carry out a quick check to detect any damage that may
have occurred during transport. If necessary, contact our sales department
immediately and register any legal reservations with the carrier.
In the event of reshipping, it is preferable to use the original package. Indicate
the reasons for the return as clearly as possible in a note attached to the
equipment.
Cleaning
Turn the instrument off.
Clean it with a damp cloth and soap.
Never use abrasive products or solvents.
Allow to dry before any further use.

General instructions
100,000-count Graphical Multimeters 5
General instructions (cont’d)
Measurement input
protection systems
These multimeters are equipped with several protection systems:
Varistor protection clips any transient overvoltages on the measurement
terminals.
PTC (positive temperature coefficient) protection protects against permanent
overvoltages less than or equal to 1000 V during capacitance or resistance
measurements and diode tests.
This protection is reset automatically after the overload.
A fuse (11 A) provides protection during intensity measurements.
Special functions
Automatic current
measurement
detection
The number of input terminals is limited to 3: V, COM, A. Connection of the lead
to the "Ampere" terminal automatically selects the corresponding function.
When a function modification by the control keyboard is incompatible
with the lead connection, it triggers a buzzer and a visual alarm (LEADS).
The current measurement is performed using autorange over the whole range.
Auto power-off
If the function is validated in the Sleep menu: the instrument shuts down
automatically after 30 minutes if no action has occurred on the front panel during
that time.
The instrument can be powered up again by pressing the key.
Automatic power-off is inhibited in:
Surveillance mode (SURV)
Memorize mode (MEM)
Communication mode (optical link - RS232C, USB, Bluetooth)
when the value measured (Voltage or Current) on the multimeter's
inputs exceeds the danger level.
Alert signal
Danger threshold
An intermittent buzzer sounds:
on the "Voltage" position, when the range is exceeded (MANUAL and
AUTO mode - last range)
on the "Current" position, when the range is exceeded (MANUAL) mode,
when 10 Amperes or more is measured
if the position of the leads and the function selected are incompatible
when the danger thresholds are exceeded (function activated)
When the range is exceeded, the buzzer is accompanied by display of "O. L".
When this symbol is activated:
the voltage on the "Volt" input exceeds 60 VDC or 30 VAC
the current injected between the "Ampere"and COM exceeds 10 A
the range is exceeded (voltage or current) in MANUAL mode

Description of the instrument
6 100,000-count Graphical Multimeters
Description of the instrument
Front panel
+ keyboards
(illustration)
Rear (illustration
+ markings)
Measurement
terminal block
(illustration
+ markings)
Display
Keyboards
Lower casing
Terminal
strip
Jack connector
ON/OFF
Key

Description of the instrument
100,000-count Graphical Multimeters 7
Description of the instrument (cont'd)
Front (description)
1 power on/off key Starting the multimeter.
Stopping the multimeter.
If there is a multimeter malfunction, a long press (> 1 s) on this key can be
used to return to normal operation.
8 keys for selecting th
e
main functions
Voltage measurement or access to the measurement type: AC, DC or AC+DC
Selection using this key or the keys.
Validation using the key or after 2 s.
Current measurement or access to the measurement type: AC, DC or AC+DC
Selection using this key or the keys.
Validation using the key or after 2 s.
Measurement of Frequency (Hz) on a VAC voltage or access to the MANUAL
frequency range < 900 kHz (default) or > 900 kHz.
A long press opens the menu for changing the voltage range.
Selection using the keys.
Validation using the or keys.
Voltage range quick change using the keys.
The selected range is recalled in the help line (i), see page 9.
Measurement of Resistance (Ohm)
By pressing again:
Access to the Continuity test ( )
Access to Diode test ( )
Measurement of Temperature or access to the types of temperature
measurements: ° C, ° F or K.
Selection using the keys.
Validation using the key or after 2 s.
By pressing this key during measurement type selection, you can access
the sensor type:
-platinum probes: Pt 100, Pt 1000 only on MTX 3282B and MTX 3283B
-thermocouples: J (TC J), K (TC K)
Selection using the keys.
Validation using the key or after 2 s.
The selected scale is recalled in the help line (i), see page 9.
Measurement of Capacitance
"Favorite" measurement configurable by the user.
A long press opens the "favorite" function configuration menu.
For the menu's configuration, see §. Function.

Description of the instrument
8 100,000-count Graphical Multimeters
Description of the instrument (cont'd)
Instrument Configuration menu.
This key can also be used to exit from a menu or submenu after validating it.
3 keys for navigation and
modification of the menus
Selection of a menu or function (up/down navigation).
Increase or decrease of the variable selected.
Selection of a function (left/right navigation).
Modification of a function.
Movement within sub-menus.
6 keys for activating the
instrument's various modes
Selection of the operating mode:
AUTO, AUTO PEAK (MTX 3282B, MTX 3283B ), MANUAL.
Selection using this key or the keys.
Validation using the key or after 2 s.
If the measurement is single range, the range defined is forced and there is no
effect if this key is pressed.
Example:Diode test, continuity test and temperature measurement.
By pressing one of the keys, you can switch directly to MANUAL mode
and then modify the range.
Activation, deactivation of the REL (relative) mode.
When it is active, a long press opens a window for setting the reference.
Activation, deactivation of the display of the specifications for the function and
range selected.
Activation of HOLD or AUTO HOLD mode, deactivation NO HOLD.
Selection using this key or the keys.
Validation using the key or after 2 s.
Activation, deactivation of the SURV (surveillance) mode.
A long press opens a window for viewing the most recent records.
Closed by a short press.
Activation, deactivation of the MEM (automatic recording) mode.
A long press opens the MEM Function menu.
2 utilit
y
ke
y
s
Back-lighting of the display in dark environments.
A long press opens the menu for adjusting the contrast on the LCD.
Selection of the functions for the 3secondary displays.
Selection by successive presses on this key.
A long press can be used to exit from this mode.

Description of the instrument
100,000-count Graphical Multimeters 9
Description of the instrument (cont'd)
Inputs
Input for voltage and frequency measurements, diode tests, resistance
measurements, continuity tests, and capacitance or temperature
measurements.
Input for current measurements.
Reference input.
Display
(foot of the screen)
The multimeters in this range are equipped with a graphical LCD screen
(58 mm x 58 mm) with 160 x 160 resolution for comfortable reading.
Reading of the LCD can be optimized by varying the orientation of the
display, the adjustment of contrast and, if necessary, using the backlighting.
The modes, the functions selected, the electrical or physical values
measured and the alert symbols are clearly shown on the display.
The user can call up help (i) regarding the function selected.
The main display is accompanied by its sign and the unit.
Depending on the current selections, the display may be graphical or digital:
Graphical display
The graphical
window and the
bargraph constantly
track the evolution of
the measurement in the
range selected.
The graphical window can be used to monitor the evolution of the principal
measurement.
Example
Display of
secondary functions
The main display
and the bargraph
constantly track the
evolution of the
measurement.
The secondary displays are intended for the SPEC, REL, MEM, SURV and
888888 functions:
Example
AUTO
1.5000 DC
V
HOLD
iPress the main function key …
> 60s
2.5000 V
AUTO
1.5000
MIN
MAX
-1.0000 V
2.5000 V
1.3000 V
DC
V
i
Lower status line
Bargraph
Graphical window
Help on function
Upper status line
Main display
Main display
Secondary display 1
Secondary display 2
Secondary display 3
Bargraph
Upper status line
Lower status line
Help on function
SURV
AVG
MEM 2
Recording started
1
0
-
1
0
-10 0 10
i

Functional description
10 100,000-count Graphical Multimeters
Functional description
Preparation for use
Instructions before
activation To use this instrument, you must comply with the usual safety rules in order:
-to protect you against the dangers of the electric current,
-to protect the multimeter against incorrect operations.
For your safety, only use the leads delivered with the instrument. Before
using it, systematically check that it is in perfect condition.
Instrument
power supply The 3 multimeters in this range operate with three 1.5 V alkaline batteries
(LR6-AM3 AA) or three 1.2 V Ni-MH rechargeable batteries (accumulators)
of the same type:
The MTX 3281B is delivered with three 1.5 V alkaline batteries
(LR6-AM3 AA). It can operate with accumulators, but does not allow in
situ recharging (see §. Accessories delivered as options).
The MTX 3282B and MTX 3283B multimeters are delivered with three 1.2
V
Ni-MH accumulators and charger (12 VDC 7.2 VA) for AC power operation
while simultaneously charging the batteries.
When the charger is connected directly to the instrument, the
accumulators can be recharged without removing them from the
multimeter.
The multimeter can only operate if the accu./batteries are in place.
Power on Using the key opposite.
Charge indicator A charge status indicator for the batteries or accumulators is constantly
shown on the display:
: Batteries or accumulators > 75 % charged
: Batteries or accumulators > 25 % charged
: minimum charge level < 25 %
The symbol flashes on the display and a buzzer sounds if the power
voltage is insufficient (only 30 min charge life).
As the specifications will no longer be guaranteed, you must then replace
the batteries or recharge the accumulators (see next page).
There can be differences between the display of the charge level (symbol)
and the real charge level of the accumulators, according to the quality and
the performances of those.
To avoid this risk, we recommend to use the same accumulators (HX0051)
as those delivered by the manufacturer (see p. 43).
When getting started, the apparatus needs a few seconds to display a
correct level of charge (symbol).

Functional description
100,000-count Graphical Multimeters 11
Functional description (cont'd)
Selection of
energy type
For correct management of the battery or accumulator charge status indicator,
the type of power must be selected:
Opening of the Configuration menu with the key.
Selection of the "General" function using the keys.
Validation of General settings using the key.
Selection of Energy Type menu using the keys.
Modification of the Energy Type (battery or acc.) using the key.
Validation and exit from the successive menus using the key.
Recharging the
accumulators
Before carrying out this operation, check that the accumulators are fitted in the
instrument ; they do not need to be removed from the multimeter to be
recharged.
Recharging is only possible if "Accumulator" has been selected in the Energy
Type menu (see above).
If you try to recharge the accumulators when the batteries are fitted in the
multimeter, it could damage it.
For safety reasons, the accumulators should only be loaded at between 0 and
40°C.
Caution High internal temperature due to a current measurement may
trigger the thermal security mechanism.
General 
IR baud 9600
Config user
Accumulator
Energy type
Energy bat.
Configuration

Measure
Func.
General settings

Func. MATH
General

Functional description
12 100,000-count Graphical Multimeters
Functional description (cont'd)
Recharging the
accumulators
(cont’d)
Before carrying out this operation, select the capacity of the accumulators
(2600 mAh by default) fitted in the instrument:
Selection: Accumulator in the using the keys.
Validation: Accumulator using the key, opens a menu for setting the
accumulator capacity (in mAh):
Selection of the digit to be modified using the key.
Modification of the value using the key.
Validation of the accumulator capacity and exit from the successive menus
using the key .
To maintain the accumulators in good condition, run the accumulators
down to the minimum charge level before recharging.
Then connect the power pack (12 VDC, 7.2 VAC) to the jack connector
(see front panel illustration).
Connect the power pack (12 VDC, 7.2 VAC) to the AC Power supply.
The symbol opposite on the display allows you to monitor the charge status.
The accumulators are fully charged when the symbol is full .
The MTX 3282B and MTX 3283B multimeters contain Ni-MH accumulators.
These accumulators must be disposed of by a recycling firm or a company
specialized in the treatment of dangerous waste materials.
Never dispose of these accumulators with other solid waste.
For further information, contact your AEMC dealer.
When the multimeter is delivered, the accumulators may be discharged,
requiring a complete recharge.
Recharging the
accumulators with
multimeter off
The scrolling symbol shows the progress of
recharging.
Once the accumulators have been fully recharged, the
instrument shuts down automaticall
y
.
Acc. capacity
02600 mAh


Do not connect the wall plug when
there are disposible batteries in the
instrument.
Battery charging
Charge level:
75%……..100%
Connection of the wall plug starts
recharging the accumulators.

Functional description
100,000-count Graphical Multimeters 13
Functional description (cont'd)
Wall plug
power unit
Use only the charger that is
delivered with this device, which
is a 2nd generation multimeter.
The charger from the previous
generation is not compatible.
Recharging totally
discharged
accumulators
or new batteries
1. Fit the batteries into the multimeter, then connect the charger.
2. Wait approximately 30 minutes, then press the ON button to switch on the
multimeter and follow the progress of the charge.
Average charging period : 7h30 (with 2600 mAh accumulators)
After one effective hour of recharging, the multimeter can be used for
measurements, by pressing again on the ON button.
"A measurement”
protection fuse A fuse provides protection up to 11 A for current measurements. It must be
replaced only with an identical fuse:
11 A, 20 kA, 1000 V, 10 x 38 mm (High Interrupting Capacity).
Checking of current
measurement fuse Test the current measurement as follows:
1. Select the Ampere function using the A key.
2. Connect a lead to the A terminal.
3. Check that the LEADS indication disappears from the display (presence of
lead). If this is not the case, replace the fuse.
Replacement of the
fuse or the batteries Before replacing the fuse or batteries, comply with the safety instructions given
at the beginning of this MANUAL. Then:
1. Disconnect the test leads from the measurement circuits and the
instrument.
2. Disconnect the power lead from the MTX 3282B or MTX 3283B 12 VDC
power pack.
3. Switch off the power to the instrument.
4. Undo the screw on the back of the instrument.
5. Pivot the rear cover of the casing to access the battery/fuse compartment.
6. Remove the fuse or batteries and replace them with identical models.
7. Replace the cover and retighten the screw.
Without batteries, the date and time are kept for ca. 1 min in the
instrument.
The measurements recorded are kept for an unlimited time.
Dismantling of
multimeter and
access to
battery/fuse
compartment
fuse
batteries
slit for
screwdriver

Functional description
14 100,000-count Graphical Multimeters
Functional description (cont'd)
Initial settings The general menu configures the parameters of the multimeter according to the
conditions of use and the user’s preferences.
Opening of the Configuration menu with the key.
Selection of the General menu using the keys and then the key.
Choice of language Selection of the language for the multimeter's menus.
Two options are available: French
(
Fr
)
or En
g
lish
(
En, default
)
.
Setting the
date and time
Activation of the
buzzer (Beep)
Validation (default), or not , of audio signal (beep) when:
-a key is pressed,
-there is a voltage of more than 60 VDC or 30 VAC on the "V" input,
-a stable measurement is acquired in AUTO HOLD mode,
-the power supply voltage (battery) is insufficient.
The audio signal is maintained even when the buzzer is deactivated :
during continuity testing,
when the range is exceeded (voltage or current),
on a 10 A measurement,
 if the position of the leads and the function selected are incompatible.
Automatic
shutdown (sleep)
Validation (default), or not, of automatic shutdown (sleep) after 30 min if there
has been no action on the multimeter's front panel during that time.
In SURV, MEM and Communication modes, automatic shutdown is not
validated.
For your safety, automatic shutdown is inhibited when the values measured
(voltage, current) on the inputs exceed the danger thresholds (indicator opposite
displayed).
Display contrast
A long press on directly opens the menu, validates the setting.

Modification of the value (default: 50 %)
using the key.
Validation of setting using key.
Selection of the variables using the key.
Modification of the value using keys.
Clock validation and start-up when menu is
closed using key.
General

Date/Time
Sleep off
Set language
Choix langue
Beep on
Lan
g
ua
g
e En
General

Contrast
IR baud 9600
Back-light auto-off
delay
Comm. IR

Back-light 10 s
Date and time
10 : 03 : 45
08 : 03 : 2005
Contrast



Functional description
100,000-count Graphical Multimeters 15
Functional description (cont'd)
Adjustment of
back-lighting Selection of the back-lighting deactivation time to limit the multimeter's energy
consumption.
6 times are possible: 10 s, 30 s, 1 min, 2 min, 10 min or infinite (no
deactivation).
By default, the back-lighting deactivation time is 2 min.
Start-up
configuration
(Config)
In user mode, the instrument restarts with the user's personal configuration
and the main function selected when it was switched off.
In basic mode, by default, the multimeter restarts with its elementary
configuration and the Volt (AC+DC) function.
Restart configuration indicated without leads connected. If the leads
are connected, they will be taken into account for function selection.
Specific
configurations
of the instrument
Using the Measure menu, you can adapt the instrument's configuration to the
measurement environment:

Opening of the Configuration menu
with the key.
Selection of the Measure menu using
the keys and then the key.
Filter Activation of a filter to improve frequency rejection for measurements in low VDC
mode.
By default, filter active.
Impedance Choice of the required input impedance on the 100 and 1000 mV (1 V) ranges.
- 100 mVDC and AC+DC range: 2 possible impedances: 1 Gor 10 M
- 1000 mV mVDC range: 2 possible impedances: 1 Gor 20 M
By default, 100 mV range = 10 M  , 1000 mV range = 20 M 
dBm REF
MTX 3283B
Reminder
Adjustment of the reference resistance value (dBm REF) between 1 and
10,000 , for measurements in dBm on VAC or VAC+VDC voltages:
Selection of the digit to be modified using the key.
Modification of the value using the keys.
Validation of the reference resistance in dBm and exit from the menu using the
key.
Default value 600  .
A 0 dBm measurement with a 600
 reference resistance is given on a voltage
of 0.7746 VAC.
Set dBm ref


00600 ohm
Measure
Impedance 1G
W REF
Filter activation
dBm REF
Filter yes

Functional description
16 100,000-count Graphical Multimeters
Functional description (cont'd)
W REF
MTX 3283B Adjustment of the reference resistance value (W REF) between 1 and
10,000 for resistive power measurements:
The calculation performed is: (voltage measured)2/ W REF (unit W)
(current measured)2W REF (unit W)
The adjustment procedure is the same as for the dBm reference resistance.
Default value 50  .
W REF is used to calculate the resistive power (W) with
REF = W REF and to calculate the power (V A) when V (Ref) = W REF
Initialization of the
values
Default values
The parameters of the configuration can be reinitialized to the default settings
in a single operation:
Opening of the Configuration menu with the key.
Selection of the "Default init"
function using the keys.
Validation of initialization using the
key.
Loading of the default values is confirmed by the following message:
General Language : Fr Beep : on
Sleep : on Contrast : 50 %
Lighting : 2 min Communication : IR
IR baud : 9600 Configuration : basic
Energy 3281B : battery Energy 3282B, 3283B :
accu.
Accu. capacity : 2600 mAh
Measure Filter : active Impedance : 10 / 20 M
dBm REF : 600 W REF : 50 
Favorite func.
MATH func.
Function : V Unit : none
Coef. A : 1 Coef. B : 0
MEM func. Recording freq. : 1 s
No. of rec. 3281B : 158 No. of
rec. 3282B, 3283B : 1000
Main func. V, A : AUTO, AC+DC Hz : 10 V range
,Capacity : AUTO ° C : ° C, Pt 100
Message
Default values
loaded
Exit from the successive menus using
the key.
The language and the active main
function are not modified.
Configuration
Configuration 
Func.
Func. MATH
Func. MEM
Set default values

Default init

Functional description
100,000-count Graphical Multimeters 17
Functional description (cont'd)
Access to main functions
Connection of leads The input terminals are limited to 3 : COM, V, , and A.
Connect the black lead to the COM socket (for all measurements).
Functions authorized
when connected on
the V
 terminal
Voltage measurement (Volt).
PEAK is displayed when a peak (Pk+ Pk-measurement) of voltage is detected
and when it is higher than the range of active voltage.
Measurement of Frequency (Hz) on a VAC voltage.
A 1st press gives access to Resistance measurements (Ohm).
A 2nd press gives access to Continuity measurements ( ).
A 3rd press gives access to Diode measurements ( ).
A 1st press gives access to Temperature measurements (according to the last
configuration of the function).
A 2nd press gives access to the type of temperature measurement: ° C, ° F, K.
Selection using the keys, validation using the key or after 2 s.
Another press on this key while selecting the measurement type gives access
to the type of sensors:
-platinum probes: Pt100 or Pt1000 only on MTX 3282B, MTX 3283B
- thermocouples: J or K (TC J, TC K)
Selection using the keys, validation using the key or after 2 s.
Measurement of Capacitance.
"Favorite" measurement configurable by the user.
For the menu's configuration, see §. Function.
Instrument Configuration menu.
Functions
authorized when
connected to the
A terminal
When the red lead is connected to the Aterminal, it automatically selects
Current (AC + DC) measurement.
If current measurement is selected without connection of a lead to terminal A
or without a protection fuse, the LEADS symbol flashes on the display.
Current measurement (Ampere)
The current measurement may be performed using autorange
(AUTO PEAK) over the whole scope of the ranges (µA, mA, A).
PEAK is displayed when a peak (Pk+ Pk- measurement) of current is detected
and when it is higher than the range of active current.
"Favorite" measurement configurable by the user.
For the menu's configuration, see §. Function.
Instrument Configuration menu.

Functional description
18 100,000-count Graphical Multimeters
Functional description (cont'd)
Range management
The key gives access to three operating modes:
- AUTO mode
- AUTO PEAK mode MTX 3282B, MTX 3283B
- MANU mode
Selection using this key or the keys.
Validation using the key or after 2 s.
If the measurement is single range, the range defined is forced and there is no
effect if the key is pressed.
 Example: Diode test, continuity test and temperature measurement.
“AUTO” mode On the input for a measurement, AUTO mode is active by default and range
selection is managed automatically by the multimeter.
“AUTO PEAK” mode
MTX 3282B
MTX 3283B
In AUTO PEAK mode, the range changes are performed on the basis of rapid
acquisition of peaks, either upward or downward.
AUTO PEAK mode is only accessible for AC, AC+DC in V and A
measurements. It prevents untimely overruns of the peak factor
specified for the instrument.
“MANUAL” mode When this mode is selected and is valid for the function concerned, the
keys can be used to modify the measurement range.
Measurements concerned: voltage, current, resistance, capacitance.
By pressing one of the keys, you can switch directly to MANUAL
mode and then modify the range.
Display hold
management
The key gives access to two operating modes:
- HOLD mode
- AUTO HOLD mode
-NO HOLD deactivates the mode.
Selection using this key or the keys.
Validation using the key or after 2 s.
HOLD HOLD mode freezes on the screen the current main measurement at the time
when the key is pressed. The instrument continues to manage the
measurements and display them in the graphical window or on the secondary
display (REL mode).
The range selection remains unchanged: AUTO or MANUAL depending
on the configuration when you enter this mode.
AUTO HOLD AUTO HOLD mode automatically freezes on the screen the current main
measurement whenever a stable measurement is detected. It is confirmed
by a beep (unless the configuration "Beep no" has been selected in the
Configuration menu).
The values memorized remain displayed until the next stable measurement
taken (measurement different from ± 100 digits) or until deactivation of AUTO
HOLD mode.
The instrument continues to manage the measurements and display them in
the graphical window or on the secondary display (REL mode).
The range selection remains unchanged (AUTO or MANUAL) depending
on the configuration when you enter this mode. AUTO HOLD mode is
onl
y
accessible for V and A measurements.

Functional description
100,000-count Graphical Multimeters 19
Functional description (cont'd)
REL
REL mode takes the current main measurement as its reference. It is indicated
on the secondary display: REF.
The main display continues to indicate the instantaneous value measured
and the bargraph.
The secondary display indicates the absolute deviation between the
instantaneous value measured and the reference recorded.
The secondary display % indicates the relative deviation in % between the
instantaneous value measured and the reference recorded.
Range management may be "AUTOmatic" or "MANUAL, depending
on the configuration when entering this mode.
The  and  % displays are managed in the same range.
In "AUTO" mode, they cannot fall below the reference range when the
REL mode was activated.
 Example: Measurement of a 1.5 VDC voltage with a reference set to 1 V:
Adjustment of the
reference When the mode is active, a long press on the key opens a window for
setting the REF reference.
The key selects the digit to be modified.
The keys modify the digit selected.
The key can be used to exit from the menu after validating the new
reference.
 Example:
AUTO REL
1.5000
050.00 %
REF
DC
V

%
0.5000 V
1.0000 V
IIIIIII
-10 10
Reference Rel
+1.0000



Functional description
20 100,000-count Graphical Multimeters
Functional description (cont'd)
SURV The SURV mode monitors the variations of a signal by recording the extreme
values (MIN and MAX) of the main measurement and calculating the average
(AVG). For each value memorized the multimeter records the corresponding
date and time.
When it is started up, the MTX 3281B reinitializes the date and time
(01:01:2000, 00:00:00).
Before starting work, set the correct date and time to "date-stamp" the
records see §. Setting the date and time).
When you enter SURV mode by a short press on the key, the last MIN and
MAX measurements are erased and then initialized with the current
measurement.
SURV flashes when the mode is active.
AVG shows the average of all the measurements recorded since SURV mode
was activated.
The data recorded can be viewed by a long press on the key during
surveillance or after exiting from the mode.
In SURV mode:
- MANU or AUTO range management cannot be selected.
- the current measurement, the MIN value and the MAX value are presented in
the most suitable range for each of them.
Example:
Consultation of recorded data by a
long press on the key
The data recorded is accompanied by
the date, time and surveillance range.
Exit from consultation by a short
press on the .
AUTO
SURV
1.5000
1.3000 V
MIN
DC
V
MAX
AVG
2.5000 V
-1.0000 V
SURV
Start :
27/03/2005 10 :07 :11
Stop :
27/03/2005 10 :10 :30
Mini : -1.0000 V
27/03/2005 10 :08 :25
Max : 2.5000 V
27/03/2005 10 :09 :25
Avg : 1.3000 V
-10 0 10