B&B Electronics M-3640D User manual

Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598 Cover Page
B&B Electronics -- PO Box 1040 -- Ottawa, IL 61350
PH [phone] -- FAX [phone]
True RMS Handheld Multimeter
Model M-3640D
Documentation Number M3640D1598
B&B Electronics Mfg. Co. Inc.
707 Dayton Road -- P.O. Box 1040 -- Ottawa, IL 61350
PH [phone] -- FAX [phone]
Internet:
http://www.bb-elec.com
[email protected]
[email protected]
B&B Electronics -- May 1997
Not Recommended for New Installations.
Please contact Technical Support for more information.

Addendum Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598
B&B Electronics -- PO Box 1040 -- Ottawa, IL 61350
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ATTENTION: METEX USERS
This addendum contains corrections and additions to the user's manual.
Paragraph 6-12-2, page 32, of the M-3640D Digital Multimeter manual
refers to two computer programs: METEX and Scopeview. These
programs are no longer available and have been replaced by METVIEW.
This program works with Windows 3.11, Windows 95, and Windows NT.
Please use the following Installation information and NOT the information
in the manual. The Hardware Interfacing information in paragraph 6-12-1
is correct.
Installing the Supplied Software
We have included a Windows 95/NT program, named METVIEW.EXE, to
log data collected with your meter. To install the software on your hard
drive:
1. Insert the disk in drive A.
2. Click the start button in the lower left corned of the screen and choose
"Settings I Control Panel I Add / Remove Programs".
3. Click the install button and follow the directions.
Using the Software
To run the software after it has been installed, click the start button in the
lower left corner of the screen and choose "Programs I Metex I Metex".
After starting the metex program, click the setup button. A dialog box
appears that allows you to select the serial communications port, sampling
interval, and logging file. Note that the logging file can only be changed
when the “Enabled Data Logging" check box is checked. The filename
may be typed in or you can click the browse button to select where the file
should be located. Once you have completed the setup, click the OK
button.
To start collecting data from the meter, click the button labeled "start".
Data is read from the meter at the sampling interval that was selected when
you setup the software. If data logging is enabled, the data is written to a
disk file. To stop collecting data, click the button labeled "stop". Note that
this is the same button as the start button.

Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598 Addendum
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Format of the Data File
The data is written to the logging file as fixed length records. The format
is:
HH:MM:SS XX######YYYY↵
where HH:MM:SS is the hour (24 hour format), minute and second when
the sample was taken, XX is the meter function, ###### is the value read
from the meter, and YYYY is the units. This file can be read by a program,
such as Microsoft Excel, to analyze the data or print out a chart.
Telephone........................................815-433-5100
8 am--4:30 pm Central Standard Time
Monday through Friday
24-hour FAX...................................815-433-5104
Intemet E-Mail
Sales..................................[email protected]
Technical Support.............[email protected]
World-Wide Web Site .....http://www.bb-elec.com
Postal Mail .....................................B&B ELECTRONICS MFG CO INC
707 DAYTON ROAD
PO BOX 1040
OTTAWA IL 61350 USA

Table of Contents Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598
B&B Electronics -- PO Box 1040 -- Ottawa, IL 61350
PH [phone] -- FAX [phone]
Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................1
2. SAFETY INFORMATION ....................................................................2
2-1. Safety Requirements........................................................................2
2-2. Safety Symbols................................................................................2
2-3. Safety Warnings ..............................................................................3
3. PREPARING FOR OPERATION..........................................................4
3-1. Installing the Battery .......................................................................4
3-2. Using the Test Probes......................................................................5
3-3. Using the Stand................................................................................5
4. PRE-OPERATION CHECK...................................................................6
5. HOW TO USE THE METER.................................................................7
5-1. Pushbuttons......................................................................................7
5-2. Items 7-8 describe the Sockets. .......................................................8
5-3. Input Terminals..............................................................................10
5-4. Digital and Bar Graph Displays.....................................................10
5-5. Annunciators..................................................................................14
6. HOW TO MAKE MEASUREMENTS................................................17
6-1 . Measuring DC /AC Voltage.........................................................17
6-2. Measuring Current.........................................................................18
6-3. Continuity Testing.........................................................................19
6-4. Measuring Resistance....................................................................20
6-5 Checking Diode..............................................................................21
6-6. Measuring Frequency....................................................................22
6-7. Measuring Capacitance..................................................................23
6-8. dB Measurement (M-3640D/3660D only)....................................23
6-9. Checking Transistors.....................................................................24
6-10. Measuring Temperature (M-3640D / 3660D only).....................25
6-11. Logic Test....................................................................................26
6-12. Using the Meter with a Computer ...............................................27
7. CARE AND MAINTENANCE............................................................30
7-1. Replacing the Fuse.........................................................................30
7-2. General Maintenance.....................................................................31
8. SPECIFICATIONS...............................................................................32
8-1. General Characteristics..................................................................32
8-2. Special Characteristics...................................................................36
Due to our policy to refine the products continuously, this manual may
contain minor differences in specifications, components, parts and circuit
design from the instrument actually delivered.

Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598 1
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1. INTRODUCTION
The new concept M-3600D Series Multimeters have Dual-Display and
Communication function with computer by RS-232C as basic. The meter is
a handheld 1999 count instrument with True Rms, dB range, temperature
measurement for some models (M-3640D, M-3660D), and frequency
measurement up to 20MHz (M-3650D, M-3660D)
Please read these operating instructions very carefully before commencing
your measurement.

2Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598
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2. SAFETY INFORMATION
2-1. Safety Requirements
This meter has been manufactured and tested in accordance with IEC 348
and DIN57411/VDE0411 Part 1: Safety Requirement for Electronic
Measuring Apparatus, Safety Class II.
This manual contains information and warnings which must be observed to
assure safe operation and maintain the meter in safe condition.
NOT FOR HIGH ENERGY INDUSTRIAL USE.
2-2. Safety Symbols
We have placed the following special markings on the panel to remind you
of the measurement limitations and safety.
20A The maximum current that you can measure at this
terminal is 20 amps DC/AC. This terminal is fuse
protected. For your safety during continuous
measurements, keep the duty cycle within 30 seconds in
use and more than 15 minutes in rest.
mA The maximum current that you can measure at this
terminal is 200mA DC/AC. This terminal is fuse
protected.
To avoid electrical shock or instrument damage, do not
connect the Common Input Terminal COM to any source
of more than 500 Volts with respect to earth/ground.
The maximum voltage this meter can measure is 1000V
DC or 750V AC.
Be extra careful when making high-voltage measurements.
DO NOT TOUCH THE TERMINALS OR PROBE
ENDS.
Refer to the complete operating instructions.
Indicates protection class II, double insulation.

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2-3. Safety Warnings
2-3-1. To prevent electric shock hazard and/or damage to the meter,
do not measure voltage exceeding 1000V DC or 750V AC.
2-3-2. To avoid damage to the meter and/or injury, observe the input
limits as stated in Table 1.
2-3-3. To avoid damage to the meter, disconnect test leads from test
points before changing the function/range.
2-3-4. To avoid electric shock, use caution when working above 60V
DC or 25V AC RMS. Such voltage pose a shock hazard.
2-3-5. The 20A range is protected by the fuse. To avoid damage or
injury, use the meter only in circuits limits by fuse or
circuit-breaker to 20A or 4000VA.
Do not apply voltage to between 20A or mA and COM
terminals. This warning is to assure protection against injury
and/or damage to the meter and the user.
2-3-6. Do not get the meter and test leads wet.
2-3-7. Ensure the test leads are in good condition.
Table 1. INPUT LIMITS
FUNCTION TERMINAL INPUT LIMITS
V DC V/Ω+COM 1000V DC
V AC V/Ω+COM 750V AC
ΩV/Ω+COM 250V DC/AC
mA DC/AC mA+COM 200mA DC/AC
20A DC/AC 20A+COM 20A DC/AC
V/Ω+COM 250V DC/AC
Freq. V/Ω+COM 750V DC/AC
Logic V/Ω+COM 250V DC/AC
DB V/Ω+COM 20V AC

4Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598
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3. PREPARING FOR OPERATION
3-1. Installing the Battery
Your meter requires a 9V battery for power. The symbol appears
when the battery voltage drops to certain limits. For proper operation,
replace the battery as soon as possible. Continued use with a low battery
will lead to abnormal readings.
WARNING: TO AVOID ELECTRIC SHOCK, DISCONNECT BOTH
LEADS FROM EQUIPMENT BEFORE YOU REMOVE OR INSTALL
THE BATTERY.
Follow these steps to install the battery:
1. Turn off the power and disconnect the two test probes.
2. Remove the screw to open the battery compartment.
3. Place the battery into the insulation capsule and snap it on the
contacts.
WARNING: DO NOT DISCARD THE PROVIDED BATTERY
INSULATION CAPSULE. IF YOU DO NOT USE THIS
INSULATION CAPSULE PROPERLY, IT MIGHT CAUSE
DAMAGE OR INJURY.
4. Replace the battery compartment cover and secure it with the screw.
WARNING: DO NOT OPERATE THE METER UNTIL YOU
REPLACE THE BATTERY AND CLOSE THE BATTERY
COMPARTMENT COVER.

Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598 5
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3-2. Using the Test Probes
Use only the type of test probes supplied with your meter. These test
probes are rated for 1200 volts.
Cautions:
• Although the replacement test probes are rated for 1200 volts, the
maximum rating of your meter is 1000 volts DC and 750 volts AC.
If you try to measure DC voltages above 1000 volts or AC
voltages above 750 volts rms, you might damage your meter and
expose yourself to a serious shock hazard. Use extreme care
when you measure high voltages.
• Never connect the probe you plug into the COM terminal to a
source of voltage greater than 500 volts with respect to earth
ground. This creates a serious shock hazard.
3-3. Using the Stand
Use your meter’s stand to prop up or hang the meter.
Propping Up the Meter
If you prop your meter on a benchtop, the stand helps provide a better
viewing angle. To use the stand as a prop, just open it away from the meter
and set it on a flat surface.
Hanging the Meter
To hang the meter, remove the stand by pressing the lower parts of the
stand together. Then insert the stand into top 2 holes.

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4. PRE-OPERATION CHECK
To ensure correct operation and familiarize yourself with the meter, follow
these steps before you use it.
4-1. Press the ON/OFF button to ON
4.2 To select a function, turn the rotary switch to the appropriate switch
position at your desire. The meter is ready for normal operation.
4.3 To select an additional operation, press the appropriate push buttons
above the rotary (See Table 2)
• To operate the UP DOWN buttons, press to address the stored
reference value in the ;modes, press to determine the
polarity, reference value in the and modes.
• To operate the FUNCTION button, press to select the function mode
at your desire, press again to scroll and press SET/RESET button
twice to exit.
• To operate the SET/RESET button, press to enter, and press again to
exit.
• To operate the DC/AC button, press to toggle between AC and DC
when the rotary switch set to Voltage or Current.

Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598 7
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5. HOW TO USE THE METER
This section describes your meter and how to use it. FOR EASE OF
REFERENCE, EACH DESCRIPTION IS NUMBERED AND KEYED
TO THE ILLUSTRATION INSIDE THE FRONT COVER.
5-1. Pushbuttons
Items 1-6 describe how to use the pushbuttons. These buttons are used (in
conjunction with rotary switch) to select operating modes. When a button
is pushed the beeper sounds. A summary of pushbutton operation is shown
in Table 2. An annunciator is displayed to indicate that a mode or function
has been selected. A quick way to reset all the pushbuttons to their default
state is to turn the rotary switch to an adjacent function and then back to
the function you are using.
1. ON/OFF POWER ON/OFF
Press the ON/OFF(RED) button to turn the meter on. Press again to turn
the meter off.
Automatic Power-off
Automatic Power-off extends the life of the battery by turning the meter
off if neither the rotary switch nor a pushbutton is operated for 10 minutes.
However, during communication with a PC, Hi mode at capacitance, AC
mV range and dB measurement, power will not be turned off
automatically.
2. FUNCTION

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The sign will be displayed on the LCD when you turn the power
on.
Press the FUNCTION button to enter the function mode. You can
select a function mode at your desire by pressing the FUNCTION
button and SET/RESET button by turns.
• Sequence of scroll in the Function modes
3. SET/RESET
Press the SET/RESET button to enter the selected function mode and press
again to exit. Then the will be displayed on the LCD.
In the function modes of and , the RESET function does
not work. To exit from these modes, you have to move the selector switch
to an adjacent range or press the function key.
4. DC/AC
Press DC/AC button to toggle between DC and AC when the rotary switch
is set to Voltage or Current.
5 & 6. UP DOWN
Press UP DOWN buttons to determine the polarity, value of the reference
value in the and modes, to address the stored reference
value in the and modes.
5-2. Items 7-8 describe the Sockets.
7. TRANSISTOR hFE
Insert the base, collector, and emitter pins in the correct sockets, as
marked.
8. CAPACITOR (excluding M-3610D)
TEMPERATURE SOCKET (M-3640D/M-3660D only)

Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598 9
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Insert the discharged capacitor into the CAP + and - clips connectors, as
marked.
Insert the optional K-type thermocouples into the correct sockets, as
marked.
9. FUNCTION SELECTOR ROTARY SWITCH
Item 9 describes functions that are selected by setting the rotary switch.
mV Millivolts ac/dc
V Volts ac/dc
mA Milliampere ac/dc
A Amperes ac/dc
Continuity
ΩResistance
Diode Test
FREQ Frequency
CAP Capacitance
hFE Transistor
TEMP Temperature
HIGH
HOW Logic Test
dB Decibel

10 Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598
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5-3. Input Terminals
Items 10-13 describe the input terminals (See Table 1 for overload limits.)
10. 20A Amperes Input Terminal
For current measurements (AC or DC) up to 20A when function selector
switch is in the 20A position.
11. mA Milliamp Input Terminal
For current measurements up to 200mA (AC or DC) when the function
selector switch is in the mA position.
12. COM Common Terminal
Return terminal for all measurements.
13. V/Ω
ΩΩ
Ω
Continuity, Diode, Ohms, Volt, Frequency, dB, Logic Test Terminal.
5-4. Digital and Bar Graph Displays
Items 14-16 & 17 describe the digital and bar graph displays.
14. Digital Display
Digital readings are displayed on a 1999-count display with automatic
polarity indication and decimal point placement.
15. Analog Bar Graph
The bar graph consists of 23 segments that illuminate from left to right as
the input increases.
It functions much the same as the needle on an analog meter without the
mechanical overshoot inherent in needle movements.
If the input equals or exceeds 1,999 counts on the range selected, OL is
displayed with flashing in the Bar-graph.
16. Bar Graph Scale
Scale for absolute readings.

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17. OL Overload Indication
OL is displayed with flashing the bar-graph, when input is too excess to
display.
18. Auto-Hold
The meter will freeze a reading automatically recorded 4 seconds ago,
when last reading is completed.
19. Data-Hold
In this mode, you can freeze a reading on the sub-display by pressing the
SET/RESET button, and the subsequent reading wilI be displayed on the
main-display.
20. Minimum
Lets you keep a minimum reading on the sub-display while showing the
present readings on the main-display.
21. Maximum
Lets you keep a maximum reading on the sub-display while showing the
present readings on the main-display.
22. Relative
Enables you to compare the reference value with a subsequent reading.
To set the reference value, follow these steps:
1. Set the function mode at mode.
2. Store the polarity, values of the reference value you desire by pressing
the UP DOWN buttons and SET/RESET button by turns.
3. Press SET/RESET button for final setting.

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Example: Store Polarity +/ - (with UP/DOWN)
⇒SET/RESET ⇒
Store 1st Value ⇒SET/RESET ⇒
Store 2nd Value ⇒SET/RESET ⇒
Store 3rd Value ⇒SET/RESET ⇒
Store 4th Value ⇒SET/RESET ⇒
4. To exit mode, press the function key or turn the rotary switch to
an adjacent range.
Your meter will display the difference between the stored
reference value and subsequent readings on the sub-display
while showing the present measurement on the main-display.
For example, if the stored reference value is 100.0V and the present
reading is 90.0V, the sub-display will indicate - 10.0 V and the main
display will indicate 90.0V
If the new reading is the same as the reference value, the display will be
zero. In this mode, the total range of relative offset is 1999 counts.
23. Memory
Enable you to memorize the reference values up to 10 measurements in the
meter.
To memorize the reference value, follow these steps:
1. Set the function mode at mode.
2. Press UP DOWN buttons to address the number from 0 to 9.
3. Press SET/RESET button to memorize the reference value you desire.
If you memorize the reference values continuously under the
same address number, then the previous reference value will be
cleared automatically.

Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598 13
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24. Memory Recall
Enables you to get the memorized reading back on the LCD.
To get the memorized reference value, follow these steps:
1. Set the function mode at mode.
2. Press UP DOWN buttons to address the number from 0 to 9.
3. Press SET/RESET button to get the memorized value back on the
LCD. Then the reference value you chose will appear on the
sub-display.
25. Dual-Display
Lets you have two primary+secondary readings on the LCD in the
following ranges (See Table 3)
Table 3. Dual-Display
INPUT RANGE MAIN-DISPLAY SUB-DISPLAY
AC VOLTAGE VOLTAGE FREQUENCY
FREQUENCY FREQUENCY AC VOLTAGE
TEMPERATURE °C °F
LOGIC HI/LO FREQUENCY
dB dB AC VOLTAGE
Notes:
• Your meter will display Ripple Frequency at DC Voltage position.
• In the ranges of DC/AC A, Resistance, Diode and hFE, the sub-display
might show the FREQ .000. This is not intended for dual-display mode.
• When you select dual measurement while measuring frequency, the
meter selects the 20V AC range for the secondary display. To measure
both the voltage and frequency, when the voltage is greater than 20V
AC, select AC voltage as the primary measurement.
26. Communication

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Allows you to interface the meter with your PC to communicate with your
PC in all function ranges. To avoid operation error, do not set your meter
at mode during communicating with a computer.
27. Comparison
Enables you to do the High Low Test of subsequent readings by comparing
a reading with both the stored high reference value and the stored low
reference value.
On the sub-display, Lo sign for reading less than the low reference value,
Hi sign for reading more than the high reference value and PASS sign for
middle ranges will be shown.
To store the reference values of Min/Max, see the steps of REL 2, 3.
To exit mode, press the function key or turn the rotary switch to
an adjacent range.
28. Display for address number
To operate this address number, you can address the stored reference
values up to 10 measurements in the and modes, each time
press UP DOWN buttons.
5-5. Annunciators
Items 29-32 describe annunciators that indicate the mode or state in which
the meter is operating.
29. Diode Test
The value displayed is the forward voltage of semiconductor function(s) at
approximately 1 mA test current. Single 0-2.0V range.
30. AC Alternating Current or Voltage
31. Continuity Check
Make it easy to check wiring, continuity of cables, fuses and connections.
etc.
32. Negative Polarity
Automatically indicates negative inputs. When is enabled,
indicates negative results of math calculations.
33. FREQ Frequency Count Mode
Can measure up to 1 MHz with 4 steps of 2, 20, 200KHz, 1 MHz (for
M-3610D/3630D/3640D).

Manual Documentation Number M3640D1598 15
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Can measure up to 20 MHz with 5 steps of 2, 20, 200KHz, 2, 20 MHz (for
M-3650D/3660D).
34. TEMP Temperature (M-3640D/M- 3660D only)
Can measure from -40°C to 1200°C by using the optional K-type
thermocouple.
35. CAP Capacitance (Except M-3610D)
Let you to measure capacitance from LO: nF 2, 2O, 200 to Hi: uF 2, 20,
200.
36. hFE Transistor hFE (Except M-3610D)
Enables you to measure hFE value.
37. LOG Logic Test
Enables you to check logic levels without extra logic probes. This function
displays Hi, Lo or ••• to indicate logic high, logic low, or undetermined,
respectively.
38. dB Decibels (M-3640D/3660D only)
Enables to check the logarithmic ratio of input voltage to the standard
stored value.
39. Sub-display
Lets you see the secondary readings in all function modes.
40. Low Battery
Meter is powered by a single 9V battery. At least 8 hours of battery life
remain when is first displayed.

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41. The following annunciators indicate the unit of the value displays:
AC Alternating current or voltage
DC Direct current or voltage
mV Millivolts (1x10-3 volts)
V Volts
KHz Kilohertz (1x103cycles) Frequency
MHz Megahertz(1x106cycles) Frequency
°C Centigrade Degree
°F Fahrenheit Degree
uF Microfarads (10-6 Farads)
nF Nanofarads (10-9 Farads)
A Ampere (Amps) Current
mA Milliampere (1x10-3amps) Current
ΩOhm
KΩKiloohm(1x103)
MΩMegaohm (1x106)
dB Decibels