Conrad Electronic VC-227 User manual

L'INNOVATIONELECTRONIQUE
IDEAS IN ELECTRONIC
IDEEN IN ELECTRONIC
TECHNIEK VAN HAAR BESTE KANT
Multimeter VC-227
Mutimétre VC-227
Multimeter VC-227
Multimeter VC-227
Order No....................12 00 57
Nº de commande.........12 00 57
Best.-Nr.....................12 00 57
Bestnr........................12 00 57
GB
Page 2 - 19
F
Page 20 - 39
D
Seite 40 - 59
NL
Pagina 60 - 78
2
GB
Multimeter VC-227 Order No. 12 00 57
Attention!
Itisabsolutelyessentialthatyoureadtheoperatinginstructions
very carefully and completely before using the multimeter for
thefirsttime!Inthecaseofdamagecausedbynon-observance
of the instructions, the claims under guarantee lapse. No legal
liability can be accepted for any damage from the multimeter
being used for the wrong purpose or operated improperly. We
cannottakeany liabilityforconsequentialdamage. Pleaseread
and understand the instructions before attempting to use the
multimeter.
The operation of the measuring unit (VC-227) as directed in-
cludes:
• measurement of direct voltage up to 750 VDC max.
• measurement of alternating voltage up to 750 VACrms max.
(= effective)
• measurement of resistance to 20 MOhm max.
• continuity check, diode test, logic test
• frequency measurement up to 200 KHz
• measurement of capacitance to 10 mF (= 10 milli-Farad =
10000 mikroF)
Contents:
1. Introduction
2. Safety Rules
3. Description of the Control Elements
4. Usage of the Multimeter
5. Measurement
6. Maintenance and Calibration
7. Technical Data and Accuracy

34
1. Introduction
This multimeter is equipped with several special functions and
features which are indispensable for some measurements:
Withthe"R"-function(R=MIN/MAXrecording=recordingofminimal/
maximal value) the highest (MAX) and the lowest measuring value
(MIN) can be stored (automatically). This function can be used e. g.
during battery charge.
With the function "HOLD" varying measuring values can be held
"frozen" to insert them afterwards e.g. in a measuring record for
furtherevaluation.WiththekeyRangeyoucan"leave"theautorange
function, i.e. you can set the measuring range manually (move the
decimal point).
The 4 1/2 digit LC-Display allows a resolution up to four decimal
points.Theauto-power-cut-offfunctionhelpstosavethebatterylife,
that means the multimeter will switch off after 30 min. "disuse" in the
standby mode.
The VC-227 can be used for hobby, industry (with restrictions) and
school. etc.
2. Safety Rules
• This unit is constructed and checked according to DIN 57 411
Part 1/VDE 0411 Part1, protective measures for electrical
measuring units. This unit left the factory in safe and perfect
condition. To maintain this condition and to guarantee a safe
operation the user has to pay attention by all means to the
safety rules and warnings which are contained in this manual.
• Thismultimetermayonlybeusedinfuselineswhichareprotected
with maximal 10 A and which have a maximal load of 4000 VA. It
isnotallowedtousetheunitforinstallationsintheoverloadrange
III according to IEC 664.
The unit and the measuring cables are not protected against
arcing and it is not intended for high energy industrial use. (IEC
1010-2-031, section 13.101.). Don’t exceed the input limits.
• Keep children away from measuring units!
• Payattentionto the rules for prevention of accidents in industrial
enterprises prescibed by the Industrial Trade Associations for
electrical installations and production facilities.
• If covers are opened or parts are removed, exept it is possible
without tools, voltage-carrying components can lay open.
Terminalscanalsocarryvoltage.Ifitisnecessarytoopentheunit
before adjustment, maintenance, repairing or exchange of parts
or modules, the measuring unit has to be separated from all
voltagesourcesandmeasuringcircuits.Repairsormaintenance
tothemeasuringunitmustonlybecarriedoutbyqualifiedservice
personell or qualified electricians who know the dangers and the
respective rules (VDE 0100, 0701, VDE-0683).
• Capacitors in the unit can still carry voltage, even if the unit has
been separated from all voltage sources.
• Before you operate the measuring unit again, make shure the
cabinet has been closed and screwed safely.
• Usecautionwhenworkingwithvoltageabove25VACandabove
35 V DC.
Such voltage might already cause a life-dangerous electrical
shock when electrical conductors are touched.
First switch off the voltage source, connect the measuring unit
with the terminals of the voltage source to be measured, set the
measuring unit to the necessary voltage range and switch on
afterwards the voltage source.
After measurement has been finished, switch off the voltage
source and remove the measuring cables from the terminals of
the voltage source.
• Disconnect the test probes from the test points before changing
the measuring range.

• Control before each measurement the measuring unit and your
test leads to make shure they are not damaged.
• Do not use this measuring unit in environments or rooms with
adverseenvironmentalconditionswhereburnablegas,vapouror
dust is existing or might exist.
For your own safty avoid under all circumstances that the
measuring unit or the test leads become wet.
• Avoid strong magnetic (loudspeaker), electromagnetic (coils,
transmitter, transformer, motors) or electrostatic fields (charge).
This could influence the measuring value.
• For measurement use only those test leads which are supplied
with the measuring unit. Only these are admissible.
• Toavoidanelectricalshock,don’ttouchdirectlyorindirectlythe
test probes and the test points during measurement.
• To avoid electrical shock or damage do not apply more than 750
VDC/VAC between any terminal of the measuring unit and the
earth ground.
• If there are doubts whether a safe usage is still possible the unit
hastobeputoutofoperationandbesecuredagainstunintentional
use.
It must be assumed that a safe usage is not possible if
- the unit shows visible damage
- the unit does not work and
- after longterm storage under unfavourable conditions
or
- after transport strain
• Don’t switch on the measuring unit immediately after bringing it
in from a cold to warm room. Condensed water might impair or
destroy your unit. Give the unit time to warm up to room tempe-
rature without switching it on.
3. Description of the Operation Elements
L ogic
P robe
13a 13b12 13 14 15 16 17
18
87
19a
19
11
19b
9
4
6
3
1
5
2
56

µF
10
1. power On / Off
2. key to change DC and AC between Volts
3. key for manual range change
4. key for MIN-MAX recording function
5. key "HOLD" to freeze a measuring value
6. rotary function switch
7. Com (-) - input socket (Com or negative terminal)
8. V-Ohm-(+)-input socket (= positive terminal)
9. LC-Display (4 1/2 digit, maximum display value 19999)
10.Overflow - Display
If "OFL" is displayed this means exceeding of range
Attention!
Don’t exceed the maximum input ratings.
11."-" minus sign or sign for negative polarity
12.BAT = battery symbol
If this symbol is displayed it is time to change the battery
13."R" MIN-MAX reording-function on
13a recording of maximum values
13b recording of minimum values
14."STBY" This symbol appears, when the multimeter is set to the
Standby mode
15. acoustic continuity check
16. diode test
17."HOLD"Ifthis symbolisdisplayedthe measuringvalueisstored.
Itwon’tchangeevenifyouremovethemeasuringcablesfromthe
measuring object or from the measuring unit.
18.measurement units
19. analog bargraph display with 41 segments = tendency display
(twice the speed of the digital display)
19a polarity display of the bargraph
19b overflow display of the bargraph
4. Operation of the Multimeter
4.1 Changing the Battery
Toguaranteeprecisemeasurement,inserta9Vbattery.If thebattery
symbol appears in the display, it is time to change the battery.
Proceed as follows:
Separateyourmeasuringunitfromthemeasuringcircuit.Removethe
test leads from the measuring unit and turn off the power. Carefully
remove the rubber holster from the measuring unit.
Switchoff theDMMandremovethe screwsonthereversesideofthe
cabinet(bottompart ofthecabinet)with asuitablescrewdriver. Now
carefullyliftthebottompartofthecabinet(coverofthecompartement).
Separate the old battery from the battery snap and fasten a new one
of the same type (see technical data).
After the battery has been changed reinsert the battery into the
78

battery case and close the multimeter carefully and reinstall the
screws with a screw driver.
Attention!
Never use the measuring unit before the cover has been closed
completely. Life Danger!
Never leave empty batteries in the measuring unit, as even
corrosion-free batteries might leak and chemicals could be
released, which are detrimental to your health and may disturb
the battery compartment.
Please remember used batteries - due to their heavy metal
content - are no ordinary refuse. They must be disposed of in
special containers (collecting points) or in a safe manner that
complies with all applicable laws.
4.2 Connection of the Measuring Cables
For measurement use only those test leads which are supplied with
the measuring unit. Only these are admissible.
Ensure the connection plugs and test probes are in good condition
before usage, pay attention that the insulation is undamaged.
Thesemeasuringcablesarepermissibleforvoltagesupto750Vmax.
Your measuring unit Voltcraft 227, is rated for voltages of max 750
VDC/VACrms. Use special caution when working with voltage above
25 V AC and above 35 V DC.
Attention!
Never exceed the max. input limits, as under unfavourable
circumstances this could be life dangerous.
4.3 Operation
4.3.1 Basic Settings
To select a function, turn the rotary function switch to the desired
position ("V" or "Hz" etc.) With the blue key (1) the unit can be
switched on and off.
4.3.2 Special Functions
a) Manual Range Selection
Attention!
This help function is not possible for the logic test and diode
test,continuity check and during frequency measurement (Hz).
Settherotary function switch to one of the four remaining measuring
functions "V", "Ohm", "Hz" or " " = capacity measurement.
Pressthe key " " once. The respective symbolappears on the left
sideofthedisplay.Nowyoucansetanydesiredmeasuringrangee.g.
during capacitane measurement, e.g. to select capacitors with a
certain capacity (0.001 µF to 10000 µF).
To leave this function press the key " " for more than 1 second or
turn the rotary function switch.
The respective symbol will disappear from the display and the
multimeter is again in the autorange mode.
b) MIN-MAX Recording Function
Attention!
Thishelpfunctioncan only beusedduringvoltmeasurementor
resistance measurement.
910

5. Measurement Procedure
5.1 Voltage measurement
Attention!
Do not exceed the maximum input limits, max. 750 VDC / VAC
rms (=effective)
Donottouchcircuits or partsofcircuits,ifyoumeasure voltage
more than 25 VACrms or 35 VDC.
To measure direct or alternating voltage proceed as follows:
1. Settherotaryfunctionswitchtoposition"V".Youare automatically
inthemode"DCmeasurement".IfyouwanttomakeAC measure-
ment press the key " " once.
2. Connect the measuring tips with the object under measurement
(load,circuitetc.).EachofthefiveDCvoltagerangesorofthefour
AC ranges has an input resistance of more than 10 MOhm
(parallel to < 100 pF). As soon as a "-" sign appears before the
measuringvalue(duringDCmeasurement),thevoltageisnegative
(orthemeasuringcables"+"and"-",redandblackhavebeenex-
changed)
5.2. Resistance Measurement
Attention!
Makeshureallobjects,circuitsandcomponentstobemeasured
are without voltage!
To measure resistors proceed as follows:
1. Set the measuring function switch to "Ω" (=Ohm)
2. Connect the measuring probes ("+"=red and "-"=black) with the
object to be measured.
During the MIN-/MAX recording function auto-power-off is not
active. Therefore do not forget to switch off your multimeter, if
you are finished with the min/max recording function to save
the battery life.
Set the rotary function switch to one of the above name modes ("V"
or "Ohm"). Press the key "R" once. In the menu line (top line in the
display) the respective symbol will appear. Press the key "R" once
more"MAX"willadditionallyappearinthedisplay.Nowthemaximum
measuring values are automatically recorded. Even if you remove
afterwards the measuring cables from the measuring object, the
recorded maximum value will remain in the display until the key "R"
is pressed once more.
Now the minimum values are recorded (also negative values).
To exit the function, press the key "R" for more than 1 second or turn
the rotary function switch.
c) "Hold"-Function = "Freeze" (holding) the measuring value
Attention!
Thisfunctioncannot be usediftheDMMis in thefunctiondiode
test, acoustic continuity check, logic test and capacitance
measurement.
Set the rotary function switch to one of the "remaining" three modes
"V","Ohm"or"Hz".Nowyoucanmakeyourmeasurement.Ifyounow
want to write the data e.g. in a record press the key Hold once.
Irrespective of a later change the measuring value it is frozen.
At the same time "HOLD" will appear in the right "corner" of the
display. If you want to "release" measurement again, press the key
"HOLD"; the symbol disappears from the display, the current
measuring value is displayed.
11 12

During resistance test, make shure that the measuring points, which
you touch with test-lead tips are free of dirt, oil or solder varnish etc.
This might influence the measuring value and also capacitors which
are still carrying voltage.
For resistors over 2 MOhm the display needs a few seconds to
stabilize. As soon as "OFL" is displayed and an acoustic signal is
emitted you exceeded the measuring range or the leads are open.
5.3 Continuity Check and Diode Test
a) Continuity Check " ":
Attention!
Never measure capacitors which carry voltage, as a possible
discharge could disturb your measuring unit.
With this function you can check dead leads, fuses, circuits etc. with
an audible signal.
Proceed as follows:
1. Switch on your measuring unit:
2. Set the rotary function switch to (9) " / ". The multimeter
is automaticallysetinthemodecontinuitycheck.Additionallythe
respective symbol is shown on top of the display.
3. Afterwardsconnectthetestprobeswiththeobjecttobemeasured.
If the resistance is less than 100 Ohm a beep sound is emitted.
b) Diode Test
Attention!
For diode tests pay attention, that the diode and the circuit in
which it is probably built in, do not carry voltage. All capacities
must be discharged.
Proceed as follows:
1. Switch on your multimeter
2. Set the rotary function switch (9) to " / )"
3. Pressthekey" "(=manual range selection) once; the symbol
for acoustic continuity check disappears from the display.
4. Nowconnectthetest-leadpointswiththeobjectundermeasure-
ment, a dead semiconductor line, the red test-lead points to the
anode, the black test-lead points to the cathode (as a rule it is
marked with a coloured ring, point etc.).
If you check a diode line in forward direction, you will measure a
voltage of approx. 0.25 V (Germanium) or 0.7 V (Silicon), if the diode
line is not defective.
If you now exchange the test-lead points, this means red to the
cathode and black to the anode, you check the so called reverse
direction. If "OFL" is displayed the diode is o.k. If however a value
between0Vandapprox.3.5Visdisplayed,youconnectedtheobject
under measurement wrong or it is defective.
5.4 Frequency measurement
Attention!
Observe the maximum input limits! Do not connect the unit to
voltagesexceeding250VDCmax.or250VAC(rms=eff).Itis life
dangeroustotouchthe terminalsorprobetipswhenmeasuring
voltages over 25 VAC or 35 VDC.
Disconnect the test leads from the test points before changing
the meter function and range. The sensitive electronic of the
measuring unit might be destroyed and this can be dangerous
to you.
Proceed as follows:
1. Select "Hz" with the rotary function switch.
13 14

2. Connect the test-leads with the COM-socket (black = "-") and
with the V-socket (red = "+").
3. Attach the test lead tips to the signal source (e.g. generator)
5.5 Capacitance Measurement
Attention!
Discharge all capacitors before attempting to make
measurements.
When shorting capacitors, high-energy discharge may take
place. Caution life danger! Do not touch the terminals if there
are capacitors with voltages over 35 VDC or 25 VAC.
Do not use this measuring unit in environments or rooms with
adverse environmental conditions where burnable gas, vapour
or dust is existing or might exist ==> explosion hazard!
Proceed as follows:
1. Switch on your measuring unit
2. Set the rotary function switch to " ".
3. Thereisnosockettomeasurecapacitors,youhavetousethetest
leadtips.Ensure that thecorrectpolarityisobserved for unipolar
capacitors. A manual range selection is not possible.
4. If"diSC"isdisplayed,ifthecapacitortobemeasuredhasnotbeen
discharged and a so called residual charge is existing.
5.6 Logic Test
This measuring function is to analyze logic levels in digital circuits.
Levels with frequencies of up to 400 kHz or a rise time of 2.5 µs can
be measured.
The following conditions can be measured in the logic function:
• the test point shows a high level (up to max. 39,9 V) then "H"
appears and the voltage is displayed.
• thetestpointshowsalow-level(uptomax.-9.9V)"L"andthe
voltage is displayed.
• at the test point is a frequency signal, "PULS" appears in the
display or
• atthetest point is no voltage or the circuit/the IC is not active,
then "OPEn" is displayed.
To measure logic levels proceed as follows:
1. Switch on your measuring unit.
2. Set the rotary function switch to "Logic Probe". The display will
show "OPEn" which means "open" or there is no signal.
3. Connect the test-leads with the COM-socket (black cable) and
the V-socket (red cable).
4. Now connect the other end of the black test-lead with the
"ground" of the digital circuit = "-" (normally)
5. While the black measuring cable is connected with the ground,
youcheckthemeasuringpointsinquestionwiththeredtest-lead
point.
6. Maintenance and Calibration
Calibratethemeteronce ayeartomaintainitsaccuracyoveralonger
period of time.
Battery replacement is described in point 4.1 of this manual. Clean
the unit and the display with a soft, dry, antistatic cloth.
Attention!
Do not use abrasive detergents, gasoline, alcohol or similar.
These detergents could damage the surface of the measuring
unit. Besides solvent fumes are dangerous to your health and
explosive.
15 16

17 18
Mode Range Accuracy Resolution
AC in the range of 50 Hz to 400 Hz
Voltage 4 V ±(1.9%+3dgts) 1 mV
40 V ±(1.9%+3dgts) 10 mV
400 V ±(1.9%+3dgts) 100 mV
750 V ±(1.9%+3dgts) 1 V
Resistance 400 Ohm ±(0.75%+2dgts) 0.1 Ohm
4 K ±(0.75%+2dgts) 1 Ohm
40 K ±(0.75%+2dgts) 10 Ohm
400 K ±(0.75%+2dgts) 100 Ohm
4 M ±(0.75%+2dgts) 1 K
20 M (1.5%+3dgts) 10 K
Voltage at the open circuit: in the 200 Ohm-range < 3.5 VDC;
short circuit current < 1.5 mA.
Capacitance 1 uF ±(1.9%+2dgts) 1 nF
(=0.001 uF)
10 uF ±(1.9%+2dgts) 10 nF
(=0.01 uF)
100 uF ±(1.9%+2dgts) 100 nF
(=0.1 uF)
1000 uF ±(1.9%+2dgts) 1 uF
10000uF ±(10%+90dgts) 10 uF
The 1000-uF-range and the 10000-uF-range are identical, i.e. the
range is not changed.
Frequency 20 kHz ±(0.2%+2dgts) 1 Hz
200 kHz ±(0.2%+2dgts) 10 Hz
input sensitivity: min 100 mVeff at 100 Hz
7. Technical Data and Accuracy
7.1 Technical Data
Display........................ : 41/2digitLC-Displayto 19999withauto-
matic polarity display
Overflow Indication..... : if therangeisexceededOFLforOverflow
is displayed
Max. Measuring
Rate ............................ : 5 measurements per second
Operating
Temperature ............... : 0 to + 40°C, rel. humidity of max. 80%
Storage Temperature . : -20 to + 60°C, rel. humidity of 0 to max.
80%, battery removed
Temperature
Coefficient .................. : + 23°C ±5°C, rel. humidity < 75 %
(specified accuracy)
Battery Type ............... : 9 V battery, NEDA 1604 or IEC 6F22
Power consumption .... : battery life approx. 200 hours
Weight ........................ : approx. 252 g (with 9 V battery)
Dimensions
(L x W x H)................... : 140 x 70 x 36 mm (without rubber holster)
7.2 Accuracy
Accuracy in complete spec is given as ±(% of reading + number of
least significant digits).
Mode Range Accuracy Resolution
DC 400 mV ±(0.9%+2dgts) 100 uV
Voltage 4 mV ±(0.9%+2dgts) 1 mV
40 mV ±(0.9%+2dgts) 10 mV
400 V ±(0.9%+2dgts) 100 mV
750 V ±(0.9%+2dgts) 1 V

AdditionalmeasuringerrorattheMin-/Maxrecordingfunction:
±20 digits DCV or 60 digits ACV for changes of measuring value
> 200 ms.
Diode Test:
test current: 1.5 mA; test voltage at the open circuit <3.5 VDC,
measurement of forward voltage.
Continuity Check:
acoustic signal for resistors < 100 Ohm, response time 100 ms.
7.3 Maximum Input Values, Overload Protection
DC- and AC-voltage
measurement ...................: 750 VDC/VACrms (rms=effective)
resistance measurement . : 20 MOhm, overload protection:
600 VDC/ACrms
diode and logic test ..........: overload protection 600 VDC/ACrms
frequency measurement.. : max. 600 VDC/ACrms (=effective)
capacitance measurement: 250 VDC/VACrms (=effective)
19 20
F
Multimètre VC-227 Réf. 12 00 57
Attention! A lire impérativement!
En cas de dommages consécutifs au non respect de cette
noticed’emploi,ledroitderecoursàlagarantieestperdu.Nous
n’assumons aucune responsabilité quant aux dommages
secondaires.
L’utilisation normale de l’appareil de mesure (multimètre
numérique) permet:
• de mesurer des tensions continues jusqu’à 750 VDC maximum
• de mesurer des tensions alternatives jusqu’à 750 VACrms
(= efficaces) maximum
• de mesurer des résistances jusqu’à 20 MΩmaximum
• de tester la continuité, les niveaux logiques et les diodes
• de mesurer des fréquences jusqu’à 200 kHz
• de mesurer des capacités jusqu’à 10 mF
(10 mF = 10 millifarads = 10 000 microfarads).
Table des matières :
1. Introduction, présentation
2. Sécurité
3. Description des organes de commande
4. Utilisation du multimètre
5. Mesures
6. Entretien et calibrage
7. Caractéristiques techniques et tolérances