Extech Instruments EX230 User manual

User's Guide
Multimeter with IR Thermometer
Extech EX230

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/102
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the Extech EX230 Autoranging Multimeter. This meter
measures AC/DC Voltage, AC/DC Current, Resistance, Capacitance, Frequency, Duty Cycle,
Diode Test, and Continuity plus non-contact InfraRed Temperature and contact thermocouple
Temperature. Proper use and care of this meter will provide many years of reliable service.
Safety
This symbol adjacent to another symbol, terminal or operating device
indicates that the operator must refer to an explanation in the Operating
Instructions to avoid personal injury or damage to the meter.
This WARNING symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which
if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
This CAUTION symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which
if not avoided, may result damage to the product.
This symbol advises the user that the terminal(s) so marked must not be
connected to a circuit point at which the voltage with respect to earth
ground exceeds (in this case) 600 VAC or VDC.
This symbol adjacent to one or more terminals identifies them as being
associated with ranges that may, in normal use, be subjected to
particularly hazardous voltages. For maximum safety, the meter and its
test leads should not be handled when these terminals are energized.
This symbol indicates that a device is protected throughout by double
insulation or reinforced insulation.
PER IEC1010 OVERVOLTAGE INSTALLATION CATEGORY
OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY I
Equipment of OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY I is equipment for connection to circuits in
which measures are taken to limit the transient overvoltages to an appropriate low level.
Note – Examples include protected electronic circuits.
OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY II
Equipment of OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY II is energy-consuming equipment to be
supplied from the fixed installation.
Note – Examples include household, office, and laboratory appliances.
OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY III
Equipment of OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY III is equipment in fixed installations.
Note – Examples include switches in the fixed installation and some equipment for
industrial use with permanent connection to the fixed installation.
OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY IV
Equipment of OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY IV is for use at the origin of the installation.
Note – Examples include electricity meters and primary over-current protection equipment
WARNING
CAUTION
MAX
600V

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/103
CAUTIONS
•Improper use of this meter can cause damage, shock, injury or death. Read and
understand this user manual before operating the meter.
•Always remove the test leads before replacing the battery or fuses.
•Inspect the condition of the test leads and the meter itself for any damage before
operating the meter.
•Use great care when making measurements if the voltages are greater than 25 VAC
rms or 35 VDC. These voltages are considered a shock hazard.
•Warning! This is a Class A device. This device can cause interference in residential
areas.
•Always discharge capacitors and remove power from the device under test before
performing Diode, Resistance or Continuity tests.
•Voltage checks on electrical outlets can be difficult and misleading because of the
uncertainty of connection to the recessed electrical contacts. Other means should be
used to ensure that the terminals are not "live".
•If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection
provided by the equipment may be impaired.
•This device must not be used by children. It contains hazardous objects as well as
small parts that the children could swallow.
•Do not leave batteries and packing material lying around unattended; they can be
dangerous to children.
•In the event that this device will be stored for an extended period of time, remove the
batteries.
•Expired or damaged batteries can be hazardous to skin. Use suitable hand gloves in
such cases.
•Do not short-circuit the battery. Do not place the battery near a fire.

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/104
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This meter has been designed for safe use, but must be operated with caution. The rules
listed below must be carefully followed for safe operation.
1. NEVER apply voltage or current to the meter that exceeds the specified maximum:
Input Protection Limits
Function Maximum Input
V AC/DC, Resistance, Capacitance, Frequency,
Temperature, Duty Cycle, Diode Test, Continuity 600 VDC/AC rms
μA or mA AC/DC 500mA fused
A AC/DC 10A fused
2. USE EXTREME CAUTION when working with high voltages.
3. DO NOT measure voltage if the voltage on the "COM" input jack exceeds 600V above
earth ground.
4. NEVER connect the meter leads across a voltage source while the function switch is in
the current, resistance, or diode mode. Doing so can damage the meter.
5. ALWAYS discharge filter capacitors in power supplies and disconnect the power when
making resistance or diode tests.
6. ALWAYS turn off the power and disconnect the test leads before opening the covers to
replace the fuse or batteries.
7. NEVER operate the meter unless the back cover and the battery and fuse covers are in
place and fastened securely.
8. If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection
provided by the equipment may be impaired.

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/105
Controls and Jacks
1. IR Thermometer
2. Laser Pointer
3. 4000 count LCD
4. MAX button
5. MODE button
6. FUNCTION switch
7. mA, µA and 10A input jacks
8. IR Thermometer button
9. HOLD button
10. RANGE button
11. Positive input jack
12. COM input jack
Note: Tilt stand, test lead holders, and battery compartment are on rear of unit.
Symbols and Enunciators
Continuity
Diode test
n nano (10-9) (amps, cap)
µ micro (10-6) (amps, cap)
m milli (10-3) (volts, amps, cap)
A Amps
k kilo (103) (ohms, Hz)
M mega (106) (ohms, Hz)
Ω Ohms
V Volts
AC Alternating current
DC Direct current
ºF Degrees Fahrenheit
ºC Degrees Centigrade
Hz Frequency
F Farad (Capacitance)
% Duty Cycle
AUTO Autoranging
HOLD Display hold
SCAN IR temperature and laser active
12
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/106
Operating Instructions
WARNING: Risk of electrocution. High-voltage circuits, both AC and DC, are extremely
dangerous and should be measured with great care.
1. ALWAYS turn the function switch to the OFF position when the meter is not in use.
2. If “OL” appears in the display during a measurement, the value exceeds the range you
have selected. Change to a higher range.
AC/DC VOLTAGE MEASUREMENTS
CAUTION: Do not measure DC voltages if a motor on the circuit is being switched ON or
OFF. Large voltage surges may occur that can damage the meter.
1. Rotate the function switch to the Vposition.
2. Press the MODE button to indicate “DC” or “AC” on the display.
3. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack. Insert
the red test lead banana plug into the positive Vjack.
4. Touch the black test probe tip to the negative side of the circuit.
Touch the red test probe tip to the positive side of the circuit.
5. Read the voltage in the display.
AC/DC CURRENT MEASUREMENTS
1. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack.
2. Press the MODE button to indicate “DC” or “AC” on the display.
3. For current measurements up to 2000µA, set the function switch to the µA
position and insert the red test lead banana plug into the µA/mA jack.
4. For current measurements up to 200 mA DC, set the function switch to the
mA position and insert the red test lead banana plug into the µA/mA jack.
5. For current measurements up to 10A DC, set the function switch to the 10A
position and insert the red test lead banana plug into the 10A jack.
6. Connect the test leads in series with the circuit under test.
7. Apply power to the circuit.
8. Read the current in the display.

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/107
RESISTANCE MEASUREMENTS
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect power to the unit under test and
discharge all capacitors before taking any resistance measurements. Remove the
batteries and unplug the line cords.
1. Rotate the function switch to the Ωposition.
2. Press the MODE button to indicate Ωon the display.
3. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack.
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the positive Ωjack.
4. Touch the test probe tips across the device under test.
5. Read the resistance in the display.
CAPACITANCE MEASUREMENTS
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect power to the unit under test and
discharge all capacitors before taking measurements. Remove the batteries and unplug
the line cords.
1. Rotate the function switch to the CAP position.
2. Press the MODE button to indicate F units the display.
3. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack.
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the positive CAP jack.
4. Touch the test probe tips across the device under test.
5. Read the capacitance in the display.
FREQUENCY AND DUTY CYCLE MEASUREMENTS
1. Rotate the function switch to the Hz% position.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack.
3. Insert the red test lead banana plug into the positive Hz jack.
4. Use the MODE button to select Hz or % (Duty Cycle)
5. Touch the test probe tips across the device under test.
6. Read the frequency or duty cycle in the display.

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/108
CONTACT TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENTS (THERMOCOUPLE PROBE)
1. Rotate the function switch to the °F or °C position.
2. Insert the temperature probe adaptor into the negative COM jack and the positive TEMP
jack (the adaptor is labeled plus +and minus -)
3. Touch the temperature probe tip to a surface or leave
suspended in air.
4. Read the temperature in the display.
CONTINUITY CHECK
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, never measure continuity on circuits or wires that
have a voltage potential.
1. Rotate the function switch to the position.
2. Press the MODE button to indicate on the display.
3. Insert the black lead banana plug into the negative COM jack.
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the positive jack.
4. Touch the test probe tips to the circuit or wire you wish to check.
5. If the resistance is less than the continuity threshold, the audible signal will
sound.
DIODE TEST
1. Rotate the function switch to the green position.
2. Press the MODE button to indicate “ “ and “V” on the display.
3. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack and the
red test lead banana plug into the positive jack.
4. Touch the test probes to the diode under test. Forward voltage will
typically indicate 0.400 to 0.700V. Reverse voltage will indicate “OL”.
Shorted devices will indicate near 0V and an open device will indicate
“OL” in both polarities.

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/109
NON-CONTACT INFRARED TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENTS
1. Rotate the function switch to the IR position. The upper right four digit temperature
display will switch on.
2. Press the MODE button to select °F or °C.
3. Aim the infrared sensor (top of meter) at the surface to be measured.
4. Press and Hold the IRT button to turn on the IR thermometer and laser pointer.
The laser pointer identifies the surface spot to be measured and “SCAN” will flash in
the display.
5. Read the temperature in the display.
6. The area of the surface to be measured must be larger than the spot size as
determined by the distance to spot size values listed in the specification table.
7. Release the IRT button to turn the IR thermometer and laser pointer off. “HOLD”
and the final measured value will remain in the display.
WARNING: Do not directly view or direct the laser pointer at an eye. Low power
visible lasers do not normally present a hazard, but may present some potential for hazard
if viewed directly for extended periods of time.
IR Spot to Distance Diagram
The 4:1 spot to distance ratio determines the size of the measured surface area with
respect to the distance the meter is held away from the surface.
IR Measurement Notes
1. The object under test should be larger than the spot (target) size calculated by the
field of view diagram.
2. If the surface of the object under test is covered with frost, oil, grime, etc., clean
before taking measurements.
3. If an object's surface is highly reflective, apply masking tape or flat black paint to the
surface before measuring.
4. The meter will not make measurements through glass steam, dust, and smoke.
5. To find a hot spot, aim the meter outside the area of interest then scan across (in an
up and down motion) until the hot spot is located.
1”
@6”
2”
@12”
4”
@24”
20mm
@ 120mm 40mm
@ 240mm 80mm
@ 480mm
OFF

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/1010
AUTORANGING/MANUAL RANGE SELECTION
When the meter is first switched on, it automatically enters the AutoRanging mode. This
automatically selects the best range for the measurements being made and is generally
the best mode for most measurements. For measurement situations requiring that a range
be manually selected, perform the following:
1. Press the RANGE button. The “AUTO” display indicator will turn off.
2. Press the RANGE key to step through the available ranges until the range desired is
selected.
3. Press and hold the RANGE button for 2 seconds to exit manual ranging.
Note: Manual ranging does not apply to the Temperature, Diode and Continuity functions.
DISPLAY BACKLIGHT
Press and hold the IRT HOLD button for 2 seconds to turn the backlight on. The
backlight will automatically turn off after approximately 10 seconds or press and hold the
button again for 2 seconds to manually turn it off.
HOLD
The HOLD function freezes the reading in the display. Press the HOLD button momentarily
to activate or to exit the HOLD function.
Note: The HOLD button does not function in the IR measurement mode.
AUTO SLEEP
If no button is pressed the auto sleep feature will place the meter in sleep mode after
approximately 30 minutes of operation. If this happens, press any button to wake the meter
or switch the meter to OFF if it no longer in use.

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/1011
Maintenance
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads from any source of voltage
before removing the back cover or the battery or fuse covers.
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not operate the meter until the battery and fuse
covers are in place and fastened securely.
This MultiMeter is designed to provide years of dependable service, if the following care
instructions are followed:
1. KEEP THE METER DRY. If it gets wet, wipe it off.
2. USE AND STORE THE METER IN NORMAL TEMPERATURES. Temperature
extremes can shorten the life of the electronic parts and distort or melt plastic parts.
3. HANDLE THE METER GENTLY AND CAREFULLY. Dropping it can damage the
electronic parts or the case.
4. KEEP THE METER CLEAN. Wipe the case occasionally with a damp cloth. DO NOT
use chemicals, cleaning solvents, or detergents.
5. USE ONLY FRESH BATTERIES OF THE RECOMMENDED SIZE AND TYPE. Remove
old or weak batteries so they do not leak and damage the unit.
6. IF THE METER IS TO BE STORED FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME, the batteries
should be removed to prevent damage to the unit.
BATTERY and FUSE Replacement
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads from any source of voltage
before removing the battery cover.
1. Turn power off and disconnect the test leads from the meter.
2. Open the rear battery/fuse compartment by removing the Phillips head screw on the
lower rear of the meter. .
3. Pull down on the cover to release the latch and then lift it off.
4. Remove the old battery or fuse and install a new one of the correct rating.
5. Place the battery/fuse cover back in place. Secure with the screw.
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not operate the meter until the battery cover is in
place and fastened securely.
NOTE: If the meter does not work properly, check the fuses and replace the battery to make
sure that they are still good and that they are properly inserted.
You, as the end user, are legally bound (Battery ordinance) to return all used
batteries and accumulators; disposal in the household garbage is prohibited!
You can hand over your used batteries / accumulators at collection points in your
community or wherever batteries / accumulators are sold!
Disposal: Follow the valid legal stipulations in respect of the disposal of the
device at the end of its lifecycle

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/1012
Specifications
Function Range Resolution Accuracy
DC Voltage 400 mV 0.1 mV ±(0.8% reading + 6 digits)
4V 0.001V
±(0.5% reading + 2 digits)
40V 0.01V
400V 0.1V
±(0.8% reading + 2 digits)
600V 1V
AC Voltage 400 mV 0.1 mV
±(1.0% rdg + 6 digits)
4V 0.001V
40V 0.01V
400V 0.1V
600V 1V
Note: All AC voltage ranges are specified from 5% of range to 100% of range
DC Current 400 μA 0.1 μA
±(1.5% reading + 5 digits)
4000 μA 1 μA
40 mA 0.01 mA
400 mA 0.1 mA
4.000 0.001 A
±(2.5% reading + 5 digits)
10 A 0.01 A
Note: 10A for 30 sec max
AC Current 400 μA 0.1 μA
±(1.5% rdg + 5 digits)
4000 μA 1 μA
40 mA 0.01 mA
400 mA 0.1 mA
4.000 0.001 A
±(3.0% reading + 5 digits)
10 A 0.01 A
Note: 10A for 30 sec max
NOTE: Accuracy is stated at 18oC to 28oC (65oF to 83oF) and less than 75% RH.

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/1013
Function Range Resolution Accuracy
Resistance 400 Ω0.1 Ω±(0.8% reading + 5 digits)
4 kΩ0.001 kΩ
±(0.8% reading + 2 digits)
40 kΩ0.01 kΩ
400 kΩ0.1 kΩ
4 MΩ0.001 MΩ
±(2.5% reading + 8 digits)
40 MΩ0.01 MΩ
Capacitance 40.00 nF 10 pF
±(5.0% reading + 7 digits)
400.0 nF 0.1 nF
4.000 µF 1 nF
40.00 µF 10 nF
100.0 µF 0.1 µF
Note: Auto ranging; Input protection 600Vdc and AC rms
Frequency 5.000 Hz 0.001Hz
±(1.0% reading + 3 digits)
50.00 Hz 0.01 Hz
500.0 Hz 0.1 Hz
5.000 kHz 1 Hz
50.00 kHz 10 Hz
500.0 kHz 100Hz
5.000 MHz 1kHz ±(1.2% reading + 4 digits)
10.00 MHz 10kH
Notes: Sensitivity: >0.5V rms (≤1MHz); >3V rms (>1MHZ);
Input protection: 600V dc or ac rms
Duty Cycle 0.1 to 99.9% 0.1% ±(1.2% reading + 2 digits)
Notes: Pulse width: >100 µS <100ms; Frequency: 5Hz to150kHz;
Sensitivity: <0.5V rms; Overload protect: 600V dc or ac rms
Temperature -4 to + 1400°F 0.1°F ±(3.0% reading +9°F)
-20 to +760°C 0.1°C ±(3.0% reading + 5°C)
Sensor: Thermocouple type ‘K’; Overload protection: 600V dc or ac rms
Temperature IR -20 to 0°C
0.1°C/°F
±4°C
0 to 93°C ±(2.0%rdg or 2°C)
93 to 230 ±(3.0%rdg or 3°C)
-5 to 32°F ±8°F
32 to 200°F ±(2.0%rdg or 4°F)
200 to 446°F ±(3.0%rdg or 6°F)

EX230-EU-EN-V1.2-09/1014
Enclosure Double molded
Diode Test Test current of 0.9mA maximum, open circuit voltage 2.8V DC
typical
Continuity Threshold 20 to 100Ω, test current <1.5mA
Input Impedance 10MΩVDC/VAC
AC Response Average responding
ACV Bandwidth 40Hz to 1000Hz
IR Spectral response 6 to 16µm
IR Emissivity 0.95 fixed
IR distance ratio 6:1
Laser pointer Class 2 laser < 1mW power; Wavelength is 630 to 670nm
Display 4000 count backlit liquid crystal display
Overrange indication “OL” is displayed
Auto Power Off 30 minutes (approximately)
Polarity Automatic (no indication for positive); Minus (-) sign for negative
Measurement Rate 2 times per second, nominal
Battery One 9 volt (NEDA 1604) battery
Fuses mA, µA ranges; 500mA 250V ceramic fast blow
A range; 10A 600V ceramic fast blow
Operating Temperature -10ºC to 40ºC (14ºF to 122ºF)
Storage Temperature -10oC to 60oC (14oF to 140oF)
Operating Humidity Max 80% up to 31ºC (87ºF) decreasing linearly to 50% at 40ºC
(104ºF)
Storage Humidity <80%
Operating Altitude 2000 meters (7000 ft) maximum
Weight 260 g (9.17oz)
Size 147x76x42 mm (5.8x2.9x1.6”)
Safety This meter is intended for origin of installation use and provides
user protection through double insulation per IEC/EN 61010-
1:2001 and IEC/EN 61010-031:2002 to Category III 600V;
Pollution Degree 2.
Approvals CE, ETL
Copyright ©2010 Extech Instruments Corporation (a FLIR company)
All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form.