Extech Instruments EX310 User manual

User's Guide
Mini Multimeter
with Non-Contact Voltage Detector (NCV)
Model EX310
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Model EX310 - Version 7.1 – 05/2006
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Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the Extech EX310 MultiMeter. The EX310 offers AC/DC
Voltage, AC/DC Current, Resistance, Diode, and Continuity testing plus a built-in non-contact
Voltage Detector. 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 600V.
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.
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 thespecified maximum:
Input Protection Limits
Function Maximum Input
V DC or V AC 600V AC and DC
mA AC/DC 200mA DC/AC
A AC/DC 10A DC/AC (for 30 seconds max. every 15 mins.)
Resistance, Diode Test, Continuity 250V DC/AC
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 power and disconnect test leads before opening the covers to replace the fuse or battery.
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.
WARNING
CAUTION
MAX
600V
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Controls and Jacks
1. AC Voltage Detector Sensor
2. AC Voltage Detector indicator light
3. LCD display
4. Non-contact AC Voltage Detector test button
5. Rotary function dial
6. 10 ampere test lead jack
7. COM test lead jack
8. Test lead jack for voltage, milliamp,
resistance/continuity, and diode functions
9. Protective rubber holster (must be removed to
access the rear battery compartment)
Symbols
•))) Continuity
Diode
Battery status
AC
DC
m milli (10-3) (volts, amps)
k kilo (103) (ohms)
V Volts
A Amps
Ω Ohms
AC Alternating current
DC Direct current
V/ /mA
CATII-600V
EX310
MultiMeter
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
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Model EX310 - Version 7.1 – 05/2006
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Operating Instructions
WARNING: Risk of electrocution. High-voltage circuits, both AC and DC, are very
dangerous and should be measured with great care.
NOTE: On some low AC and DC voltage ranges, with the test leads not connected to a
device, the display may show a random, changing reading. This is normal and is caused
by the high-input sensitivity. The reading will stabilize and give a proper measurement
when connected to a circuit.
NON-CONTACT AC VOLTAGE DETECTOR
The EX310 can detect the presence of AC voltage (from 100 to 600VAC) simply by being
held very near to a voltage source.
WARNING: Test the AC voltage detector on a known live circuit before each use.
WARNING: Before using the meter in the AC Voltage Detector mode, verify that the battery
is fresh by confirming characters appear on the LCD when the function dial is turned to any
position. Do not attempt to use the meter as an AC Voltage Detector if the battery is weak
or bad.
NON-CONTACT VOLTAGE (NCV)
The NCV function works on any rotary switch position.
1. Test the detector on a known live circuit before use.
2. Press and hold the NCV button for the duration of the
test. The meter will beep once when the button is pushed.
3. Hold the top of the meter very close to the voltage source
as shown.
4. If voltage is present, the rim of the LCD display will flash
a bright orange and an audible warning will sound.
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AC VOLTAGE MEASUREMENTS
WARNING: Risk of Electrocution. The probe tips may
not be long enough to contact the live parts inside some
240V outlets for appliances because the contacts are
recessed deep in the outlets. As a result, the reading may
show 0 volts when the outlet actually has voltage on it.
Make sure the probe tips are touching the metal contacts
inside the outlet before assuming that no voltage is
present.
CAUTION: Do not measure AC voltages if a motor on
the circuit is being switched ON or OFF. Large voltage
surges may occur that can damage the meter.
1. Set the function switch to the 600 VAC position.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the
negative COM jack. Insert red test lead banana
plug into the positive Vjack.
3. Touch the black test probe tip to the neutral side of the circuit.
4. Touch the red test probe tip to the “hot” side of circuit.
5. Read the voltage in the display.
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. Set the function switch to the highest VDC position.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the
negative COM jack.
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the
positive Vjack.
3. 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.
4. Read the voltage in the display. Move the function
switch to successively lower VDC positions to
obtain a higher resolution reading.
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BATTERY VOLTAGE TEST
CAUTION: Do not measure batteries while they are installed in the devices they are
powering. The batteries must be removed from installations before tests can be made.
1. Set the function switch to the 1.5V or 9V BAT
switch position. Use the 1.5V position for ‘AAA’,
‘AA’, ‘C’, ‘D’, and other 1.5V batteries. Use the
9V position for square 9V transistor batteries.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the
negative COM jack.
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the
positive Vjack.
3. Touch the black test probe tip to the negative
side of the battery. Touch the red test probe tip
to the positive side of the battery.
4. Read the voltage in the display.
AC / DC CURRENT MEASUREMENTS
CAUTION: Do not make current measurements at 10 Amps for longer than 30 seconds.
Exceeding 30 seconds may cause damage to the meter and/or the test leads.
1. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack.
2. For current measurements up to 200mA AC or DC, set the function switch to the
200m AAC or ADC position and insert the red test lead banana plug into the mA
jack.
3. For current measurements up to 10A AC or DC, set the function switch to the 10A
AAC or 10A ADC position and insert the red test lead banana plug into the 10A
jack.
4. Remove power from the circuit under test, then open up the circuit at the point
where you wish to measure current.
5. 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.
6. Apply power to the circuit.
7. Read the current in the display.
1.50
V/ /mA
CATII-600V
EX310
MultiMeter
V
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RESISTANCE MEASUREMENTS
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect
power to the unit under test and discharge all
capacitors before taking any resistance
measurements.
1. Set the function switch to the highest Ω
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 Ωjack.
4. Touch the test probe tips across the circuit or
part under test. It is best to disconnect one
side of the part under test so the rest of the
circuit will not interfere with the resistance
reading.
5. Read the resistance in the display. Move the
function switch to successively lower Ω
positions to obtain a higher resolution
reading.
CONTINUITY CHECK
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, never measure continuity on circuits that have a
voltage potential.
1. Set the function switch to the
position.
2. Insert the black lead banana plug into
the negative COM jack.
3. Insert the red test lead banana plug into
the positive Ωjack.
4. Touch the test probe tips to the circuit
or wire you wish to check.
5. If the resistance is less than
approximately 100Ω, the audible signal
will sound. If the circuit is open, the
display will indicate “1___”.
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Model EX310 - Version 7.1 – 05/2006
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DIODE TEST
1. Set the function switch to the
position.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug
into the negative COM jack and the red
test lead banana plug into the positive
jack.
3. Touch the test probes to the diode
under test.
4. A good diode will indicate approx. 700
ohms for the forward test and “1___” for
the reverse test.
5. A shorted diode will indicate the same
value of resistance in both the reverse
and forward test directions. An open
diode will indicate “1___” in both test
directions.
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Model EX310 - Version 7.1 – 05/2006
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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 your 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 performed:
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 battery
should be removed to prevent damage to the unit.
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Model EX310 - Version 7.1 – 05/2006
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BATTERY INSTALLATION and LOW BATTERY INDICATION
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads from any source of voltage
before removing the battery cover. Do not operate meter unless the battery is in place.
LOW BATTERY INDICATION
The icon will appear in the lower left-hand corner of the display when the battery
voltage becomes low. Replace the batteries when this appears.
BATTERY REPLACEMENT
1. Disconnect the test leads from the meter.
2. Remove the protective rubber holster. See diagram.
3. Remove the Phillips head screw located on the lower back of the instrument.
4. Remove the fuse/battery compartment cover to access the battery. See diagram.
5. Replace the 9V battery observing polarity.
6. Secure the fuse/battery compartment cover using the Phillips head screw.
7. Place the protective rubber holster on the meter.
1.Removable Rubber Holster
2.Meter
3.Battery
4.Fuses
5.Compartment Cover
6.Rubber Holster
1
2
3
4
5
6
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Model EX310 - Version 7.1 – 05/2006
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REPLACING THE FUSES
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads from any source of voltage
before removing the fuse cover.
1. Disconnect the test leads from the meter.
2. Remove the protective rubber holster.
3. Remove the Phillips head screw located on the lower back of the instrument.
4. Remove the fuse/battery compartment cover to access the fuses.
5. Gently remove the fuse(s) and install new fuse(s) into the holder(s).
6. Always use fuses of the proper size and value (200mA/250V fast blow for the mA /
µA ranges, 10A/250V fast blow for the A range).
7. Secure the fuse/battery compartment cover.
8. Place the protective rubber holster on the meter.
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not operate your meter until the fuse cover is in
place and fastened securely.
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Model EX310 - Version 7.1 – 05/2006
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Range Specifications
Function Range Resolution Accuracy
Non-contact AC
Voltage detector
100 to 600V Resolution & accuracy do not apply since the meter does
not display the voltage in this mode. The lamp at the top of
the meter’s display flashes when voltage is sensed and an
audible warning will sound.
200mV 0.1mV ±(0.5% reading + 2 digits)
2000mV 1mV
20V 0.01V
200V 0.1V
±(1.0% reading + 2 digits)
DC Voltage
(V DC)
600V 1V ±(1.5% reading + 2 digits)
200V 0.1V ±(1.5% reading + 3 digits) AC Voltage
(VAC) 50/60Hz 600V 1V ±(2.0% reading + 4 digits
200mA 0.1mA ±(1.5% reading + 2 digits) DC Current
(A DC) 10A 0.01A ±(2.5% reading + 5 digits)
200mA 0.1mA ±(1.8% reading + 5 digits) AC Current
(A AC) 50/60Hz 10A 0.01A ±(3.0% reading + 7 digits)
200Ω0.1Ω±(1.2% reading + 4 digits)
2000Ω1Ω
20kΩ0.01kΩ
200kΩ0.1kΩ
Resistance
2000kΩ1kΩ
±(1.2% reading + 2 digits)
Notes:
Accuracy specifications consist of two elements:
•(% reading) – This is the accuracy of the measurement circuit.
•(+ digits) – This is the accuracy of the analog to digital converter.
Accuracy is stated at 65oF to 83oF (18oC to 28oC) and less than 75% RH.
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Model EX310 - Version 7.1 – 05/2006
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General Specifications
Diode Test Bias voltage: 2.3VDC
Continuity Check Audible signal will sound if the resistance is less than 100Ω
Input Impedance 10MΩ(VDC & VAC)
AC Bandwidth 50 / 60Hz
Display 2000 count (0 to 1999) LCD
Overrange indication “1___” is displayed
Polarity Automatic (no indication for positive); Minus (-) sign for
negative
Measurement Rate 2 times per second, nominal
Low Battery Indication “ ” is displayed if battery voltage drops below operating
voltage
Battery One (1) 9V battery
Fuses mA range; 200mA/250V fast blow
A range; 10A/250V fast blow, ceramic
Operating Temperature 32ºF to 122ºF (0ºC to 50ºC)
Storage Temperature -4oF to 140oF (-20oC to 60oC)
Operating Humidity Max 70% up to 87ºF (31ºC) decreasing linearly to 50% at
122ºF (50ºC)
Storage Humidity < 80% RH
Operating Altitude 7000 ft. (2000 meters) maximum.
Weight 9.17 oz (260g) includes holster
Size 5.8” x 2.9” x 1.6” (147 x 76 x 42mm) includes holster
Approvals CE, UL
Safety This meter is intended for indoor use and protected, against
the users, by double insulation per EN61010-1 and IEC61010-
1 2nd Edition (2001) to CAT II 1000V & CAT III 600V; Pollution
Degree 2. The meter also meets UL 61010-1, Second Edition
(2004), CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1, Second Edition (2004),
and UL 61010B-2-031, First Edition (2003)
UL LISTED The UL mark does not indicate that this product has been
evaluated for the accuracy of its readings.
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
Warranty
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
Support line [phone]
Technical support: Extension 200; E-mail: [e-mail]
Repair & Returns: Extension 210; E-mail: [email protected]
Product specifications subject to change without notice
For the latest version of this User’s Guide, Software updates, and other
up-to-the-minute product information, visit our website: www.extech.com
Extech Instruments Corporation, 285 Bear Hill Rd., Waltham, MA02451
EXTECH INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION warrants this instrument to be free of defects in parts and
workmanship for one year from date of shipment (a six month limited warranty applies on sensors and
cables). If it should become necessary to return the instrument for service during or beyond the warranty
period, contact the Customer Service Department at [phone] ext. 210 for authorization or visit our
website at www.extech.com. A Return Authorization (RA) number must be issued before any product is
returned to Extech. The sender is responsible for shipping charges, freight, insurance and proper packaging
to prevent damage in transit. This warranty does not apply to defects resulting from action of the user such
as misuse, improper wiring, operation outside of specification, improper maintenance or repair, or
unauthorized modification. Extech specifically disclaims any implied warranties or merchantability or fitness
for a specific purpose and will not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages.
Extech's total liability is limited to repair or replacement of the product. The warranty set forth above is
inclusive and no other warranty, whether written or oral, is expressed or implied.
Calibration and Repair Services
Extech offers complete repair and calibration services for most of the products we sell. For
periodic calibration, NIST certification or repair for most Extech products, call customer
service for details. Extech recommends that calibration be performed on an annual basis to
ensure calibration integrity.
Copyright ©2005 Extech Instruments Corporation.
All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form.
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