Extech Instruments Extech 470 User manual

User's Guide
True RMS Multimeter
plus IR Thermometer
Extech 470

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Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the Extech 470 (part number EX470) True RMS Autoranging
Multimeter plus IR Thermometer. This meter measures AC/DC Voltage, AC/DC Current, Resistance,
Capacitance, Frequency, Duty Cycle, Diode Test, and Continuity plus Thermocouple and Non-Contact
IR Temperature. Proper use and care of this meter will provide many years of reliable service.
Safety
International Safety Symbols
This symbol, adjacent to another symbol or terminal, indicates the user must refer to the
manual for further information.
This symbol, adjacent to a terminal, indicates that, under normal use, hazardous voltages
may be present
Double insulation
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 indicates there is a potential hazard from a laser light source.
WARNING
CAUTION
MAX
600V

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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. Repair or replace any damage before use.
Use great care when making measurements if the voltages are greater than 25VAC rms or
35VDC. These voltages are considered a shock hazard.
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 is not a toy and must not reach children’s hands. It contains hazardous objects as
well as small parts that the children could swallow. In case a child swallows any of them,
please contact a physician immediately
Do not leave batteries and packing material lying around unattended; they can be dangerous
for children if they use them as toys
In case the device is going to be unused for an extended period of time, remove the batteries
to prevent them from training
Expired or damaged batteries can cause cauterization on contact with the skin. Always,
therefore, use suitable hand gloves in such cases
See that the batteries are not short-circuited. Do not throw batteries into the fire.
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

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OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY III
This meter meets the IEC 610-1-2001 standard for OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY III. Cat III meters are
protected against overvoltage transients in fixed installation at the distribution level. Examples include
switches in the fixed installation and some equipment for industrial use with permanent connection to
the fixed installation.
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 DC or V AC 1000VDC/750AC, 200Vrms on 400mV range
mA AC/DC 500mA 250V fast acting fuse
A AC/DC 20A 250V fast acting fuse(30 seconds max every 15
minutes)
Frequency, Resistance, Capacitance,
Duty Cycle, Diode Test, Continuity
250Vrms for 15sec max
Temperature 60V DC/24V 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 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. NEVER look directly at the laser light source or aim the pointer at an eye.

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Controls and Jacks
1. IR Thermometer and laser pointer
2. 4000 count LCD display
3. HOLD and Backlight button
4. SELECT button
5. Function switch
6. mA, uA and A input jacks
7. COM input jack
8. Positive input jack
9. RANGE hold button
10. RELATIVE button
11. Laser pointer button
12. Protective holster
Note: Tilt stand and battery compartment are on rear of unit.
Symbols and Annunciators
•))) Continuity
Diode test
Laser pointer
Battery status
Test lead connection
error
n nano (10-9) (capacitance)
µ micro (10-6) (amps, cap)
m milli (10-3) (volts, amps) A Amps
k kilo (103) (ohms) F Farads (capacitance)
M mega (106) (ohms)  Ohms
Hz Hertz (frequency) V Volts
% Percent (duty ratio) REL Relative
AC Alternating current AUTO Autoranging
DC Direct current HOLD Display hold
ºF Degrees Fahrenheit ºC Degrees Centigrade

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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.
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.
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 response is normal and is caused by the high-
input sensitivity. The reading will stabilize and give a proper measurement when connected to a
circuit.
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 green V position.
2. Press the SELECT button to indicate “DC” 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.

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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 green V position.
2. Press the SELECT button to indicate “AC” on the display.
3. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack.
Insert red test lead banana plug into the positive Vjack.
4. Touch the black test probe tip to the neutral side of the circuit.
Touch the red test probe tip to the “hot” side of the circuit.
5. Read the voltage in the display.
DC CURRENT MEASUREMENTS
CAUTION: Do not make current measurements on the 20A scale 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 4000µA DC, set the function
switch to the yellow µA position and insert the red test lead
banana plug into the µA/mA jack.
3. For current measurements up to 400mA DC, set the function
switch to the yellow mA position and insert the red test lead
banana plug into the µA/mA jack.
4. For current measurements up to 20A DC, set the function switch
to the yellow A range and insert the red test lead banana plug into
the Ajack.
5. Press the SELECT button to indicate “DC” on the display.
6. Remove power from the circuit under test, then open up the circuit
at the point where you wish to measure current.
7. 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.
8. Apply power to the circuit.
9. Read the current in the display.

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AC CURRENT MEASUREMENTS
CAUTION: Do not make current measurements on the 20A scale 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 4000µA AC, set the function
switch to the yellow µA position and insert the red test lead
banana plug into the µA/mA jack.
3. For current measurements up to 400mA AC, set the function
switch to the yellow mA position and insert the red test lead
banana plug into the µA/mA jack.
4. For current measurements up to 20A AC, set the function switch
to the yellow A range and insert the red test lead banana plug into
the Ajack.
5. Press the SELECT button to indicate “AC” on the display.
6. Remove power from the circuit under test, then open up the circuit
at the point where you wish to measure current.
7. Touch the black test probe tip to the neutral side of the circuit.
Touch the red test probe tip to the “hot” side of the circuit.
8. Apply power to the circuit.
9. Read the current in the display.
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. Set the function switch to the green Ω position.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack.
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the positive jack.
3. Press the SELECT button to indicate “"on the display.
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.

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CONTINUITY CHECK
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, never measure continuity on circuits or wires that have
voltage on them.
1. Set the function switch to the green
Ωposition.
2. Insert the black lead banana plug into the negative COM jack.
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the positive jack.
3. Press the SELECT button to indicate” "and “Ω”on the display
4. Touch the test probe tips to the circuit or wire you wish to check.
5. If the resistance is less than approximately 150, the audible signal will
sound. If the circuit is open, the display will indicate “OL”.
DIODE TEST
1. Set the function switch to the green Ωposition.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack and
the red test lead banana plug into the positive Vjack.
3. Press the SELECT button to indicate and Von the display.
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.

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CONTACT TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENTS
1. Set the function switch to the black Type K ºC or ºF position.
2. Insert the Temperature Probe into the input jacks, making sure to observe the
correct polarity.
3. Touch the Temperature Probe head to the part whose temperature you wish to
measure. Keep the probe touching the part under test until the reading stabilizes
(about 30 seconds).
4. Read the temperature in the display.
Note: The temperature probe is fitted with a type K mini connector. A mini connector
to banana connector adaptor is supplied for connection to the input banana
jacks.
NON-CONTACT TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENTS
1. Set the function switch to the red IR Non-Contact ºC or ºF position.
2. Point the meter at the surface to be measured.
3. If needed, press the red IR Laser Pointer button to locate the exact spot being measured.
4. The area of the surface to be measured must be larger than the spot size as determined by the
distance to spot size specification.
5. Read the temperature 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.
(2.5cm) (5cm)
(10cm)
(20cm)
(40cm)
(80cm)
Diameter of Spot
Distance to Object

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CAPACITANCE MEASUREMENTS
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect power to the unit under test and discharge all
capacitors before taking any capacitance measurements. Remove the batteries and unplug the
line cords.
1. Set the rotary function switch to the green position.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative (COM) jack.
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the positive jack.
3. Touch the test leads to the capacitor to be tested.
4. Read the capacitance value in the display
FREQUENCY MEASUREMENTS
1. Set the rotary function switch to the green “Hz” position.
2. Insert the black lead banana plug into the negative COM jack and the
red test lead banana plug into the positive Hz jack.
3. Touch the test probe tips to the circuit under test.
4. Read the frequency on the display.
% DUTY CYCLE
1. Set the rotary function switch to the “Hz” position.
2. Insert the black lead banana plug into the negative COM jack and the
red test lead banana plug into the positive Hz jack.
3. Press the SELECT key momentarily to select “%” in the display.
4. Touch the test probe tips to the circuit under test.
5. Read the % duty cycle on the display.

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AUTORANGING/MANUAL RANGE SELECTION
When the meter is first turned on, it automatically goes into AutoRanging. 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 key. The “AUTO” display indicator will turn off.
2. Press the RANGE key to step through the available ranges until you select the range you want.
3. To exit the Manual Ranging mode and return to AutoRanging, press and hold the RANGE key for
2 seconds.
Note: Manual ranging does not apply for the Capacitance, Frequency and Temperature functions.
RELATIVE MODE
The relative measurement feature allows you to make measurements relative to a stored reference
value. A reference voltage, current, etc. can be stored and measurements made in comparison to
that value. The displayed value is the difference between the reference value and the measured
value.
1. Perform the measurement as described in the operating instructions.
2. Press the REL button to store the reading in the display and the "REL" indicator will appear on the
display.
3. The display will now indicate the difference between the stored value and the measured value.
4. Press the REL button to exit the relative mode.
Note: The Relative function does not operate in the Frequency function.
DISPLAY BACKLIGHT
Press and hold the HOLD key for >1 second to turn on or off the display backlight function.
Note: The HOLD feature will activate when the Backlight is turned on. Press the HOLD key
again to exit Hold.
HOLD
The hold function freezes the reading in the display. Press the HOLD key momentarily to activate or
to exit the HOLD function.
AUTO POWER OFF
The auto off feature will turn the meter off after 15 minutes.
LOW BATTERY INDICATION
The icon will appear in the lower left conner of the display when the battery voltage becomes
low. Replace the battery when this appears.
WRONG CONNECTION INDICATION
The icon will appear in the upper right conner of the display and the buzzer will sound
whenever the positive test lead is inserted into the 20A or uA/mA input jack and a non-current
(green, black or red) function is selected. If this occurs, turn the meter off and reinsert the test lead
into the proper input jack for the function selected.

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Specifications
Function Range Resolution Accuracy
400mV 0.1mV (0.3% reading + 2 digits)
4V 0.001V
40V 0.01V
400V 0.1V
(0.5% reading + 2 digits)
DC Voltage
1000V 1V (0.8% reading + 3 digits)
50 to 400Hz 400Hz to 1kHz
400mV 0.1mV (1.5% reading + 15
digits)
(2.5% reading + 15digits)
4V 0.001V
40V 0.01V
400V 0.1V
(1.5% reading + 6
digits) (2.5% reading + 8 digits)
AC Voltage
750V 1V (1.8% reading + 6
digits)
(3% reading + 8 digits)
400A 0.1A
4000A 1A
40mA 0.01mA
400mA 0.1mA
(1.5% reading + 3 digits)
4A 0.001A
DC Current
20A 0.01A (2.5% reading + 5 digits)
50 to 400Hz 400Hz to 1KHz
400A 0.1A
4000A 1A
40mA 0.01mA
400mA 0.1mA
(1.8% reading + 8
digits) (3.0% reading + 7 digits)
4A 0.001A
AC Current
20A 0.01A
(3.0% reading + 8
digits)
(3.5% reading + 10
digits)
4000.1(0.8% reading + 4 digits)
4k0.001k(0.8% reading + 2 digits)
40k0.01k
400k0.1k
4M0.001M
(1.0% reading + 2 digits)
Resistance
40M0.01M(3.0% reading + 5 digits)
40nF 0.01nF (5.0% reading + 7 digits)
400nF 0.1nF (3.0% reading + 5 digits)
4F 0.001F
40F 0.01F (3.5% reading + 5 digits)
Capacitance
100F 0.1F (5.0% reading + 5 digits)
-20 to 750C 1C
Temp
(type-K) -4 to 1382F 1F
(3.0% reading + 3 digits)
(probe accuracy not included)
-50 to 270C 1C
Temp
(IR) -58 to 518F 1F 2.0% reading or 2C, 4 F
NOTE: Accuracy is stated at 18oC to 28oC (65oF to 83oF) and less than 75% RH.

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Function Range Resolution Accuracy
5.000Hz 0.001Hz
50.00Hz 0.01Hz
(1.5% reading + 5 digits)
500.0Hz 0.1Hz
5.000kHz 0.001kHz
50.00kHz 0.01kHz
500.0kHz 0.1kHz
(1.2% reading + 2 digits)
5.000MHz 0.001MHz
10.00MHz 0.01MHz (1.5% reading + 4 digits)
Frequency
Sensitivity: 0.8V rms min. @ 20% to 80% duty cycle and <100kHz; 5Vrms min @ 20% to 80% duty cycle and >
100kHz.
0.1 to 99.9% 0.1% (1.2% reading + 2 digits) Duty Cycle
Pulse width: 100µs - 100ms, Frequency: 5Hz to 150kHz
Note: 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.
Diode Test Test current of 0.3mA maximum, open circuit voltage 1.5V DC typical
Continuity Check Audible signal will sound if the resistance is less than 150(approx.), test
current <0.7mA
Temperature Sensor Requires type K thermocouple
IR Spectral response 6 to 16µm
IR Emissivity 0.95 fixed
IR distance ratio 8:1
Input Impedance >7.5MΩ(VDC & VAC)
AC Response True rms
ACV Bandwidth 50Hz to 1kHz
Crest Factor <3:1 at full scale & <6:1 at half scale
Display 4000 count backlit liquid crystal
Overrange indication “OL” is displayed
Auto Power Off 15 minutes (approximately)
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 9 volt (NEDA 1604) battery
Fuses mA, µA ranges; 0.5A/250V fast blow
A range; 20A/250V ceramic fast blow
Operating Temperature 5ºC to 40ºC (41ºF to 104ºF)
Storage Temperature -20oC to 60oC (-4oF to 140oF)
Operating Humidity Max 80% up to 31ºC (87ºF) decreasing linearly to 50% at 40ºC (104ºF)
Storage Humidity <80%
Operating Altitude 2000 meters.(7000ft) maximum.
Weight 342g (0.753lb) (includes holster).
Size 187 x 81 x 50mm (7.36” x 3.2” x 2.0”) (includes holster)
Safety For indoor use and in accordance with the requirements for double
insulation to IEC1010-1 (2001): EN61010-1 (2001) Overvoltage Category
III 600V and Category II 1000V, Pollution Degree 2.
Patent Notice U.S. Patent 7056012

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Maintenance
WARNING: To avoid electrical shock, disconnect the meter from any circuit, remove the test leads
from the input terminals, and turn OFF the meter before opening the case. Do not operate the meter
with an open case.
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 batteries should be
removed to prevent damage to the unit.
Battery Replacement
1. Remove the Phillips head screw that secures the rear battery door
2. Open the battery compartment
3. Replace the 9V battery
4. Secure the battery compartment
You, as the end user, are legally bound (EU Battery ordinance) to return all used
batteries, 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
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not operate the meter until the battery cover is in place and
fastened securely.
NOTE:: If your meter does not work properly, check the fuses and batteries to make sure that they are
still good and that they are properly inserted.

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REPLACING THE FUSES
WARNING: To avoid electrical shock, disconnect the meter from any circuit, remove the test leads
from the input terminals, and turn OFF the meter before opening the case. Do not operate the meter
with an open case.
1. Disconnect the test leads from the meter.
2. Remove the protective rubber holster.
3. Remove the battery cover (two “B” screws) and the
battery.
4. Remove the four “A” screws securing the rear cover.
5. Lift the center circuit board straight up from the
connectors to gain access to the fuse holders.
6. Gently remove the old fuse and install the new fuse
into the holder.
7. Always use a fuse of the proper size and value
(0.5A/250V fast blow for the 400mA range,
20A/250V fast blow for the 20A range).
8. Align the center board with the connectors and
gently press into place.
9. Replace and secure the rear cover, battery and battery cover.
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not operate your meter until the fuse cover is in place and
fastened securely.
UL LISTED
The UL mark does not indicate that this product has been evaluated for the accuracy of its readings.
Copyright ©2012 Extech Instruments Corporation (a FLIR company)
All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form.
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