FLIR CM55 User manual

USER MANUAL
FLIR MODEL CM55 and CM57
FLEX CLAMP METERS with Bluetooth®

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
2
Table of Contents
1. DISCLAIMERS 3
1.1 Copyright 3
1.2 Quality Assurance 3
1.3 Documentation 3
1.4 Disposal of Electronic Waste 3
2. SAFETY 4
2.1 FCC Compliance 6
2.2 Industry Canada Compliance 7
3. INTRODUCTION 8
3.1 Key Features 8
4. DESCRIPTIONS 9
4.1 Meter Description 9
4.2 Display Icon Description 10
4.3 Control buttons 10
5. OPERATION 11
5.1 Powering the Meter 11
5.2 Work Lights 11
5.3 Data Hold 11
5.4 AC Current Measurements 12
5.5 Data Recording and Bluetooth® Data Transfer 14
5.5.1 Data Recording 14
5.5.2 Meter Identification (ID) Number 14
5.5.3 Transferring Readings with Bluetooth® 15
5.5.4 Streaming Bluetooth® Communication 15
6. MAINTENANCE 16
6.1 Cleaning and Storage 16
6.2 Battery Replacement 16
7. SPECIFICATIONS 17
7.1 General specifications 17
7.2 AC Current Electrical specifications 18
8. TECHNICAL SUPPORT 19
9. WARRANTY 19
9.1 FLIR Global Limited Lifetime Warranty 19

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
3
1. Disclaimers
1.1 Copyright
© 2018, FLIR Systems, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. No parts of the software including source
code may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed or translated into any language or computer
language in any form or by any means, electronic, magnetic, optical, manual or otherwise, without
the prior written permission of FLIR Systems.
The documentation must not, in whole or part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or
transmitted to any electronic medium or machine readable form without prior consent, in writing,
from FLIR Systems.
Names and marks appearing on the products herein are either registered trademarks or
trademarks of FLIR Systems and/or its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, trade names or company
names referenced herein are used for identification only and are the property of their respective
owners.
1.2 Quality Assurance
The Quality Management System under which these products are developed and manufactured
has been certified in accordance with the ISO 9001 standard.
FLIR Systems is committed to a policy of continuous development; therefore we reserve the right
to make changes and improvements on any of the products without prior notice.
1.3 Documentation
To access the user manuals, extended warranty registration and notifications go to the Download
tab at: http://support.flir.com. In the download area you will also find the latest releases of
manuals for our other products, as well as manuals for our historical and obsolete products. The
extended warranty page can also be found at www.Flir.com/testwarranty.
1.4 Disposal of Electronic Waste
As with most electronic products, this equipment must be disposed of in an
environmentally friendly way, and in accordance with existing regulations for
electronic waste.
Please contact your FLIR Systems representative for more details.

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
4
2. Safety
Safety Notes
Before operating the device, you must read, understand, and follow all instructions, dangers,
warnings, cautions, and notes.
FLIR Systems reserves the right to discontinue models, parts or accessories, and other items,
or to change specifications at any time without prior notice.
Remove the batteries if the device is not used for an extended period of time.
Warning Statements
WARNINGS identify hazardous conditions and actions that could cause BODILY HARM or DEATH.
Individual protective equipment should be used if HAZARDOUS LIVE parts in the installation
where measurements are to be carried out could be accessible.
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection
provided by the equipment may be impaired.
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this product to rain or moisture.
Verify the meter operation by measuring a known current. If in doubt, have the meter
serviced.
Do not apply more than the rated voltage/current as marked on the meter.
To avoid false readings that can lead to electric shock and injury, replace battery as soon as
the low battery indicator appears.
Do not use the meter in or around explosive gas or vapor.
Do not use a flexible current sensor if the inner copper wire of the flexible cord is visible.
De-energize the installation under test or wear suitable protective clothing when placing or
removing the flexible current probe from a test setup.
Do not apply/remove the flexible current probe to/from UNINSULATED HAZARDOUS LIVE
conductors which may cause electric shock, electric burn, or arc flash.

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
5
Cautions
Do not use the device for a procedure that it is not made for. This can cause damage to the
protection.
This symbol, adjacent to another symbol, indicates the user must refer to the manual
for further information.
Do not apply or remove clamp from HAZARDOUS LIVE conductors
Equipment protected by double or reinforced insulation
Battery symbol
Conforms to EU directives
Do not discard this product in household trash.
AC measurement
Earth ground
Agency Approvals:
UL listing is not an indication or a verification of the accuracy of the meter

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
6
2.1 FCC Compliance
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment
off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
1. Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
2. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
3. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
4. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
CAUTION
Exposure to Radio Frequency Radiation.
To comply with FCC/IC RF exposure compliance requirements, a separation distance of at
least 20 cm must be maintained between the antenna of this device and all persons. This
device must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or
transmitter.
WARNING
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
7
2.2 Industry Canada Compliance
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
CAUTION
Exposure to Radio Frequency Radiation.
To comply with RSS 102 RF exposure compliance requirements, for mobile configurations, a
separation distance of at least 20 cm must be maintained between the antenna of this device
and all persons. This device must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other
antenna or transmitter.

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
8
3. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the FLIR Flex Clamp with Bluetooth® that can measure up to 3000A AC
rms. The CM57 is the 18” (45.7cm) clamp version and the CM55 is the 10” (25.4cm) clamp
version, otherwise both meters are the same.
These devices are professional CAT IV 600V CAT III 1000V instruments that offer Data Recording,
Bluetooth®, Auto Power OFF, Data Hold, Display backlight, and high power Work Light features.
These meters are shipped fully tested and calibrated and, with proper use, will provide years of
reliable service.
3.1 Key Features
3000A AC True RMS Current Measurements
Convenient Flexible Clamp with locking mechanism
0.3” (7.5mm) coil diameter for measuring in tight spaces
Auto ranging
3000 count large scale backlit LCD display
Bluetooth® communication and Data Recording
Data Hold
Auto Power OFF
Battery status icon
High power work lights
Long life battery power
Register for Extended Warranty
www.Flir.com/testwarranty

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
9
4. Descriptions
4.1 Meter Description
1. Work Lights
2. Flexible Current Clamp Coil
3. Display
4. INRUSH / REC (Record) button
5. Power / Work Light button
6. RANGE / SEND button
7. HOLD / Start-Stop Record / Bluetooth® button
8. Clamp Lock mechanism
Note that battery compartment is located on the back of the meter
Fig. 4-1 Meter Description

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
10
4.2 Display Icon Description
Bluetooth®
Display Hold
Amperes
Battery status
Inrush Current
Auto Power Off
Data Transmission
Memory Mode
Auto Range
4.3 Control buttons
Momentary press to access INRUSH mode
Press and hold to access the Record Memory mode
Momentary presses step through the ranges manually
Press and hold while in manual range mode to return to Auto
range
Press and hold to Send data via Bluetooth
Momentary press to access the Data Hold mode
Press and hold to activate/deactivate Bluetooth® communication
While in Record mode, momentary press to Pause/Resume
Press and hold to switch power ON/OFF
When powered, press to activate/deactivate work light

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
11
5. Operation
Note: Before operating the device, please read and understand all Warning and Caution
statements and follow all instructions and notes.
5.1 Powering the Meter
The meter is powered by two (2) AAA 1.5V batteries (located in the compartment on the back of
the meter). Press and hold the Power button for > 2 seconds to switch the device ON or OFF.
5.1.1 Auto Power OFF (APO)
The meter switches OFF automatically after an approximately 10-minute period of inactivity.
Several seconds before the meter automatically switches OFF the meter beeps several times to
alert the user.
To disable the Auto Power OFF feature:
With the meter power OFF, press and hold the Power and HOLD buttons for >2 seconds.
The display shows ‘AoFF’ while it powers up.
The APO feature is now disabled and the meter will not shut off automatically.
Note that the next time the meter is powered up, the APO function will be re-enabled
and the user must repeat the APO disable instructions to disable this function.
When APO is active, the APO icon appears on the display .
APO active is the default condition.
5.1.2 Low Battery Indication
When the displayed battery icon appears empty and flashing, or if the meter does not
power up, the batteries must be replaced immediately. Refer to the battery replacement
procedure in the maintenance section. Note that measurement accuracy is maintained even
while low battery alerts are displayed.
5.2 Work Lights
With the unit powered up, press the Work Light button to switch the high power Work Lights
ON or OFF. Note that excessive use of the Work Lights will shorten battery life.
5.3 Data Hold
Press the HOLD button with the meter ON to freeze the displayed reading. The HOLD icon (H) will
appear along with the held reading. Press the HOLD button again to release the HOLD feature.
The HOLD icon will switch OFF and the meter will revert to displaying real time readings.

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
12
5.4 AC Current Measurements
WARNING: Ensure that power to the device under test is OFF before starting this procedure.
Switch power to the device under test ON only after the clamp has been safely attached to the
device under test.
CAUTION: Do not move fingers above the LCD at any time during a test.
1. Switch the meter OFF and switch power to the device under test
OFF.
2. Turn the clamp lock (1) counter-clockwise to release the flexible
clamp (2).
3. Fully enclose only one conductor of the device under test with the
flexible clamp probe (see diagram below for Correct and Incorrect
usage).
4. Re-secure the clamp lock (1) after clamping around a single
conductor.
5. Do not attempt to measure current higher than the specified
current limit.
6. Switch the meter ON and then switch power to the device under
test ON. Never move fingers above the display
area when running a test.
7. Read the current value in the display; ‘OL’will
display if the measured signal exceeds the range. The meter defaults to the Auto Range
mode; the Auto Range icon is visible on the display. The meter will automatically select
the appropriate range when in Auto Range mode.
8. To manually select the range, use the RANGE button to step through the available ranges
(30.00A / 300.0A / 3000A).
Fig. 5-1 Unlock/Lock Clamp Jaw
Fig. 5-2 Correct (left) and Incorrect (right)
Conductor Clamping

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
13
5.4.1 Inrush Current mode
The meter has the ability to capture an inrush current signal using a 100ms sampling window.
The sampling window opens only when the threshold current (see below) is detected.
When detecting an input current ±50 digits of the selected range the meter will calculate the
RMS values for a 100mS period and display this value. Refer to illustration below.
For the 30A range the minimum triggering current threshold is 0.5A
For the 300A range the minimum triggering current threshold is 5.0A
For the 3000A range the minimum triggering current threshold is 50A
1. Press the INRUSH button to access the Inrush Current mode.
2. The display will show the Inrush icon and the display digits will switch to dashes.
3. The meter then waits for a current signal to exceed the threshold.
4. When ready, turn on power to the device under test. The meter will capture the highest
reading detected during a 100ms window. Note that the 100ms window does not open until
the minimum triggering current is detected.
5. To exit the Inrush mode at any time, press any button. The Inrush icon will switch OFF.
Fig. 5-3 Inrush Current

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
14
5.5 Data Recording and Bluetooth® Data Transfer
5.5.1 Data Recording
When prompted, this meter can store readings into its internal memory automatically for later
transfer over Bluetooth® (real-time data streaming over Bluetooth® is also possible as explained
below) using the FLIR TOOLS™application. The maximum number of records that can be stored
is 20,000 and the fixed sampling (recording) interval is 1 minute.
IMPORTANT: Please enable Bluetooth® by long pressing the Bluetooth® button until the
Bluetooth® icon appears flashing before starting the procedure below.
1. Press the REC button >2 seconds to enter the Data Record Mode. The display will show
the Memory icon.
2. Use the Start/Stop button to Start/Stop Recording. The Memory icon will flash when
the meter is recording and will stop flashing when recording is stopped. The display digits
will show the measured reading.
3. Note that after one (1) start and stop cycle, stored data is erased when a new data
recording session is started.
4. To transfer all of the stored readings in one bulk data dump or to data stream in real-
time over Bluetooth® please refer to the following sections.
5. Press the REC button > 2 seconds to exit the Data Recording Mode.
6. Note that Data Recording cannot be accessed while the meter is in the Inrush mode.
7. Disable the APO utility when data recording.
5.5.2 Meter Identification (ID) Number
A unique numerical ID (01-20) can be assigned to the meter so that, when multiple meters are
used over Bluetooth®, each can be specifically addressed.
1. With the meter OFF, press both the POWER and RANGE buttons simultaneously to
access the ID number. The display will show ‘Idxx’.
2. Use the RANGE button to increment the ID number.
3. When the desired number is shown, press the button to save the ID number to
memory.
4. Power the meter down and then power back up.
5. The meter will now be recognized by its unique ID number on Bluetooth® receiving
devices.

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
15
5.5.3 Transferring Recorded Readings with Bluetooth®
To transfer bulk logged readings from the meter’s internal memory to a Bluetooth® paired
device running the FLIR TOOLS™application please read the steps below. Note that the Bluetooth
range is 32’ (10m) maximum.
1. Press and hold the Bluetooth button until the Bluetooth icon appears flashing
2. Press and hold the SEND button until the percent (%) symbol appears
3. The data is now being transmitted.
4. The percentage shown is the percentage of data transmitted. All data is transferred when
100% is shown. Press the SEND button at any time to cancel the transmission. RANGE
mode is inactive during data transmission.
5. Once all data is transferred (100% displayed), press the SEND button to return to the
main display.
5.5.4 Streaming Bluetooth®Communication
To stream real-time readings over Bluetooth®
1. Press and hold the Bluetooth button until the Bluetooth icon appears flashing.
2. Connect with the FLIR TOOLS™application.
3. When connected, the Bluetooth icon stops flashing and appears solid.
4. The readings are now automatically transmitted over Bluetooth® as they are taken.
5. See the FLIR TOOLS™Mobile User Guide for additional information.

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
16
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning and Storage
Clean the meter with a damp cloth and mild detergent; do not use abrasives or solvents.
If the meter is not to be used for an extended period, remove the batteries and store them
separately.
6.2 Battery Replacement
CAUTION: Remove the meter from the conductor under test and switch the meter OFF
before opening the battery compartment.
1. With a Phillips screwdriver, remove the battery compartment screw on the back of the
meter.
2. Remove the battery compartment cover.
3. Replace the 2 ‘AAA’ 1.5V batteries observing correct polarity.
4. Re-attach the battery compartment cover.
5. Secure the compartment cover with the Phillips head screw.
6.2.1 Disposal of Electronic Waste
As with most electronic products, this equipment must be disposed of in an environmentally
friendly way, and in accordance with existing regulations for electronic waste.
Please contact your FLIR Systems representative for more details.

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
17
7. Specifications
7.1 General specifications
Clamp Jaw Flexible type with locking mechanism
Coil diameter 0.3” (7.5mm); Coil tip (item 2 in Fig. 5-1): 0.5” (13mm)
Coil Bend Radius 3.1” (80mm) for CM57; 1.5” (38mm) for CM55
Display 3000 count LCD with backlight and multi-function indicators
Display update rate 2 times per second
Low Battery indication Battery symbol appears empty and flashing
Over-range indication ‘OL’ display
Work Lights Two White LEDs
Measurement rate 1.5 readings per second
Data Recording Rate 1 reading per minute
AC bandwidth 45 to 500Hz (sine wave)
AC response True RMS
Inrush Min. trigger current 0.50A @ 30.00A, 5.00A @ 300.0A, 50A
@3000A; Sampling period 100ms
Operating Temperature 32~122F (0~50C)
Operating Humidity Max 80% up to 95°F (35°C) decreasing linearly to 60% at 113°F
(45°C)
Storage Temperature -4~140F (-20~60C) without batteries
Storage Humidity 80% RH maximum
Temperature Coefficient 0.2 x specified accuracy / C, < 64.5F (18C), > 82.4F (28C)
Altitude Maximum operating altitude 6562’ (2000m)
Battery Two “AAA” 1.5V batteries
Battery life 100 hours with alkaline batteries
Auto power OFF After approx. 10 minutes of inactivity
Dimensions (W x H x D) CM55: 4.7 x 11.0 x 1.0” (120 x 280 x 25 mm)
CM57: 5.1 x 13.8 x 1.0” (130 x 350 x 25 mm)
Weight CM55: 7.1 oz. (200g) / CM57: 6.0 oz. (170g) with batteries
Drop test 9.8 ft. (3m)
Agency Approvals CE, UL, RCM
Safety Standards IP54
For indoor use and in accordance with the requirements for double
insulation to EN61010-1, EN61010-2-032, EN61326-1; CAT IV 600V,
CAT III 1000V, Pollution Degree 2, CE

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
18
7.2 AC Current Electrical specifications
Function
Range
Overload Reading (OL)
Resolution
Accuracy (of reading)
45 to 500Hz
AC Current
30.00 A AC
33.00 A AC
0.01A
±(3.0% + 5 digits)
300.0 A AC
330.0 A AC
0.1A
±(3.0% + 5 digits)
3000 A AC
3300 A AC
1A
±(3.0% + 5 digits)
Notes:
Accuracy is given as ± (% of reading + least significant counts) at 73.4F ±9F (23C ±5C) with relative
humidity lower than 80%. Accuracy is specified for a period of one year after calibration.
LCD displays ‘0’ counts when the reading is < 10 counts.
ACA specifications are AC Coupled, True RMS.
For non-sinusoidal waveforms, additional accuracy Crest Factor (C.F.) considerations exist as detailed below:
Add 3.0% for C.F. 1.0~2.0
Add 5.0% for C.F. 2.0~2.5
Add 7.0% for C.F. 2.5~3.0
Position Error of Clamp: Accuracy and position error assumes centralized primary conductor at optimum
position (center of clamp jaw), no external electrical or magnetic field, and within operating temperature
range.
Distance
from
optimum
position
CM55
CM55 Error
CM57
CM57 Error
Position*
0.6” (15mm)
2.0%
1.4” (35mm)
1.0%
A
1.0” (25mm)
2.5%
2.0” (50mm)
1.5%
B
1.4” (35mm)
3.0%
2.4” (60mm)
2.0%
C
*See position examples in diagram below:
Fig. 7-1 Positioning Conductor in Clamp Jaw center

FLIR CM55_CM57 USER MANUAL Document Identifier: CM55_CM57-en-US_AD
19
8. Technical Support
Main Website
http://www.flir.com/test
Technical Support Website
http://support.flir.com
Technical support Email
[email protected]om
Service/Repair Support Email
[email protected]m
Support Telephone number
[phone] option 3 (toll-free)
9. Warranty
9.1 FLIR Global Limited Lifetime Warranty
The product is protected by the FLIR Global Limited Lifetime Warranty. Visit
www.flir.com/testwarranty to read the Warranty document. Register your product at the
website to receive a free 1-year warranty extension.

Corporate Headquarters
FLIR Systems, Inc.
2770 SW Parkway Avenue
Wilsonville, OR 97070
USA
Telephone: [phone]
Customer Support
Technical Support Website http://support.flir.com
Technical Support Email [email protected]om
Service and Repair Email [email protected]
Customer Support Telephone [phone] option 3 (toll free)
Publication Identification No.: CM55_CM57-en-US
Release Version: AD
Release Date: 2018 September
Language: en-US