Fluke ScopeMeter 123 User manual

GB
Sep 2002, Rev. 4, 09/2009
© 2002, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009 Fluke Corporation. All rights reserved.
All product names are trademarks of their respective companies.
®
Fluke 123/124
Industrial ScopeMeter
Users Manual

LIMITED WARRANTY & LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Each Fluke product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service. The warranty period is three years for the
120 Series Test Tool and one year for its accessories. The warranty period begins on the date of shipment. Parts, product repairs and services are warranted
for 90 days. This warranty extends only to the original buyer or end-user customer of a Fluke authorized reseller, and does not apply to fuses, disposable
batteries or to any product which, in Fluke's opinion, has been misused, altered, neglected or damaged by accident or abnormal conditions of operation or
handling. Fluke warrants that software will operate substantially in accordance with its functional specifications for 90 days and that it has been properly
recorded on non-defective media. Fluke does not warrant that software will be error free or operate without interruption.
Fluke authorized resellers shall extend this warranty on new and unused products to end-user customers only but have no authority to extend a greater or different
warranty on behalf of Fluke. Warranty support is available if product is purchased through a Fluke authorized sales outlet or Buyer has paid the applicable
international price. Fluke reserves the right to invoice Buyer for importation costs of repair/replacement parts when product purchased in one country is submitted for
repair in another country.
Fluke's warranty obligation is limited, at Fluke's option, to refund of the purchase price, free of charge repair, or replacement of a defective product which is returned to
a Fluke authorized service center within the warranty period.
To obtain warranty service, contact your nearest Fluke authorized service center or send the product, with a description of the difficulty, postage and insurance
prepaid (FOB Destination), to the nearest Fluke authorized service center. Fluke assumes no risk for damage in transit. Following warranty repair, the product will be
returned to Buyer, transportation prepaid (FOB Destination). If Fluke determines that the failure was caused by misuse, alteration, accident or abnormal condition of
operation or handling, Fluke will provide an estimate of repair costs and obtain authorization before commencing the work. Following repair, the product will be
returned to the Buyer transportation prepaid and the Buyer will be billed for the repair and return transportation charges (FOB Shipping Point).
THIS WARRANTY IS BUYER'S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT
NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. FLUKE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY
SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES, INCLUDING LOSS OF DATA, WHETHER ARISING FROM BREACH OF
WARRANTY OR BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, RELIANCE OR ANY OTHER THEORY.
Since some countries or states do not allow limitation of the term of an implied warranty, or exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, the
limitations and exclusions of this warranty may not apply to every buyer. If any provision of this Warranty is held invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent
jurisdiction, such holding will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision.
Fluke Corporation, P.O. Box 9090, Everett, WA 98206-9090 USA, or
Fluke Industrial B.V., P.O. Box 90, 7600 AB, Almelo, The Netherlands

SERVICE CENTERS
To locate an authorized service center, visit us on the World Wide Web:
http://www.fluke.com
or call Fluke using any of the phone numbers listed below:
[phone] in U.S.A. and Canada
[phone] in Europe
[phone] from other countries

i
Table of Contents
Chapter Title Page
Declaration of Conformity....................................................................................................... 1
Unpacking the Test Tool Kit........................................................................................... 2
Safely Using the Test Tool............................................................................................. 4
1 Using The Test Tool..................................................................................................... 7
Goal of this Chapter ....................................................................................................... 7
Powering the Test Tool .................................................................................................. 7
Resetting the Test Tool.................................................................................................. 8
Changing Backlight ........................................................................................................ 9
Reading the Screen ....................................................................................................... 10
Making Selections in a Menu ......................................................................................... 11
Looking at the Measurement Connections..................................................................... 12
Displaying an Unknown Signal with Connect-and View™ .............................................. 13
Making Measurements................................................................................................... 14
Freezing the Screen....................................................................................................... 16

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Holding a Stable Reading .............................................................................................. 16
Making Relative Measurements..................................................................................... 17
Selecting Auto/Manual Ranges...................................................................................... 18
Changing the Graphic Representation on the Screen.................................................... 18
TrendPlotting a Waveform ............................................................................................. 22
Acquiring the Waveform ................................................................................................ 23
Triggering on a Waveform ............................................................................................. 27
Saving and Recalling a Setup and a Screen.................................................................. 32
Making Cursor Measurements....................................................................................... 35
Using the 10:1 Probe for High Frequency Measurements. ............................................ 38
Using a Printer ............................................................................................................... 39
Using FlukeView®Software ........................................................................................... 41
2 Maintaining the Test Tool ........................................................................................... 43
About this Chapter ......................................................................................................... 43
Cleaning the Test Tool................................................................................................... 43
Storing the Test Tool ..................................................................................................... 43
Charging the Rechargeable Battery Pack...................................................................... 44
Keeping Batteries in Optimal Condition ......................................................................... 45
Replacing and Disposing of the Rechargeable Battery Pack......................................... 46
Using and Adjusting 10:1 Scope Probes........................................................................ 47
Calibrating the Test Tool................................................................................................ 49
Parts and Accessories ................................................................................................... 49
3 Tips and Troubleshooting........................................................................................... 53
Goal of this Chapter....................................................................................................... 53

Contents (continued)
iii
Using the Tilt Stand........................................................................................................ 53
Resetting the Test Tool.................................................................................................. 54
Changing the Information Language.............................................................................. 54
Changing the Display..................................................................................................... 55
Changing Date and Time ............................................................................................... 56
Saving Battery Life......................................................................................................... 57
Changing the Auto Set Options...................................................................................... 58
Using Proper Grounding ................................................................................................ 59
Solving Printing and Other Communication Errors......................................................... 60
Battery Testing of Fluke Accessories............................................................................. 60
4 Specifications .............................................................................................................. 61
Introduction .................................................................................................................... 61
Dual Input Oscilloscope ................................................................................................. 62
Dual Input Meter ............................................................................................................ 65
Cursor readout (Fluke 124)............................................................................................ 68
Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................ 69
Environmental ................................................................................................................ 70
Safety ...................................................................................................................... 70

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iv

Declaration of Conformity
1
Declaration of Conformity
for
Fluke 123/124
ScopeMeter®test tool
Manufacturer
Fluke Industrial B.V.
Lelyweg 14
7602 EA Almelo
The Netherlands
Statement of Conformity
Based on test results using appropriate standards,
the product is in conformity with
Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2004/108/EC
Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
Sample tests
Standards used:
EN 61010-1: 2001
Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for
Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use
EN61326-1: 2006
Electrical equipment for
measurements and laboratory
use -EMC requirements-
The tests have been performed in a
typical configuration.
This Conformity is indicated by the symbol ,
i.e. “Conformité Européenne”.

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Unpacking the Test Tool Kit
The following items are included in your test tool kit. (see
Figure 1.):
Note
When new, the rechargeable battery pack is not
fully charged. See Chapter 2.
# Description Fluke 123 Fluke 123/S Fluke 124 Fluke 124/S
1 Fluke Test Tool Model 123 Model 123 Model 124 Model 124
2 Rechargeable Battery Pack NiMH NiMH NiMH NiMH
3 Power Adapter/Battery Charger ••••
4 Shielded Test Leads with Black Ground Leads ••••
5 Test Lead Black (for Grounding) ••••
6 Alligator Clips (red, gray, black) ••••
7 Banana-to-BNC Adapters (black) •(1x) •(2x) •(1x) •(2x)
8 Safety Information + CD-ROM with Users Manuals ••••
9 Shipment Box ••
10 Optically Isolated RS-232/USB Adapter/Cable ••
11 FlukeView®ScopeMeter®Software for Windows®••
12 Hard Carrying Case ••
13 10:1 Voltage Probe ••

Unpacking the Test Tool Kit
3
(2x)
*
*
(3x)
1
3
2
4
5
6
79
10
13
12
Fluke 123/124 Fluke 123-S/124-S
Fluke 124/124-S
Fluke 123/124 : 1x
Fluke 123-S/124-S : 2x
11
8
Figure 1. ScopeMeter Test Tool Kit

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Safely Using the Test Tool
Attention
Carefully read the following safety
information before using the test tool.
Safety Precautions
Specific warning and caution statements, where they
apply, will be found throughout the manual.
A Caution identifies conditions and actions that may
damage the test tool.
A Warning identifies conditions and actions that pose
hazard(s) to the user.
Symbols used on the test tool and in this manual are
explained in the next table.
Warning
To avoid electrical shock, use only Fluke
power supply, Model PM8907 (Power
Adapter/Battery Charger).
See explanation in
manual
Equal potential inputs
Disposal information Earth
Recycling information Conformité
Européenne
Do no dispose of this product as unsorted municipal
waste. Go to Fluke’s website for recycling information
Conforms to applicable Canadian and US standards
Double Insulation
(Protection Class)
UL listed

Safely Using the Test Tool
5
Warning
Should this test tool be used with AC
coupling selected, or manual operation of
amplitude or time base ranges, the measuring
results displayed on the screen may not be
representative of the total signal. This can
result in the presence of dangerous voltages
of more than 42V peak (30V rms), not being
detected. To guarantee user safety, all signals
should first be measured with DC coupling
selected and in fully automatic mode. This
ensures that the full signal content is
measured.
Warning
To avoid electrical shock or fire:
•Use only the power supply, Model PM8907
(Battery Charger / Power Adapter).
•Before use check that the selected/indicated
voltage range on the PM8907 matches the
local line power voltage and frequency.
•For the PM8907/808 universal Battery
Charger/Power Adapter use only line cords
that comply with the local safety regulations.
Note
To accommodate connection to various line
power sockets, the PM8907/808 universal
Battery Charger / Power Adapter is equipped with
a male plug that must be connected to a line cord
appropriate for local use. Since the adapter is
isolated, the line cord does not need to be
equipped with a terminal for connection to
protective ground. Since line cords with a
protective grounding terminal are more commonly
available you might consider using these anyhow.
Warning
To avoid electrical shock or fire if a Test Tool
input is connected to more than 42 V peak (30
Vrms) or on circuits of more than 4800 VA:
•Use only insulated voltage probes, test leads
and adapters supplied with the Test Tool, or
indicated as suitable for the Fluke 123/124
Test Tool.
•Before use, inspect voltage probes, test leads
and accessories for mechanical damage and
replace when damaged.
•Remove all probes, test leads and
accessories that are not in use.

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•Always connect the battery charger first to
the ac outlet before connecting it to the Test
Tool.
•Do not apply input voltages above the rating
of the instrument. Use caution when using
1:1 test leads because the probe tip voltage
will be directly transmitted to the Test Tool.
•Do not use exposed metal BNC or banana
plug connectors.
•Do not insert metal objects into connectors.
•Always use the Test Tool only in the manner
specified.
Max. Input Voltages
Input A and B directly................................600 V CAT III
Input A and B via BB120...........................300 V CAT III
Input A and B via STL120 .........................600 V CAT III
Max. Floating Voltage
From any terminal to ground .....................600 V CAT III
Voltage ratings are given as “working voltage”. They
should be read as Vac-rms (50-60 Hz) for AC sinewave
applications and as Vdc for DC applications.
Measurement Category III refers to distribution level and
fixed installation circuits inside a building.
The terms ‘Isolated’ or ‘Electrically floating’ are used in this
manual to indicate a measurement in which the Test
Tool’s Shielded Banana inputs or banana jack is
connected to a voltage different from earth ground.
The isolated input connectors have no exposed metal and
are fully insulated to protect against electrical shock.
If Safety Features are Impaired
Use of the Test Tool in a manner not specified may
impair the protection provided by the equipment.
Before use, inspect the test leads for mechanical damage
and replace damaged test leads!
Whenever it is likely that safety has been impaired, the
Test Tool must be turned off and disconnected from the
line power. The matter should then be referred to qualified
personnel. Safety is likely to be impaired if, for example,
the Test Tool fails to perform the intended measurements
or shows visible damage.

7
Chapter 1
Using The Test Tool
Goal of this Chapter
This Chapter provides a step-by-step introduction to the
test tool. The introduction does not cover all of the
capabilities of the test tool but gives basic examples to
show how to use the menus perform basic operations.
Powering the Test Tool
Follow the procedure (step 1 to 3) in Figure 1-1 to power
the test tool from a standard ac outlet. See Chapter 2 for
battery power instructions.
Turn the test tool on.
The test tool powers up in its last setup configuration.
Figure 1-1. Powering the Test Tool

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Resetting the Test Tool
If you want to restore the test tool settings as delivered from
the factory, do the following:
cTurn the test tool off.
dPress and hold.
ePress and release.
The test tool turns on, and you should hear a double beep,
indicating the Reset was successful.
fRelease.
Now look at the display; you will see a screen that looks
like Figure 1-2.
The F4 key of Fluke 123 is used to control the contrast; in
Fluke 124 this key is used to switch the cursors on.
Fluke 123
Fluke 124
Figure 1-2. The Screen After Reset

Using The Test Tool
Changing Backlight 1
9
Changing Backlight
After power-up, the screen has a high bright display.
To save battery power, the screen has an economic
brightness display when operated on the battery pack (no
power adapter connected).
Note
Using dimmed display lengthens maximum
battery power operation time.
To change the brightness of the display in Fluke 123, do
the following:
cDim the backlight.
dBrighten the backlight again.
In Fluke 124, do the following:
cPress to get access to the display
functions.
dSelect LIGHT
e Dim or brighten the backlight.
The high brightness increases when you connect the
power adapter.
.

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Reading the Screen
The screen is divided into three areas: Reading area,
Waveform area, and Menu area. Refer to Figure 1-3
during the following.
Reading area (A):Displays the numeric readings.
Because only input A is on, you will see the input A
readings only.
Waveform area (B):Displays the input A waveform. The
bottom line displays the ranges/div and the power indicator
(line or battery). Because only input A is on, you will see
the input A waveform only.
Note
When battery powered, the battery indicator
informs you about the condition of the battery
from full to empty: .
Menu area (C):Displays the menu that provides choices
available through the blue function keys.
When you change a setup, a part of the screen is used to
display the choices. The area displays one or more menus
with choices accessed with the arrow keys:
.
Fluke 123
Fluke 124
Figure 1-3. The Screen Area's

Using The Test Tool
Making Selections in a Menu 1
11
Making Selections in a Menu
Subsequently follow steps cto fto open a menu and to
choose an item.
cPress the SCOPE MENU key to
open the Scope menu.
Note
Pressing the MENU key a second time closes
this menu and resumes normal measurement.
This toggling enables you to check the menu
without destroying your settings.
dUse the blue arrow keys to
highlight the item.
ePress the blue ‘ENTER’ function
key to confirm selection
fPress ‘ENTER’ until you return to
normal mode.
Figure 1-4 shows the basic navigation of the test tool.
Figure 1-4. Basic Navigation
Note
When you do not change an item with the blue
arrow keys, repeatedly pressing enables
you to step through a menu without changing the
setup of the test tool.
Gray text in a menu or button bar indicates that
the function is disabled or the status is not valid.

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Looking at the Measurement
Connections
Look at the top of the test tool. The test tool provides two
4-mm safety shielded banana jack inputs (red input A and
gray input B) and a black safety 4-mm banana jack input
(COM). (See Figure 1-5.)
Input A
You can always use the red input A for all single input
measurements possible with the test tool.
Input B
For measurements on two different signals you can use
the gray input B together with the red input A .
COM
You can use the black COMmon as single ground for low
frequency measurements, and for Continuity, Ohm (Ω),
Diode, and Capacitance measurements.
Warning
To avoid electrical shock or fire, use only one
COM (common) connection, or ensure that
all connections to COM are at the same
potential.
Figure 1-5. Measurement Connections