Fluke 116 User manual

116
True-rms Multimeter
Users Manual
July 2006 Rev. 2, 5/21 (English)
© 2006-2021 Fluke Corporation. All rights reserved.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
All product names are trademarks of their respective companies.

1
Introduction
The Fluke Model 116, is a battery-powered, true-rms multimeter (the Meter or Product) with a
6000-count display and a bar graph.
Contact Fluke
Fluke Corporation operates worldwide. For local contact information, go to our website:
www.fluke.com
To register your product, view, print, or download the latest manual or manual supplement, go
to our website.
Fluke Corporation
P.O. Box 9090
Everett, WA 98206-9090
[phone]
[e-mail]
Safety Information
General Safety Information is in the printed Safety Information document that ships with the
Product and at www.fluke.com. More specific safety information is listed where applicable.
A Warning identifies hazardous conditions and procedures that are dangerous to the user. A
Caution identifies conditions and procedures that can cause damage to the Product or the
equipment under test.
Unsafe Voltage
To alert you to the presence of a potentially hazardous voltage, the Zsymbol shows when the
Meter measures a voltage ≥30 V or a voltage overload (OL) condition. When making frequency
measurements >1 kHz, the Zsymbol is unspecified.

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Display
Table 1 shows the areas of the display.
Table 1. D isplay
Item Symbol Description
sThe Meter function is set to Continuity.
RThe Meter function is set to Diode Test
OInput is a negative value.
ZXUnsafe voltage. Measured input voltage ≥30 V, or voltage
overload condition (OL).
KDisplay hold enabled. Display freezes present reading.

M
VW
X
MIN MAX AVG mode enabled.
Maximum, minimum, average or present reading displays
LoZ The Meter is measuring voltage or capacitance with a low input
impedance.
nµF mV µA
MkΩkHz Measurement units.
DC AC Direct current or alternating current
NBattery low warning.
610000 mV Indicates the Meter’s range selection.
(Bar graph) Analog display.

Auto Volts The Meter is in the Auto Volts function.
Auto Autoranging. The Meter selects the range for best resolution.
Manual Manual ranging. User sets the Meter’s range.
+Bar graph polarity
0L WThe input is too large for the selected range.
OPEn Thermocouple missing or defective when Temperature function
is selected.
9
6
5
3
15 16
10
12
13
14
4
1
2
7
11
8

True-rms Multimeter
Te r m i n a l s
3
Terminals
Table 2 is a list of terminals on the Meter.
Error Messages
Table 3 is a list of error messages for the Meter.
Table 2. Terminals
No. Description
Common (return) terminal for all measurements.
Input terminal for all measurements.
Table 3. Error Messages
Error Messages
bAtt Battery must be replaced before the Meter will operate.
CAL Err Calibration required. Meter calibration is required before the Meter will
operate.
EEPr Err Internal error. The Meter must be repaired before it will operate.
F11 Err Internal error. The Meter must be repaired before it will operate.
COM +
1
2

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Users Manual
4
Rotary Switch Positions
Table 4 is a list of the rotary switch positions and features.
Battery Saver™ (Sleep Mode)
If the Meter is ON, but inactive and not connected to voltage for more than 20 minutes, the
display goes blank to save battery life. To use the Meter, press any button or turn the rotary
switch. To disable the Sleep mode, see Power-Up Options. The Sleep mode is always disabled
in the MIN MAX AVG mode.
Table 4. Features
Switch Position Measurement Function
OFF The Meter is turned off.
xAutomatically selects ac or dc volts based on the sensed input with a low
impedance input.
eAC voltage from 0.06 V to 600 V.
Frequency from 5 Hz to 100 kHz.
DDC voltage from 0.001 V to 600 V.
lAC voltage from 6.0 to 600 mV, dc-coupled.
DC voltage from 0.1 to 600 mV.
ΩOhms from 0.1 Ωto 40 MΩ.
yTemperature from -40 °C to 400 °C (-40 °F to 752 °F) with K-type
thermocouple
sContinuity beeper turns on at <20 Ωand turns off at >250 Ω.
RDiode Test. Displays OL above 2.0 V.
SFarads from 1 nF to 9999 μF.
$DC current from 0.1 to 600 μA. AC current from 6.0 to 600 μA. DC-
coupled.
Note: All ac functions and Auto-V LoZ are true-rms. AC voltage is ac-coupled. Auto-V LoZ, AC mV
and AC amps are dc-coupled.

True-rms Multimeter
MIN MAX AVG Recording Mode
5
MIN MAX AVG Recording Mode
The MIN MAX AVG recording mode captures the minimum and maximum input values (ignoring
overloads), and calculates a running average of all readings. When the Meter detects a new
high or low, the Meter beeps.
Note
Autoranging and Battery Saver™ are disabled in MIN MAX AVG mode.
To s e t u p :
1. Select the measurement function and range.
2. Push pto enter MIN MAX AVG mode.
3. Mand MAX show on the display. The highest reading detected since entering MIN
MAX AVG shows on the display.
4. Push pto step through the low (MIN), average (AVG), and present readings.
5. To pause MIN MAX AVG recording without erasing stored values, push f. (Kshows
on the display.)
6. To resume MIN MAX AVG recording, push f again.
7. To exit and erase stored readings, push pfor at least one second, or turn the rotary
switch.
Display HOLD
XW Warning
To avoid electric shock, when Display HOLD is activated, be aware that the display
will not change when you apply a different voltage.
In the Display HOLD mode, the Meter freezes the display.
1. Push fto activate Display HOLD. (Kshows on the display.)
2. To exit and return to normal operation, push for turn the rotary switch.
Backlight
Push Qto toggle the backlight on and off.
The backlight automatically turns off after 40 seconds. To disable backlight auto-off, see
Power-Up Options.

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Manual and Autoranging
The Meter has both Manual and Autorange modes. The Meter defaults to Autorange. To toggle
between Manual and Autorange, push qfor 1 second.
• In the Autorange mode, the Meter selects the range with the best resolution.
• In the Manual Range mode, you override Autorange and select the range yourself. Push
qfor 1 second to enter Manual range. (Manual shows on the display.) Push qto
increment the range. After the highest range, the Meter wraps to the lowest range.
Note
You cannot manually change the range in the MIN MAX AVG or Display HOLD modes. If
you push qwhile in MIN MAX AVG or Display Hold, the Meter beeps twice,
indicating an invalid operation and the range does not change.
Power-Up Options
To select a Power-Up Option, hold down the button indicated in Ta b l e 5 while turning the Meter
from OFF to any other function. Power-Up Options are canceled when you turn off the Meter
and when sleep mode is activated.
Table 5. Power-Up Optio n s
Button Power-Up Options
fTurns on all display segments until button is released.
pDisables beeper. bEEP shows when enabled.
qEnables low impedance capacitance measurements. LCAP shows when
enabled.
gDisables Battery Saver™ (Sleep mode). PoFF shows when enabled.
QDisables auto backlight off. LoFF is displayed when enabled.

True-rms Multimeter
Making Basic Measurements
7
Making Basic Measurements
When connecting the test leads to the circuit or device, connect the common (COM) test lead
before connecting the live lead; when removing the test leads, remove the live lead before
removing the common test lead.
XW Warning
To prevent electric shock, injury, or damage to the Meter, disconnect circuit
power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before testing resistance,
continuity, diodes, or capacitance.
Measuring Resistance
Testing for Continuity
Note
Use the continuity function as a fast, convenient method to check for opens and
shorts. For maximum accuracy in making resistance measurements, use the Meter’s
resistance (e)function.
RANGE
600 :
6 k:
60 k:
600 k:
6 M:
40 M:

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Measuring AC and DC Voltage
Using Auto Volts Selection
With the function switch in the xposition, the Meter automatically selects a dc or ac voltage
measurement based on the input applied between the V or + and COM jacks.
This function also sets the Meter’s input impedance to approximately 3 kΩto reduce the
possibility of false readings due to ghost voltages.
Measuring AC and DC Millivolts
With the function switch in the lposition, the Meter measures ac plus dc millivolts. Press
gto set the Meter to dc millivolts.
V ac
V
V dc
V dc
mV ac
DC

True-rms Multimeter
Making Basic Measurements
9
Measuring AC or DC Current
XW Warning
To avoid personal injury or damage to the Meter:
• Never attempt to make an in-circuit current measurement when the open-circuit
potential to earth is >600 V.
• Use the proper terminals, switch position, and range for your measurement.
To measure flame rectification circuits:
1. Turn the function switch to $.
2. Connect the Meter between the flame sensor probe and the control module.
3. Turn heating unit on and record μA measurement.
0
10

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10
Measuring Capacitance
Measuring Temperature
XW Warning
To prevent risk of electric shock, do NOT connect 80BK to live circuits.
80BK Type K

True-rms Multimeter
Making Basic Measurements
11
Measuring Frequency
XW Warning
To prevent electrical shock, disregard the bar graph for frequencies >1 kHz. If the
frequency of the measured signal is >1 kHz, the bar graph and Zare unspecified.
The Meter measures the frequency of a signal by counting the number of times the signal
crosses a trigger level each second. The trigger level is 0 V, 0 A for all ranges.
Press gto turn on or turn off the frequency measurement function on and off. Frequency
works with ac functions only.
In frequency, the bar graph and range annunciator indicate the ac voltage or current present.
Select progressively lower ranges using manual ranging for a stable reading.
Making Low Impedance Capacitance Measurements
For making capacitance measurements on cables with ghost voltage:
1. Hold qas you turn on the Meter to enable the low-input impedance Capacitance mode.
2. Wait until LCAP shows on the display.
In this mode, capacitance measurements will have a lower accuracy and lower dynamic
range.
Note
This setting is not saved when the Meter is turned off or goes into sleep mode.
V ac Hz
Hz
Hz

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12
Te s t i n g D i o d e s
1x

True-rms Multimeter
Making Basic Measurements
13
Measuring Current above 600 μA
The millivolt and voltage function of the Meter can be used with an optional mV/A output
Current Probe to measure currents that exceed the rating of the Meter. Make sure the Meter
has the correct function, AC or DC, selected for your current probe. Refer to a Fluke catalog or
contact your local Fluke representative for compatible current clamps.
Using the Bargraph
The bar graph is like the needle on an analog meter. It has an overload indicator ( ) to the right
and a polarity indicator (+) to the left.
Because the bar graph is much faster than the digital display, the bar graph is useful for making
peak and null adjustments.
The bar graph is disabled when measuring capacitance. In frequency, the bar graph and range
annunciator indicates the underlying voltage or current up to 1 kHz.
The number of segments indicates the measured value and is relative to the full-scale value of
the selected range.
In the 60 V range, for example (see below), the major divisions on the scale represent 0, 15, 30,
45, and 60 V. An input of -30 V turns on the negative sign and the segments up to the middle of
the scale.
CLAMPMETER
i410
ZEROA
600V
CAT
600V
600A

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Maintenance
Maintenance of the Meter consists of battery replacement and case cleaning.
Replacing the Battery
XW Warning
To prevent shock, injury, or damage to the Meter, remove test leads from the
Meter before opening the case or battery door.
See Figure 1 for disassembly.
Figure 1. Disassembly
To remove the battery door for battery replacement:
1. Remove the test leads from the Meter.
2. Remove the battery door screw.
3. Use the finger recess to lift the door slightly.
4. Lift the door straight up to separate it from the case.
5. The battery fits inside the battery door, which is then inserted into the case, bottom edge
first, until it is fully seated. Do not attempt to install the battery directly into the case.
6. Install and tighten battery door screw.
Cleaning
Wipe the case with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Dirt or moisture in the terminals can affect
readings.

True-rms Multimeter
Specifications
15
Specifications
Accuracy is specified for 1 year after calibration, at operating temperatures of 18 °C to 28 °C,
with relative humidity at 0 % to 90 %.
Extended specifications are available at www.fluke.com.
Maximum voltage between any terminal and earth ground........................600 V
Display
Digital .........................................................................................................................6000 counts, updates 4/s
Bar Graph..................................................................................................................33 segments, updates 32/s
Te m p e r a t u re
Operating..................................................................................................................-10 °C to 50 °C
Storage......................................................................................................................-40 °C to 60 °C
Temperature Coefficient.........................................................................................0.1 x (specified accuracy)/°C
(<18 °C or >28 °C)
Altitude
Operating..................................................................................................................2000 meters
Storage......................................................................................................................10 000 meters
Relative Humidity.......................................................................................................95 % to 30 °C, 75 % to 40 °C, 45 % to 50 °C
Battery...........................................................................................................................IEC 6LR61
Battery Life ..................................................................................................................400 hours typical, without backlight
Safety ............................................................................................................................IEC 61010-1: Pollution Degree 2
IEC 61010-2-033
Measurement CAT III 600 V
Ingress Protection.....................................................................................................IEC 60529: IP42 (non-operating)
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
International ................................................................................................................IEC 61326-1: Portable Electromagnetic
Environment CISPR 11: Group 1, Class A
Group 1: Equipment has intentionally generated and/or uses conductively-coupled radio frequency energy
that is necessary for the internal function of the equipment itself.
Class A: Equipment is suitable for use in all establishments other than domestic and those directly connected
to a low-voltage power supply network that supplies buildings used for domestic purposes. There may be
potential difficulties in ensuring electromagnetic compatibility in other environments due to conducted and
radiated disturbances.
Caution: This equipment is not intended for use in residential environments and may not provide adequate
protection to radio reception in such environments.
Emissions that exceed the levels required by CISPR 11 can occur when the equipment is connected to a test
object.
Korea (KCC) ..............................................................................................................Class A Equipment (Industrial Broadcasting &
Communication Equipment)
Class A: Equipment meets requirements for industrial electromagnetic wave equipment and the seller or user
should take notice of it. This equipment is intended for use in business environments and not to be used in
homes.
USA (FCC) .................................................................................................................47 CFR 15 subpart B. This product is
considered an exempt device per clause
15.103.

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Table 6. Accuracy Specifications
Function Range Resolution Accuracy
± ([% of Reading] + [Counts])
DC Millivolts 600.0 mV 0.1 mV 0.5 % + 2
DC Volts
6.000 V 0.001 V
0.5 % + 260.00 V 0.01 V
600.0 V 0.1 V
DC, 45 to 500 Hz 500 Hz to 1 kHz
Auto-V LoZ[1] True-rms 600.0 V 0.1 V 2.0 % + 3 4.0 % + 3
45 to 500 Hz 500 Hz to 1 kHz
AC millivolts[1] True-rms 600.0 mV 0.1 mV 1.0 % + 3 2.0 % + 3
AC Volts[1] True-rms
6.000 V 0.001 V
1.0 % + 3 2.0 % + 360.00 V 0.01 V
600.0 V 0.1 V
Continuity 600 Ω1 ΩBeeper on <20 Ω, off >250 Ω. Detects
opens or shorts of 500 μs or longer.
Ohms
600.0 Ω0.1 Ω0.9 % + 2
6.000 kΩ0.001 kΩ0.9 % + 1
60.00 kΩ0.01 kΩ0.9 % + 1
600.0 kΩ0.1 kΩ0.9 % + 1
6.000 MΩ0.001 MΩ0.9 % + 1
40.00 MΩ0.01 MΩ5.0 % + 2
Diode Test 2.000 V 0.001 V 0.9 % + 2
Capacitance
1000 nF 1 nF 1.9 % + 2
10.00 μF0.01μF1.9%+2
100.0 μF0.1μF1.9%+2
9999 μF1μF100 μF - 1000 μF: 1.9 % +2
>1000 μF: 5 % + 20
Lo-Z Capacitance
(Power-up option) 1 nF to 500 μF 10 % + 2 typical
Temperature
(Type K Thermocouple)
-40 °C to 400 °C 0.1 °C 1 % + 10[2]
-40 °F to 752 °F 0.2 °F 1 % + 18[2]
AC μAmps True-rms[1]
(45 Hz to 500 Hz) 600.0 μA0.1μA 1.5 % + 3 (2.5 % + 3 >500 Hz)
DC μAmps 600.0 μA0.1μA1.0%+2

True-rms Multimeter
Specifications
17
Hz (V or A input)[3]
99.99 Hz 0.01 Hz
0.1 % + 2
999.9 Hz 0.1 Hz
9.999 kHz 0.001 kHz
50.00 kHz 0.01 kHz
Notes:
[1] All ac ranges except Auto-V LoZ are specified from 1 % to 100 % of range. Auto-V LoZ is specified from 0.0 V.
Because inputs below 1 % of range are not specified, it is normal for this and other true-rms meters to display non-
zero readings when the test leads are disconnected from a circuit or are shorted together. For volts, crest factor of
≤3 at 4000 counts, decreasing linearly to 1.5 at full scale. For amps, crest factor of ≤3. AC volts is ac-coupled.
Auto-V LoZ, AC mV, and AC amps are dc-coupled.
[2] AC Volts Hz is ac-coupled and specified from 5 Hz to 99.99 kHz. Minimum input required above 50.00 kHz typically is
>1.1 vac sine. Minimum input typical and not specified. AC Amps Hz is dc-coupled and specified from 45 Hz to 5 kHz.
[3] W>10 A unspecified.Duty cycle: >10 A to 20 A, 30 seconds on, 10 minutes off.
Table 7. Input Characteristics
Function Input Impedance
(Nominal)
Common Mode Rejection Ratio
(1 kΩUnbalanced) Normal Mode Rejection
Volts AC >5 MΩ <100 pF >60 dB at dc, 50 or 60 Hz - - -
Volts DC >10 MΩ <100 pF >100 dB at dc, 50 or 60 Hz >60 dB at dc, 50 or 60 Hz
Auto-V LoZ ~3 kΩ <500 pF >60 dB at dc, 50 or 60 Hz - - -
Open Circuit Test
Voltage Full Scale Voltage Short Circuit Current
Ohms <2.7 V dc to 6.0 MΩ40 MΩ<350 μA
<0.7 V dc <0.9 V dc
Diode Test <2.7 V dc 2.000 V dc <1.2 mA
Table 6. Accuracy Specifications (cont.)
Function Range Resolution Accuracy
± ([% of Reading] + [Counts])