Fluke 561 HVACPro User manual

®
561
Infrared Thermometer
Users Manual
PN 2562924
February 2006 Rev.2, 9/07
© 2006, 2007 Fluke Corporation, All rights reserved. Printed in China.
All product names are trademarks of their respective companies.

LIMITED WARRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
This Fluke product will be free from defects in material and workmanship for two
years from the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover fuses, disposable
batteries, or damage from accident, neglect, misuse, alteration, contamination, or
abnormal conditions of operation or handling. Resellers are not authorized to ex-
tend any other warranty on Fluke’s behalf. To obtain service during the warranty
period, contact your nearest Fluke authorized service center to obtain return au-
thorization information, then send the product to that Service Center with a descrip-
tion of the problem.
THIS WARRANTY IS YOUR ONLY REMEDY. NO OTHER WARRANTIES, SUCH AS
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. FLUKE IS
NOT LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES OR LOSSES, ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY. Since some
states or countries do not allow the exclusion or limitation of an implied warranty
or of incidental or consequential damages, this limitation of liability may not apply
to you.
Fluke Corporation
P.O. Box 9090
Everett, WA 98206-9090
U.S.A.
Fluke Europe B.V.
P.O. Box 1186
5602 BD Eindhoven
The Netherlands
11/99

i
Table of Contents
Title Page
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 1
Contacting Fluke.................................................................................................... 1
Safety Information.................................................................................................. 2
Features................................................................................................................. 3
Display................................................................................................................... 4
Buttons and Connector.......................................................................................... 5
How the Thermometer Works................................................................................. 6
Operating the Thermometer ................................................................................... 6
Locating a Hot or Cold Spot.............................................................................. 6
Distance and Spot Size...................................................................................... 6
Field of View...................................................................................................... 7
Emissivity.......................................................................................................... 7
Switching Between °C and °F........................................................................... 8
Using the Contact Temperature Probe............................................................... 9
HOLD ................................................................................................................ 10
Maintenance .......................................................................................................... 10
Changing the Battery......................................................................................... 10
Cleaning the Lens ............................................................................................. 10
Cleaning the Housing........................................................................................ 10
Troubleshooting..................................................................................................... 11
CE Certification...................................................................................................... 11
Specifications ........................................................................................................ 11

561
Users Manual
ii

iii
List of Tables
Table Title Page
1. Symbols................................................................................................................. 2
2. Surface Emissivity ................................................................................................. 8
3. Recommended Temperature Probes...................................................................... 10

561
Users Manual
iv

v
List of Figures
Figure Title Page
1. Symbols and Safety Markings ............................................................................... 3
2. Infrared Thermometer ............................................................................................ 4
3. Thermometer Display............................................................................................. 5
4. Locating a Hot or Cold Spot .................................................................................. 6
5. Distance and Spot Size .......................................................................................... 7
6. Field of View.......................................................................................................... 7
7. Switching Between °C and °F................................................................................ 9
8. Connecting the Temperature Probe........................................................................ 9

561
Users Manual
vi

1
561
Infrared Thermometer
Introduction
The Fluke 561 Infrared Thermometer (hereafter, the Thermometer) can determine the surface temperature
by measuring the amount of infrared energy radiated by the target’s surface or by contact using a
thermocouple probe. The Thermometer was designed specifically for use in heating, ventilating, and air
conditioning (HVAC) applications. This manual covers all versions of the the Fluke 561.
Contacting Fluke
To contact Fluke, call one of the following telephone numbers:
USA: 1-888-44-FLUKE (1-888-443-5853)
Canada: 1-800-36-FLUKE (1-800-363-5853)
Europe: [phone]
Japan: [phone]
Singapore: [phone]
Anywhere in the world: [phone]
For USA Service: 1-888-99-FLUKE (1-888-993-5853)
Or, visit Fluke's Web site at www.fluke.com.
To register your product, visit register.fluke.com.

561
Users Manual
2
Safety Information
XWWarning
A Warning identifies conditions and actions that pose hazards to the user. To avoid electrical
shock or personal injury, follow these guidelines:
•*Do not point laser directly at eye or indirectly off reflective surfaces.
•Before using the Thermometer inspect the case. Do not use the Thermometer if it appears
damaged. Look for cracks or missing plastic.
•Replace the batteries as soon as the battery indicator (B) appears.
•Do not use the Thermometer if it operates abnormally. Protection may be impaired. When
in doubt, have the Thermometer serviced.
•Do not operate the Thermometer around explosive gas, vapor, or dust.
•Do not connect the optional external probe to live electrical circuits.
•To avoid a burn hazard, remember that highly reflective objects will often result in lower
than actual temperature measurements.
•Do not use in a manner not specified by this manual or the protection supplied by the
equipment may be impaired.
WCaution
To avoid damaging the thermometer or the equipment under test protect them from the
following:
•EMF (electro-magnetic fields) from arc welders, induction heaters, etc.
•Static electricity.
•Thermal shock (caused by large or abrupt ambient temperature changes- allow 30 minutes
for the Thermometer to stabilize before use).
•Do not leave the Thermometer on or near objects of high temperature.
Table 1 and Figure 1 show various symbols and safety markings that are on the Thermometer and in this
manual.
Table 1. Symbols
Symbol Explanation
WRisk of danger. Important information. See Manual.
XHazardous voltage. Risk of electrical shock.
*Warning. Laser.
PConforms to requirements of European Union and European Free Trade
Association (EFTA).
~Do not dispose of this product as unsorted municipal waste. Go to Fluke’s
web site for recycling information.
BBattery
„Chinese manufacturing mark for products manufactured in the Peoples
Republic of China (PRC).

Infrared Thermometer
Features
3
AVOID EXPOSURE- LASERRADIATION
IS EMITTEDFROMTHIS APERTURE
CAUTION
LASERRADIATION- DONOTSTAREINTOBEAM
OUTPUT<1mWWAVELENGTH630-670nm
CLASS2 (II)LASERPRODUCT
COMPLIESWITHFDA21CFR
1040.10AND1040.11
COMPLIESWITHIEC60825
AVOID EXPOSURE - LASER RADIATION
IS EMITTED FROM THIS APERTURE
CAUTION
LASER RADIATION - DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM
OUTPUT <1mW WAVELENGTH 630 - 670nm
CLASS 2 (II)LASER PRODUCT
COMPLIES WITH FDA 21CFR
1040.10 AND 1040.11
COMPLIES WITH IEC 60825
efh010f.eps
Figure 1. Symbols and Safety Markings
Features
The Thermometer includes:
•Single-spot Laser Sighting
•Backlit Display
•Hard Case
•Current Temperature Plus MIN, MAX, DIF Temperature Displays
•Easy Emissivity Selector
•Type-K Thermocouple
•Two AA Batteries
Thermometer features are shown in Figure 2.

561
Users Manual
4
AA
Batteries
(2)
(+)
Display
Function Buttons
Laser
Trigger
Battery
Cover
efh007f.eps
Figure 2. Infrared Thermometer
Display
The primary temperature display reports the current or last IR temperature read until the 7-second hold
time elapses.
The secondary temperature display reports current thermocouple temperature when a type-K thermocouple
is attached. When a thermocouple is not connected, the small temperature display reports a choice of
maximum, minimum, or difference between maximum and minimum temperature.
You can toggle through the minimum, maximum, and difference IR temperatures anytime the display is on.
The MIN, MAX, and DIF temperatures are constantly calculated and updated when the trigger is pressed.
After the trigger is released, the MIN, MAX, DIF temperatures are held for 7 seconds.
Note
When the battery is low, Bappears on the display.
The last selection (MIN/MAX/DIF) is maintained on the secondary display even after the Thermometer has
been turned off, providing the batteries have not failed.

Infrared Thermometer
Buttons and Connector
5
3
4
5
6
2
1
8
7
efh01f.eps
A Laser “On” symbol
B SCAN or HOLD
C °C/°F symbol (Celsius/Fahrenheit)
D Primary temperature display
E Secondary temperature display
F Emissivity LO, MED, HI
G Temperature values for the MIN, MAX, DIF, KTC.
KTC indicates the thermocouple temperature.
H Low Battery symbol. Appears when the battery charge
is < 25%.
Figure 3. Thermometer Display
Buttons and Connector
Button/
Connector Description
CPressCand then press Ato toggle between the MIN, MAX,
and DIF options.
AThe Abutton is used to show the MIN, MAX, and DIF functions in
the secondary display, whichever was pressed most recently.
DSelects the emissivity setting. You can toggle between LO (0.3), MED
(0.7), or HI (0.95) using A.
K-type thermocouple probe used to make contact temperature
measurement.

561
Users Manual
6
How the Thermometer Works
Infrared thermometers measure the surface temperature of an opaque object. The Thermometer’s optics
sense infrared energy, which is collected and focused onto a detector. The Thermometer’s electronics then
translate the information into a displayed temperature reading which appears on the display. The laser is
used for aiming purposes only.
Operating the Thermometer
The Thermometer turns on when you press the trigger. The Thermometer turns off when no activity is
detected for 7 seconds.
To measure temperature, aim the Thermometer at the target, pull and hold the trigger. Release the trigger
to hold a temperature reading.
Be sure to consider distance-to-spot size ratio and field of view. The laser is used for aiming only.
Locating a Hot or Cold Spot
To find a hot or cold spot, aim the Thermometer outside the target area. Then, slowly scan across the area
with an up and down motion until you locate the hot or cold spot. See Figure 4.
efh014f.eps
Figure 4. Locating a Hot or Cold Spot
Distance and Spot Size
As the distance (D) from the target being measured increases, the spot size (S) of the area measured by the
unit becomes larger. The spot sizes indicates 90 % encircled energy. The maximum D:S is obtained when
the Thermometer is 900 mm (36 in) from the target resulting in a spot size of 75 mm (3 in). See Figure 5.

Infrared Thermometer
Operating the Thermometer
7
D:S=12:1
38 mm @
300 mm
75 mm @
900 mm
132 mm @
1500 mm
1.5 " @
12 "
3 " @
36 "
5.3 " @
60 "
S
D
efh005f.eps
Figure 5. Distance and Spot Size
Field of View
Make sure that the target is larger than the spot size. The smaller the target, the closer you should be to it.
See Figure 6.
Yes No
efh004f.eps
Figure 6. Field of View
Emissivity
Emissivity describes the energy-emitting characteristics of materials. Most organic materials and painted or
oxidized surfaces have an emissivity of about 0.95.
If possible, to compensate for inaccurate readings that may result from measuring shiny metal surfaces,
cover the surface to be measured with masking tape or flat black paint (< 148 °C/300 °F) and use the high
emissivity setting. Allow time for the tape or paint to reach the same temperature as the surface beneath it.
Measure the temperature of the tape or painted surface.
If you cannot paint or use tape, then you can improve the accuracy of your measurements with the
emissivity selector. Even with the emissivity selector, it can be difficult to get a completely accurate infrared
measurement of a target with a shiny or metallic surface. Experimentation, using the probe to determine
benchmark temperatures, and experience will help you choose the best setting for specific measurements.
The Thermometer has three emissivity settings: low (0.3), medium (0.7), and high (0.95). Refer to Table 2.
The reference to emissivity settings in the table are suggestions for typical situations. Your particular
situation may differ.

561
Users Manual
8
Table 2. Surface Emissivity
Measured
Surface Switch Setting Measured Surface Switch Setting
Aluminum Iron, Cast
Oxidized Low Oxidized High, Medium
Alloy A3003 Unoxidized Low
Oxidized Low Molten Low
Roughened Low Iron, Wrought
Brass Dull High
Burnished Low Lead
Oxidized Low Rough Low
Copper Oxidized Low, Medium
Oxidized Medium Molybdenum
Electrical
Terminal Blocks Medium Oxidized Low, Medium
Haynes Nickel
Alloy Medium Oxidized Low
Inconel Platinum
Oxidized High, Medium Black High
Sandblasted Medium Steel
Electoropolished Low Cold-Rolled High
Iron Ground Sheet Medium
Oxidized High, Medium Polished Sheet Low
Rusted Medium Zinc
Oxidized Low
Switching Between ° C and ° F
Open the battery compartment and locate the switch positioned between the left side of the battery near the
Thermometer wall. To toggle between °C and °F, use a small screwdriver or paper clip to move the switch
to the desired position. See Figure 7.

Infrared Thermometer
Operating the Thermometer
9
Switch
efh012f.eps
Figure 7. Switching Between °C and °F
Using the Contact Temperature Probe
XWWarning
To avoid electrical shock or personal injury, do not connect the optional external probe to live
electrical circuits.
Connect the probe to the input on the top of the Thermometer. The probe temperature and KTC appears in
the secondary display. The live infrared temperature continues to show in the primary display. Connect the
temperature probe as shown in Figure 8.
Note
With the probe inserted, the Thermometer stays on for 10 minutes (with laser off) after the
trigger is released.
efh009f.eps
Figure 8. Connecting the Temperature Probe

561
Users Manual
10
Table 3 lists recommended Fluke temperature probes for use with the Thermometer:
Table 3. Recommended Temperature Probes
Probe Usage
80PK-25 The piercing probe is the most versatile option. Good for checking air temperature in
ducts, surface temperature under carpets/pads, liquids, thermometer wells, vent
temperatures, and for penetrating pipe insulation.
80PK-1 The general purpose bead probe is an alternative, for quick, accurate surface
temperatures and air temperatures within ducts, vent temperatures.
80PK-8 Pipe clamp probes (2) are essential for tracking continuously changing temperature differentials on hydronic tubing and pipe loops, and good for quick, accurate
refrigerant temperatures.
80PK-26 The tapered probe is a good general-purpose gas and surface probe, with a good
length and low mass tip casing for faster reaction to surface and air temperatures.
80PK-9 The insulation piercing probe provides a sharp tip to pierce pipe insulation and flat probe tip for good surface thermal contact, air temperatures within ducts, and vent
temperatures.
80PK-11 The Velcro pipe probe is a convenient way to attach a thermocouple to a pipe while
keeping hands free.
HOLD
The display will remain activated for 7 seconds after the trigger is released. HOLD appears in the upper
middle of the display. When the trigger is pulled again, the Thermometer will begin measuring in the last
function selected.
Maintenance
Changing the Battery
To install or change the two AA batteries, open the battery compartment and insert the batteries as shown
in Figure 2.
Cleaning the Lens
Blow off loose particles using clean compressed air. Carefully wipe the surface with a moist cotton swab.
The swab may be moistened with water.
Cleaning the Housing
Use soap and water on a damp sponge or soft cloth.
WCaution
To avoid damaging the Thermometer, do NOT submerge it in water.

Infrared Thermometer
Troubleshooting
11
Troubleshooting
Symptom Problem Action
--- (on display) Target temperature is over or under
range Select target within specifications
BLow battery Replace battery
Blank display Possible dead battery Check and/or replace battery
Laser does not work 1. Low or dead battery
2. Ambient temperature above 40 °C
(104 °F)
1. Replace battery
2. Use in area with lower ambient
temperature
CE Certification
The Thermometer conforms to the following standards:
•EN61326-1 EMC
•EN61010-1
•EN60825-1 Safety
Certification testing was conducted using a frequency range of 80 to 1000 MHz with the instrument in three
orientations.
Specifications
Infrared
Measurement Range ................................................................-40 °C to 550 °C (-40 °F to 1022 °F)
Spectral Range.........................................................................8 to 14 microns
Accuracy...................................................................................±1 % or ±1 °C (2 °F); < 0 °C (32 °F),
±1 °C (2 °F) ±0.1°/1°
(Assumes ambient operating temperature
of 23 to 25 °C (73 to 77 °F))
Repeatability.............................................................................±0.5 % of reading or ±1°C (2 °F)
Display Resolution ...................................................................0.1 °C (0.1 °F)
Secondary Display Information................................................Maximum, Minimum, Differential, KTC
Response Time (95 %).............................................................500 ms
Distance to Spot (D:S)..............................................................12:1
Emissivity Adjustment..............................................................Three settings: low (0.3), medium (0.7),
high (0.95)
Contact Probe Input
Input Temperature Range.........................................................-40 °C to 550 °C (-40 °F to 1022 °F)
Input Accuracy..................................................................................Input accuracy ±1.1 °C (±2 °F)
Display Resolution ...................................................................1 °C (1 °F)
Laser
Sighting....................................................................................Single point laser
Power....................................................................................... Class 2 (II) operation; Output < 1 mW,
wavelength 630 to 670 nm

561
Users Manual
12
Wrap Thermocouple Probe (model-specific)
Type..........................................................................................Type K with miniconnector and Velcro
strap, ASTM E230-03 Standard
Tolerance
Measurement Range ................................................................0 °C to 100 °C (32 °F to 212 °F)
Accuracy...................................................................................±2.2 °C (4.0 °F)
Total Length .............................................................................505 mm (20 in) cable terminated with a
Type K thermocouple inside a 495 mm
(19.5 in) nylon Velcro cuff
Bead Thermocouple Probe (model-specific)
Type..........................................................................................Type K with miniconnector
Measurement Range ................................................................ -40 °C to 260 °C (-40 °F to 500 °F)
Accuracy...................................................................................± 1.1 °C (2.0 °F) from 0 °C to 260 °C
(32 °F to 500 °F). Typically within 1.1 °C
(2.0 °F) from -40 °C to 0 °C
(-40 °F to 32 °F)
Cable Length.............................................................................1 m (40 in) terminated with Type K
thermocouple beads
Electrical
Power Supply ...........................................................................2 AA Batteries (alkaline or NiCD)
Power Consumption.................................................................At least 12 hours battery life
Physical
Weight......................................................................................0.322 kg (0.7099 lb)
Size...........................................................................................17.69 cm (6.965 in) x 16.36 cm (6.441 in)
x 5.18 cm (2.039 in)
Environmental
Operating Temperature Range..................................................0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 120 °F)
Relative Humidity .....................................................................0 to 90 %, noncondensing up to 30 °C
(86 °F)
Storage Temperature................................................................-20 °C to 65 °C (-4 °F to 150 °F)
Optional Accessories................................................................Soft Case