Gossen MetraWatt METRAHIT EXTRA User manual

METRAHITEXTRAETECHESPECIALEBASE
High Resolution TRMS Digital Multimeter
Operating Instructions
3-349-456-03
8/10.12

2GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Standard Equipment Contact Persons
Standard Equipment
1 multimeter in HC20 hard case
1 KS17-S measurement cable set
2 batteries
1 abbreviated operating instructions
1 CD ROM (contents: amongst other topics operating
instructions and data sheet)
1 DAkkS calibration certificate
1 Protective rubber cover
1) Alternating voltage measurement with specially reduced input impedance
2
) 16 Mbit = 2048 kByte = 61,600 measured values, sampling rate adjustable from 0.1
seconds to 9 hours
3) IP 65 available with the METRAHIT OUTDOOR model
Function EXTRA ETECH ESPECIAL EBASE
Voltage VDC
(Ri 9 M)
3333
Voltage VAC TRMS
(Ri 9 M)
3333
Voltage Lo1) VAC TRMS
(Ri 1 M)
333
—
Voltage VAC+DC TRMS
(Ri 9 M)
3333
Frequency Hz @ VAC bzw.
@ Lo 1) VAC ... 300 kHz ... 300 kHz ... 300 kHz
... 300 kHz
Low-pass filter 1 kHz @ VAC / @ LoVAC —
Bandwidth @ VAC+DC bzw. VAC 100 kHz 20 kHz 1 kHz
Frequency MHz @ 5V TTL
1 Hz...1 MHz
———
Duty cycle % 2.0 % ... 98 % — — —
Voltage level measurement dB 3333
Resistance  3333
Continuity test
@ICONST = 1 mA
3333
Diode measurement
@I
CONST
= 1 mA
3333
Temperature measurement
C/F @TC
Typ K
Temperature measurement
C/F RTD
Pt100/Pt1000 — —
Capacitance measurement F 33
——
Current ADC
600  A/6 mA
60 mA/600 mA
6 A/10 A (16 A)
60 mA/600 mA
6 A/10 A (16 A)
6 A/10 A (16 A)
A Current AAC+DC TRMS
Current AAC TRMS
Bandwidth @ AAC+DC bzw. AAC 10 kHz —
Frequency Hz @ AAC ... 60 kHz —
Measurement with current clamp
with adjustable transfer factor
mV / A
mA / A
mV / A
A / A
mV / A
—
Data logger function 2)
(memory) 16 Mbit — — —
Relative value measurement  REL 3333
Zero point ZERO 3333
MIN/MAX/DATA Hold 3333
IR-interface (38.4 kBd) 3333
Power pack connector socket 3
———
Protective rubber cover 3333
Fuse 10 A / 1000 V 10 A / 1000 V — —
Protection 3) IP52 IP52 IP52 IP52
Measuring category 1000 V CAT III
600 V CAT IV 600 V CAT II
1000 V CAT III
600 V CAT IV
DAkkS calibration certificate 3333
Function EXTRA ETECH ESPECIAL EBASE

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 3
Contact Persons
Accessories (sensors, plug inserts, adapters, consumable materials)
The accessories available for your instrument are checked for
compliance with currently valid safety regulations at regular
intervals, and are expanded as required for new applications.
Currently up-to-date accessories which are suitable for your
measuring instrument are listed at the following web address
along with photo, order number, description and, depending
upon the scope of the respective accessory, data sheet and
operating instructions:
www.gossenmetrawatt.com
See also chapter 10 on page 68.
Product Support
Technical Inquiries
(use, operation, software registration)
If required please contact:
GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Product Support Hotline
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail [email protected]
Software Enabling for METRAwin10 (as of version 6.xx)
GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Front Office
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
Training
Training in Nuremberg, on-site training at customer facilities
(scheduling, prices, registration, travel, accommodation)
If required please contact:
GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Training Division
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]

4GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Standard Equipment Contact Persons
Recalibration Service
GMC-I Service GmbH will calibrate or recalibrate all instruments
supplied by us or made by any other manufacturer. Our calibra-
tion facility is licensed by the German DAkkS organization that is
recognized throughout the world. Our products can also be recal-
ibrated by any other calibration laboratory based on the technical
specifications published in the operations manual.
Repair and Replacement Parts Service
Calibration Center * and Rental Instrument Service
If required please contact:
GMC-I Service GmbH
Service Center
Thomas-Mann-Str. 20
90471 Nürnberg, Germany
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]
www.gmci-service.com
This address is only valid in Germany. Please contact our
representatives or subsidiaries for service in other countries.
* DAkkS Calibration laboratory for measured electrical quantities,
D-K-15080-01-01, accredited in accordance with
DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2005
Accredited quantities: direct voltage, direct current value, direct current
resistance, alternating voltage, alternating current value, AC active
power, AC apparent power, DC power, capacitance, frequency,
temperature

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 5
Contact Persons
Competent Partner
GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH is certified in accordance with
DIN EN ISO 9001:2008.
Our DAkkS calibration laboratory is accredited by the Deutsche
Akkreditierungsstelle GmbH (National accreditation body for the
Republic of Germany) in accordance with DIN EN ISO/
IEC 17025:2005 under registration number D-K-15080-01-01.
We offer a complete range of expertise in the field of metrology:
from test reports and factory calibration certificates, right on up to
DAkkS calibration certificates.
Our spectrum of offerings is rounded out with free test equipment
management.
As a full service calibration lab, we can calibrate instruments from
other manufacturers as well.

6GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Table of Contents
Contents Page Contents Page
1 Safety Features and Precautions ....................................... 8
1.1 Use for Intended Purpose ................................................................10
1.2 Meanings of Danger Symbols ..........................................................10
1.3 Meanings of Acoustic Warning Signals ............................................10
2 Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch,
Symbols
............................................................................ 12
3 Initial Start-Up .................................................................. 16
3.1 Inserting Batteries or Rechargeable Batteries ...................................16
3.2 Activation .......................................................................................16
3.3 Setting the Operating Parameters ....................................................16
3.4 Switching the Instrument Off ...........................................................17
4 Control Functions ............................................................. 18
4.1 Selecting Measuring Functions and Measuring Ranges .....................18
4.1.1 Automatic Range Selection .............................................................18
4.1.2 Manual Measuring Range Selection .................................................18
4.1.3 Quick Measurements ......................................................................19
4.2 Zero Offset / Relative Measurements ...............................................19
4.3 Display (LCD) .................................................................................20
4.3.1 Digital Display ................................................................................20
4.3.2 Analog Display ...............................................................................20
4.4 Measured Value Storage: DATA (auto-hold / compare) ......................21
4.4.1 Saving Minimum and Maximum Values – MIN/MAX Function ............22
4.5 Measurement Data Recording (METRAHIT EXTRA only) .....................23
5 Measurements ................................................................. 26
5.1 Voltage Measurement ....................................................................26
5.1.1 Direct and Pulsating Voltage Measurement, V DC and V (DC+AC) .....27
5.1.2 Alternating Voltage Measurement with 1 MWLoad Resistance
and Frequency Measurement with Selectable Low-Pass Filter
(METRAHIT EXTRA, METRAHIT ETECH and
METRAHIT ESPECIAL only) ...............................................................28
5.1.3 Alternating Voltage and Frequency Measurement V AC and Hz
with Selectable Low-Pass Filter
(METRAHIT EXTRA, METRAHIT ETECH and
METRAHIT ESPECIAL only) ...............................................................30
5.1.4 Transient Overvoltages ...................................................................33
5.1.5 Voltage Measurements at Above 1000 V .........................................33
5.1.6 Frequency and Duty Cycle Measurements
(METRAHIT EXTRA only) ..................................................................34
5.2 Resistance Measurement, 
5.3 Continuity Test ..............................................................................36
5.4 Diode Testing with a Constant Current of 1 mA ...............................37
5.5 Temperature Measurement ............................................................38
5.5.1 Measurement with Thermocouples, Temp TC ..................................38
5.5.2 Measurement with Resistance Sensors
(METRAHIT EXTRA and METRAHIT ETECH only) ................................39
5.6 Capacitance Measurement
(METRAHIT EXTRA and METRAHIT ETECH only) ................................40
5.7 Current Measurement ....................................................................41
5.7.1 Direct and Pulsating Current Measurement, Direct Connection,
A DC and A (DC+AC) (METRAHIT EXTRA, METRAHIT ETECH and
METRAHIT ESPECIAL only) ...............................................................42

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 7
Table of Contents
Contents Page Contents Page
5.7.2 Alternating Current and Frequency Measurement,
Direct Connection, A AC and Hz
(METRAHIT EXTRA, METRAHIT ETECH and
METRAHIT ESPECIAL only) ............................................................... 43
5.7.3 Direct and Pulsating Current Measurement
with Current Clamp Sensors, A DC and A (DC+AC) ................................44
5.7.4 Alternating Current Measurement with Current Clamp Sensors,
A AC and Hz .................................................................................. 45
5.7.5 Direct, Pulsating and Current Measurement with Current Clamps
Transformer A DC, A (DC+AC), A AC and Hz (METRAHIT EXTRA,
METRAHIT ETECH and METRAHIT ESPECIAL only) ............................. 46
6 Device and Measuring Parameters ................................... 48
6.1 Paths to the Various Parameters ..................................................... 49
6.2 List of All Parameters .................................................................... 49
6.3 Querying Parameters – InFo Menu (as moving letters) ...................... 50
6.4 Entering Parameters – SETUP Menu ............................................... 50
6.5 Default Settings ............................................................................. 53
7 Interface Operation ...........................................................54
7.1 Activating the Interface ................................................................... 54
7.2 Configuring Interface Parameters .................................................... 55
8 Technical Data ................................................................56
9 Maintenance and Calibration ............................................64
9.1 Displays – Error Messages ............................................................ 64
9.2 Batteries ....................................................................................... 64
9.3 Fuse ( METRAHIT EXTRA and METRAHIT ETECH only) .......................... 65
9.4 Housing Maintenance .................................................................... 66
9.5 Return and Environmentally Sound Disposal .................................... 66
9.6 Recalibration ................................................................................. 67
9.7 Manufacturer’s Guarantee .............................................................. 67
10 Accessories .......................................................................68
10.1 General ......................................................................................... 68
10.2 Technical Data for Measurement Cables
(included: KS17-2 safety cable set) ................................................ 68
10.3 NA X-TRA Power Pack (not included) .............................................. 68
10.4 Interface Accessories (not included) ................................................ 69
11 Index .................................................................................70

8GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Safety Precautions
1 Safety Features and Precautions
You have selected an instrument which provides you with a high
level of safety.
This instrument fulfills the requirements of applicable European
and national EC directives. This is confirmed by means of the
CE mark. A corresponding declaration of conformity can be
requested from GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH.
The TRMS digital multimeter has been manufactured and tested
in accordance with the following safety regulations:
IEC 61010–1:2001 / DIN EN 61010–1/VDE 0411–1:2002.
When used for its intended purpose (see page 10), safety of the
operator, as well as that of the instrument, is assured. Their safety
is however not guaranteed, if the instrument is used improperly or
handled carelessly.
In order to maintain flawless technical safety conditions, and to assure
safe use, it is imperative that you read the operating instructions
thoroughly and carefully before placing your instrument into service,
and that you follow all instructions contained therein.
The multimeter is equipped with an automatic socket blocking
mechanism for your safety, and in order to safeguard your
instrument. This mechanism is linked to the rotary switch and only
allows access to those jacks which are actually required for the
selected function. It also prevents the user from turning the rotary
switch to impermissible functions after the measurement cables
have already been plugged in.
The METRAHIT ESPECIAL multimeter does not have a fuse for the current
measuring range. It’s designed for measurements in current transformer
circuits and is approved for measuring category 600 V CAT II.
Measuring Categories and their Significance per IEC 61010-1
The measuring category and the maximum rated voltage which
are printed on the device apply to your measuring instrument, for
example 1000 V CAT III.
For the application of measuring cables see chapter 10.2.
Observe the following safety precautions:
• The multimeter may not be used in potentially explosive
atmospheres.
• The multimeter may only be operated by persons who are ca-
pable of recognizing contact hazards and taking the appropriate
safety precautions. Contact hazards according to standard
exist anywhere, where voltages of greater than 33 V RMS or
70 V DC may occur. Avoid working alone when taking meas-
urements which involve contact hazards. Be certain that a sec-
ond person is present.
•Maximum allowable voltage between the voltage measuring
terminals, and between all connections and earth is 1000 V for
measuring category III, or 600 V for measuring category IV.
The METRAHIT ESPECIAL variant is an exception.
CAT Definition
I
Measurements in electrical circuits
which are not directly connected to the mains:
for example electrical systems in motor vehicles and aircraft, batteries etc.
II
Measurements in electrical circuits
which are electrically connected to the low-voltage mains:
with plugs, e.g. at home, in the office or laboratory etc.
III
Measurements in building installations:
stationary power consumers, distributor terminals, devices connected
permanently to the distributor
IV Measurements at power sources for low-voltage installations:
meters, mains terminals, primary overvoltage protection devices

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 9
Safety Precautions
• Be prepared for the occurrence of unexpected voltages at
devices under test (e.g. defective devices). For example,
capacitors may be dangerously charged.
• Make certain that the measurement cables are in flawless
condition, e.g. no damage to insulation, no interruptions in
cables or plugs etc.
• No measurements may be made with this instrument in
electrical circuits with corona discharge (high-voltage).
• Special care is required when measurements are made in HF
electrical circuits. Dangerous pulsating voltages may be
present.
• Measurements under moist ambient conditions are not
permitted.
• Be absolutely certain that the measuring ranges are not
overloaded beyond their allowable capacities. Limit values are
included in chapter 8, “Technical Data”, in the table entitled
“Measuring Functions and Measuring Ranges” in the “Over-
load Capacity” column.
• The multimeter may only be operated with installed batteries or
rechargeable batteries. Dangerous currents and voltages are
otherwise not indicated, and the instrument may be damaged.
• The instrument may not be operated if the fuse cover or the
battery compartment lid has been removed, or if its housing is
open.
• The input for the current measuring range is equipped with a
fuse link (exception: METRAHIT ESPECIAL and METRAHIT EBASE).
Maximum permissible voltage for the measuring circuit (= rated
voltage of the fuse) is 1000 V AC/DC.
Use specified fuses only (see page 62)! The fuse must have a
breaking capacity of at least 30 kA.
Repair and Parts Replacement
When the instrument is opened, voltage conducting parts may be
exposed. The instrument must be disconnected from the measur-
ing circuit before the performance of repairs or the replacement of
parts. If repair of a live open instrument is required, it may only be
carried out by trained personnel who are familiar with the dangers
involved.
Defects and Extraordinary Strains
If it may be assumed that the instrument can no longer be
operated safely, it must be removed from service and secured
against unintentional use.
Safe operation can no longer be relied upon:
• If the device demonstrates visible damage
• If the instrument no longer functions, or if malfunctioning
occurs
• After long periods of storage under unfavorable conditions,
e.g. humidity, dust or extreme temperature (see “Ambient Con-
ditions” on page 63)

10 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Safety Precautions
1.1 Use for Intended Purpose
• The respective multimeter is a portable device which can be
held in the hand during the performance of measurements.
• Only those types of measurements described in chapter 5 may
be performed with the measuring instrument.
• The measuring instrument, including measurement cables and
plug-on test probes, may only be used up through the maxi-
mum specified measuring category (see page 62 and the table
on page 8 regarding significance).
• Overload limits may not be exceeded. See technical data on
page 56 for overload values and overload limits.
• Measurements may only be performed under the specified
ambient conditions. See page 63 regarding operating temper-
ature range and relative humidity.
• The measuring instrument may only be used in accordance
with the specified degree of protection (IP code) (see page 63).
1.2 Meanings of Danger Symbols
Warning concerning a point of danger
(attention: observe documentation!)
Warning concerning dangerous voltage at the measurement
input: U > 55 V AC or U > 70 V DC
1.3 Meanings of Acoustic Warning Signals
Voltage warning: > 1000 V (intermittent acoustic signal)
Current warning: > 10 A (intermittent acoustic signal)
Current warning: > 16 A (continuous acoustic signal)
!

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 11
Safety Precautions

12 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols
2 Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols
1 Display (LCD) (see page 13 for significance of symbols)
2MAN / AUTO shift key for manual/automatic measuring range selection
Increase parameter values
Operating mode menu:
Select individual menu entries against direction of flow
3 ON / OFF | LIGHT key for switching device and display illumination on and off
4FUNC | ENTER multifunction key
Operating mode menu: Acknowledge entry (ENTER)
5
Increase measuring range or move decimal point to the right (MAN function)
6 Rotary switch for measuring functions, (see page 15 for significance of symbols)
7 DAkkS calibration mark
8 Connector socket for ground
9 Connector socket for current measurement with automatic blocking
10 Connector socket for voltage, resistance, temperature, diode
and
capacitance measurement with automatic blocking
11 DATA/MIN/MAX
Key for freezing, comparing and deleting measured value, and for Min/Max
Decrease values
Operating mode menu: Select individual menu entries in direction of flow
12 MEASURE | SETUP
Key for switching back and forth between measuring and menu function
13 ZERO | ESC
Key for zero balancing
Operating mode menu: Exit current menu level and
return to a higher level,
exit parameters configuration
without saving data
14  Decrease measuring range or move decimal point to the left (MAN function)
15 Connector for power pack (METRAHIT EXTRA only)
16 Infrared interface
*METRAHIT EBASE: Current measurement by means of current clamp sensors with
voltage output only
1
3
4
16
5
6
9 *
*
 chapter 4.3
chapter 3
chapter 5
chapter 7
chapter 6

chapter 3 ff.
chapter 3
13
12
 chapter 4.1
10
2
chapter 4.1.2
14
8
Max. 1000 V!
11
15
chapter 4.1 
chapter 4.4
chapter 6
chapter 3
chapter 3.1 
7
 chapter 1.2
chapter 6

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 13
Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols
Symbols Used in the Digital Display
1 Battery level indicator
2 ON: continuous operation (automatic shutdown deactivated)
3 MAN: manual measuring range selection is active
4 Digital display with decimal point and polarity display
5 max/min: Min/Max value storage
6 DATA: display memory, “freeze” measured value
7 STORE: memory mode active, with METRAHIT EXTRA only
8 ISO: no function here
9 Upm: no function here
10 Transformation factor (current clamp factor)
11 IR: infrared interface display
12 Scale for analog display
13 Pointer for analog display (bar graph – pointer)
depending upon setting in SET menu for the A.diSP parameter
Triangle appears: indicates overranging
14 dB: Alternating voltage level measurement
15 Selected type of current
16 TRMS measurement
17 Pt100/Pt1000: selected platinum resistance sensor with
automatic recognition of Pt100/Pt1000, with METRAHIT EXTRA and
METRAHIT ETECH only
18 Type K: temperature measurement with type K (NiCr-Ni) thermocouple
19 sec (seconds): unit of time
20 REL: relative measurement with reference to offset
21 Unit of measure
22 ZERO: zero balancing active
23 Warning regarding dangerous voltage: U > 55 V AC or U > 70 V DC
24 Continuity test with acoustic signal is active
25 Diode measurement selected
26 h (hours): unit of time
Battery full
Battery OK
Battery weak
Battery (almost) dead, U < 1.8 V
Active data transmission to / from multimeter
IR interface in stand-by mode
(ready to receive starting commands)
Battery level indicator
Interface indicator
121011
13
14
15
16
17
21 18
23
24
765
2022
8
3
12
19
26
4
25
9

14 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols
Symbols of Rotary Switch Positions
Switch FUNC Display Measuring Function METRAHIT
E XTRA
METRAHIT
ETECH
METRAHIT
ESPECIAL
METRAHIT
EBASE
V~ 0/4 V~ AC TRMS Alternating voltage, TRMS AC, full bandwidth 
Hz (V) 1 Hz ~ AC Voltage frequency, up to 300 kHz 
V~ 2 V Fil ~ AC TRMS Alternating voltage, TRMS AC, with low-pass (1 kHz) —
dB 3 dB ~ AC TRMS Alternating voltage level measurement 
V~ 1 M0/3 V~ AC TRMS Alternating voltage, TRMS AC, full bandwidth, input 1 M—
V~ 1 V Fil ~ AC TRMS Alternating voltage, TRMS AC, up to 1 kHz, input 1 M—
Hz (V) 1 M2 Hz ~ AC Voltage frequency, up to 300 kHz, input 1 M—
V 0/2 V DC Direct voltage 
V1VDC
+ AC TRMS Pulsating voltage, TRMS ( ) 
MHz 0/2 MHz (High) frequency @ 5 V~ up to 1 MHz ———
%1 % Duty cycle @ 5 V~ ———
—(Direct current) resistance 
0/2 Continuity testing with acoustic signal 
1V DC Diode voltage up to 6 V 
Temp TC 0/2 C Typ-K Temperature thermocouple Type K 
Temp RTD 1C Pt 100/1000 Temperature with resistance sensor Pt 100/Pt 1000 ——
— nF Capacitance ——
A0/2 A DC Direct current value —
A1 A DC+AC TRMS Pulsating current value, TRMS AC+DC —
A~ 0/2 A~ AC TRMS Alternating current value, TRMS AC —
Hz (A) 1 Hz ~ AC Current frequency —
0/2 A DC Direct current value with AC DC current clamp sensors 1 V:1/10/100/
1000 A

1
A DC + AC TRMS Pulsating current value, TRMS, with AC DC current clamp sensors,
see above

0/2 A~ AC TRMS
Alternating current strength, TRMS, with current clamp sensors, see above 
Hz ( ) 1 Hz ~ AC Current frequency 
1kHz
1kHz
VAC DC+VAC
2VDC 2
+=
A
A
A
A

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 15
Operating Overview – Connections, Keys, Rotary Switch, Symbols
User Interface Symbols in the Following Chapters
... Scroll through main menu
... Scroll through sub-menu
Select decimal point
 Increase/decrease value
time Sub-menu/parameter (7-segment font)
1nFo Main menu (7-segment font, boldface)
Symbols on the Device
Warning concerning a point of danger
(attention: observe documentation!)
Ground
CAT II Measuring category II device, see also
“Measuring Categories and their Significance per IEC
61010-1” on page 8
CAT III / IV Measuring category III or IV device, see also
“Measuring Categories and their Significance per IEC
61010-1” on page 8
Continuous, doubled or reinforced insulation
Indicates EC conformity
sIR tPosition of the infrared interface, window on the top of
the instrument
Position of the power pack connector socket,
see also chapter 3.1 (METRAHIT EXTRA only)
Fuse for current measuring ranges, see chapter 9.3
(not METRAHIT ESPECIAL and METRAHIT EBASE)
The device may not be disposed of with the trash.
Further information regarding the WEEE mark can be
accessed on the Internet at www.gossen-
metrawatt.com under the search term WEEE (see also
chapter 9.5).
Calibration mark (blue seal):
see also “Recalibration” on page 67
!
5 V / 600 mA
Serial number
Registration number
Date of calibraion (year – month)
German Accrediation Body GmbH – Calibration lab
XY123
2012-08
D-K-
15080-01-01

16 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Initial Start-Up – Setup
3 Initial Start-Up
3.1 Inserting Batteries or Rechargeable Batteries
Be certain to refer to chapter 9.2 regarding correct battery
installation.
Momentary battery voltage can be queried in the Info menu (see
chapter 6.3).
Attention!
!
Disconnect the instrument from the measuring circuit before
opening the battery compartment lid in order to replace the
batteries.
Operation with the Power Pack
(accessory for METRAHIT EXTRA, not included, see chapter 10.3)
Installed batteries are disconnected electronically if the NA X-TRA
power pack is used, and need not be removed from the
instrument.
If rechargeable batteries are used, they must be recharged
externally.
If the external power supply is switched off, the device is
automatically switched to battery operation without interruption.
3.2 Activation
Switching the Instrument On Manually
ÐPress the ON / OFF | LIGHT key until the display appears.
Power-up is acknowledged with a brief acoustic signal. As
long as the key is held depressed, all of the segments at the
liquid crystal display (LCD) are illuminated.
The LCD is depicted on page 13.
The instrument is ready for use as soon as the key is released.
Display Illumination
After the instrument has been switched on, background illumina-
tion can be activated by briefly pressing the ON / OFF | LIGHT key. Il-
lumination is switched back off by once again pressing the same
key, or automatically after approximately 1 minute.
Switching the Instrument On via PC
The multimeter is switched on after transmission of a data block
from the PC, assuming the “irStb ” has been set to “iron ”
(see chapter 6.4).
However, we recommend using the power saving mode: “iroff ”.
Note
Electrical discharge and high frequency interference may
cause incorrect displays to appear, and may disable the
measuring sequence.
Disconnect the device from the measuring circuit. Switch the
instrument off and back on again in order to reset. If the
problem persists, briefly dislodge the battery from the
connector contacts (see also chapter 9.2).
3.3 Setting the Operating Parameters
Setting Time and Date
See the “tiME ” and “dAtE ” parameter in chapter 6.4.
Display Modes for the Analog Display
Selection can be made from two different display modes
(see “A.diSP ” parameter in chapter 6.4).
Display Modes for the Digital Display
Selection can be made from two different display modes
(see “0.diSP ” parameter in chapter 6.4).

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 17
Initial Start-Up – Setup
3.4 Switching the Instrument Off
Switching the Instrument Off Manually
ÐPress the ON / OFF | LIGHT key until 0FF appears at the display.
Shutdown is acknowledged with a brief acoustic signal.
Automatic Shutdown
The instrument is switched off automatically if the measured value
remains unchanged for a long period of time (maximum measured
value fluctuation of approx. 0.8% of the measuring range per
minute, or 1C or 1F per minute), and if none of the keys or the
rotary switch have been activated before a selected period of time
in minutes has elapsed (see “APoFF ” parameter on page 51.)
Shutdown is acknowledged with a brief acoustic signal.
Exceptions include:
Transmission and memory mode operation, continuous operation
and whenever a dangerous voltage is applied to the input (U > 55
V AC or U > 70 V DC).
Disabling Automatic Shutdown
The instrument can be set to continuous operation.
ÐSimultaneously press the and keys to
this end.
The “Continuous On” function is indicated at by means of the
ON display to the right of the battery symbol.
The „Continous On“ setting can only be undone by changing the ap-
propriate parameter (device off parameter, see „APoFF “ on page 51),
or by switching off the device manually.
In this case, the parameter is reset to 10 minutes.
Ð
ON / OFF
LIGHT
FUNC
ENTER
ON / OFF
LIGHT
Auto-Range
8.8.8.8.8
Illumination On
000.00
ON / OFF
LIGHT
Illumination Off
000.00
ON / OFF
LIGHT
0ff
ON / OFF
LIGHT
Long
(1 s)

18 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Control Functions
4 Control Functions
4.1 Selecting Measuring Functions and Measuring Ranges
The rotary switch is linked to the automatic socket blocking
mechanism, which only allows access to two connector jacks for
each function. Be certain to remove the appropriate plug from its
respective jack before switching to and from the “A” functions.
The socket blocking mechanism prevents the user from inadvert-
ently turning the selector switch to impermissible functions after
the measurement cables have been plugged in to the instrument.
4.1.1 Automatic Range Selection
The multimeter is equipped with auto-ranging for all measuring
functions, except for temperature measurement, diode and
continuity testing, and the MHz measuring function. Auto-ranging
is active as soon as the instrument is switched on. The instrument
automatically selects the measuring range which allows for
highest possible resolution of the applied quantity. When the
instrument is switched to frequency measurement, the previously
selected voltage measuring range remains active.
The Auto-Ranging Function
The multimeter is switched automatically to the next higher range
at (60000 d + 1 d 06000 d), and to the next lower range at
(05000 d - 1 d 50000 d).
Exception, capacitance measurement:
The multimeter is switched automatically to the next higher range
at (6000 d + 1 d 0600 d), and to the next lower range at
(0500 d - 1 d 5000 d).
4.1.2 Manual Measuring Range Selection
Auto-ranging can be deactivated and measuring ranges can be
selected manually in accordance with the following table by
pressing the MAN / AUTO button.
The desired measuring range can then be selected with the or
scroll key.
The instrument is automatically returned to range selection when
the MAN / AUTO key is pressed, the rotary switch is activated or the
instrument is switched off and back on again.
Overview: Auto-Ranging and Manual Range Selection
* Via manual measuring range selection only
Function Display
MAN / AUTO
Manual mode active:
utilized measuring range is fixed MAN
or 
Range switching sequence for:
V: 600 mV*  6 V  60 V  600 V  1000 V
Hz(V AC): 600 Hz  6 kHz  60 kHz  300 kHz
MHz 600 Hz  6 kHz  60 kHz  600 kHz  1 MHz
 : 600  6 k  60 k  600 k  6 M  60 M 
A: METRAHIT E XTRA : 600  A  6 mA  60 mA 

600 mA  6 A  10 A (16 A)
METRA HIT E TECH :
60 mA
 600 mA  6 A  10 A (16 A)
METRA HIT E SPECIAL : 6 A  10 A (16 A)
Hz (A AC): 600 Hz  6 kHz  60 kHz
A: A
(mV) 600 mV  6 V
A
(mA) 60 mA  600 mA  6 A
siehe chapter 5.7.3 ff.
F: METRAHIT E XTRA und METRA HIT E TECH :
60 nF
 600 nF  6  F  60  F  600  F
MAN
MAN / AUTO Return to automatic measuring range selection —

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 19
Control Functions
4.1.3 Quick Measurements
Measurements performed using a suitable fixed measuring range
are executed more quickly than those which utilize automatic
range selection. Quick measurement is made possible with the
following two functions:
•Manual measuring range selection, i.e. selection of the measuring
range with the best resolution (see chapter 4.1.2).
or
•WiththeDATA function (see chapter 4.4). In this way, the
appropriate measuring range is selected automatically after the
first measurement and the second measurement is executed
more quickly.
The selected measuring range remains active for the subsequent
series of measurements with these two functions.
4.2 Zero Offset / Relative Measurements
Depending upon deviation from the zero point, zero balancing or
a reference value for relative measurements can be stored to
memory:
The applicable reference or correction value is deducted
individually for the respective measuring function as an offset from
all subsequent measurements, and remains in memory until
deleted, or until the multimeter is switched off.
Zero balancing and reference value adjustment can be used for
auto-ranging, as well as for manual measuring range selection.
Zero Balancing
ÐPlug the measurement cables into the instrument and connect
the free ends to each other, except for capacitance
measurement in which case the ends of the cables are not
connected to each other.
ÐBriefly press the ZERO | ESC key.
The instrument acknowledges zero balancing with an acoustic
signal, and the “ZERO REL” symbol appears at the LCD. The
value measured at the moment the key is pressed serves as a
reference value.
ÐZero balancing can be cleared by once again pressing the
ZERO | ESC key.
Note

As a result of TRMS measurement, the multimeter displays a
residual value of 1 to 30 digits with short-circuited measure-
ment cables as the zero point for V AC / I AC or V(AC+DC) /
I (AC+DC) measurements (non-linearity of the TRMS con-
verter). This has no influence on specified accuracy above
1% of the measuring range (or 3% in the 1000 V and 10 A
ranges).
Setting the Reference Value
ÐPlug the measuring cables into the instrument and measure a
reference value (max. 25,000 digits, or 5000 digits in 10 A
range).
Deviation from zero
– With short-circuited measurement cables for V, , A
– With open input for capacitance unit of measure F
Display
0 to 200 digits ZERO REL
> 200 to 25000 digits REL

20 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Control Functions
ÐBriefly press the ZERO | ESC key.
The instrument acknowledges storage of the reference value
with an acoustic signal, and the “ZERO REL” or the “REL”
symbol appears at the LCD. The value measured at the
moment the key is pressed serves as a reference value.
ÐThe reference value can be cleared by once again pressing the
ZERO | ESC key.
Notes Regarding Relative Measurement
• Relative measurement effects the digital display only. The
analog display continues to read out the original measured value.
• In the case of relative measurement, / F or AC quantities
may also appear as negative values.
4.3 Display (LCD)
4.3.1 Digital Display
Measured Value, Unit of Measure, Type of Current, Polarity
The measured value with decimal and plus or minus sign appears
at the digital display. The selected unit of measure and type of
current are displayed as well. A minus sign appears to the left of
the value during measurement of zero-frequency quantities, if the
plus pole of the measured quantity is applied to the “” input.
The “0.diSP ” parameter can be used to determine whether lead-
ing zeros will be appear or be suppressed at the measured value
display (see chapter 6.4).
Overranging
If the upper range limit of 60,000 digits is exceeded “0L” (overload)
appears at the display.
Exceptions: „0L “ appears at the display as of 6000 digits during
capacitance measurement, as well as during continuity and diode
testing.
4.3.2 Analog Display
Measured Value, Polarity
The analog display demonstrates the dynamic performance of a
moving-coil mechanism. This display is especially advantageous
for observing measured value fluctuation, and for balancing
procedures.
Two different display modes can be selected in the “SET” menu
with the help of the “A.diSP ” parameter (see chapter 6.4):
• Bar graph
• Pointer: The current measured value is tracked in real-time.
The analog scale displays a negative range of 2 scale divisions for
the measurement of zero-frequency quantities, allowing for
precise observation of measured value fluctuation around zero. If
the measured value exceeds the negative range of 2 scale
divisions, polarity is reversed at the analog display.
Scaling of the analog scale is automatic. This is very helpful for
manual measuring range selection.
Overranging
Overranging in the positive range is displayed by means of the
right triangle symbol.
Refresh Rate
In the bar graph and pointer modes, the analog display is
refreshed 40 times per second.