IDEAL 61-557 User manual

Instrucciones en español adentro / Instructions en français à l’intérieur
61-557
AC/DC Voltage/Continuity Indicator
IDEAL®Test and Measurement

Table of Contents
2
Introduction.......................................................................3
Contacting IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC ..........................................3
Safety Information...............................................................4
Warnings................................................................................................... 4-5
Cautions........................................................................................................5
Symbols.................................................................................................... 6-7
Operation......................................................................8-15
Identification and description of operating controls and functions ............ 8-9
Operating Features......................................................................................10
Using Test Leads.........................................................................................11
Meter Operation ................................................................................... 12-13
Non-Contact Voltage Testing.......................................................................12
Measuring Voltage......................................................................................13
Checking a GFCI.........................................................................................14
Verifying Continuity ....................................................................................14
Functions Operation Table...........................................................................15
Functions Indication Table ..........................................................................16
Electrical Specifications ..............................................................................17
Environmental Specifications................................................ 17
Mechanical Specifications ................................................... 18
EMC / EMI ....................................................................... 18
FCC ............................................................................ 18
Safety............................................................................ 18
Maintenance and Service .................................................... 19

Introduction
The IDEAL 61-557 Voltage Continuity Tester is an auto ranging average root mean
square (ARMS) digital meter that measures AC and DC voltage, Low Impedance
AC Voltage (Lo Z) (to reduce the possibility of false readings due to ghost voltages)
, and continuity, via test-leads. It detects the presence of voltage between 90V
to 600V AC via a non-contact sensor in the top center of the meter. The meter is
also capable of performing a GFCI trip test via the probes. The meter also has a
flashlight and backlit display.
3
Arc Flash and Shock Hazard, Proper PPE Required. Follow all safety procedures,
wear proper PPE in accordance to NFPA 70E. Read and fully understand the
instruction manual prior to using this product. Failure to comply can result in
serious injury or death.
Contacting IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC.
To contact IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC., call one of the following telephone numbers:
IDEAL Industries USA Customer Service
• Phone Number: 800-435-0705
• Email: [email protected]
IDEAL Industries Canada Customer Service
• Phone Number: 905-683-3400
• Email: [email protected]
IDEAL Industries EMEA
• Phone Number: [phone]
• Email: eur[email protected]
IDEAL Industries Australia
• Phone Number: [phone]
• Email: [email protected]
Or visit the IDEAL Electrical Website at www.idealind.com
To register your product, find manuals, watch videos, simply scan this QR code.

Warning -Identifies conditions and actions that could result in
possible death or serious injury if the hazard is realized.
Caution - Identifies conditions and actions that could result in meter dam-
age, equipment under test damage or data loss if the hazard is realized.
WARNING
Safety Information
Arc Flash and Shock Hazard, Proper PPE Required. Follow all safety procedures,
wear proper PPE in accordance to NFPA 70E and follow the guidelines below and
the instructions in this manual when operating the meter. Failure to comply can
result in serious injury or death.
• Choking Hazard, Small Parts. Keep Away from Children. ......
Sharp Objects Hazard, This is not a toy. It is not for use or play by children.
Keep Away from Children. Failure to do so can result in serious injury.
• Only experienced or technically competent consumers should use this
equipment. When in doubt, call an experienced electrician to make any and
all necessary repairs or installations. At all times, perform any necessary
work on a de-energized circuit that has had its circuit breaker turned off and
has been locked out.
• Use the Meter only as specified in this manual or protection provided by the
Meter can be compromised.
• Before using or connecting the Meter, visually inspect it to ensure the cases
are not cracked and the back case is securely in place. Do not use if the
Meter appears damaged.
• Before using the test leads, inspect carefully for damaged insulation,
exposed metal or cracked probes. Check test leads for continuity. Do not use
leads if they appear damaged.
• Use only approved test leads. Do not use improvised connections that could
present a safety hazard.
• When measuring, keep fingers behind the Guard Ring. See “Using Test
Leads” on pg 11.
• Connect the common test lead before connecting the live test lead. When
disconnecting test leads, disconnect the live test lead first.
• This Meter is intended for use by qualified electricians. Follow NFPA 70E
Standards for Electrical Safety in the Workplace when using this Meter.
• Do not use without the batteries correctly in place and the battery door
closed and secured.
• Do not use Meter if it operates incorrectly as protection may be
compromised. When in doubt, have the Meter serviced.
• When servicing the Meter, use only specified replacement parts.
4

Arc Flash and Shock Hazard, Proper PPE Required. Follow all safety procedures,
wear proper PPE in accordance to NFPA 70E and follow the guidelines below and
the instructions in this manual when operating the meter. Failure to comply can
result in serious injury or death.
• Have the Meter serviced only by qualified service personnel.
• Do not use the Meter around explosive gas, dust, or vapor, or during
electrical storms, or in wet environments.
• When measuring, keep fingers behind the Tactile Barrier. See “The Meter”
on pg. 8 and 9.
• Do not apply more than the rated voltage, as marked on the Meter, between
the terminals or between any terminal and earth ground.
• To avoid false readings that can lead to electrical shock and injury, replace
the batteries as soon as the low battery indicator ( ) appears.
• Remove the test leads from the circuit prior to removing the battery door.
• Voltages exceeding 30VAC or 60VDC pose a shock hazard so use caution.
• Always ensure that test leads are secured so that they cannot be accidentally
snagged or tripped over.
• Do not work alone so that assistance can be rendered in an emergency.
• Use extreme caution when working around bare conductors or bus bars.
Contact with the conductor could result in electric shock.
• Adhere to local and national safety codes. Individual protective equipment
must be used to prevent shock and arc blast injury where hazardous live
conductors are exposed.
• Never operate the Meter with the back cover removed or the case open.
• These meters are IP42 dust & water resistant. Following any contact with
water, thoroughly dry meter and test lead jacks prior to subsequent use.
• Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
5
Meter damage, equipment under test damage or data loss can occur if the following
guidelines are not adhered to.
• Use the proper terminals, function, and range for the measurement
application.
• Clean the case and accessories with a damp cloth and mild detergents
only. Do not use abrasives or solvents. Make sure the meter is completely
dry before use.
CAUTION
WARNING

Symbols & Descriptions
SYMBOL DESCRIPTION
Arc Flash and Shock Hazard
Shock Hazard
Warning or Caution
Choking Hazard
AC (Alternating Current)
DC (Direct Current)
Battery Level Indicator
Earth Ground
CAT III IEC Measurement Category III
CAT III has protection against transients in equipment in fixed-
equipment installations such as distribution panels feeders,
and short branch circuits. Also included are lighting systems in
larger buildings.
CAT IV IEC Measurement Category IV
CAT IV has protection against transients from the primary
supply level such as a Meter or overhead or underground utility
service.
NCV Non-Contact Voltage Sensing
NCV Non-Contact Voltage Sensing Point
VVoltage AC or DC
6

SYMBOL DESCRIPTION
Continuity
LoZ Low Impedance Voltage Measurement
LCD Liquid Crystal Display
Double Insulation
Do not dispose of this product as unsorted municipal waste.
It must be properly disposed of in accordance with local
regulations. Please see www.epa.gov or www.erecycle.org for
additional information.
Conforms to applicable North American Safety Standards
Conforms to applicable Australian Safety Standards
Conforms to European Directives
NOTE: The Measurement Category (CAT) and voltage rating of any combination
of test probe, test probe accessory, current clamp accessory, and the Meter is the
LOWEST rating of any individual component.
7

Identification and Description of Operating
Controls and Functions for the 61-557 AC/DC
Voltage Tester:
1. Flashlight/NCV Sensing Point
2. NCV/Continuity High Voltage Indicator LED (RED)
3. Main Display (LCD)
4. VAC VDC LoZ Select Button
5. Continuity Select Button
6. Flashlight/ Backlight Select Button
7. Volts Input Terminal
8. COM Input Terminal
9. Ergonomic Grip
10. NCV Select Button
11. On/Off Button
12. GFCI Button
13. Tactile Barrier
14. Probe Holders
15. Hanging Strap Clip
8
Operation

5
1
11
4
7
10
9
8
13
12
3
6
9
2
14
15

High Voltage Warning (HI-V)
The meter indicates PPE when measuring > 36V AC on the VAC function and >50V
DC when on the VDC function.
10
Operating Features
Auto Power Off (APO) Feature
The meter automatically beeps 5 times and powers down after 15 minutes of
detecting no activity in any of the three following modes; Voltage Test, NCVT, or
Continuity.
LoZ
Low impedance measurements defeat the influence of ghost or stray voltages on
the displayed value which are often caused by induced voltages coupling from one
parallel conductor to the next as found when measuring one conductor in multiple
conductor circuits.
Press and hold the button on the meter to turn the backlight/flashlight on
and off. A short press of the backlight button for less than 1 second will turn the
backlight on or off. A long press of more than 3 seconds will power the flashlight
on or off. The white backlight and flashlight will remain lit for about 5 minutes
before they automatically turn off to conserve battery power. Or turn the lights off by
pressing and holding the button again.
Backlight / Flashlight
Caution - Use caution when using the LoZ function on equipment that may
be damaged by being connected to a low impedance source.
Backlight and flashlight
are selectable to be
on in all functions.

11
Backlight and flashlight
are selectable to be
on in all functions.
Using Test Leads
WARNING: Arc Flash and Shock Hazard, Proper PPE Required.
Follow all safety procedures, wear proper PPE in accordance to NFPA 70E and
follow the guidelines below and the instructions in this manual when operating
the meter with TL-757 Test Leads or equivalent. Test Leads must be rated for the
electrical environment the meter is being used in and have a voltage rating of at
least the voltage of the circuit to be measured. Failure to comply can result in
serious injury or death.
• Choking Hazard, Small Parts. Keep Away from Children. Sharp Objects
Hazard, This is not a toy. It is not for use or play by children. Keep Away
from Children. Failure to do so can result in serious injury.
• These meters are IP42 dust & water resistant. Following any contact with
water, thoroughly dry meter and test lead jacks prior to subsequent use.
WARNING:
1. Use only approved test leads. Do not use improvised connections that could
present a safety hazard.
2. Prior to using the test leads, inspect them carefully for damaged insulation,
exposed metal or bent probes. Check test leads for continuity. Do not use
leads if they appear damaged.
3. When using the probes, keep fingers behind the finger guards on the
probes.
4. Connect the common test lead before connecting the live test lead. When
disconnecting test leads, disconnect the live test lead first.
5. Always ensure that test leads are secured so that they cannot be accidentally
snagged or tripped over.
This meter is intended for use with the IDEAL TL-757 lead set (provided with this
product) or equivalent. The lead set must comply with requirements for Overvoltage
and Measurement Categories CAT IV 600V CAT II 1000V.
NOTE: The 61-557 is only Rated to 600V AC or DC MAX.

12
Meter Operation
Non-Contact Voltage Sensing
First, turn the meter on and then press the NCV button. Place the NCV tip with NCV
close to an AC outlet (or any AC conductor such as light switches or power cords)
and scan back and forth across the outlet.
The meter beeps On/Off continuously
and the Red NCV LED above the display flashes if the sensing antenna detects live
voltage greater than 40V AC (50 -60 Hz). Voltages with frequencies higher than
60Hz or electrostatic charges may also be detected by the NCV sensing antenna.
Either test lead can also be used to differentiate between the hot and neutral. Plug
the red or black test lead into the V input jack on the meter. With the meter in the
NCV mode, insert the probe end of just one probe into the slots on the outlet. The
meter will beep and the Red LED will flash when a hot conductor is contacted.
NOTE: If both leads are inserted to a live conductor while the 61-557 is
in the NCV mode, Err and the PPE warning will flash on and off in the
display and an intermittent beep will sound indicating that the unit is
contacting live voltage BUT NO voltage will be displayed. Press the V
button to read actual voltage.
NOTE: While the NCV is a helpful function, it is ALWAYS
RECOMMENDED that the operator verify that any electrical conductor is
completely de-energized and that no voltage is present by measuring
for voltage AND CONFIRMING THAT NO VOLTAGE IS PRESENT and that
all applicable PPE and lock out tag out procedures be followed before
attempting any work on ANY electrical distribution system.

Meter Operation
13
*Note: When measuring AC voltage, Ghost or stray voltages (caused by
induced voltages coupling from one parallel conductor to the next as found when
measuring one conductor in multiple conductor circuits) may cause an incorrect
value. Selecting the Low impedance position (LoZ) on the dial, (see inset above)
while measuring voltage with the 61-557 will defeat the influence of Ghost or Stray
voltage.
The probe holders on the back may be used to correctly space the two probes to
access a standard outlet for Voltage measurements between the hot and neutral.
Remove the protective caps to expose the probe tips and be sure to reinstall them
when finished.
Measuring AC ( ) or DC ( ) Voltage
AC V LoZ Setting*

14
Verifying Continuity ( )
• Verify the circuit is de-energized.
• The meter will sense the level of resistance and a beep if the resistance is less than
10 kΩto confirm that continuity is present.
• Red LED will illuminate, and the continuity icon will remain displayed.
Checking a GFCI
Remove the protective category caps form the ends of the probes. (BE CERTAIN TO
REPLACE THESE WHEN YOU ARE FINISHED.)
Insert the black probe into the gound slot. Insert the red probe into the small slot
(HOT)in the outlet.

15
Verifying Continuity ( )
Button Response Default Function Operation
ACV/DCV ACV Short press (<1s) for voltage.
Long press (>3s) for LoZ.
GFCI GFCI Press and hold until GFCI trips,
no longer than 7 seconds.
Continuity Continuity Press to select.
NCV NCV Press to select.
Non-Contact Voltage Indication Displays “NCV” & “EF”
Functions Operation Table

Functions Indication Table
Function Description
LCD 600 count LCD. Displays a “-” symbol for all negative readings, displays
“AC” for alternating current or “DC” for direct current.
LCD Backlight White backlight.
Flashlight White flashlight works independently of LCD backlight.
High Voltage
Alarm
1) Effective setting: ACV / DCV.
2) In ACV/DCV, voltage measurement value: ACV ≥36V/DCV ≥50V, LCD
displays high voltage and PPE.
3) If 600V AC/DC is exceeded, the LCD displays “OL”, the buzzer beeps
On/Off continuously and the high voltage alarm (PPE symbol) is displayed.
Over Range
Indication LCD displays “OL” when over range is encountered.
Low Battery
Indication
The “ ” symbol appears in the LCD display with insufficient
voltage. Then the buzzer beeps for 5 seconds and the unit powers down.
This ensures accurate readings.
APO The meter automatically beeps 5 times and powers down after 15 minutes
of detecting no activity in any of the three following modes; Voltage Test,
NCVT, or Continuity.
16

Electrical Specifications
Function Range Resolution Accuracy
61-557 ±(a%+b)
AC Voltage (V) 600V 1V ±(3.0%+2)
LoZ ACV (V) 600V 1V ±(3.0%+2)
DC Voltage (V) 600V 1V ±(3.0%+2)
GFCI (mA) 6mA~9mA 102V,>6.0mA ±(2.0%+5)
1. Overload Protection: 720VRMS
2. Accuracy a is % of reading and b is LSD (Least Significant Digit).
17
Function Range Resolution Accuracy
61-557 ±(a%+b)
Continuity 1.0 Ω
≤10kΩ: Buzzer
beeps and red
indicator LED
illuminates
continuously
≥15kΩ: No buzzer
beep
NCV 90-600V
≥90V/(50 to 60Hz), with direct wire
contact, red indicator LED flashes at a
frequency of 3Hz , and the buzzer beeps
continuously
Function Description
LCD 600 count LCD. Displays a “-” symbol for all negative readings, displays
“AC” for alternating current or “DC” for direct current.
LCD Backlight White backlight.
Flashlight White flashlight works independently of LCD backlight.
High Voltage
Alarm
1) Effective setting: ACV / DCV.
2) In ACV/DCV, voltage measurement value: ACV ≥36V/DCV ≥50V, LCD
displays high voltage and PPE.
3) If 600V AC/DC is exceeded, the LCD displays “OL”, the buzzer beeps
On/Off continuously and the high voltage alarm (PPE symbol) is displayed.
Over Range
Indication LCD displays “OL” when over range is encountered.
Low Battery
Indication
The “ ” symbol appears in the LCD display with insufficient
voltage. Then the buzzer beeps for 5 seconds and the unit powers down.
This ensures accurate readings.
APO The meter automatically beeps 5 times and powers down after 15 minutes
of detecting no activity in any of the three following modes; Voltage Test,
NCVT, or Continuity.
Environmental Specifications
Operating Temperature: 32ºF to 104ºF (0ºC to 40ºC) (<80%RH)
Operating Altitude: 6500 ft (2000 m)
Storage Temperature: 14ºF to 122ºF (-10ºC to 50ºC) (<80%RH)
Intended for indoor use.

18
Mechanical Specifications
Dimensions: (L x W x H) 6.5 in. x 2.25 in. x 2 in.
(160 mm. x 55 mm. x 50.8 mm.)
Weight: 0.3 LBS (0.2 KG)
Display: LCD
Display Count: 600
Power Source: 3 x 1.5V AAA
Battery Life: 100 Hours Typical
Ingress Protection Rating IP42 dust and water resistant
EMC/EMI
CISPR 22 3rd Edition. Class B Limits.
EN 55032
CISPR 32
CISPR 11
FCC 15. 107 with reference to Section 15.109 (g).
ICES-003
EN 61326-2-2 Sec 6.4.2.101
USA (FCC)
47 CFR 15 subpart B. This product is considered an exempt device per
clause 15.103.
Safety
Complies with the following:
IEC 61010-1, Edition 3 (2010-06) +AMD1 (2016-12)
ANSI/UL/IEC EN 61010-1, Edition 3 (2016-04-29)
CSA-C22.2 No. 61010-1-12 Edition 3 (2019-07-19)
IEC 61010-031 Hand-held Probe Assemblies (2015-05)+AMD1(2018-05)
IEC 61010-2-033 (2019-06)
UL1436
Overvoltage CAT IV 600V.
Any voltages exceeding the defined maximum voltage measurement categories
described above are outside the normal use of the equipment and protection cannot
be guaranteed.
Pollution Degree Class 2

Mechanical Specifications
EMC/EMI
USA (FCC)
Maintenance and Storage
Switch off and disconnect the meter completely before carrying out any
maintenance. Clean the case with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use
abrasives or solvents. Keep away from liquids and ensure the meter is completely
dry before use.
Service and Replacement Parts
This unit has no user-serviceable parts.
Shock Hazard. Remove the test leads from the circuit prior to removing the battery
cover. Failure to comply can result in serious injury or death.
Safety
19
Equipment Maintenance and Service
Meter Inspection
Do not use if meter appears damaged. Visually inspect the meter to ensure case is
not cracked.
Test Lead Inspection
Inspect and replace test leads if insulation is damaged, metal is exposed, or probes
are cracked. Pay particular attention to the insulation surrounding the connectors.
Battery Inspection/Replacement
Inspect the battery compartment monthly for any signs of degradation. Low battery
voltages will cause inaccuracies in readings. Remove the batteries for storage
or if the meter will not be used for longer than one month. Battery leakage will
compromise the safety of the meter and cause irreparable damage to internal
components.
Maintenance and Service
-
A A A
+
-
A A A
+
-
A A A
+
Probe Storage

In order to preserve, protect and improve the quality of the environment, protect
human health and utilize natural resources prudently and rationally, the user should
return unserviceable product to relevant facilities in accordance with statutory
regulations. The crossed-out wheeled bin indicates the product needs to be
disposed separately and not as municipal waste.
Do not dispose of this product as unsorted municipal waste. It must be properly
disposed of in accordance with local regulations. Please see www.epa.gov or
www.erecycle.org for additional information.
The user is legally obliged to return used batteries and accumulators. Disposing
used batteries in household waste is prohibited! Batteries/accumulators containing
hazardous substances are marked with the crossed-out wheeled bin. The symbol
indicates that the product is forbidden to be disposed via domestic refuse. The
chemical symbols for the respective hazardous substances are Cd = Cadmium, Hg
= Mercury, Pb = Lead.
You can return used batteries/accumulators free of charge to any collecting point
of your local authority, our stores, or where batteries/accumulators are sold.
Consequently, you must comply with your legal obligations and contribute to
environmental protection.
Disposal of Waste, Electrical & Electronic Equipment
Disposal of Used Batteries/Accumulators
TWO YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
This tester is warranted to the original purchaser against defects in material and
workmanship for a period of two (2) years from date of purchase. With proof of
purchase from an authorized IDEAL distributor, a defective tester will be repaired or
replaced with the same product or a functionally equivalent product, at the option
of IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. during the warranty period, subject to verification
of the defect or malfunction. Warranty does not cover consumables such as
fuses, batteries, and excludes defects caused by leakage from batteries, abuse,
mishandling, dropping, ordinary wear and tear, misuse, neglect, unauthorized
repair, improper use, alterations, accidents or any causes beyond IDEAL’s
reasonable control. Consequential or incidental damages are not recoverable under
this warranty. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
This LIMITED WARRANTY gives you specific legal rights, which vary from state to
state. This warranty constitutes the sole and exclusive remedy of the purchaser and
the exclusive liability of IDEAL, and is in lieu of any and all other warranties, and
expressly disclaims all other warranties, implied, or statutory as to merchantability,
fitness for purpose sold, description, quality productiveness, or any other matter.
No agent, distributor or other supplier has the authority to modify or amend this
warranty or make other representations or warranties other than those contained
in this warranty without express written authorization from IDEAL. For warranty
service, call IDEAL customer service at 1-800-435-0705.
Made in China. 20