TPI 163 User manual
163
Digital Multimeter
Instruction Manual
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2 3
A. INTRODUCTION
1. Congratulations!!
Thank you for purchasing TPI brand products. The meter is
easy to use and is built to last. It is backed by a 3 year
limited warranty. Please remember to complete and return
your product warranty registration card.
2. Product Description
The 163 is a hand-held autoranging DMM. The 163
measures ACV, DCV, ACA, DCA, Resistance, Diodes and
Continuity.
The 163 also features:
•RANGE Allows the user to manually range the
163 instead of autoranging.
•Data Hold Holds the reading on the display for
easy viewing.
•Auto Off Preserves battery life.
The 163 comes complete with the following accessories:
Rubber Boot
Test Lead Set
Instruction Manual
Battery
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page
A. INTRODUCTION
1. Congratulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
2. Product Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
3. EC Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . .4
B. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . .5
C. TECHNICAL DATA
1. Features and Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
2. Product Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
2. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
D. MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES
1. Controls and Functions . . . . . . . . . .10
2. Step by Step Procedures:
a) Measuring DC Volts . . . . . . .12
b) Measuring AC Volts . . . . . . .15
c) Measuring DC Amps . . . . . .16
d) Measuring AC Amps . . . . . .17
e) Measuring Resistance . . . . .19
f) Measuring Diodes . . . . . . . .20
g) Continuity Buzzer . . . . . . . .21
h) Data Hold . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
E. ACCESSORIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
F. MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
G. TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE . . . . . . . . . .23
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2 3
A. INTRODUCTION
1. Congratulations!!
Thank you for purchasing TPI brand products. The meter is
easy to use and is built to last. It is backed by a 3 year
limited warranty. Please remember to complete and return
your product warranty registration card.
2. Product Description
The 163 is a hand-held autoranging DMM. The 163
measures ACV, DCV, ACA, DCA, Resistance, Diodes and
Continuity.
The 163 also features:
•RANGE Allows the user to manually range the
163 instead of autoranging.
•Data Hold Holds the reading on the display for
easy viewing.
•Auto Off Preserves battery life.
The 163 comes complete with the following accessories:
Rubber Boot
Test Lead Set
Instruction Manual
Battery
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page
A. INTRODUCTION
1. Congratulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
2. Product Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
3. EC Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . .4
B. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . .5
C. TECHNICAL DATA
1. Features and Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
2. Product Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
2. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
D. MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES
1. Controls and Functions . . . . . . . . . .10
2. Step by Step Procedures:
a) Measuring DC Volts . . . . . . .12
b) Measuring AC Volts . . . . . . .15
c) Measuring DC Amps . . . . . .16
d) Measuring AC Amps . . . . . .17
e) Measuring Resistance . . . . .19
f) Measuring Diodes . . . . . . . .20
g) Continuity Buzzer . . . . . . . .21
h) Data Hold . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
E. ACCESSORIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
F. MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
G. TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE . . . . . . . . . .23
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4 5
B. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
WARNING: Please follow manufacturers test
procedures whenever possible. Do not attempt to
measure unknown voltages or components until a
complete understanding of the circuit is obtained.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
ALWAYS
• Test the 163 before using it to make sure it is
operating properly.
• Inspect the test leads before using to make sure
there are no breaks or shorts.
• Double check all connections before testing.
• Have someone check on you periodically if
working alone.
• Have complete understanding of circuit being
measured.
• Disconnect power to circuit, then connect test
leads to the 163, then to circuit being measured.
NEVER
• Attempt to measure unknown high voltages.
• Attempt to measure current with the meter in
parallel to the circuit.
• Connect the test leads to a live circuit before
setting up the instrument.
• Touch any exposed metal part of the test lead
assembly.
3. EC Declaration of Conformity
This is to certify that model 163 conforms to the protection
requirements of the council directive 89/336/EEC, in the
approximation of laws of the member states relating to
Electromagnetic compatibility and 73/23/EEC, The Low
Voltage Directive by application of the following standards:
EN 50081-1 1992 Emissions Standard
EN 50082-1 1992 Immunity Standard
EN61010-1 1993 Safety Standard
EN61010-2-031 1995 Safety Standard
To ensure conformity with these standards, this instrument
must be operated in accordance with the instructions and
specifications given in this manual.
CAUTION:
Even though this instrument complies with the
immunity standards, the accuracy can be affect-
ed by strong radio emissions not covered in the
above standards. Sources such as hand held
radio transceivers, radio and TV transmitters,
vehicle radios and cellular phones generate
electromagnetic radiation that could be induced
into the test leads of this instrument. Care
should be taken to avoid such situations or
alternatively, check to make sure that the
instrument is not being influenced by these
emissions.
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4 5
B. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
WARNING: Please follow manufacturers test
procedures whenever possible. Do not attempt to
measure unknown voltages or components until a
complete understanding of the circuit is obtained.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
ALWAYS
• Test the 163 before using it to make sure it is
operating properly.
• Inspect the test leads before using to make sure
there are no breaks or shorts.
• Double check all connections before testing.
• Have someone check on you periodically if
working alone.
• Have complete understanding of circuit being
measured.
• Disconnect power to circuit, then connect test
leads to the 163, then to circuit being measured.
NEVER
• Attempt to measure unknown high voltages.
• Attempt to measure current with the meter in
parallel to the circuit.
• Connect the test leads to a live circuit before
setting up the instrument.
• Touch any exposed metal part of the test lead
assembly.
3. EC Declaration of Conformity
This is to certify that model 163 conforms to the protection
requirements of the council directive 89/336/EEC, in the
approximation of laws of the member states relating to
Electromagnetic compatibility and 73/23/EEC, The Low
Voltage Directive by application of the following standards:
EN 50081-1 1992 Emissions Standard
EN 50082-1 1992 Immunity Standard
EN61010-1 1993 Safety Standard
EN61010-2-031 1995 Safety Standard
To ensure conformity with these standards, this instrument
must be operated in accordance with the instructions and
specifications given in this manual.
CAUTION:
Even though this instrument complies with the
immunity standards, the accuracy can be affect-
ed by strong radio emissions not covered in the
above standards. Sources such as hand held
radio transceivers, radio and TV transmitters,
vehicle radios and cellular phones generate
electromagnetic radiation that could be induced
into the test leads of this instrument. Care
should be taken to avoid such situations or
alternatively, check to make sure that the
instrument is not being influenced by these
emissions.
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6 7
INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS
CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
AC (ALTERNATING CURRENT)
DC (DIRECT CURRENT)
REFER TO INSTRUCTION MANUAL
GROUND
FUSE
DOUBLE INSULATION
C. TECHNICAL DATA
1. Features and Benefits
Safety Meets CE and IEC 1010 requirements.
UL Listed to U.S. and Canadian Safety
Standards.
Data Hold Holds the reading on the display.
Range Allows you to either manual range or
use auto range to select the
appropriate range.
Auto Off Preserves battery life. LCD shows oFF
when in this mode.
Large LCD Easy to read at all angles and the
majority of lighting levels.
Rubber Added protection when the
Boot instrument is dropped.
2. Product Applications
Perform the following tests and/or measurements
with the TPI 163 and the appropriate function:
HVAC/R
FUNCTION
DCmV • Thermocouples in furnaces or gas
applications.
ACA • Heat anticipator current in thermostats.
ACV • Line voltage.
ACV or DCV • Control circuit voltage.
DCµA • Flame safeguard control current.
OHMS • Heating element resistance (continuity).
OHMS • Compressor winding resistance.
OHMS • Contactor and relay coil resistance.
OHMS • Continuity of wiring.
DCmV • Temperature with optional temperature
adapter (A310).
ALL • Bar graph to indicate rapid fluctuations
in measurements.
ELECTRICAL
FUNCTION
ACV • Measure line voltage.
OHMS • Continuity of circuit breakers.
DCV • Voltage of direct drive DC motors.
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6 7
INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS
CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
AC (ALTERNATING CURRENT)
DC (DIRECT CURRENT)
REFER TO INSTRUCTION MANUAL
GROUND
FUSE
DOUBLE INSULATION
C. TECHNICAL DATA
1. Features and Benefits
Safety Meets CE and IEC 1010 requirements.
UL Listed to U.S. and Canadian Safety
Standards.
Data Hold Holds the reading on the display.
Range Allows you to either manual range or
use auto range to select the
appropriate range.
Auto Off Preserves battery life. LCD shows oFF
when in this mode.
Large LCD Easy to read at all angles and the
majority of lighting levels.
Rubber Added protection when the
Boot instrument is dropped.
2. Product Applications
Perform the following tests and/or measurements
with the TPI 163 and the appropriate function:
HVAC/R
FUNCTION
DCmV • Thermocouples in furnaces or gas
applications.
ACA • Heat anticipator current in thermostats.
ACV • Line voltage.
ACV or DCV • Control circuit voltage.
DCµA • Flame safeguard control current.
OHMS • Heating element resistance (continuity).
OHMS • Compressor winding resistance.
OHMS • Contactor and relay coil resistance.
OHMS • Continuity of wiring.
DCmV • Temperature with optional temperature
adapter (A310).
ALL • Bar graph to indicate rapid fluctuations
in measurements.
ELECTRICAL
FUNCTION
ACV • Measure line voltage.
OHMS • Continuity of circuit breakers.
DCV • Voltage of direct drive DC motors.
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8 9
Fuse* (fast blow)
3260mA 0.001mA ±2 digits F600V, .5A, 31CM
32.6mA 0.01mA ±1.5% of reading,
326mA 0.1mA ±2 digits
10A 0.01A ±2% of reading, Fuse* (fast blow)
±2 digits F600V, 10A, 31CM
d. ACA
Range Resolution Accuracy Overload Protection
326µA 0.1µA ±2% of reading, Fuse* (fast blow)
3260µA 1µA ±5 digits F600V, .5A, 31CM
32.60mA 0.01mA
326mA 0.1mA
10A 0.01A ±2.5% of reading, Fuse* (fast blow)
±5 digits F600V, 10A, 31CM
e. OHM (Resistance, )
Range Resolution Accuracy Overload Protection
326Ω0.1Ω±1% of reading, 450V DC or
3.26kΩ0.001kΩ±2 digits AC Peak
32.6kΩ0.01kΩ
326kΩ0.1kΩ
3.26MΩ0.001MΩ±2% of reading, ±2 digits
32.6MΩ0.01MΩ±3.5% of reading, ±4 digits
f. Diode Test
Test Voltage Max Test Current Over Load Protection
3V Approx. 0.5mA 600 V DC or Peak AC
g. Continuity Buzzer
Test Voltage Threshold Over Load Protection
1.2V < 20Ω600 V DC or Peak AC
h. General Specifications
Max. Volt. between 1000V
any Input and Ground
3. Specifications
IEC 1010 Over Voltage:
CAT II - 1000V
CAT III - 600V
Pollution Degree 2
a. DCV
Range Resolution Accuracy Impedance
326mV 0.1mV ±0.5% of reading, 10MΩ
3.26V 0.001V ±2 digits
32.60V 0.01V ±1.0% of reading,
326V 0.1V ±2 digits
1000V 1V
b. ACV
Range Resolution Accuracy Impedance
3.26V 0.001V ±1.2% of reading, 10MΩ
32.6V 0.01V ±4 digits
326V 0.1V
750V 1V
c. DCA
Range Resolution Accuracy Overload Protection
326µA 0.1µA ±1% of reading, Fuse* (fast blow)
3260mA 0.001mA ±2 digits F600V, .5A, 31CM
32.6mA 0.01mA ±1.5% of reading,
326mA 0.1mA ±2 digits
10A 0.01A ±2% of reading, Fuse* (fast blow)
±2 digits F600V, 10A, 31CM
*Warning: Use only correct size, voltage and current rated fuses.
Test Leads: Use only correct type and overvoltage category rating.
*Warning: Use only correct size, voltage and current rated fuses.
Test Leads: Use only correct type and overvoltage category rating.
UL 3111-1
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Fuse* (fast blow)
3260mA 0.001mA ±2 digits F600V, .5A, 31CM
32.6mA 0.01mA ±1.5% of reading,
326mA 0.1mA ±2 digits
10A 0.01A ±2% of reading, Fuse* (fast blow)
±2 digits F600V, 10A, 31CM
d. ACA
Range Resolution Accuracy Overload Protection
326µA 0.1µA ±2% of reading, Fuse* (fast blow)
3260µA 1µA ±5 digits F600V, .5A, 31CM
32.60mA 0.01mA
326mA 0.1mA
10A 0.01A ±2.5% of reading, Fuse* (fast blow)
±5 digits F600V, 10A, 31CM
e. OHM (Resistance, )
Range Resolution Accuracy Overload Protection
326Ω0.1Ω±1% of reading, 450V DC or
3.26kΩ0.001kΩ±2 digits AC Peak
32.6kΩ0.01kΩ
326kΩ0.1kΩ
3.26MΩ0.001MΩ±2% of reading, ±2 digits
32.6MΩ0.01MΩ±3.5% of reading, ±4 digits
f. Diode Test
Test Voltage Max Test Current Over Load Protection
3V Approx. 0.5mA 600 V DC or Peak AC
g. Continuity Buzzer
Test Voltage Threshold Over Load Protection
1.2V < 20Ω600 V DC or Peak AC
h. General Specifications
Max. Volt. between 1000V
any Input and Ground
3. Specifications
IEC 1010 Over Voltage:
CAT II - 1000V
CAT III - 600V
Pollution Degree 2
a. DCV
Range Resolution Accuracy Impedance
326mV 0.1mV ±0.5% of reading, 10MΩ
3.26V 0.001V ±2 digits
32.60V 0.01V ±1.0% of reading,
326V 0.1V ±2 digits
1000V 1V
b. ACV
Range Resolution Accuracy Impedance
3.26V 0.001V ±1.2% of reading, 10MΩ
32.6V 0.01V ±4 digits
326V 0.1V
750V 1V
c. DCA
Range Resolution Accuracy Overload Protection
326µA 0.1µA ±1% of reading, Fuse* (fast blow)
3260mA 0.001mA ±2 digits F600V, .5A, 31CM
32.6mA 0.01mA ±1.5% of reading,
326mA 0.1mA ±2 digits
10A 0.01A ±2% of reading, Fuse* (fast blow)
±2 digits F600V, 10A, 31CM
*Warning: Use only correct size, voltage and current rated fuses.
Test Leads: Use only correct type and overvoltage category rating.
*Warning: Use only correct size, voltage and current rated fuses.
Test Leads: Use only correct type and overvoltage category rating.
UL 3111-1
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10 11
mA Function for measuring milliamps (mA) AC.
1 milliamp = 0.001Amp
10A Function for measuring AC Amps (A).
Function for using audible Continuity Buzzer.
ΩFunction for measuring Ohms (resistance)
and testing Diodes.
OFF (O) Manually turns the 163 off.
1. Controls and Functions: (cont.)
Input Jacks
Fuse Protection mA: 0.5Amp/600VAC A: 10Amp/600VAC
Display Type 3260 Count,with 34 segment bargraph
and low battery indication.
Operating Temp. -0° to 40°C (32° to 104°F)
Storage Temp. -10° to 50°C (14° to 122°F)
Relative Humidity 0% to 80%
Power Supply 2 each 1.5 Volt “AA” Batteries
Battery Life 200 hrs. Typical
Size (H x L x W) 33mm x 86mm x 187mm (1.3in x 3.4in x 7.4in)
Weight 340g (12oz)
D. MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES
1. Controls and Functions:
Push Buttons
RANGE Activates manual ranging. Hold in for 3 sec-
onds to return to autorange. Also selects
between continuity buzzer and diode test.
DATA-H Holds the reading on the display until the
button is pushed a second time.
Rotary Switch
OFF(O) Manually turns the 163 off.
10A Function for measuring DC Amps (A).
mA Function for measuring milliamps (mA) DC.
1 milliamp = 0.001 Amp
µA Function for measuring microamps (µA) DC.
1 microamp = 0.000001Amp
VFunction for measuring DC Volts.
VFunction for measuring AC Volts.
µA Function for measuring microamps (µA) AC.
1 microamp = 0.000001Amp
mA Function for measuring milliamps (mA) AC.
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10 11
mA Function for measuring milliamps (mA) AC.
1 milliamp = 0.001Amp
10A Function for measuring AC Amps (A).
Function for using audible Continuity Buzzer.
ΩFunction for measuring Ohms (resistance)
and testing Diodes.
OFF (O) Manually turns the 163 off.
1. Controls and Functions: (cont.)
Input Jacks
Fuse Protection mA: 0.5Amp/600VAC A: 10Amp/600VAC
Display Type 3260 Count,with 34 segment bargraph
and low battery indication.
Operating Temp. -0° to 40°C (32° to 104°F)
Storage Temp. -10° to 50°C (14° to 122°F)
Relative Humidity 0% to 80%
Power Supply 2 each 1.5 Volt “AA” Batteries
Battery Life 200 hrs. Typical
Size (H x L x W) 33mm x 86mm x 187mm (1.3in x 3.4in x 7.4in)
Weight 340g (12oz)
D. MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES
1. Controls and Functions:
Push Buttons
RANGE Activates manual ranging. Hold in for 3 sec-
onds to return to autorange. Also selects
between continuity buzzer and diode test.
DATA-H Holds the reading on the display until the
button is pushed a second time.
Rotary Switch
OFF(O) Manually turns the 163 off.
10A Function for measuring DC Amps (A).
mA Function for measuring milliamps (mA) DC.
1 milliamp = 0.001 Amp
µA Function for measuring microamps (µA) DC.
1 microamp = 0.000001Amp
VFunction for measuring DC Volts.
VFunction for measuring AC Volts.
µA Function for measuring microamps (µA) AC.
1 microamp = 0.000001Amp
mA Function for measuring milliamps (mA) AC.
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12 13
Application Notes
When measuring DC Voltage of a battery,
the most accurate reading can be
attained by testing the battery under
load.
To accomplish this, follow steps 1
through 4 on page 12 and the following (with
the battery in holder and device turned on):
• Connect the red test lead from the
meter to the positive (+) terminal of
the battery.
• Connect the black test lead to the
negative (-) terminal of the battery.
• Reconnect power to the circuit and
read the voltage on the 163.
a. MEASURING DC VOLTS (cont.)
ARed test lead connection for current
measurements on the 10A functions.
mAµA Red test lead connection for current
measurement on the mA and µA functions.
COM Black test lead connection for all functions.
VΩRed test lead connection for all Volt, Ohm,
Diode and Continuity measurements.
2. Step by Step Procedures:
a. MEASURING DC VOLTS
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement if
a test lead is plugged in the A or µmA input jack.
Instrument damage and/or personal injury may
result.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement of
more than 1000V or of a voltage level that is
unknown.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
V COM VΩ0.1mV 1000V
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12 13
Application Notes
When measuring DC Voltage of a battery,
the most accurate reading can be
attained by testing the battery under
load.
To accomplish this, follow steps 1
through 4 on page 12 and the following (with
the battery in holder and device turned on):
• Connect the red test lead from the
meter to the positive (+) terminal of
the battery.
• Connect the black test lead to the
negative (-) terminal of the battery.
• Reconnect power to the circuit and
read the voltage on the 163.
a. MEASURING DC VOLTS (cont.)
ARed test lead connection for current
measurements on the 10A functions.
mAµA Red test lead connection for current
measurement on the mA and µA functions.
COM Black test lead connection for all functions.
VΩRed test lead connection for all Volt, Ohm,
Diode and Continuity measurements.
2. Step by Step Procedures:
a. MEASURING DC VOLTS
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement if
a test lead is plugged in the A or µmA input jack.
Instrument damage and/or personal injury may
result.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement of
more than 1000V or of a voltage level that is
unknown.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
V COM VΩ0.1mV 1000V
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14 15
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
3 Plug red test lead into the VΩinput jack.
4. Set rotary switch to the V range.
5. Connect the test leads to the circuit to be mea-
sured.
6. Reconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
7. Read the voltage on the 163.
b. MEASURING AC VOLTS
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement if
a test lead is plugged in the A or µmA input jack.
Instrument damage and/or personal injury may
result.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement of
more than 750V or of a voltage level that is
unknown.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
V COM VΩ0.001V 750V
Application Notes
Disconnect power from the termi-
nal block, find the fuse or circuit
breaker that controls the block
and turn it off.
Set up the meter following the
steps under “Measurement
Procedure” on page 15. Then
proceed with the following:
• Connect the red test lead to the hot side of the
block and the black lead to the neutral side of the
block. Reconnect power to the block and read the
voltage on the meter. The reading should be
approximately 110V to 130V.
• Disconnect power from the block and move the
red wire to ground. Reconnect power to the
block and read the voltage on the meter. Typically
less than 20V should exist from neutral to
ground. If 110V or above exists, the block may
be wired incorrectly.
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14 15
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
3 Plug red test lead into the VΩinput jack.
4. Set rotary switch to the V range.
5. Connect the test leads to the circuit to be mea-
sured.
6. Reconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
7. Read the voltage on the 163.
b. MEASURING AC VOLTS
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement if
a test lead is plugged in the A or µmA input jack.
Instrument damage and/or personal injury may
result.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make a voltage measurement of
more than 750V or of a voltage level that is
unknown.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
V COM VΩ0.001V 750V
Application Notes
Disconnect power from the termi-
nal block, find the fuse or circuit
breaker that controls the block
and turn it off.
Set up the meter following the
steps under “Measurement
Procedure” on page 15. Then
proceed with the following:
• Connect the red test lead to the hot side of the
block and the black lead to the neutral side of the
block. Reconnect power to the block and read the
voltage on the meter. The reading should be
approximately 110V to 130V.
• Disconnect power from the block and move the
red wire to ground. Reconnect power to the
block and read the voltage on the meter. Typically
less than 20V should exist from neutral to
ground. If 110V or above exists, the block may
be wired incorrectly.
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16 17
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
µA COM mAµA 0.1µA 3260µA
mA COM mAµA 0.01mA 326mA
10A COM A 0.01A 10.00A
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug the red test lead into the mAµA or Ainput jack
depending on the value of current to be measured.
4. Set the rotary switch to the µA, mA, or 10A function.
5. Connect test leads in series to circuit to be measured.
6. Reconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
7. Read the current on the 163.
d. MEASURING AC AMPS
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a current measurement with the
test leads connected in parallel with the circuit to be
tested. Test leads must be connected in series with the
circuit.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make a current measurement of cir-
cuits with more than 600V present. Instrument damage
and/or personal injury may result.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug the red test lead into the VΩinput jack.
4. Set the rotary switch to the Vfunction.
5. Connect the test leads to the circuit to be measured.
6. Reconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
7. Read the voltage on the 163.
C. MEASURING DC AMPS
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a current measurement with the
test leads connected in parallel with the circuit to be
tested. Test leads must be connected in series with the
circuit.
WARN-
ING!
Do not
attempt to
make a
current measurement of circuits with
more than 600V present. Instrument damage and
/or personal injury may result.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
µA COM mAµA 0.1µA 3260µA
Application Notes
When measuring the
DC current of a flame
controller, follow the steps under
“Measurement Procedure” below and
then proceed with the following:
• Set up the meter for making a
mA measurement.
• Connect the meter to the flame
controller lead by opening the
circuit and inserting the leads in
series with the circuit as shown
in the picture above.
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FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
µA COM mAµA 0.1µA 3260µA
mA COM mAµA 0.01mA 326mA
10A COM A 0.01A 10.00A
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug the red test lead into the mAµA or Ainput jack
depending on the value of current to be measured.
4. Set the rotary switch to the µA, mA, or 10A function.
5. Connect test leads in series to circuit to be measured.
6. Reconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
7. Read the current on the 163.
d. MEASURING AC AMPS
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a current measurement with the
test leads connected in parallel with the circuit to be
tested. Test leads must be connected in series with the
circuit.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make a current measurement of cir-
cuits with more than 600V present. Instrument damage
and/or personal injury may result.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug the red test lead into the VΩinput jack.
4. Set the rotary switch to the Vfunction.
5. Connect the test leads to the circuit to be measured.
6. Reconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
7. Read the voltage on the 163.
C. MEASURING DC AMPS
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make a current measurement with the
test leads connected in parallel with the circuit to be
tested. Test leads must be connected in series with the
circuit.
WARN-
ING!
Do not
attempt to
make a
current measurement of circuits with
more than 600V present. Instrument damage and
/or personal injury may result.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
µA COM mAµA 0.1µA 3260µA
Application Notes
When measuring the
DC current of a flame
controller, follow the steps under
“Measurement Procedure” below and
then proceed with the following:
• Set up the meter for making a
mA measurement.
• Connect the meter to the flame
controller lead by opening the
circuit and inserting the leads in
series with the circuit as shown
in the picture above.
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18 19
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
µA COM mAµA 0.1µA 3260µA
mA COM mAµA 0.01mA 326mA
10A COM A 0.01A 10.00A
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug the red test lead into the mAµA or Ainput jack
depending on the value of current to be measured.
4. Set the rotary switch to the µA, mA or 10A function.
5. Connect test leads in series to circuit to be measured.
6. Reconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
7. Read the current on the 163.
e. MEASURING RESISTANCE
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make resistance measurements
with circuit energized. For best results, remove
the resistor completely from the circuit before
attempting to measure it.
NOTE:
To make accurate low ohm measurements, short
the ends of the test leads together and record the
resistance reading. Deduct this value from actual
readings.
Application Notes
When measuring resistance of a motor,
make sure the power is disconnected prior
to testing.
Set up the meter following the steps under
“Measurement Procedure” on page 19, and
then proceed with the following:
• Connect the red test lead to one power
input line of the motor and the black
test lead to the other power input line
of the motor. In most applications if
the reading is OFL, the motor winding
is open.
• Connect the red test lead to the frame
of the motor and the black test lead to
the winding. In most applications if a
reading of 0 Ohms is displayed, the
winding is shorted to the motor frame
(ground).
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18 19
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
µA COM mAµA 0.1µA 3260µA
mA COM mAµA 0.01mA 326mA
10A COM A 0.01A 10.00A
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug the red test lead into the mAµA or Ainput jack
depending on the value of current to be measured.
4. Set the rotary switch to the µA, mA or 10A function.
5. Connect test leads in series to circuit to be measured.
6. Reconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
7. Read the current on the 163.
e. MEASURING RESISTANCE
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make resistance measurements
with circuit energized. For best results, remove
the resistor completely from the circuit before
attempting to measure it.
NOTE:
To make accurate low ohm measurements, short
the ends of the test leads together and record the
resistance reading. Deduct this value from actual
readings.
Application Notes
When measuring resistance of a motor,
make sure the power is disconnected prior
to testing.
Set up the meter following the steps under
“Measurement Procedure” on page 19, and
then proceed with the following:
• Connect the red test lead to one power
input line of the motor and the black
test lead to the other power input line
of the motor. In most applications if
the reading is OFL, the motor winding
is open.
• Connect the red test lead to the frame
of the motor and the black test lead to
the winding. In most applications if a
reading of 0 Ohms is displayed, the
winding is shorted to the motor frame
(ground).
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20 21
4. Set the rotary switch to the function.
5. Press the Range/Diode/Continuity button
so that shows on the LCD.
6. Connect the black test lead to the banded
end of the diode and the red test lead to
the non-banded end of the diode.
7. Reading on the display should be between
0.3 and 0.8 volts.
8. Reverse test lead connections in 6 above.
9. Reading on the display should be OFL
(Overload).
NOTE: If diode reads 0 in both directions, diode is short-
ed. If diode reads OFL in both directions, diode is open.
g. CONTINUITY BUZZER
WARNING!
Do not attempt to make continuity measurements
with circuit energized.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD
COM VΩ
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
ΩCOM VΩ0.1Ω32.6M
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug the red test lead into the VΩinput jack.
4. Set the rotary switch on the 163 to the Ωfunction.
5. Connect the test leads to the circuit to be measured.
6. Read the resistance value on the 163.
f. MEASURING DIODES
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to make diode measurements with
circuit energized. The only way to accurately test
a diode is to remove it completely from the circuit
before attempting to measure it.
Instrument set-up:
FUNCTION BLACK RED MINIMUM MAXIMUM
TEST LEAD TEST LEAD READING READING
COM VΩ0.001V 2.000V
Measurement Procedure:
1. Disconnect power to the circuit to be measured.
2. Plug the black test lead into the COM input jack.
3. Plug the red test lead into the VΩinput jack.
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