How to use the Fieldpiece multimeter
This article will teach you how to use a field multimeter.
As a contractor, I have mainly used Fieldpiece multimeters for my projects, so I have a few tips to share. You can measure current, resistance, voltage, capacitance, frequency, continuity and temperature.
Read along as I walk with you through my detailed guide.
Parts of a field multimeter
- RMS wireless pliers
- Test lead kit
- Alligator Clamps
- Thermocouple type K
- Velcro
- alkaline battery
- Protective soft case
How to use the Fieldpiece multimeter
1. Electrical testing
- Connect the test leads to the connectors. You must connect the black lead to the "COM" jack and the red lead to the "+" jack.
- Set the dial to VDC mode to check the DC voltage on the circuit boards. (1)
- Point and touch the probes to the test terminals.
- Read the measurements.
2. Using the Fieldpiece multimeter to measure temperature
- Disconnect the wires and move the TEMP switch to the right.
- Insert the Type K thermocouple directly into the rectangular holes.
- Touch the tip of the temperature probes (type K thermocouple) directly to the test objects.
- Read the results.
The meter's cold junction ensures accurate measurements even when the ambient temperature fluctuates widely.
3. Use of non-contact voltage (NCV)
You can test 24VAC from a thermostat or live voltage up to 600VAC with the NCV. Always check a known live source before use. The segment graph will show the presence of voltage and a RED LED. As the field strength increases, the loud tone changes from intermittent to constant.
4. Performing a Continuity Test with a Fieldpiece Multimeter
The HVAC field multimeter is also an ideal tool for testing continuity. Here is how you can do it:
- Turn off the fuse. You only need to pull down the lever to turn off the power.
- Take a field multimeter and set it to continuous mode.
- Touch the multimeter probes to each fuse tip.
- If your fuse has no continuity, it will beep. Whereas, the DMM will refuse to beep if there is continuity in your fuse.
5. Check the voltage difference with a field multimeter.
Power surges can be dangerous. As such, it's worth checking your fuse and seeing if it's there. Now take a field multimeter and follow the instructions below:
- Turn on the fuse; make sure it's alive.
- Take a field multimeter and set it to voltmeter (VDC) mode.
- Place multimeter leads on each end of the fuse.
- Read the results. It will show zero volts if there is no voltage difference in your fuse.
F.A.Q.
What are the features of a field multimeter?
– When measuring voltages greater than 16 VAC. DC/35 VDC current, you will notice that a bright LED and an audible signal will sound an alarm. This is an overvoltage warning.
– Set the gripper to the NCV (non-contact voltage) position and point it at the likely voltage source. To make sure the source is "hot", watch the bright RED LED and the beep.
– The thermocouple does not connect after a short time of voltage measurement due to the temperature switch.
– It includes a power saving feature called APO (Auto Power Off). After 30 minutes of inactivity, it will automatically turn off your meter. It is already enabled by default and APO will also appear on the screen.
What do the LED indicators indicate?
High voltage LED - You can find it on the left side and it will beep and light up when you check for high voltage. (2)
Continuity LED - You can find it on the right side and it will beep and light up when you check for continuity.
Non-contact voltage indicator – You can find it in the middle and it will beep and light up when you use the field instrument's non-contact voltage measurement function.
What should be considered when using a field multimeter?
Here are a few things to consider when using a field multimeter:
– During measurements, do not touch open metal pipes, sockets, fittings and other objects.
– Before opening the housing, disconnect the test leads.
– Check the test leads for insulation damage or exposed wires. If it is, replace it.
– During measurements, hold your fingertips behind the finger guard on the probes.
– If possible, test with one hand. High voltage transients can permanently damage the meter.
– Never use field multimeters during a thunderstorm.
– Do not exceed the clamp rating of 400 A AC when measuring high frequency AC current. The RMS clamp meter can get unbearably hot if you don't follow the instructions.
– Turn the dial to the OFF position, disconnect the test leads and unscrew the battery cover when replacing the battery.
Take a look at some of our articles below.
- CAT multimeter rating
- Multimeter continuity symbol
- Overview of the Power Probe multimeter
Recommendations
(1) PCBs - https://makezine.com/2011/12/02/different types of PCBs/
(2) LED - https://www.britannica.com/technology/LED
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