VOLTCRAFT 12 19 31 CT-3 Multimeter with Cable Tester User Manual
- June 13, 2024
- VOLTCRAFT
Table of Contents
- VOLTCRAFT 12 19 31 CT-3 Multimeter with Cable Tester
- Product Information
- Key Features
- Product Safety Instructions
- Troubleshooting
- Product Usage Instructions
- OVERVIEW
- INTRODUCTION
- INTENDED USE
- DESIGNATION OF INDIVIDUAL PARTS
- SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
- PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
- SCOPE OF DELIVERY
- INITIAL OPERATION
- Special functions
- MEASURING WITH THE CABLE TESTER
- MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING
- DISPOSAL
- TECHNICAL DATA
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
VOLTCRAFT 12 19 31 CT-3 Multimeter with Cable Tester
Product Information
The Voltcraft Multimeter with CT-3 Cable Tester is a versatile electronic device used for measuring voltage, and resistance, and conducting cable tests. It is designed with user safety and convenience in mind, providing accurate measurements and easy-to-use features.
Key Features
- Measures DC voltage up to 600V with overload protection
- Measures AC voltage up to 600V (50-60 Hz)
- Resistance measurement range from 200 ohms to 20 mega-ohms
- Includes an acoustic continuity tester and diode test function
- Auto-range feature for automatic measurement range selection
- Hold function to freeze measurement values
- Max function for displaying peak values
- Battery change indicator
Product Safety Instructions
When using the Voltcraft Multimeter with CT-3 Cable Tester, it is important to follow these safety precautions:
- Always read and retain the operating instructions for future reference.
- Ensure the device is used in accordance with local regulations and guidelines.
- Do not dispose of the device in regular household waste. Follow proper recycling and disposal procedures.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any problems or malfunctions with the device, here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot:
- Ensure you are following all safety precautions.
- If the device is not functioning properly, check the battery status and replace if necessary.
- If further assistance is required, refer to the operating instructions or contact customer support.
Product Usage Instructions
To use the Voltcraft Multimeter with CT-3 Cable Tester, follow these steps:
- Measuring DC Voltage:
- Turn on the device by pressing the power button.
- Select the DC voltage measurement mode.
- Choose the appropriate range based on the expected voltage level.
- Connect the test leads to the circuit or component being measured.
- Read the voltage value displayed on the screen.
- Measuring AC Voltage:
- Turn on the device by pressing the power button.
- Select the AC voltage measurement mode.
- Choose the appropriate range based on the expected voltage level.
- Connect the test leads to the circuit or component being measured.
- Read the voltage value displayed on the screen.
- Measuring Resistance:
- Turn on the device by pressing the power button.
- Select the resistance measurement mode.
- Choose the appropriate range based on the expected resistance level.
- Connect the test leads to the ends of the resistor being measured.
- Read the resistance value displayed on the screen.
- Using the Cable Tester:
- Turn on the device by pressing the power button.
- Select the cable test mode.
- Connect the cable to be tested to the appropriate terminals of the device.
- Follow the instructions in the operating manual to perform the cable test.
- Interpret the test results based on the indications provided by the device.
For more detailed instructions and information, please refer to the complete operating manual provided with the product.
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
Dear customer,
- By purchasing this Voltcraft® product, you have made a very good decision for which we would like to thank you.
- You have acquired a quality product from a brand family which has distinguished itself in the fields of measuring, charging and network technology thanks to its particular expertise and its permanent innovation.
- With Voltcraft®, you will be able to tackle difficult tasks, no matter whether you are an ambitious hobbyist or a professional user. Voltcraft® offers you reliable technology at extraordinary value for money.
- We are certain: that starting to use Voltcraft will also be the beginning of a long, successful relationship.
- We wish you much enjoyment with your new Voltcraft® product!
INTENDED USE
- Measuring and displaying electric parameters in the range of excess voltage category III (up to max. 600 V against ground potential, pursuant to EN 61010-1) or lower
- Measuring direct and alternating voltage up to a maximum of 600 V
- Measuring resistance values of up to 20 MOhm
- Continuity check (< 150 Ohm acoustic)
- Diode test
- Cable testing function for cables with up to eight wires with RJ45, RJ11, and BNC connectors.
- The insulation is also checked at the same time. It is also possible to test within installed network systems. The device must be connected to voltagefree networks only.
- The device may only be operated with the specified batteries.
- The measuring instrument must not be operated when it is open, i.e. with an open battery compartment or when the battery compartment cover is missing. Measuring in damp rooms or under unfavorable ambient conditions is not admissible.
Unfavorable ambient conditions include:
- Excessive dampness or humidity
- Dust or combustible gases, vapors or solvents
- Electrical storms or conditions during a storm, e.g. strong electrostatic fields
- Any use other than that described above will damage the product and may involve other risks, such as short-circuit, fire, and electric shock. Do not change or modify any part of the product.
- The safety instructions must be observed.
DESIGNATION OF INDIVIDUAL PARTS
(see fold-out page)
Individual components of the multimeter
-
Rotary switch for setting the measuring functions
-
Display (LCD) with function and measuring unit display
-
MODE button for switching the measuring functions
-
COM measuring socket (reference measurement point, minus)
-
V measuring socket for all measurement functions (plus)
-
HOLD button to keep the displayed measurement
-
MAX button to automatically retain the maximum value
-
Removable rubber protective frame with stand clamp, battery compartment on the rear.
Individual components of the cable tester -
Pushbutton for switching the cable tester on and off
-
TEST button for the manual individual wire test
-
Display of the individual wires for test socket 14 (input)
-
Output display for test socket 13
-
Test socket for output
-
Test socket for input
-
Switch for automatic or manual test modes
Individual components of the external circuit indicator -
Test socket for input
-
Display of the individual wires for test socket 16 (input)
Display details
- AC Alternating magnitude for voltage and current
- DC Direct magnitude for voltage and current
- V Volt (unit of electric potential)
- mV Millivolt (exp.-3)
- Ω Ohm (unit of electric resistance)
- kΩ Kiloohm (exp.3)
- MΩ Megaohm (exp.6)
- HOLD Measuring value is maintained
- AUTO Auto range = automatic measuring range
- MAX Displays maximum value
- Change battery
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Please read through the operating instructions completely before using the
product for the first time; they include important information necessary for
correct operation. The guarantee will be rendered null and void if damage is
caused as a result of failure to observe the operating instructions. We will
not assume any responsibility for consequential damage. We will also not
assume any responsibility for damage to assets or for personal injury caused
by improper handling or failure to observe the safety instructions. The
warranty will be rendered null and void in such cases. This device left the
factory in perfect condition in terms of safety engineering. To maintain this
condition and ensure safe operation, you, as the user, must comply with the
safety instructions and warnings contained in these instructions.
The following symbols must be observed:
- A triangle containing an exclamation mark indicates important information in these operating instructions which is to be observed without fail.
- The triangle containing a lightning symbol warns of the danger of an electric shock or of the impairment of the electrical safety of the device.
- The “hand” symbol indicates special information and advice on the operation of the device.
- This product has been CE-tested and meets the necessary European guidelines.
- Insulation class 2 (double or reinforced insulation)
- CAT II Excess voltage category II for measurements on household devices connected to the mains network with a mains plug.
- CAT III Overvoltage category III for measurements in the building installation.
- Earth potential
- For safety and licensing reasons (CE), unauthorized conversion and/or modification of the device is not permitted.
- Consult a specialist if you have doubts about how the appliance operates or about how to connect it safely.
- Measuring instruments and accessories are not toys and have no place in the hands of children.
- The accident prevention regulations of the relevant trade associations for electrical systems and operating materials are to be observed in commercial institutions.
- In schools, training centers, and computer and self-help workshops, the handling of measuring instruments must be supervised by trained personnel in a responsible manner.
- Before measuring voltages, always make sure that the measuring instrument is not set to a measuring range for currents.
- The voltage between the measuring instrument and the earth must never exceed 600 V DC/AC in excess voltage category III.
- The test prods have to be removed from the measured object every time the measuring range is changed.
- Take particular care when dealing with voltages exceeding 25 V AC or 35 V DC!
- Even at voltages as low as these, there is a danger of fatal electric shock if you touch electric conductors.
- Prior to each measurement, check your instrument and its measuring leads for damage. Never carry out measurements when the protective insulation is damaged (ripped, torn off, etc.).
- In order to avoid an electric shock, ensure that you do not touch the connections to be measured, even indirectly, during measurements. When measuring, do not grip beyond the grip range markings present on the test prods.
- Do not use the multimeter just before, during, or just after an electrical storm (electrical shock / high-energy overvoltages). Please make certain that your hands, shoes, clothing, the floor, the measuring instrument, the measurement line switches and switching parts, etc., are dry.
Avoid operation in the immediate vicinity of:
- strong magnetic or electromagnetic fields transmitting aerials or HF generators.
- These could lead to incorrect measurements being carried out.
If you have reason to believe that the device can no longer be operated safely, disconnect it immediately and secure it against being operated unintentionally. It can be assumed that safe operation is no longer possible if:
- the device is visibly damaged,
- it does not function any longer and
- if it has been stored for long periods of time under unfavourable conditions
- if it has been subject to considerable stress in transit.
Do not switch the measuring instrument on immediately after it has been taken from a cold to a warm environment. The condensation generated could cause serious damage to the device. Allow the device to reach room temperature before switching it on. Do not leave the packaging material lying around carelessly since such materials can become dangerous toys in the hands of children. You should also heed the safety instructions in each chapter of these instructions.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
- The multimeter (referred to as DMM in the following) indicates measured values on the digital display. The DMM measured value display comprises 2000 digits (digit = smallest display value).
- A rear positioning foot provides a slightly slanted position, which makes it easier to read the display when measuring.
- The individual measuring functions are selected using a rotary switch for which „auto range“, the automatic range selection, is active. The appropriate range of measurement is set for each application individually.
- The automatic cut-off is always active in order to help save the measuring device’s batteries. This automatically switches the device off after 15 minutes.
- The current measuring ranges are protected by a microfiber.
- The multimeter part of the device requires two micro batteries (type AAA) and the cable tester is supplied with power by a 9 V block battery (supplied).
Further additional functions include:
- „HOLD“ retains the last measured value on the display
- „MAX“ retains the maximum value on the display
- The measuring device can be used for do-it-yourself or for professional applications.
SCOPE OF DELIVERY
Multimeter
- 1 set of safety measuring lines
- 2 micro batteries + 1 x 9 V block battery
- 2 measuring adapters for RJ45
- 2 measuring adapters for BNC
- 2 plastic adapters RJ45 -> RJ11
- 1 BNC adapter
- 1 bag
- Operating instructions
INITIAL OPERATION
Prior to working with the measuring device, you have to insert the enclosed batteries. Insert the batteries as described in the chapter „Maintenance and cleaning“.
The individual measuring functions can be set using the rotary switch. If the rotary switch is set to „OFF“, the measuring device is switched off. The „ON/OFF“ button switches the cable tester on and off. Always turn the measuring device and the cable tester off when not in use.
MEASURING WITH THE MULTIMETER
Do not exceed the maximum permitted input values within the excess voltage
category III. Do not contact circuits or parts of circuits if there could be
voltages higher than 25 V ACrms or 35 V DC present within them. Risk of fatal
injury! Before measuring, check the connected measuring lines for damage such
as, for example, cuts, cracks or squeezing. Defective measuring leads must no
longer be used. Risk of fatal injury! The multimeter consists of two
independent and electrically isolated parts. Only the operating elements shown
here are required for measuring with the multimeter component.
Special functions
The multimeter has special functions which can be used individually during
measuring.
HOLD function
- The HOLD function retains the currently displayed measuring value on the display so it can be read off later or logged.
- To switch on the HOLD function, press the „HOLD“ button (6); an acoustic signal confirms this action and „HOLD“ appears on the display.
- To deactivate the „HOLD“ function, press the „HOLD“ button (6) again or the rotary switch (1).
MAX function
- The MAX function retains the maximum value on the display so it can be read off later or logged.
- To switch on the MAX function, press the „MAX“ button (7); an acoustic signal confirms this action and „MAX“ appears on the display.
- To deactivate the „MAX“ function, press the „MAX“ button (7) again or the rotary switch (1).
- This function is not available in the measuring range diode test and continuity test.
Direct and alternating voltage measurement
Do not exceed the maximum permitted input values; this also applies when measuring superimposed direct voltages (e.g. ripple voltages).
Proceed as follows to measure voltages:
- Turn the multimeter on using the rotary switch (1) and select measuring range „VDC“ for direct voltage or „VAC“ for alternating voltage. The display shows „DC“ or „AC“.
- Insert the measuring lines into the measuring sockets.
- Now connect the two test prods to the object to be measured (battery, circuit etc.).
- The measuring value is shown on the display (2).
The voltage range “V DC/AC” shows an input resistance of >7.5 MOhm. If a minus “-” appears for direct voltage in front of the measured value, the measured voltage is negative (or the measuring leads have been mixed up). If OL appears, then the voltage exceeds the measuring range.
Resistance measurement
Make sure that all the circuit parts, switches and components and other
objects to be measured are disconnected from the voltage at all times.
Proceed as follows to measure resistances:
- Turn the multimeter on using the rotary and select the measuring range „Ω“ . Insert the measuring lines into the measuring sockets.
- Check the measuring leads for continuity by connecting the measuring prods with one another. After that the resistance value must be approximately 0 Ohm.
- Now connect the measuring prods to the object to be measured. As long as the object to be measured is not high-resistance or interrupted, the measured value will be indicated on the display (2).
- As soon as „O.L“ (overflow) appears on the display, you have exceeded the measuring range or the measuring circuit has been interrupted.
If you carry out a resistance measurement, make sure that the measuring points that you contact with the test prods are free from dirt, oil, solderable lacquer or the like. An incorrect measurement may result under such circumstances.
Diode test
Make sure that all the circuit parts, switches and components, and other
objects of measurement are disconnected from the voltage at all times.
Select measuring range
- The display indicates the diode symbol.
- Check the measuring leads for continuity by connecting both measuring prods to one another. After that, the value must be approximately 0 V.
- Now connect the two measuring prods with the object to be measured (diode).
- The display shows the continuity voltage in V.
- If „OL“ is indicated, the diode is measured in the reverse direction or the diode is faulty (interruption).
Continuity check
Make sure that all the circuit parts, switches and components and other
objects of measurement are disconnected from the voltage at all times.
Select measuring range
To activate the acoustic continuity tester function, press the button „MODE“ (3). If you press the button again, the device switches back to the diode test mode, etc. The „continuity check“ symbol appears on the display.
- A measuring value of less than 150 Ohm is identified as continuity; in this case a beep sounds.
- As soon as „OL.“ (overflow) appears on the display, you have exceeded the measuring range or the measuring circuit has been interrupted.
MEASURING WITH THE CABLE TESTER
Only check network lines/installations when the voltage is off.
- The multimeter consists of two independent and electrically isolated parts. Only the operating elements shown here are required for testing cables.
- You can use the cable tester to check that network lines are functioning and connected correctly (note the appropriate pin assignment for the different wiring systems).
- The CT-3 is also able to check the individual circuits in installed circuits. To check installed circuits, you require the enclosed external circuit indicator.
- The bar display at the top shows which individual wires are being currently checked (output signal at socket 13).
- The lower bar display shows the incoming signal at socket 14. This display has the same function as the external circuit indicator. The following display schemata can occur.
Testing individual circuits
- Connect the network circuit you want totest tooutput socket 13 and the other end to socket 14.
- Switch the cable test on with the „ON/OFF“ pushbutton (9).
- You can use pushbutton 15 to switch between automatic and manual test modes.
AUTO
If you press and hold the button, the individual wires are automatically
tested, one by one.
MANUAL
- If you do not press and hold the button, you can switch from one individual wire to the next by pressing the „TEST“ button (10). This function is particularly recommended if there is a fault in the circuit, as you can read the interrupted or connected wires at your leisure.
- After you finish testing, always switch the measuring device off. The cable tester does not switch off automatically.
- To test lines with RJ11 connectors, attach the enclosed plastic adapters to socket 13, 14 or 16.
- On a 6-pin cable, the wire display is translated to one wire. For a 4- pin cable, the display is translated to 2 wires (e.g. 6-pin: wires 2-7; 4-pin: wires 3-6).
- If you use a BNC adapter (2-pin only), then the individual wires 1 and 2 are used.
- The wire insulation is indicated by „G“ or „GND“.
Testing installed circuits
- Use a suitable adapter cable to connect the network socket you want to test to output socket 13.
- Connect the other end of the network to the external circuit indicator in the same way.
- Switch the cable test on with the „ON/OFF“ pushbutton (9).
- You can use pushbutton 15 to switch between automatic and manual test modes (see the „Testing individual circuits“ chapter for these functions). The input is displayed on the external circuit indicator.
- After you finish testing, always switch the measuring device off. The cable tester does not switch off automatically.
- To test lines with RJ11 connectors, attach the enclosed plastic adapters to sockets 13, 14, or 16.
- If you use a BNC adapter (2-pin only), then the individual wires 1 and 2 (2 = interior conductor) are used.
- The wire insulation is indicated by “G” or “GND”.
MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING
General information
- To ensure the accuracy of the multimeter over an extended period of time, it should be calibrated once a year.
- The battery charge is described below.
- Regularly check the technical safety of the instrument and measuring lines, e.g. check for damage to the housing or squeezing, etc.
CLEANING
Always observe the following safety instructions before cleaning the
device: Live components may be exposed if covers are opened or parts are
removed (unless this can be done without tools). The connected lines must be
disconnected from all measuring objects prior to cleaning or repairing the
device. Do not use cleaning agents that contain carbon, petrol, alcohol, or
similar substances for cleaning purposes. These could corrode the surface of
the measuring instrument. The vapors are also detrimental to health and are
explosive. Sharp-edged tools such as screwdrivers or metal brushes should not
be used for cleaning purposes. To clean the device, the display, or
measurement lines, use a clean, dry lint-free anti-static cleaning cloth.
Inserting/changing the batteries
The multimeter requires two AAA batteries to operate. You need to insert
new, charged batteries prior to initial operation or when the battery change
symbol appears on the display. The cable tester requires a 9 V block battery.
You need to insert a new battery once the bar display no longer illuminates.
Proceed as follows to insert or change the batteries:
- Disconnect the measuring device from the measuring circuit and turn it off.
- Remove the protective rubber frame from the device.
- Undo the screws on the battery compartment cover (8) and remove the cover.
- Now place new batteries into the battery compartment, observing the correct polarity.
- Close the cover carefully.
Never operate the measurement device when it is open. !RISK OF FATAL INJURY!
Do not leave flat batteries in the device. Even batteries protected against leaking can corrode and thus release chemicals that may be detrimental to your health or destroy the device.
You can order suitable alkaline batteries stating the following item no.:
- Item no: 65 01 05 (please order 2).
- Item no: 65 01 53 (please order 1).
Only use alkaline batteries, since these are powerful and have a long life.
Disposal of flat batteries
As the end user, you are required by law (regulation on disposal of batteries)
to return all used batteries rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries.
Disposing of batteries in the household waste is prohibited.
Batteries and rechargeable batteries containing hazardous substancesare marked
with the symbols shown, indicating that they must not be disposed of in the
household waste. The symbols for the heavy metals concerned are as follows: Cd
= cadmium, Hg = mercury, Pb = lead. You can hand in your used batteries at no
cost at official collection points in your community, at our stores or
anywhere batteries are sold.. You will thus carry out your legal obligations
and contribute to the protection of our environment.
DISPOSAL
Old electronic devices are hazardous waste and should not be disposed of in the household waste. When the device has become unusable, dispose of it in accordance with the current statutory regulations at the communal collection points. Disposal in the household waste is prohibited.
TROUBLESHOOTING
In purchasing the DMM, you have acquired a product that has been designed to the state of the art and is operationally reliable. Problems and malfunctions may, however, still arise. For this reason, the following is a description of how you can eliminate possible malfunctions yourself. Always adhere to the safety instructions.
Error | Possible cause |
---|---|
The multimeter does not work. | Are the batteries flat? Check their condition. |
No measured value alteration. | Is the HOLD function active? |
Repairs other than those described above should only be performed by an authorized specialist. If you have queries concerning the use of the measuring device, our technical support service is available at the following telephone number: Voltcraft®, 92242 Hirschau, Lindenweg 15, Phone 0180 / 586 582 7
TECHNICAL DATA
- Display 2000 digits
- Auto-Power OFF A signal sounds after about 15 minutes and the device shuts down a minute later.
- Input resistance >7.5 MΩ
- Operating voltage DMM: 3 V (2 x AAA)
- Cable tester: 9 V compound
- Operating temperature 0°C to 40°C
- Storage temperature -10°C to 50°C
- Mass Approximately 308 g
- Dimensions (LxWxH) 162 x 75 x 44 (mm)
DMM measurement tolerances
Statement of accuracy in ± (% of reading (= reading = rdg) + display error in
digits (= dgt = no. of the smallest points)). The accuracy is valid for one
year at a temperature of +23°C ± 5°C, and at a relative humidity of less than
75 %, non-condensing.
Direct voltage range, overload protection 600 V
Range Accuracy | Resolution | |
---|---|---|
200 mV | ±(0.8% + 4dgt) | 0.1 mV |
2 V
20 V
| ±(1.3% + 4dgt)| 1 mV
10 mV
200 V| 100 mV
600 V| 1 V
|
Alternating voltage range, overload protection 600 V
Range (50-60 Hz) | Accuracy | Resolution |
---|
2 V
20 V
| ±(1.3% + 6dgt)| 1 mV
10 mV
200 V| ±(1.8% + 10dgt)| 100 mV
600 V| 1 V
| 100 µA
|
Resistance range
Range Accuracy | Resolution | |
---|---|---|
200 W | ±(1.0% + 6dgt) | 0,1 W |
2 kW
20 kW
| ±(1.5% + 4dgt)| 1 W
10 W
200 kW| 100 W
2 MW| ±(2% + 5dgt)| 1 kW
20 MW| ±(5% + 8dgt)| 10 kW
- Acoustic continuity tester <150 Ω
- Diode test Test voltage: 1.5 V;
- test voltage: 1 mA
Do not exceed the maximum permitted input values. Do not contact circuits or parts of circuits if the voltages applied could be higher than 25 V ACrms or 35 V DC. Risk of fatal injury! These Operating Instructions accompany this product. They contain important information on setting up and using your Voltage Detector. You should refer to these instructions, even if you are buying this product for someone else. Please retain these Operating Instructions for future use!
Impressum /legal notice in our operating instructions
- These operating instructions are a publication by Voltcraft®, Lindenweg 15, D-92242 Hirschau/Germany,
- Phone + 49 180/586 582 7 (www.voltcraft.de).
- All rights including translation reserved. Reproduction by any method, e.g. photocopy, microfilming, or the capture in electronic data processing systems requires prior written approval by the editor. Reprinting, also in part, is prohibited.
- These operating instructions represent the technical status at the time of printing. Changes in technology and equipment reserved.
- @ Copyright 2011 by Voltcraft®
- Best.-Nr. /
- Item no. / N° de commande /
- Bestelnr: 12 19 31
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Read User Manual Online (PDF format) >>