CHAUVIN ARNOUX F 3N Current Clamp User Manual

: June 17, 2024
: CHAUVIN ARNOUX

CHAUVIN ARNOUX F 3N Current Clamp

CHAUVIN-ARNOUX-F-3N-Current-Clamp-PRODUCT

Product Information

Specifications

Product Name : Current Clamp
Model Numbers: F1N, F2N, F3N
Languages : French, English, German, Italian, Spanish
Manufacturer: Unknown
Website : https://manual-hub.com/

Description
The Current Clamp is a current clamp device used for measuring current and frequency in electrical systems. The device consists of a clamp and a display unit.

The Clamp
The clamp (refer to figure 1 on page 140) is used to measure the current flowing through a conductor. It can be attached around the conductor to obtain accurate measurements.

The Display Unit
The display unit (refer to figure 2 on page 140) shows the measured values of current and frequency. It also features a buzzerthat emits sound signals for mode recognition and current overload.

Product Usage Instructions

Precautions
Before using the Pince de Courant, please read and follow the safety precautions mentioned in the user manual to ensure safe andaccurate measurements.

Power On/Off
To power on or off the device, press the ON/OFF button twice. This initializes the device to its default configuration.

Measurement of True RMS Current
The Current Clamp can measure current in true RMS value. This provides accurate readings of the current flowing through a conductor.

Measurement of Frequency
The device can also measure the frequency of the electrical system. It supports frequencies ranging from 0.5 Hz to 10 kHz.

Display Hold
The HOLD function allows you to freeze the displayed values for further analysis. Press the HOLD button to activate this feature.

Smooth Mode (F2N and F3N Models)
The F2N and F3N models have a Smooth mode for measuring current and frequency. Press the PEAK/SMOOTH button once to enter this mode. Press it again to exit.

Peak Current Measurement (F2N and F3N Models)
The PEAK mode allows you to visualize the instant peak values on the bar graph display (for 400 ms). Press the PEAK/SMOOTH button twice to activate this mode.

Data Recording (F3N Model)
The F3N model has a data recording feature. In RECORD or HOLD RECORD mode, you can use the PEAK/SMOOTH button and RANGE button for different functions.

Measurement of Min, Max, and Avg Values (F3N Model)
The F3N model can measure and display the minimum, maximum, and average values of current and frequency. Press and hold the MIN/MAX button for 2 seconds to access this feature.

Selection mode
The Pince de Courant offers different modes of operation. Refer to the user manual for detailed instructions on selecting the desired mode.

Examples of Applications
The device can be used for various applications, including general usage and motor-related measurements. The user manual provides specific instructions and examples for each application.

FAQ

Q: Where can I find the user manual for the Pince dev Courant?
A: The user manual can be found on the manufacturer’s website at <https ://manual-hub.com/>.

Q: Can the Pince de Courant measure current in different units?
A: No, the device measures current in its default unit, which is not specified in the given information.

Q: Is the Pince de Courant suitable for measuring high currents?
A: The maximum current range of the device is not mentioned in the given information. Please refer to the user manual for detailed specifications.

Please read the instruction manual before using the product.
You have just acquired a current clamp and we thank you for your confidence.

To get the best service from your instrument and for your security:

read carefully this User manual
respect the operating precautions

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Read the operating instructions before use and observe the safety messages contained in the instructions.
Avoid working alone.
Use the clamp indoors.
Do not use the clamp at an altitude of more than 2000 m.
Do not subject the clamp to running water or other liquids.
Do not use the clamp on a conductor in which the voltage is above 600 V or in which the current is more than 700 A permanent.
Do not use the clamp on an electric installation with an overvoltage category greater than III.
Never measure a current-carrying conductor that has a frequency greater than 10 kHz.
Use extreme caution when clamping around exposed conductors or busbars.
Do not operate the meter in an explosive environment.
Note the International Electrical Symbols:
The clamp is protected by double insulation
Risk of electrical shock
Attention : refer to the User’s Manual before using the clamp

WARRANTY

Unless notified to the contrary, our instruments are guaranteed from any manufacturing defect or material defect. They do not bear the specification known as the safety specification. Our guarantee, which may not under any circumstances exceed the amount of the invoiced price, goes no further than the repair of our faulty equipment, and carriage paid to our workshops.
It is applicable for the normal use of our instruments and does not apply to damage or destruction caused, notably by error in mounting, mechanical accident, faulty maintenance, defective use, overload, or excess voltage.
Our responsibility is strictly limited to the pure and simple replacement of the faulty parts of our equipment, the buyer expressly renounces any attempt to find us responsible for damages or losses caused directly or indirectly.
Our guarantee is applicable for twelve (12) months after the date on which the equipment is made available. The repair, modification or replacement of a part during the guarantee period will not result in this guarantee being extended

TO ORDER

Clamp F1N ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… P01.1207.01A
Clamp F2N ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… P01.1207.02A
Clamp F3N ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… P01.1207.03A
Carrying holster …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. P01.2980.07

GENERAL PRESENTATION

Warning: Read the safety instructions which are at the beginning of this user manual (p. 31).

F1N, F2N, and F3N clamps are AC analyzers designed to take measurements on low and medium-power electrical installations in conductors carrying a peak current of no more than 1000 A.
The rms current measurement range extends from 300 mA to 400 A.
The clamp measures frequency from 0.5 Hz to 10 kHz.
Clamps F1N, F2N, and F3N measure true rms current, and frequency (“Hz”) and HOLD the last measurement on the digital display, the bar graph continues to display the instantaneous value.
Therefore frequency and current measurements can be made simultaneously.
These clamps have automatic or manual selection of the display range (RANGE), an analog bar graph comprising 40 segments, a battery test on the bar graph during operation of the instrument, a battery level indicator, and auto power off on the instrument after 10 minutes of non-use.
Models F2N and F3N are different from Model F1N in that they have two additional functions:
- SMOOTH mode to display a smoothed true rms current or frequency reading taken over 3 seconds.
- PEAK mode which measures half-cycle current peaks.
Model F3N has also a RECORD function in addition to recording the rms value of a current, its frequency, and SMOOTH value, as well as its MAX, MIN, and AVG. The PEAK value and its MAX may also be recorded

DESCRIPTION OF THE INSTRUMENT

CLAMP (see Figure 1 page 140) $CHAUVIN-ARNOUX-F-3N-Current-Clamp-img- $2$$

JAWS: Max. opening 42 mm to enclose cables or busbars.
HOLD: Freezes value in digital display.
DISPLAY: LCD dual display (analog/digital).
ON/OFF: Switches the meter ON/OFF.
RANGE: Manual range selection button for current display: Range 0 – 40.00 A or 0 – 400.0 A and return to automatic mode.
Hz: Frequency measurement.
PEAK/SMOOTH: (models F2N and F3N). Circular selection:
Select SMOOTH for a running 3-second average;
Select PEAK for display of the instantaneous current peak value (with a 2 ms response time);
Normal mode (Hz or true rms).
MIN-MAX: (model F3N). Selects RECORD mode and display of recorded MIN, MAX, and AVG, by repeated presses.
TRIGGER: Opens and closes the clamp jaws DISPLAY (see figure 2 page 140)
100 ms: Displayed in normal use (in amps) when meter response time is 100 milliseconds.
MAX MIN AVG: (model F3N). Displayed in RECORD mode by successive presses of the MIN/MAX button.
SMOOTH: (models F2N and F3N). True rms current or frequency smoothed over 3-second intervals.
AUTO: Automatic range switching: 0 – 40.00 A or 0 – 400.0 A.
Hz: Frequency measurement (Hz).
PEAK: (models F2N and F3N). Measures peak current values over each half-cycle.
RMS: Measures rms current values.
OVER RANGE ARROW: Overload of the analog display capacity.
It can also indicate that MAX or PEAK is off-scale during recording.
A: Measuring current (Amps).
SEGMENTS: Indicate the True RMS current value or its PEAK and by flashing, its max and min.
0 – 400 A: Indicates bar graph scale.
DIGITAL DISPLAY: 9999 counts with two decimal points relative to the two display ranges.
BATTERY: Displayed when the internal battery needs replacing.
H: Displayed when the HOLD button has been pressed
RECORD: (model F3N). Symbol displayed flashing on RECORD mode, stable on RECORD HOLD mode.
BUZZER: Sounds for pushbutton operation, operating mode acknowledgments, or current overload.

ALIGNMENT MARKS
Indicate the correct position of the cable in the jaws so that the specifications of the meter remain accurate(see figure 3).

SOUND SIGNALS

	LOW FREQUENCY	MEDIUM FREQUENCY	HIGH FREQUENCY

Short beep

| ****

–

| ****

Pushbutton function available

| Pushbutton function not available or current overload
Medium beep| MIN detected| MAX detected or PEAK detected| –

Long beep

| Manual mode outputs: RANGE and RECORD

(press and hold pushbutton)

| ****

–

| ****

–

OPERATING PROCEDURES

Warning : Before using the clamp, read carefully the safety precautions at the beginning of this user manual (p. 31). Some operations may be dangerous and expose the operator to lethal voltages. It is therefore imperative to refer to these safety precautions.

SWITCHING ON / AUTOTEST (“ON/OFF”)
Remark : Switching ON or OFF the instrument causes the loss of stored data.

Press and hold down the ON/OFF button: the meter will beep and provide a full function display (display common to the 3 models). Battery test: a bargraph element flashes to indicate battery condition. If the arrow on the right flashes, battery service life is in excess of 40 hours. If the service life is less than 40 hours, one of the bargraph segments flashes (read the scale as 0 to 40 hours for this test).
For example, a flashing bar under the 3 on the scale means approx. 30 hours of remaining battery life. If the battery test gives a reading of only a few hours, the battery should be replaced before using the clamp. See Battery Replacement procedure under MAINTENANCE.
Release the ON/OFF button to initialize the meter: the clamp resets to current measurement (auto range).
The meter will shut off after ten minutes if:
- the auto-off feature is activated
- no buttons are pressed
- the meter (model F3N) is not on record mode (with MIN MAX button).
To disable the auto-off feature:
- turn the meter ON while holding down the RANGE button
- release the ON/OFF button
- the meter will emit a beep, now release the RANGE button
To initialise the meter in its original configuration, press the ON/OFF button twice.

MEASURING TRUE RMS CURRENT

Warning : Do not use the clamp on cables in which the voltage exceeds 600 V or in which the current exceeds 1000 A. Limit measurement time for currents between 550 A and 1000 A peak. See appendix page 138.

When the meter has been switched on, it is immediately on autorange mode (AUTO displayed) measuring amps.
The 40 A, or the 400 A displays are selected automatically according to the value of the measured current, and the bar graph displays the instantaneous value of the current with a response time of 100 ms.
To select the range manually, press the RANGE button.
The scales (40 A and 400 A) are selected alternately, at each press of the button.

If the display capacity is exceeded:

On the 40.00 A manual scale, an arrow appears above 40 A on the bar graph, the digital display indicating OL (over load) for any value above 99.99 A.
On the 400.0 A manual scale, the arrow appears above 400 A on the bar graph, and the digital display is limited to 999.9 A.
Return to auto ranging by pressing the RANGE button for three seconds and then releasing.
The meter will acknowledge with a second beep.

MEASURING FREQUENCY

Warning : Do not use the clamp on cables in which the voltage exceeds 600 V or whose frequency exceeds 10 kHz. Press the Hz button to measure frequency (the meter being on Amps when switched on). When the beep is heard, Hz and AUTO appear on the display.
On the frequency function, the measuring ranges always switch automatically.
The frequency reading is indicated on the digital display whilst the bar graph still indicates the TRMS value of the current.
According to the mode selected: Auto or manual, the frequency measurement method changes, the switching threshold for the counter is changed:

On auto mode, the switching threshold is below 300 mA.
On manual mode, the “RANGE” button is used to displace the switching threshold set at approximately 10 % of the selected range (4 A on the 40 A range and 40 A on the 400 A range).

$CHAUVIN-ARNOUX-F-3N-Current-Clamp-FIG- $5$$

To exit manual mode, press the RANGE button until a second beep is heard (the meter returns to auto mode). On Frequency mode, the PEAK/SMOOTH button switches between SMOOTH mode (a running average of readings over a 3-second interval), and the normal mode of frequency measurement.
In RECORD mode and on HOLD, the Hz button is disabled.
To exit the Frequency function, press the Hz button until a beep is heard (return to Amps mode).

Method of data acquisition of frequency values: $CHAUVIN-ARNOUX-F-3N- Current-Clamp-FIG- $5$$

On manual (measurement by counter):
The frequency measurement rule applied to the 0.5 Hz – 10 kHz range is established as follows:
The Hz count (N) is carried out over 150 to 250 ms approx. A counter (T) fixing a time reference is now engaged and carries out the time count previously defined. Next is the calculation: N/T = F (F is the frequency of the signal). On manual the transition from the beginning of the cycle activates the time reference and holds this duration as a fixed unit after 150 to 250 ms according to the resolution.
On AUTO mode:
- For frequencies of less than 5 Hz or more than 2 kHz, the frequency measurement is identical to that of the manual range.
- Between 5 Hz and 2 kHz, to set and hold the measurement count N, the following condition is required: during a transition N, the value of the current is analyzed. So a current value which must be at least equal to a precalculated threshold sets off the process of setting the counter (T) and locks it after approx. 250 ms.

In conclusion, on AUTO or manual mode, all current measurements can be made between 0.5 Hz and 10 kHz. Nevertheless, it is only possible to measure the frequency of distorted signals in the measurement range 5 Hz-2 kHz (for example, machines with a rotary action: variable frequency motors, …) in auto mode.

HOLD DISPLAY

Warning: Do not use the clamp on cables in which the voltage exceeds 600 V or in which the current exceeds 700 A.
This button is used to either freeze the data on the digital display or to momentarily stop a recording (on RECORD mode on Clamp F3N).
Press the HOLD button to freeze the digital display reading (the symbol H appears on the display).
The analog bargraph continues to indicate the instantaneous value of the current.
On HOLD mode, the RANGE button remains activated and changes the display ranges of the bargraph and of the digital display during current measurements. If the display capacity is exceeded, the arrow on the bargraph or the “OL” symbol on the digital display will appear.
During frequency measurement, if the HOLD button is pressed, the RANGE function remains activated and only changes the switching thresholds of the frequency count.
On the other hand, on HOLD mode, the Hz and PEAK/SMOOTH buttons cannot be activated.
On HOLD mode, it is possible to set to RECORD mode without running it. RECORD starts when HOLD is pressed again. This procedure can be applied during the preparation for measurement, when the clamp is difficult to reach or to begin a measurement at a particular point.
Press the HOLD button again to exit this HOLD function and to return to the digital display of the instantaneous value

MEASURING SMOOTH VALUES (MODELS F2N AND F3N)

Warning: Do not use the clamp on cables in which the voltage exceeds 600 V or in which the current exceeds 700 A. See appendix 2 page 139.
Press the PEAK/SMOOTH button twice to obtain the display of a moving average of readings over the last 3 seconds (the SMOOTH symbol appears on the digital display). The analog bargraph continues to display the instantaneous value with a response time of 100 ms
The SMOOTH mode can be used for frequency measurement (Hz) or for current measurement (amps trms).
Press the PEAK/SMOOTH button to exit SMOOTH mode (2 presses in amp mode, one press in frequency mode).

MEASURING PEAK CURRENT VALUES (MODELS F2N AND F3N)

Warning : Do not use the clamp on cables in which the voltage exceeds 600 V or in which the current exceeds 700 A. This mode can only be used for measuring Amps trms, 100 ms.

Press the PEAK/SMOOTH button twice: The PEAK symbol appears on the digital display. PEAK mode enables display on the bargraph of peak instantaneous values over each halfcycle.
The digital display gives the average of the 4 instantaneous readings (over 400 ms).
Press the PEAK/SMOOTH button (1 press) to exit PEAK mode.

RECORDING DATA (MODEL F3N)

Warning: Do not use the clamp on cables in which the voltage exceeds 600 V or in which the current exceeds 700 A.

To enable RECORD mode press the MIN/MAX button until a beep is emitted.
RECORD RMS current readings: RECORD 100 ms.
MIN MAX readings are taken in this mode with a response time of 100 ms approx. for current values above 300 mA, and a response time of 500 ms for current values below 300 mA, as also the calculation of the current average (AVG) since enabling RECORD mode. The duration of the recording depends on the service life of the battery.
Recording the RMS current readings smoothed over 3 seconds: RECORD SMOOTH
This mode is identical to the recording mode “RECORD 100 ms” except that the MIN-MAX reading is carried out over a response time of approx. 3 seconds.

Recording the crest current readings: RECORD PEAK
This mode enables detection of the absolute value of the crest current with a response time of less than 2 ms.

Recording frequency: RECORD Hz
In RECORD Hz mode, there is no RECORD PEAK mode. Each press of the PEAK/SMOOTH button changes the mode: either RECORD SMOOTH giving an average value over 3 seconds, or normal recording of frequency readings with a response time depending on the frequency of the signal to be measured.

Displaying readings

In RECORD mode “100 ms” or “SMOOTH” (in Amps or Hz) :
On the bargraph:
When measuring current, the MAX and MIN recorded are displayed on the bargraph by a flashing segment indicating their values. When measuring frequency, the bargraph still indicates the instantaneous current value.
On the digital display:
Each press on the MIN/MAX button (Clamp F3N) switches the display between MAX, MIN, AVG and the present value, the bargraph continuously and instantaneously displaying the present current value with a response time of 100 ms (on amps or frequency).
On RECORD PEAK mode (only on Amps): During recording, the crest reading over a 100 ms cycle is still displayed on the bargraph.
On the digital display it is possible to display:
- The average of 4 peak readings (read over 400 ms);
- The MAX reading of PEAK (the highest of the instantaneous peak values).

Each press on the MIN/MAX button switches round the display of these readings. The MAX reading is displayed on the bargraph by a flashing segment.

HOLD RECORD function

On RECORD mode, a press on the HOLD button temporarily stops RECORD mode (the symbol H appears on the display). The data recorded is maintained and held, it can be read on the display.
In normal or SMOOTH mode (amps or frequency), the present, MAX, MIN or AVG readings are displayed by successive presses on the MIN/MAX button.
On PEAK mode (amps), after a press on the HOLD button, presses on the MIN/MAX button switch between the display of the readings: PEAK MAX, present PEAK reading and HOLD reading. This HOLD reading is the current or frequency reading which was present when the HOLD button was pressed.

Remark : Pressing HOLD again enables recording to continue without the need to reinitalise previously recorded readings (MAX, MIN, AVG or MAX of PEAK).

To exit HOLD mode, press HOLD again or exit RECORD mode (on HOLD RECORD).

On RECORD mode or HOLD RECORD mode:
- The PEAK/SMOOTH button is activated on RECORD, it is not activated on HOLD RECORD.
- The Hz button is not activated.
- The RANGE button is activated

MEASURING MIN, MAX AND AVG VALUES (MODEL F3N)

Warning : Do not use the clamp on cables in which the voltage exceeds 600 V or the current exceeds 700 A.

Press the MIN/MAX button to activate the selected RECORD mode.
Press the MIN/MAX button several times to read the recorded MIN, MAX or AVG values. On RECORD mode, the meter function depends principally on the service life of the battery. The MAX reading corresponds to the maximum value detected from the beginning of the recording.
The MIN reading corresponds the minimum value detected.
AVG is a continuous average calculated from the beginning of the recording.
On RECORD mode, the instrument calculates an average value of all the readings taken over a time determined by the service life of the battery.
Remark: The average (AVG) value may be up to 30 % inaccurate for recording of nil values or values below a few hundred milliamps. For example, in the worst case, if the clamp measures a reading of 100 A on a cable (on RECORD) for a minute then 0 A for the following minute, the average (AVG) current over these two minutes will be 70 A instead of 50 A.
Press the HOLD button to stop the recording and to hold the displayed MIN, MAX and AVG readings. By successive presses on the MIN/MAX button it is possible to read these recorded values including the present value of the current.
Readings can be taken without danger of losing data stored in the memory. Press the HOLD button again to restart the recording.
To exit RECORD mode, press and hold the MIN/MAX button for two seconds and then release. The meter will acknowledge with a beep and will remove the RECORD symbol from the display.

SELECTING WORKING MODE

Warning : Check that the conductor is correctly positioned within the jaws at the indicated marks (see Description of the clamp) and that the clamp is correctly closed.

The choice of mode is done in the following order:

Current measurement or frequency measurement function using the Hz button which is not activated if the meter had initially been in RECORD mode.
RMS current value (100ms), SMOOTH or PEAK mode using the PEAK/SMOOTH button. It remains activated in recording mode (with the MIN/MAX button): each press reselects the mode and reinitializes the recording mode (reinitializing causes the loss of all the recorded values).
To stop the recording, press the HOLD button. Place the conductor in the clamp and begin the recording by pressing the MIN/MAX button until a beep is heard (do not continue to press and hold after the beep as this will switch off the record mode)

For places difficult of access or to avoid misuse, it is also possible to program the clamp before clamping around the conductor:

Choose the function (current measurement or frequency measurement using the Hz button).
Normal mode 100 ms, SMOOTH mode, PEAK current mode with the PEAK/SMOOTH button.
Select HOLD mode by pressing the HOLD button once, the symbol H appears.
Select recording mode by pressing the MIN/MAX button once, the RECORD symbol is continuously displayed.

Position the conductor for measurement within the jaws of the clamp and press the HOLD button, a beep is then emitted and the RECORD symbol flashes.

EXAMPLES OF APPLICATIONS

GENERAL USE
Measure the current and frequency of an AC signal.

Press the ON/OFF button to switch on the meter.
Position the clamp around the cable. Check that the jaws are correctly closed, otherwise the measurements will be wrong.
Read the display of the trms value of the current.
Press the Hz button to measure frequency.
Press the HOLD button to freeze data on the display as required.
Determination of the crest value of the signal (Models F2N and F3N).
Press the PEAK/SMOOTH button twice to measure the crest value of the current over each half-cycle (the PEAK symbol is displayed). The Ratio of the Crest Value of the Current over the RMS Value of the Current gives the Crest Factor. A crest value above 1.4 (Ö2) reveals current harmonics.
Recording signal variations (Model F3N).
Press the MIN/MAX button to record and to read the MAX, MIN and AVG value (the RECORD symbol is displayed).
Having made the different required readings, exit RECORD mode by pressing the MIN/MAX button for 2 seconds.

MOTORS
Measure the starting (inrush) current of a motor, running current, and current imbalance.

Press the ON/OFF button to switch on the meter.
Position the clamp around one of the phase conductors.
Press the RANGE button to select the 400 A scale.
Remark: the manual mode is selected here because of its more rapid response time.
Whilst observing the bar graph, turn on the motor and note the level of inrush current. (Bargraph response is 4 times faster than digital display).
When the motor reaches its rated speed, note running current
Repeat the operation for each phase of the motor. The current imbalance may be due to imbalance of the voltage or to a short-circuit on the winding of the motor. (Model F3N) :
The RECORD mode, if activated, will record the inrush current of the motor. When the motor has reached its rated speed, press the HOLD button to stop the recording, then press the MIN/MAX button to read the MAX, MIN and AVG reached since engaging RECORD mode.

VARIABLE SPEED MOTORS

In addition to current measurements on motors, the increasingly more common use of electronic power control systems which change motor speeds involve special measurements for checking the correct operation of the Motor/Control assembly.

We list the most important measurements:

Checking motor speed (this depends on frequency) simultaneously against the instruction point output by the variable speed control.
Measure the rated current of the motor (compared to the control assembly instruction point).
Check the stability of the Frequency/Current ratio during changes in speed.
Check the effective limitation of the motor inrush current (by the variable speed control) by comparison with the specifications given by the manufacturer.

Press the ON/OFF button to switch on the clamp.
Position the clamp around one of the phase conductors.
Read the trms current value and compare it with the instruction point output by the control assembly.
Press the Hz button, vary the speed of the motor, and compare the reading on the digital display of the clamp with the instruction point of the control assembly.
At the same time read the trms current on the bargraph.
During the variation in speed check that the Frequency/Current ratio remains constant (it depends on the type of variable speed control used, refer to the specifications given by the manufacturer). (Model F3N):
RECORD mode, if used, will record the inrush current of the motor. When the motor has reached its rated speed, press the HOLD button to stop the recording, then press the MIN/MAX button to read the MAX, MIN and AVG reached since engaging RECORD mode.
Remark: the rated speed of the motor N (in r.p.m.) is given by:
N = F / P, where F is the measured frequency (in Hz).
P, the number of pairs of poles of the motor.

LOW VOLTAGE DISTRIBUTION TRANSFORMERS

Measurements of excessive current, load balance between phases, and the harmonic content of neutral.

Press the ON/OFF button to switch on the clamp.
Position the clamp around one of the phase conductors.
Read the TRMS current value. Repeat this operation for each phase to discover any imbalance.
Position the clamp around the neutral conductor.
Read the TRMS current value on the display.
Press the Hz button to measure the current frequency in the neutral conductor, a reading of 150 Hz or more on a mains supply network of 50 Hz indicates the presence of non-linear loads.
Press the HOLD button to freeze the readings on the display

GENERATOR SETS
Measurements of excessive current and frequency (adjustment of generator speed).

Press the ON/OFF button to switch on the clamp.
Connect the generator output to a load of 200 watts minimum (to obtain a minimum current of 1 A) using an adaptor lead.
Clamp around the adaptor lead and switch on the generator. Check that the jaws of the clamp are correctly closed, otherwise the measurements will be inaccurate.
Read the TRMS current value on the display.
Press the Hz button to measure frequency. Adjust the generator speed control to obtain display of the correct frequency.
Press the HOLD button to freeze the readings on the display. (Model F3N):
Press the MIN/MAX button to record and read the MAX, MIN or AVG values (the RECORD symbol is displayed).
After taking the required measurements, exit RECORD mode by pressing the MIN/MAX button for 2 seconds.

ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

Measurement of input current (requires lead n° 214).

Press the ON/OFF button to switch on the clamp.
Connect the electrical equipment to a type 214 adaptor providing all data on a single cable.
Clamp around a conductor.
Read the TRMS current value on the display as also its variations.
Press the Hz button to measure frequency.
Press the HOLD button to freeze the values on the display.
Determination of the crest factor of the signal (Models F2N and F3N).
Press the PEAK/SMOOTH button twice to measure the crest value of the current over each half cycle (the PEAK symbol is displayed). The Ratio of the Crest Value of the Current over the RMS Value of the Current gives the Crest Factor. A crest factor above 1.4 (Ö2) reveals current harmonics.
Recording signal variation (Model F3N).
Press the MIN/MAX button to record and to read the MAX, MIN and AVG value (the RECORD symbol is displayed).
Having made the different required readings, exit RECORD mode by pressing the MIN/MAX button for 2 seconds.

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Measurement range:

TRMS: 0.3 A to 400 A rms (up to 700 A for Sine)
Range overload limits: 400 A rms to 700 A rms or 1000 A peak
Ranges: 0 to 40.00 A and 0 to 400.0 A
Frequency:
- 10 Hz to 1 kHz (current measurement)
- 0.5 Hz to 10 kHz (frequency measurement)
Temperature: +23°C ±5°K
Humidity: 40 % to 75 % relative humidity
Crest factor:
- 2.5 max at 400 A, 45 to 65 Hz
- 5.0 max at 40 A, 45 to 65 Hz
Battery: 9 V ± 0.1 V
Storage temperature: -40°C to +70°C
Standards:
- IEC 1010-2-032 safety, protection from electric shocks, dual isulation, maximum voltage of conductors in relation to the earth 600 V, installation category III, degree of pollution 2.
- Electromagnetic compatibility:
EN50081-1: 92 Emission
EN50082-1: 92 Immunity
Safety markings: UL, CSA and GS
Service life (for an alkaline battery): 80 hours typical / 60 hours minimum
Maximum drop height: 1 m Weight: 500 gr.

SPECIFICATIONS OF CURRENT MEASUREMENTS
Measurement error in the following reference range:

Frequency: 45 Hz to 65 Hz.
Position of conductor in the clamp: centred.
DC magnetic field: the earth’s field.

See General Specifications for temperature, humidity rate and the reference battery voltage.

Specifications in normal use (except during RECORD).

RANGE	40.00 A	400.0 A
WORKING RANGE	50 mA

100 A

| 100 mA

700 A

SPECIFIED MEASURE- MENT RANGE| 300 mA

99.99 A

| 100 A

400 A

| 400 A

700 A

MEASUREMENT ERROR| 2 % rdg + 20 pts| 2 % rdg| 5 % rdg

rdg : reading

Remark: this error is given (±).
The current detection threshold is 50 mA.

Stability of digital display (up to 4000 counts): 2 counts Measurement resolution on digital display: 1 count
Display response time: analog: from 100 to 150 ms to 95 %. digital: 500 ms to 90 % / 2 s to 99 %.

Specifications on “RECORD 100 ms” mode (MAX, MIN, AVG and present value)
The specifications of the present value and the average value (AVG) are identical to those in normal use.

Specifications of MAX and MIN values:

Accuracy: identical to normal mode.
Stability, repeatability: 10 counts.
MAX/MIN measurement (for a signal in the measurement range): 200 ms to 300 ms for currents above 8 A peak approx. 1 to 2 s for currents under 8 A peak (MAX and MIN taken on the current value).

Specifications in PEAK and RECORD PEAK

Resolution of digital display:
20 counts up to 4000 counts.
40 counts from 4000 to 10 000 counts

RANGE	40.00 A	400.0 A
WORKING RANGE	300 mA

100 A

| 300 mA

1000 A

SPECIFIED MEASURE- MENT RANGE| 400 mA

99.99 A

| 100 A

600 A

| 600 A

1000 A

MEASUREMENT ERROR| 3 % rdg + 30 pts| 3 % rdg| 8 % rdg

rdg : reading

Specifications in SMOOTH and RECORD SMOOTH modes
SMOOTH mode improves signal stability.

Resolution and stability: 1 count.
Filtering time: 3 seconds

SPECIFICATIONS OF FREQUENCY MEASUREMENTS

On manual ranges:
On the 40.00 A range, the current must be above 4.5 A and on the 400.0 A range, it must be above 45 A ± 25 % in the 45 Hz – 1 kHz band. Below 0.5 Hz or if the detection level is too low, the meter reads 0.0 Hz.

Resolution: 1 count.
Stability: 2 counts.
Response time: 500 ms for frequencies above 20 Hz. Up to 4 s for frequencies below 20 Hz.

RANGE	1 kHz	10 kHz
MEASUREMENT RANGE	0.5 Hz to 1 kHz	1 kHz to 10 kHz
MEASUREMENT ERROR	0.1% rdg + 1 count	0.2% rdg + 1 count

On auto range:
The minimum switching threshold is above 300 mA. Between 1800 Hz and 2000 Hz, the measurement is progressively subject to an instability of from 2 counts to 13 counts

RANGE	0.5 to 999.9 Hz	1000 to 9999 Hz
MEASURE- MENT RANGE	0.5 Hz

5.0 Hz

| 5.0 Hz

999.9 Hz

| 1000 Hz

1500 Hz

| 1500 Hz

2100 Hz

| 2100 Hz

9999 Hz

MEASURE- MENT ERROR| 0.1 % rdg

+1 count

| 0.2 % rdg

+2 counts

| 0.5 % rdg

+5 counts

| 0.2 % rdg

+1 count

rdg = reading

EFFECT OF FREQUENCY ON ACCURACY
(except reference range 45 Hz to 65 Hz)
In amps TRMS
N.B.: measured with conductor centred at alignment marks, and reference conditions: Ambient temperature between 18 and 28°C, relative humidity below 75 %, battery voltage of 9 V ± 0.1 V, and a crest factor below 2.5 at a frequency of 50 Hz.

FREQUENCY	CURRENT AMP. TRMS	MEASUREMENT ERROR

10 to 19.9 Hz

| 5.00 to 99.99|

30 % rdg

100.0 to 400.0

20 to 29.9 Hz

| 2.50 to 99.99| 30 % rdg
100.0 to 399.9| 4 % rdg
400.0 to 700.0| 30 % rdg

30 to 45 Hz

65 to 1000 Hz

| 0.30 to 99.99| 4 % rdg + 30 counts
100.0 to 399.9| 4 % rdg
400.0 to 700.0| 6 % rdg

1000 to 10000 Hz

| 0.30 to 99.99|

30 % rdg

100.0 to 700.0

In amps PEAK
Remark: Measured with conductor centred at alignment marks, and reference conditions: Ambient temperature between 18°C and 28°C, relative humidity below 75 %, battery voltage of 9 V ± 0.1 V, and a crest factor below 2.5 at a frequency of 50 Hz.

FREQUENCY	CURRENT AMP. TRMS	MEASUREMENT ERROR

10 to 19.9 Hz

| 3.00 to 40.00| 30 % rdg
40.0 to 99.9| 4 % rdg + 30 counts
100.0 to 600.0| 4 % rdg + 30 counts

30 to 45 Hz

30 to 45 Hz

| 1.00 to 99.99| 4 % rdg + 30 counts
100.0 to 600.0| 4 % rdg + 30 counts
600.00 to 999.9| 8 % rdg + 30 counts

65 to 1000 Hz

| 0.4 to 99.99| 4 % rdg + 30 counts
100.0 to 600.0| 4 % rdg + 2 counts
600.0 to 999.9| 8 % rdg + 2 counts

DISTORTION ERRORS

Remark: All errors are (±).

TYPE OF DISTORTION| RANGE DISTORTION| UNIT DISTORTED| ERROR

TYPICAL MAX

---|---|---|---
Battery voltage| 6.5 V to 10 V| Amps| 0.03 % rdg/V| 0.1 % rdg/V
Temperature| -10°C to +55°C| Amps| |
| | 0.30 – 99.99| 0.15 % rdg/10 K| 0.25 % rdg/10 K
| | | | + 20 counts
| | 100.0 to 400.0| | 0.25 % rdg/10 K
| | 400.0 to 700.0| | 0.5 % rdg/10 K
| | | | + 10 counts
| | Hertz| | 0.1 % rdg/10 K
| | Threshold 40.00 A| 0.25 A/K|
| | Threshold 400.0 A| 0.6 A/K|
Relative Humidity| 60% to 45 % RH

75% to 90 % RH

| Amps| | 4 counts/10% RH

0.2 % + 20 counts to 90 % RH

Position of conductor in the clamp|

non centred

/ centred

50-60 Hz field

| | | | 10 mA/Am
Crest factor crest I< 1000 A| 1.4 to 2.5

2.5 to 5

| Amps| | 3 % rdg

6 % rdg

Common mode Test at 1000 V

|

50 Hz, 60 Hz,

400 Hz

50 Hz, 60 Hz,

400 Hz

| Amps Ip > 2 A

Ip < 2 A

| |

2 counts,

4 counts

6 counts,

16 counts

K = Kelvin
rdg = reading

MAINTENANCE

For maintenance, only use specified spare parts.
The manufacturer will not be held responsible for any accident which occurs after a repair done apart from by its after-sales service or authorized repairer

REPLACING THE BATTERY

The clamp is powered by a 9 V alkaline battery (type CEI 6LF22 – 6 LR61 and NED 1604). Referring to the figure left, use the following procedure to replace the battery: $CHAUVIN-ARNOUX-F-3N-Current-Clamp-FIG- $20$$

Unclamp the ammeter from any conductor, and turn off by pressing the ON/OFF button.
Place the ammeter face down on a non-abrasive surface and completely loosen the two rear panel screws with a screwdriver.
Grasp the bottom of the rear cover and lift free of the case.
Disconnect the used battery.
Snap the battery connector leads to the terminals of a new battery respecting polarity. Carefully replace the battery in its compartment.
Replace the case-half by following the reverse sequence to that used for dismantling. Check that the lugs fit inside one another.
Screw home the two screws

CLEANING AND STORAGE

Periodically wipe the case with a damp cloth and detergent.
Do not use abrasives or solvents.
Open the clamp jaws and wipe the jaw faces with a lightly oiled cloth. Do not allow rust or corrosion to form on the jaw faces.
If the ammeter is not to be used for periods of longer than 60 days, remove the battery and store it separately.

CALIBRATION

All measuring instruments must be regularly calibrated. For occasional daily use, we recommend that an annual check be carried out. When the instrument is used continuously every day, we recommend that a check is made every 6 months.
For calibration and repair of your instrument, please contact our COFRAC- accredited laboratories:

CHAUVIN ARNOUX Pont l’Evêque Tél. : 02 31 64 51 55 Fax: 02 31 64 51 09
MANUMESURE Lyon Tél. : 04 78 26 68 04 Fax: 04 78 26 79 73
MANUMESURE Caen Tél. : 02 31 83 60 38 Fax: 02 31 84 55 19

Or the CHAUVIN ARNOUX subsidiary or Agent in your country

REPAIR
Repairs under or out of guarantee: Please return the product to your distributor.

APPENDIX

Limiting working conditions for RMS measurement CHAUVIN-ARNOUX-F-3N-Current-
Clamp-img- 3