AEMC FLEXPROBE 24-3001 Flexible AC Current Probe User Manual

AEMC FLEXPROBE 24-3001 Flexible AC Current Probe

Statement of Compliance

Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC® Instruments certifies that this instrument has been calibrated using standards and instruments traceable to international standards.
We guarantee that at the time of shipping your instrument has met its published specifications.
An NIST traceable certificate may be requested at the time of purchase, or obtained by returning the instrument to our repair and calibration facility, for a nominal charge.
The recommended calibration interval for this instrument is 12 months and begins on the date of receipt by the customer. For recalibration, please use our calibration services. Refer to our repair and calibration section at www.aemc.com.

INTRODUCTION

WARNING

• Read the instruction manual completely and follow all the safety information before attempting to use or service this instrument.
• Wear protective clothing and gloves as required.
• Use caution on any circuit: potentially high voltages and currents may be present and may pose a shock hazard.
• Read the safety specifications section prior to using the current probe. Never exceed the maximum voltage ratings given.
• Safety is the responsibility of the operator. The FlexProbe® must be used only by qualified personnel using applicable safety precautions.
• ALWAYS de-energize the circuit before wrapping the FlexProbe® around bare conductors, bus bars, or near live parts. Do not wrap on live conductors.
• ALWAYS connect the electronic module to the display device before wrapping the FlexProbe® around the sample being tested.
• ALWAYS inspect the module, sensor, sensor cable, and output terminals prior to use. Replace any defective parts immediately. Use only factory parts.
• NEVER use the FlexProbe® on electrical conductors rated above 1000V CAT III and 600V CAT IV.

International Electrical Symbols

| This symbol signifies that the instrument is protected by double or reinforced insulation.
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| This symbol on the instrument indicates a WARNING and that the operator must refer to the user manual for instructions before operating the instrument. In this manual, the symbol preceding instructions indicates that if the instructions are not followed, bodily injury, installation/sample and product damage may result.
| Risk of electric shock. The voltage at the parts marked with this symbol may be dangerous.
| This symbol refers to a type B current sensor. Do not apply around or remove from HAZARDOUS LIVE conductors without additional protective means (de-energizing the circuit or wearing protective clothing suitable for high voltage work).
| In conformity with WEEE 2002/96/EC

Definition of Measurement Categories

• CAT II : For measurements performed on circuits directly connected to the electrical distribution system. Examples are measurements on household appliances or portable tools.
• CAT III : For measurements performed in the building installation at the distribution level such as on hardwired equipment in fixed installation and circuit breakers.
• CAT IV : For measurements performed at the primary electrical supply (<1000V) such as on primary overcurrent protection devices, ripple control units, or meters.

Receiving Your Shipment

Upon receiving your shipment, make sure that the contents are consistent with the packing list. Notify your distributor of any missing items. If the equipment appears to be damaged, file a claim immediately with the carrier and notify your distributor at once, giving a detailed description of any damage. Save the damaged packing container to substantiate your claim.

Ordering Information

FlexProbe® 24-3001 (300/3000AAC, 24″, 10mV/A/1mV/A, with lead) ….Cat. #2120.81 Includes a flexible probe with electronic module, 9V battery and a user manual.

Accessories and Replacement Parts

Banana (Female) / BNC (Male) Adapter……………………….. Cat. # 2118.46 For connection of FlexProbe® to BNC terminals on scopes and other displaying instruments.

Order Accessories and Replacement Parts Directly Online Check our Storefront at www.aemc.com/store for availability

PRODUCT FEATURES

Description

The FlexProbe® is a flexible AC current transformer composed of a flexible sensor and an electronic module. The flexible sensor permits measurements on conductors where standard clamp-on probes could not be used.
In particular, it can be installed in tight spaces, around breaker panels, around cable bundles, around wide or large bus bars, or even wrapped around irregular shapes.
The Shape Memory feature enables the user to “pre-shape” the sensor before inserting it between or around conductors. This feature facilitates closing, enhances user safety, and alleviates the drooping effect typically associated with flexible sensors.
The FlexProbe® is lightweight. It does not use magnetic cores like standard transformers. The transformation principle is based on an air core. It presents virtually no load to the system under test, has a low phase shift and excellent frequency response, and cannot be damaged by overloads.
The sensor assembly is waterproof and insulated for 1000V CAT III; 600V CAT IV. The FlexProbe® meets EN 61010-1 and is CE marked.
The FlexProbe® has a mV output proportional to the current measured for direct readings on DMMs, data loggers, oscilloscopes, and power or harmonic meters. TRMS measurements are taken when connected to a TRMS meter. The FlexProbe® is insensitive to DC currents and only the AC component of the measured signal is measured. The sensor length is 24″.

General Features

• Models to measure from 0.5 to 30,000Arms
• Accuracy 1% of Reading ± 500mA
• TRMS measurements when connected to a TRMS instrument
• No core saturation or damage if overloaded
• Overrange LED for measurement circuitry
• EN 61010; 1000V CAT III; 600V CAT IV
• Waterproof sensor
• 9V battery for typical 150 hour continuous operations
• Shape Memory™ for custom pre-shaping of sensor before use (no drooping)
• High frequency response
• Low phase shift for power measurements
• Insensitive to DC, measures only AC component on DC + AC signals
• Excellent linearity
• Lightweight

FlexProbe® 24-3001 Features

1. Flexible sensor (Ø 0.5″, 12.5mm)
2. Range selection switch
3. Power ON indicator (Green LED)
4. Overload indicator (Red LED)
5. Electronic module
6. Double insulated 14″ (36cm) lead with 4mm safety banana plugs
7. FlexProbe® connector/latch
8. Sensor lead
   

SPECIFICATIONS

Reference Conditions: 41°F ± 5°F (23°C ± 3°C), 20 to 70% RH, 50Hz, 1 minute warm-up, battery at 9V ± 0.1V, external magnetic field < 40A/m, no DC component, no external current carrying conductor, 10MΩ load, conductor center.

Electrical

Current Range : 300/3000AAC
Output Signal : mV output (4000mV peak max)
Three position slide switch : 10mV/A 5A to 300Arms 1mV/A 50A to 3000Arms ON/OFF

AC Current Accuracy (after calibration and for one year) : 1% of Reading ± 500mA
Crest Factor : 4.5
Phase Shift : < 0.7° at 50 or 60Hz
Frequency Range : 40 to 5kHz
Residual Noise When I Measured = 0 : 200mArms
Working Voltage : 1000 Vrms CAT III; 600V CAT IV
Common Mode Voltage : 600Vrms max
Influence of Frequency : Add 1% to the reference accuracy between 40 and 2000Hz, and up to 5% at 5kHz
Influence of Adjacent Conductor : <2%
Influence of Conductor Position in Jaw : <4%
Power Source : 9V alkaline (NEDA 1604A, IEC 6LR61)
Battery Life : 150 hours typical (continuous use) 300 hours with Lithium battery
Low Battery : Green LED Off when ≥ 7V
Overload Indication : Red LED indicates input greater than selected range

Environmental

Operating Temperature Range : 14° to 131°F (-10° to +55°C)
Storage Temperature Range : -40° to 158°F (40° to +70°C)
Influence of Temperature:
Sensor : -14° to 212°F (-10° to 100°C); <0.5% per 10°C
Module : -14° to 131°F (-10° to 55°C); <0.5% per 10°C
Operating Relative Humidity : 50° to 86°F (10° to 30°C); 85 ± 5% RH (without condensation) 104° to 122°F (40° to 50°C); 45 ± 5% RH (without condensation)
Altitude : Operating: 0 to 2000m Non-operating: 0 to 12000m

Mechanical Specifications

Dimensions (Sensor) : 24″ ± 1″ (610 x 25mm)
Color (Sensor) : Red with black connector
Dimensions (Electronic Module) : 4.9 x 2.5 x 1.1″ (124 x 64 x 28mm)
Color (Electronic Module) : Dark gray
Weight : 1.1 lb (0.5kg)
Output : Double insulated 14″ (355Mm) lead with 4mm safety banana plugs
Maximum Cable Diameter : 7.6″ (193mm)
Cable Length from Sensor to Module : 6.5 ft (2m)
Drop Test:
1.0m on 38mm of Oak on concrete. Test according to EN 61010.
Case Protection: Sensor : IP65 Electronic Module: IP40
Vibration : Test Per IEC 68-2-6
Frequency Range : 10 to 55Hz
Amplitude : 0.15mm
Mechanical Shock : 100G, Test Per IEC 68-2-32
Material : Module: Polycarbonate UL 94V1 Cable Assembly: Polyurethane UL94V0

Safety Specifications

Electrical Safety

Double insulation or reinforced insulation between the primary or the secondary and the outer case of the handle per EN 61010.
EN 61010, 1000V CAT III, 600V CAT IV
Pollution Degree : 2

Electromagnetic Compatibility:

EN 50081-1 Class B
EN 50082-2 Electrostatic discharge IEC 1000-4-2
Radiated Field IEC 1000-4-3
Fast transients IEC 1000-4-4
Magnetic Field at 50/60Hz IEC 1000-4-8

*Specifications are subject to change at any time without notice

OPERATION

Please make sure that you have already read and fully understand the WARNING.

Making Measurements with the FlexProbe®

1. Connect the electronic module to the AC Volt range of your DMM or measuring instrument.

2. Select the appropriate module output voltage range. If the current magnitude is unknown, select the 3000A range.

3. Wrap the flexible core around the conductor to be tested. Select the 300A range to obtain the best resolution, if the reading is less than 300mV.
   Do not exceed specified current range for the output. Do not use on selected range if Overload LED goes on.

4. Example:
   a. Read the DMM displayed value: 2.59V
   b. Determine the range and output used on the FlexProbe: 0.01V/A for the 300A range; .001V/A for the 3000A range
   c. Divide the reading by the output to determine the actual current value: 2.59 ÷ 0.01 = 259A or 2.59 ÷ 0.001 = 2590A

For best accuracy, carefully center the conductor inside the flexible core, and avoid if possible, the proximity of other conductors which may create noise and interference (particularly near the latch).
True RMS measurements are obtained when the FlexProbe® is connected to a True RMS meter. Note that the DC component is not measured.

Tips for Making Precise Measurements

• When using the FlexProbe® with a meter, it is important to select the range that provides the best resolution. Failure to do this may result in measurement errors.
• For best results, select the highest FlexProbe® output signal possible and the most sensitive meter range for this output.
• Make sure the DMM or measuring instrument can accurately measure mVAC. Certain inexpensive DMM have poor resolution and accuracy when measuring low mVAC.
• For best accuracy, center the FlexProbe® around the conductor to be measured.
• To increase the sensitivity or measure on low currents, the FlexProbe® may be wrapped several times around the conductor. Remember to divide your reading by the number of turns for the actual measurement (See Figure 1).
• The overall measurement accuracy is the sum of the FlexProbe® accuracy and the displaying instrument accuracy.
• The FlexProbe® may be doubled around the conductor to be measured to double the output. (See Figures 1 and 2 to show the different values on a DMM while measuring 250AAC.)

One turn around a conductor carrying 250AAC

Double the turns to double the output in low current applications or for higher sensitivity.

MAINTENANCE

Warning

• For maintenance use only specified replacement parts.
• To avoid electrical shock, do not attempt to perform any servicing unless you are qualified to do so.
• Do not perform any service while the FlexProbe® is on any circuit.
• To avoid electrical shock and/or damage to the instrument, do not get water or other foreign agents into the electronic module.
• Also see warning.

Changing the Battery

If the power ON indicator (green LED) blinks or does not light up, replace the battery.

Disconnect the instrument from any source of electricity.

• To replace the battery, open rear case, replace battery and reassemble.
• The green LED should go on when the module is turned on.

Cleaning

• Use a soft cloth lightly dampened with soapy water, then dry with a dry cloth.
• Do not splash water directly on the instrument.
• Do not use alcohol, solvents or hydrocarbons.
• Make sure the sensor, electronic module, and all leads are dry before any further use.

Repair and Calibration

To ensure that your instrument meets factory specifications, we recommend that it be scheduled back to our factory Service Center at one-year intervals for recalibration, or as required by other standards or internal procedures. For instrument repair and calibration:
You must contact our Service Center for a Customer Service Authorization Number (CSA#). This will ensure that when your instrument arrives, it will be tracked and processed promptly. Please write the CSA# on the outside of the shipping container. If the instrument is returned for calibration, we need to know if you want a standard calibration, or a calibration traceable to N.I.S.T. (Includes calibration certificate plus recorded calibration data).

Ship To: Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC® Instruments
15 Faraday Drive
Dover, NH 03820 USA
Phone : 800-945-2362 (Ext. 360) 603-749-6434 (Ext. 360)
Fax : 603-742-2346 or 603-749-6309
E-mail : repair@aemc.com

(Or contact your authorized distributor)
Costs for repair, standard calibration, and calibration traceable to N.I.S.T. are available.
NOTE : You must obtain a CSA# before returning any instrument.

Technical and Sales Assistance

If you are experiencing any technical problems, or require any assistance with the proper operation or application of your instrument, please call, mail, fax or e-mail our technical support team:
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC® Instruments
200 Foxborough Boulevard
Foxborough, MA 02035 USA
Phone : 800-343-1391 508-698-2115
Fax : 508-698-2118
E-mail : techsupport@aemc.com www.aemc.com

NOTE : Do not ship Instruments to our Foxborough, MA address.

Limited Warranty

The FlexProbe® is warranted to the owner for a period of two years from the date of original purchase against defects in manufacture. This limited warranty is given by AEMC® Instruments, not by the distributor from whom it was purchased. This warranty is void if the unit has been tampered with, abused or if the defect is related to service not performed by AEMC® Instruments.
Full warranty coverage and product registration is available on our website at www.aemc.com/warranty.html.
Please print the online Warranty Coverage Information for your records.
What AEMC® Instruments will do:
If a malfunction occurs within the warranty period, you may return the instrument to us for repair, provided we have your warranty registration information on file or a proof of purchase. AEMC® Instruments will, at its option, repair or replace the faulty material.

REGISTER ONLINE AT : www.aemc.com

Warranty Repairs

What you must do to return an Instrument for Warranty Repair: First, request a Customer Service Authorization Number (CSA#) by phone or by fax from our Service Department (see address below), then return the instrument along with the signed CSA Form. Please write the CSA# on the outside of the shipping container. Return the instrument, postage or shipment pre-paid to:

Ship To: Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC® Instruments 15 Faraday Drive • Dover, NH 03820 USA
Phone : 800-945-2362 (Ext. 360) 603-749-6434 (Ext. 360)
Fax : 603-742-2346 or 603-749-6309
E-mail : repair@aemc.com

Caution : To protect yourself against in-transit loss, we recommend you insure your returned material.

NOTE : You must obtain a CSA# before returning any instrument.

Customer Support

Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC® Instruments
15 Faraday Drive • Dover, NH 03820 USA • Phone : 603-749-6434 • Fax : 603-742-2346
www.aemc.com

References

• Get Electrical Testers – Power Analyzers | AEMC Instruments
• Online Ecommerce Store | AEMC Instruments
• AEMC Warranty Registration
• Manual-Hub.com – Free PDF manuals!

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