VOLTCRAFT VC321 100A AC Mini Clamp Meter Instruction Manual

: June 1, 2024
: VOLTCRAFT

Table of Contents

Operating Instructions
VC321 100A AC Mini Clamp Meter

Operating Instructions

VC321 100A AC Mini Clamp Meter

Item no: 2893196

1 Introduction

Dear customer,
Thank you for purchasing this product.
If there are any technical questions, please contact:
www.conrad.com/contact

2 Intended use

The product is a clamp meter and can be used to measure and display various electrical parameters.
The product is in accordance with the safety requirements for Electronic Measuring Equipment, EN 61010-1 and EN 61010-2-032.
The product conforms to CAT II 600 V and CAT III 300 V:

MEASUREMENT CATEGORY II is applicable to test and measuring circuits connected directly to utilization points (socket outlets and similar points) of the low-voltage MAINS installation.
MEASUREMENT CATEGORY III is applicable to test and measuring circuits connected to the distribution part of the building’s low-voltage MAINS installation.

The product is designed for private and commercial use.
In commercial institutions, the accident prevention regulations of the Employer’s Liability Insurance Association for Electrical Systems and Operating Materials are to be observed.
The product can be used in schools and training centres. The use must be supervised by trained personnel.
The product is intended for indoor use only. Do not use it outdoors.
Contact with moisture must be avoided under all circumstances.
If you use the product for purposes other than those described, the product may be damaged.
Improper use can result in short circuits, fires, electric shocks or other hazards.
The product complies with the statutory national and European requirements.
For safety and approval purposes, you must not rebuild and/or modify the product.
Read the operating instructions carefully and store them in a safe place. Make this product available to third parties only together with the operating instructions.
All company names and product names are trademarks of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

3 Delivery contents

Product
2 x 1.5 V AAA batteries
Operating instructions

4 Operating Instructions for download

Use the link www.conrad.com/downloads (alternatively scan the QR code) to download the complete operating instructions (or new/current versions if available). Follow the instructions on the web page.

5 Description of symbols

This product conforms to the required CE standards and is in compliance with applicable European (EU) directives.

This product is UK conformity assessed and meets applicable Great Britain directives.

The symbol warns of hazards that can lead to personal injury.

The symbol warns of dangerous voltage that can lead to personal injury by electric shock.

Protection class 2 (double or reinforced insulation, protective insulation).

Application around and removal from HAZARDOUS LIVE conductors is permitted. Personal protective equipment must be used.

CAT II Can test and measure circuits connected directly to utilization points (e.g., socket outlets) of the low-voltage MAINS installation.

CAT III Can test and measure circuits connected to the distribution part of the building’s low-voltage MAINS installation.

Alternating current (AC)

Jaw alignment marks. to meet accuracy specifications the conductor must be aligned with these marks.

6 Safety instructions

Read the operating instructions carefully and especially observe the safety information. If you do not follow the safety instructions and information on proper handling, we assume no liability for any resulting personal injury or damage to property. Such cases will invalidate the warranty/guarantee.

6.1 General

The product is not a toy. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not leave packaging material lying around carelessly. This may become dangerous playing material for children.
If you have questions which remain unanswered by this information product, contact our technical support service or other technical personnel.
Maintenance, modifications and repairs must only be completed by a technician or an authorised repair centre.

6.2 Handling

Handle the product carefully. Jolts, impacts or a fall even from a low height can damage the product.

6.3 Operating environment

Do not place the product under any mechanical stress.
Protect the appliance from extreme temperatures, strong jolts, flammable gases, steam and solvents.
Protect the product from high humidity and moisture.
Protect the product from direct sunlight.
Do not switch the product on after it has been taken from a cold to a warm environment. The condensation that forms might destroy the product. Allow the product to reach room temperature before you use it.
Never operate the product in direct proximity of strong magnetic or electromagnetic fields or transmitter aerials or HF generators. Doing so can prevent the product from functioning properly.

6.4 Operation

Consult an expert when in doubt about the operation, safety or connection of the product.
If it is no longer possible to operate the product safely, take it out of operation and protect it from any accidental use. DO NOT attempt to repair the product yourself. Safe operation can no longer be guaranteed if the product:
– is visibly damaged,
– is no longer working properly,
– has been stored for extended periods in poor ambient conditions or
– has been subjected to any serious transport-related stresses.

6.5 Batteries

Correct polarity must be observed while inserting batteries.
The batteries should be removed from the device if it is not used for a long period of time to avoid damage through leaking. Leaking or damaged batteries might cause acid burns when in contact with skin, therefore use suitable protective gloves to handle corrupted batteries.
Batteries must be kept out of reach of children. Do not leave batteries lying around, as there is risk, that children or pets swallow them.
All batteries should be replaced at the same time. Mixing old and new batteries in the device can lead to battery leakage and device damage.
Batteries must not be dismantled, short-circuited or thrown into fire. Never recharge non-rechargeable batteries. There is a risk of explosion!

6.6 Connected devices

Also observe the safety and operating instructions of any other devices which are connected to the product.

6.7 Product

Before use, always verify measurements against a known voltage source to ensure safe operation. If abnormal or erratic operation is detected:
– Stop using immediately
– have the product inspected by a qualified technician
When taking measurements make sure no objects are trapped between the clamp jaws (e.g., cables).
Do not exceed the maximum permissible measurement values.
Risk of fatal electric shock! The product must never be used if the housing or battery compartment cover is open.
Risk of electric shock! Use caution when working with voltages above 30 V/AC rms (42.4 V peak), 60 V/DC.
Do not use this product to measure direct current (DC).
The rotary switch should be set to the correct range / function before each use.
Inspect the product for damage before each measurement. Never take measurements if the insulation or product is damaged.
Use extreme caution when working around bare conductors or bus bars as contact can result in electric shock.

7 Overview

7.1 Product

VOLTCRAFT VC321 100A AC Mini Clamp Meter - a1

1 Current sensing clamp
2 HOLD / button
3 Rotary switch
4 MAX / MIN button
5 Display
6 Work light
7 Non-contact voltage (AC) detector tip
8 Non-contact voltage (AC) tri-colour LED
9 Clamp lever
10 REL button
11 Battery compartment

7.2 Display symbols

Symbol

| Description
---|---

A

| Current (amps)

AC

| Alternating current

NCV

| Non-contact voltage

MAX

| Maximum value

MIN

| Minimum value

REL

8 Replacing batteries

Important:
Low battery voltage can affect the accuracy of readings resulting in electric shock and/or injury:
– Replace the batteries when the low battery indicator shows.
– Rechargeable batteries are not recommended as they typically have a lower voltage per cell.

Risk of electric shock! Disconnect the product from any input signals before replacing the batteries.

Preconditions:

The power is switched OFF.

Use a cross-head screwdriver to remove the compartment cover screw.
Replace the batteries and match the polarity markings shown inside the compartment.
Replace the battery compartment cover taking care not to over-tighten the screw.

9 Operation

IMPORTANT! Always observe the information contained in the section: Safety instructions [ 24].

9.1 Rotary switch

The rotary switch should be set to the correct range / function before each use.
When a function is selected, a beep will sound and the display will update.
The display will show (overload) if the measured input is greater than the selected range.

9.2 Power ON / OFF

The product is switched off when the function switch is in the OFF position.
Switch the power OFF after use.

9.3 Auto shut-off

Auto shut-off is active by default, it is indicated by the symbol.
This energy saving feature will shut power off after approximately 15 minutes of no activity.

To disable auto shut-off:

Set the rotary switch to OFF.
Press and hold the MAX/MIN button and then set the rotary switch to any position other than OFF.
The symbol will disappear and an alert will sound when disabled.
Auto shut-off will reactivate after the power is switched OFF.

9.4 Display hold

Important:
– The display hold function freezes the display.
– The display hold should be switched OFF before taking measurements.

Press the HOLD button to switch display hold ON/OFF.
The hold icon will appear when display hold is ON.

9.5 Minimum / maximum value display

In this mode the display shows the “MIN” (minimum) or “MAX” (maximum) value measured.

Press the MAX/MIN button repeatedly to toggle between modes.
The display will show “MAX” or “MIN” to indicate which mode is active.
Press and hold the MAX/MIN button to exit this mode.

9.6 Work light

Press and hold the button to switch the work light ON / OFF.

9.7 Relative mode

Relative mode can be used to take differential readings between two test points or for tracking changes in measurements from a defined reference point (e.g., line losses).

Select a range using the rotary switch: 2A~ , 20A~ , 100A~.
Take a measurement and note the displayed value.
Press the REL button to activate relative mode.
“REL” will appear on the display to indicate relative mode is active.
Take another measurement.
The display will show the difference between the new reading and the initial reading.
Press the REL button to exit relative mode.
Switch the power OFF after use.

9.8 Alternating current (AC) measurement

Risk of electric shock! Do not use the clamp on uninsulated conductors.

Unclamp the conductor if (overload) appears on the display.
This product is rated for 50-60Hz. Do not exceed this frequency range as higher frequencies can dangerously overheat the magnetic circuit.

Notes:
– The current sensing clamp is magnetized and a low reading may appear even when no conductor has been covered.
– Only one conductor should be covered by the current sensing clamp.

Select a range using the rotary switch: 2A~ , 20A~ , 100A~.
Clamp the jaws around the conductor to be measured, positioning it between the jaw alignment marks .
The reading will show on the display.
Carefully remove the clamp from the conductor after taking measurements.
Switch the power OFF after use.

9.9 Non-contact voltage testing

The non-contact voltage (NCV) detection function can detect AC voltage on conductors without touching them.
Due to the high sensitivity sensor, static electricity or other sources of energy may trigger the sensor. This is normal operation.

Risk of electric shock!

Before use, always test the voltage detector on a known live circuit to ensure safe operation.
Insulation type, thickness, and distance from the voltage source may affect detection.
Always verify measurements using test leads before touching potentially energized circuits.

Set the rotary switch to: NCV.
“NCV” and “EF” will appear on the display.
Place the sensor tip near the conductor.
If AC voltage is present, the tri-colour LED will light and a beep will sound.
If the detected voltage increases:
the beeping will get faster.
the tri-colour LED changes from green → yellow → red.
Switch the power OFF after use.

10 Cleaning

Risk of electric shock! Disconnect the product from any input signals and switch the power OFF before cleaning.

Important:
– Do not use aggressive cleaning agents, rubbing alcohol or other chemical solutions. They damage the housing and can cause the product to malfunction.
– Do not immerse the product in water.

Clean the product with a clean, lint-free, antistatic cloth. Lightly moisten if needed.
Check to make sure the clamp mating surface is clean. Trapped dirt or debris can result in measurement errors.

11 Disposal

11.1 Product

This symbol must appear on any electrical and electronic equipment placed on the EU market. This symbol indicates that this device should not be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste at the end of its service life.

Owners of WEEE (Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment) shall dispose of it separately from unsorted municipal waste. Spent batteries and accumulators, which are not enclosed by the WEEE, as well as lamps that can be removed from the WEEE in a non-destructive manner, must be removed by end users from the WEEE in a non-destructive manner before it is handed over to a collection point.

Distributors of electrical and electronic equipment are legally obliged to provide free take-back of waste. Conrad provides the following return options free of charge (more details on our website):

in our Conrad offices
at the Conrad collection points
at the collection points of public waste management authorities or the collection points set up by manufacturers or distributors within the meaning of the ElektroG

End users are responsible for deleting personal data from the WEEE to be disposed of.

It should be noted that different obligations about the return or recycling of WEEE may apply in countries outside of Germany.

11.2 (Rechargeable) batteries

Remove batteries/rechargeable batteries, if any, and dispose of them separately from the product. According to the Battery Directive, end users are legally obliged to return all spent batteries/rechargeable batteries; they must not be disposed of in the normal household waste.

Batteries/rechargeable batteries containing hazardous substances are labelled with this symbol to indicate that disposal in household waste is forbidden. The abbreviations for heavy metals in batteries are:
Cd = Cadmium, Hg = Mercury, Pb = Lead (name on (rechargeable) batteries, e.g. below the trash icon on the left).

Used (rechargeable) batteries can be returned to collection points in your municipality, our stores or wherever (rechargeable) batteries are sold. You thus fulfil your statutory obligations and contribute to environmental protection.

Batteries/rechargeable batteries that are disposed of should be protected against short circuit and their exposed terminals should be covered completely with insulating tape before disposal. Even empty batteries/rechargeable batteries can contain residual energy that may cause them to swell, burst, catch fire or explode in the event of a short circuit.

12 Technical data

12.1 General

Power supply…………………………. 2x AAA 1.5 V batteries
Measuring categories …………….. CAT II (600 V) CAT III (300 V)
Current measurement (AC) …… max. 100 A~
Non-contact voltage test………… 100 – 600 V/AC, ≤5 mm
Display…………………………………… 2000 counts (2 3 renewals/sec.)
Clamp opening range …………… 13 mm
Automatic shut-off………………… approx. 15 mins
Display type…………………………… EBTN
Pollution degree…………………….. 2
Operating altitude ………………… max. 2000 m (above sea level)
Operating temperature …………. 0 to +40 °C
Operating humidity ………………. <75 % RH (0 to +30 °C) <50 % RH (+30 to +40 °C)
Storage temperature………………. -10 to +50 °C
Storage humidity……………………. <75 % RH (0 to +30 °C) <50 % RH (+30 to +40 °C)
Dimensions (W x H x D) ……… 181 x 60 x 36 mm
Weight ………………………………….. approx. 195 g

12.2 Specifications

12.2.1 Accuracy

Specified accuracy ± (% of the reading + display error in counts).
Accuracy is maintained for 1 year at +23 °C (± 5 °C), ≤75 % RH (non-condensing).

12.2.2 Calibration

The recommended calibration interval is 1 year.
Calibration should only be performed by qualified personnel.

12.2.3 Alternating current

Measuring range (AC)

| Resolution| Accuracy
---|---|---
2.000 A~| 1 mA|

±(4 % + 30)

20.00 A~

| 10 mA| ±(3 % + 10)
100.0 A~| 100 mA|

±(2 % + 8)

Overload protection: 100.0 A ; Frequency range: 50-60 Hz ; TrueRMS
Crest factor (CF) non-sinusoidal waveforms:

Crest factor 1 – 2 : +3 % deviation
Crest factor 2 – 2.5 : +5 % deviation
Crest factor 2.5 – 3 : +7 % deviation

This is a publication by Conrad Electronic SE, Klaus-Conrad-Str. 1, D-92240 Hirschau (www.conrad.com).

All rights including translation reserved. Reproduction by any method (e.g. photocopying, microfilming or the capture in electronic data processing systems) requires prior written approval from the editor. Reprinting, also in part, is prohibited. This publication reflects the technical status at the time of printing.

Copyright by Conrad Electronic SE

*2893196_V3_1223_dh_mh_en 36028797972116491-2 I5/O3 en