IDEAL 61-415 Tight Sight Fork Meter Instruction Manual

July 24, 2024
IDEAL

IDEAL 61-415 Tight Sight Fork Meter

Introduction

The IDEAL® 61-415 TightSight™ and 61-405 Fork Meters are auto-ranging true root mean square (TRMS) digital fork meters that measure AC and DC (amps (61-415)) via the forks, measure voltage, resistance, continuity, capacitance, diode via test-leads and detects the presence of voltage between 40V to 600V AC via a non-contact sensor in the right tip of the clamp.

WARNING

Arc Flash and Shock Hazard, Proper PPE Required. Follow all safety procedures, and wear proper PPE by NFPA 70E. Read and fully understand the instruction manual before using this product. Failure to comply can result in serious injury or death.

Contacting IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC.
To contact IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC., call one of the following telephone numbers:

IDEAL Industries USA Customer Service

IDEAL Industries Canada Customer Service

IDEAL Industries EMEA

IDEAL Industries Australia

Or visit the IDEAL Electrical Website at www.idealind.com To register your product, find manuals, watch videos, simply scan this QR code.

Safety Information

  • Warning – Identifies conditions and actions that could result in possible death or serious injury if the hazard is realized.
  • Caution – Identifies conditions and actions that could result in meter damage, equipment under test damage or data loss if the hazard is realized.

WARNING
Arc Flash and Shock Hazard, Proper PPE Required. Follow all safety procedures, wear proper PPE in accordance to NFPA 70E and follow the guidelines below and the instructions in this manual when operating the meter. Failure to comply can result in serious injury or death.

  • Choking Hazard, Small Parts. Keep Away from Children. Sharp Objects Hazard, This is not a toy. It is not for use or play by children. Keep Away from Children. Failure to do so can result in serious injury.
  • Only experienced or technically competent consumers should use this equipment. When in doubt, call an experienced electrician to make any necessary repairs or installations. At all times, perform any necessary work on a de-energized circuit that has had its circuit breaker turned off and has been locked out.
  • Use the Meter only as specified in this manual or protection provided by the Meter can be compromised.
  • Before using or connecting the Meter, visually inspect it to ensure the cases are not cracked and the back case is securely in place. Do not use it if the Meter appears damaged.
  • Before using the test leads, inspect carefully for damaged insulation, exposed metal or cracked probes. Check test leads for continuity. Do not use leads if they appear damaged.
  • Use only approved test leads. Do not use improvised connections that could present a safety hazard.
  • Never measure current (amps) while the test leads are inserted into the input jacks.
  • When using the probes, keep fingers behind the finger guards on the probes.
  • Connect the common test lead before connecting the live test lead. When disconnecting test leads, disconnect the live test lead first.
  • This Meter is intended for use by qualified electricians. Follow NFPA 70E Standards for Electrical Safety in the Workplace when using this Meter.
  • Do not use without the batteries correctly in place and the battery door closed and secured.
  • Do not use Meter if it operates incorrectly as protection may be compromised. When in doubt, have the Meter serviced.
  • When servicing the Meter, use only specified replacement parts.

Arc Flash and Shock Hazard, Proper PPE Required. Follow all safety procedures, wear proper PPE in accordance to NFPA 70E and follow the guidelines below and the instructions in this manual when operating the meter. Failure to comply can result in serious injury or death.

  • Have the Meter serviced only by qualified service personnel.
  • Do not use the Meter around explosive gas, dust, or vapor, or during electrical storms, or in wet environments.
  • When measuring, keep fingers behind the Tactile Barrier. See “The Meter” on pg. 8 and 9.
  • Do not apply more than the rated voltage, as marked on the Meter, between the terminals or between any terminal and earth ground.
  • To avoid false readings that can lead to electrical shock and injury, replace the batteries as soon as the low battery indicator ( ) appears.
  • Remove the test leads from the circuit prior to removing the battery door.
  • Voltages exceeding 30VAC RMS or 60VDC pose a shock hazard so use caution.
  • Always ensure that test leads are secured so that they cannot be accidentally snagged or tripped over.
  • Do not work alone so that assistance can be rendered in an emergency.
  • Use extreme caution when working around bare conductors or bus bars. Contact with the conductor could result in electric shock.
  • Adhere to local and national safety codes. Individual protective equipment must be used to prevent shock and arc blast injury where hazardous live conductors are exposed.
  • Disconnect circuit power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before you measure resistance, continuity, or capacitance.
  • Do not measure current in circuits carrying more than 600 V AC or DC 200 A with the forks.
  • Never operate the Meter with the back cover removed or the case open.
  • Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

CAUTION
Meter damage, equipment under test damage or data loss can occur if the following guidelines are not adhered to.

  • Use the proper terminals, function, and range for the measurement application.
  • Clean the case and accessories with a damp cloth and mild detergents only. Do not use abrasives or solvents. Make sure the meter is completely dry before use.

Symbols & Descriptions

NOTE: The Measurement Category (CAT) and voltage rating of any combination of test probe, test probe accessory, current clamp accessory, and the Meter is the LOWEST rating of any individual component.

Operation

Identification and Description of Operating Controls and Functions for the 61-415 200A AC/DC, 61-405 200A AC:

  1. Tapered Tines (19mm Gap)
  2. NCV Sensing Point
  3. Hold Button
  4. Function Dial
  5. Main Display (LCD)
  6. Volts and Resistance (V-Ω) Input Terminal
  7. Common (COM) Input Terminal
  8. TightSight® Bottom Display (61-415)
  9. Protective Rubber Boot (61-415)
  10. Measuring Functions
  11. High Voltage, Continuity, NCV Warning LED
  12. Function Select
  13. Max/Min
  14. Relative/Zero (ZERO 61-415 Only)
  15. Backlight/Flashlight
  16. Range Select
  17. Tactile Barrier
  18. Magnetic Hanging Strap Clip

Operating Features

High Voltage Warning (HI-V)
The meter LED remains RED and the beep lasts for 1 second and then goes silent when voltages in excess of 30V are measured or when the meters voltage range is exceeded.

NOTE: This feature does not work in the Ohm, capacitor, continuity or amperage modes.

Data Hold Feature
Press the Hold button on the side of the meter to toggle in and out of the data hold mode. “HOLD” appears in the lower left of the meter display when data hold is active. Use the data hold feature to lock a measurement reading on the display. Press the Hold button again to unlock the display and obtain a real-time reading.

MAX/MIN Feature
The MAX/MIN records the maximum or minimum measured value. Press the MAX/MIN button to activate this feature and to toggle between MAX, and MIN readings. The unit will continually capture MAX or MIN values over time. Depressing the MAX/MIN button for >2 sec. exits the MAX/MIN mode.

Relative Mode
Press “ ” button to enter the Relative mode. The “ ” symbol is displayed, and the value on the display is stored as a reference value. In the Relative mode, the value shown on the display is always the difference between the stored reference value and the present reading. Press the “ ” button again to exit the Relative mode.

Zero Feature (61-415 Only)
The “ZERO” button is used to zero out the display before measuring DC current. Press the “ZERO” button to subtract out the non-zero number. Then, measure the DC amps. Pressing the “ZERO” button again causes the “ZERO” to flash and the original offset number to be displayed. Press the “ZERO” button to exit this mode.

Auto Power Off (APO) Feature Disable
The meter automatically powers itself down after about 30 minutes of no use. Press any button, and the meter will wake up and display the last reading taken before power down. To Disable APO, press and hold the SEL button while turning the dial to any desired function. When APO is defeated, the “APO” will be removed from the display. Turning the meter off and back on will restore the APO default.

Backlight / Flashlight

Press and hold the SEL button for > 2 seconds on the meter to turn the backlight/flashlight on and off. The white backlight and flashlight will remain lit for about 5 minutes before they automatically turn off to conserve battery power. Or turn the lights off by pressing the SEL for more than 2 seconds.

Using Test Leads

WARNING: Arc Flash and Shock Hazard, Proper PPE Required. Follow all safety procedures, wear proper PPE in accordance to NFPA 70E and follow the guidelines below and the instructions in this manual when operating the meter with TL-757 Test Leads or equivalent. Test Leads must be rated for the electrical environment the meter is being used in and have a voltage rating of at least the voltage of the circuit to be measured. Failure to comply can result in serious injury or death.

  • Choking Hazard, Small Parts. Keep Away from ….. Children. Sharp Objects Hazard, This is not a toy. It is not for use or play by children. Keep Away from Children. Failure to do so can result in serious injury.

WARNING

  1. Use only approved test leads. Do not use improvised connections that could present a safety hazard.
  2. Never measure AC or DC current while the test leads are inserted into the input jacks.
  3. Prior to using the test leads, inspect them carefully for damaged insulation, exposed metal or bent probes. Check test leads for continuity. Do not use leads if they appear damaged.
  4. When using the probes, keep fingers behind the finger guards on the probes.
  5. Connect the common test lead before connecting the live test lead. When disconnecting test leads, disconnect the live test lead first.
  6. Always ensure that test leads are secured so that they cannot be accidentally snagged or tripped over.

This meter is intended for use with the IDEAL TL-757 lead set (provided with this product) or equivalent. The lead set must comply with requirements for Overvoltage and Measurement Categories CAT IV 600V CAT II 1000V.

Meter Operation

Non-Contact Voltage Sensing

First, rotate the function key to the NCV position. Place the jaw tip marked with NCV close to an AC outlet (or any AC conductor such as light switches or power cords) and scan back and forth across the outlet. Red indicator LED flashes at a frequency of 3Hz, and the buzzer beeps at a frequency of 3Hz simultaneously if live voltage greater than 40VAC (50~60Hz) is detected. To differentiate between hot and neutral in an outlet, place the NCV tab directly next to each slot in the outlet. The tone (buzzer) will sound over the slot that is energized and not on the neutral slot. Either test lead can also be used to differentiate between the hot and neutral. Plug the red or black test lead into the V input jack on the meter. With the function switch in the NCV position, insert the probe end of just one probe into the slots on the outlet. The meter will beep and the Red LED will flash when a hot conductor is contacted.

NOTES:
While the NCV is a helpful function, it is ALWAYS RECOMMENDED that the operator verify that any electrical conductor is completely de-energized and that no voltage is present by measuring for voltage AND CONFIRMING THAT NO VOLTAGE IS PRESENT by using a digital multimeter and lead set and that all applicable PPE and lock out tag out procedures be followed before attempting any work on ANY electrical distribution system. Voltages with frequencies higher than 60Hz or electrostatic charges may also be detected by the NCV sensing antenna.

Note:

  • When measuring current, align the conductor with dash marks on meter jaws.
  • For DC point the arrow (located at the base of jaws) towards the load.

Measuring AC ( ) or DC ( ) Voltage

Verifying Continuity ( )

  • Verify the circuit is de-energized.
  • The meter will sense the level of resistance and beep if the resistance is less than 10 Ω to confirm that continuity is present.
  • Red LED will illuminate and resistance value will be displayed.

Measuring Resistance (Ohms / Ω )

Verify the circuit is de-energized to obtain accurate measurements.

Measuring Capacitance ( )

Measuring Diodes ( )

Functions Operation Table

Operation

Note: Long Press: > 2 seconds Short Press: < 2 seconds


Short Press: Circularly enter or exit the data hold mode, LCD will display “ ”

  1. Short press: Circularly select the appropriate test function.

  2. When in HOLD, RANGE, MAX/MIN, REL / ZERO function, Short press the SEL key will exit current function and go into the relative select function.

  3. Long press: Circularly turn on or off the backlight and flashlight, default is off, Applicable to all measuring settings. The backlight and flashlight will turn off automatically 5 minutes after they are activated. Long press SEL button again to turn on the backlight and flashlight.

  4. Short press the RANGE key to enter manual range mode (LCD will not display “AUTO”), and the current range, press again to enter cyclical selection range. Long press: exits manual range and enters Auto range. Switching measurement setting or restarting the unit returns the unit to the default setting.

  5. In HOLD, MAX/MIN, REL / ZERO function, Short press the RANGE key to exit the current function and enter the relative range function.

  6. Short press: enter “MAX/MIN” statistics mode, continuously updates the data, and you can circularly view the maximum value® minimum value® maximum value. Long press: exits statistical mode and returns to the normal working mode. After pressing the REL/ZERO, and then short pressing MAX/MIN, the unit will show the MAX/MIN after deducting the initial offset value.

  7. When HOLD function is in use, MAX/MIN is invalid.

  8. After entering the statistical mode, exit the automatic range at the same time and enter into the current range, the APO will be disabled; exit the MAX/MIN function to restore the automatic range and automatic shutdown.

  9. In the statistical mode, a short press of the HOLD key will stop refreshing the statistical data. At the same time, a short press of the MAX/MIN key can review the stored data of MAX/ MIN, a short press of the HOLD key exits HOLD to continue refreshing the statistical data.

  10. Short press: Circularly enter or exit REL function (when entering REL function, LCD will display “ ” symbol )

  11. Entering the REL function, exits auto range and enters into the current range.

  12. Entering the REL measurement mode does not change the actual measurable range of the current range

  13. When HOLD or MAX/MIN is in use, REL function is invalid.

  14. Short press: Circularly enter or exits the ZERO clearing function (when entering the ZERO function, the LCD will display the “ZERO” symbol)

  15. Pressing ZERO does not affect the current automatic or manual range status. Pressing ZERO and then pressing MAX/MIN will exit the automatic range and enter the current range.

  16. When HOLD or MAX/MIN is in use, the ZERO function is invalid.

Displays “EF” – Electromagnetic Field

Functions Indication Table

Function Description
Auto Range Auto detects and displays the most pertinent range for the

measured value.
LCD| Total of two LCDs (61-415 only front and bottom). Bottom LCDs same numbers as a front display for all functions, display a “-” symbol for all negative readings, display “AC” for alternating current or “DC” for direct current and display “Amps” for current measurement.
LCD Backlight| White backlight for both front and bottom display.
Flashlight| White flashlight, turns on or off with LCD blacklight simultaneously.
High Voltage Alarm| 1) Effective setting: ACV / DCV.

  1. In ACV/DCV, voltage measurement value: ACV/DCV ³30V, LCD displays high voltage alarm lightning symbol “ ” Simultaneously the NCV LED is on and beeping lasts for 1 second    and then goes silent during measurement.

  2. In voltage measure, the voltage data is out of range and LCD display “OL”, and high voltage alarm lightning symbol “  ” Simultaneously the NCV LED is on and beeping lasts for 1 second    and then goes silent during measurement.

Regular Prompt| 1) When turning the dial switch to any setting position except OFF, the buzzer will beep one time and NCV LED flash one time.

  1. When the button selection is valid, the buzzer will beep one time; When the button is invalid, the buzzer will beep twice

  2. About 1 minute before the automatic shutdown, the buzzer will beep 5 times continuously, and 1 long beep before the unit shuts down.

  3. When the automatic shutdown function is canceled, the buzzer will beep 5 times when it reaches the APO time setting.

Over Range Indication| LCD displays “OL” when over range is encountered.
Function| Description
---|---
Low Battery Indication| When the battery voltage < 3.6±0.2V, the low battery indication is displayed on the screen and the meter still works normally. When the battery voltage drops to less than 3.1±0.2V, “bAtt” is displayed for 5 seconds and then shuts off. When the battery voltage is less than 2.3V, the meter is unreliable. Battery life varies by battery brand This ensures accurate readings.
APO| No actions of the rotary dial or button press for 30 minutes will automatically cause the unit to shut down and enter the low-power state. Turning the meter off and then on will reset the meter to the default shutdown function, and the LCD will display the “APO” symbol.
Restore APO| All the buttons can wake up the unit or rotate the dial switch to the OFF setting and then turn on the unit to wake it up. Note: Use caution as shutting the unit off will lose any Max Min data that may have been in volatile memory.
Disable the Auto Power Off Function| Pressing the “SEL” key while turning on the unit at the same time, will cancel the auto shutdown function. The buzzer will beep 5 times and the LCD will not display the “APO” symbol.

Electrical Specifications

Function Range Range Resolution Accuracy
61- 415 61- 405 ±(a%+b)


AC Voltage (V)

| 6.000V| 6.000V| 0.001V| ****


±(1.0%+5)

60.00V| 60.00V| 0.01V
600.0V| 600.0V| 0.1V
1000V| 1000V| 1V| ±(1.5%+5)
AC Current (A)| 200.0A| 200.0A| 0.1A| ±(2.5%+5)



DC Voltage (V)

| 6.000V| 6.000V| 0.001V| ±(1.0%+5)
60.00V| 60.00V| 0.01V| ****

±(1.0%+5)

600.0V| 600.0V| 0.1V
1000V| 1000V| 1V| ±(1.5%+5)
DC Current (A)| 200.0A| N/A| 0.1A| ±(2.5%+5)





Resistance (W)

| 600.0W| 600.0W| 0.1W| ****



±(1.5%+5)

6.000kW| 6.000kW| 0.001kW
60.00kW| 60.00kW| 0.01kW
600.0kW| 600.0kW| 0.1kW
6.000MW| 6.000MW| 0.001MW
60.00MW| 60.00MW| 0.01MW| ±(2.0%+5)

  1. Overload Protection: 1000VRMS and 200 A AC/DC
  2. Accuracy a is % of reading and b is LSD (Least Significant Digit).
  3. AC crest factor 2.5 at 4000 counts, And non-sinusoidal wave according to wave factor calculated as follows:
    • Add 3% when the crest factor is 1~2
    • Add 5% when the crest factor is 2~2.5

Environmental Specifications

Operating Temperature:| 32ºF to 86ºF (0ºC to 30ºC) (80%RH)

86ºF to 104ºF (30ºC to 40ºC) (75%RH)

104ºF to 122ºF (40ºC to 50ºC) (45%RH)

---|---
Operating Altitude:| < 6562 ft. (< 2000 m)
Storage Temperature:| 14ºF to 140ºF (-10ºC to 60ºC) (<80%RH)

Intended for indoor use.

Mechanical Specifications

Dimensions: (L x W x H) 61-405| 8.7 in. x 2.4 in. x 1.8 in. (220 mm. x 60 mm. x 44.5 mm.)
---|---
Dimensions: (L x W x H) 61-415| 8.8 in. x 2.4 in. x 1.8 in. (225 mm. x 60 mm. x 44.5 mm.)
Jaw Opening Dimensions:| 0.75 in. (19 mm.)
Weight:| 0.45 LBS (0.2 KG)
Display:| LCD
Display Count: 61-415| 6000
Display Count: 61-405| 6000
Power Source:| 2 x 1.5V AAA
Battery Life:| 100 Hours Typical

EMC/EMI
CISPR 22 3rd Edition. Class B Limits. EN 55032 CISPR 32 CISPR 11  FCC 15. 107 concerning Section 15.109 (g). ICES-003 EN 61326-2-2 Sec 6.4.2.101

USA (FCC)
47 CFR 15 subpart B. This product is considered an exempt device per clause 15.103.

Safety

  • Complies with the following:
  • IEC 61010-1, Edition 3 (2010-06) +AMD1 (2016-12)
  • ANSI/UL/IEC EN 61010-1, Edition 3 (2015-07-15)
  • IEC 61010-2-032 (2019-06)
  • IEC 61010-2-033 (2019-06)
  • Overvoltage rating CAT IV 600V / CAT III 1000V (61-415).
  • Overvoltage rating CAT III 600V / CAT II 1000V (61-405).
  • Any voltages exceeding the defined maximum voltage measurement categories described above are outside the normal use of the equipment and protection cannot be guaranteed.
  • Pollution Degree Class 2

Maintenance and Service

Equipment Maintenance and Service

Meter Inspection
Do not use it if the meter appears damaged. Visually inspect the meter to ensure the case and jaws are not cracked.

Test Lead Inspection
Inspect and replace test leads if insulation is damaged, metal is exposed, or probes are cracked. Pay particular attention to the insulation surrounding the connectors. Battery Inspection/Replacement Inspect the battery compartment monthly for any signs of degradation. Low battery voltages will cause inaccuracies in readings. Remove the batteries for storage or if the meter will not be used for longer than one month. Battery leakage will compromise the safety of the meter and cause irreparable damage to internal components.

WARNING

Shock Hazard. Remove the test leads from the circuit before removing the battery cover. Failure to comply can result in serious injury or death.

Maintenance and Storage
Switch off and disconnect the meter completely before carrying out any maintenance. Clean the case with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use abrasives or solvents. Keep away from liquids and ensure the meter is completely dry before use.

Service and Replacement Parts
This unit has no user-serviceable parts. This fork meter has no fuse.

Disposal of Waste, Electrical & Electronic Equipment
It serves, protects, and improves the quality of the environment, protects human health, and utilizes natural resources prudently and rationally, the user should return unserviceable products and relevant facilities by statutory regulations. The crossed-out wheeled bin indicates the product needs to be disposed of separately and not as municipal waste. Do not dispose of this product as unsorted municipal waste. It must be properly disposed of by local regulations. Please see www.epa.gov or www.erecycle.org for additional information.

Disposal of Used Batteries/Accumulators
The user is legally obliged to return used batteries and accumulators. Disposing of used batteries in household waste is prohibited! Batteries/accumulators containing hazardous substances are marked with the crossed-out wheeled bin. The symbol indicates that the product is forbidden to be disposed of via domestic refuse. The chemical symbols for the respective hazardous substances are Cd = Cadmium, Hg = Mercury, and Pb = Lead. You can return used batteries/accumulators free of charge to any collecting point of your local authority, our stores, or where batteries/accumulators are sold. Consequently, you must comply with your legal obligations and contribute to environmental protection.

TWO-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

This tester is warranted to the original purchaser against defects in material and workmanship for two (2) years from the date of purchase. With proof of purchase from an authorized IDEAL distributor, a defective tester will be repaired or replaced with the same product or a functionally equivalent product, at the option of IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. during the warranty period, subject to verification of the defect or malfunction. The warranty does not cover consumables such as fuses, and batteries, and excludes defects caused by leakage from batteries, abuse, mishandling, dropping, ordinary wear and tear, misuse, neglect, unauthorized repair, improper use, alterations, accidents, or any causes beyond IDEAL’s reasonable control. Consequential or incidental damages are not recoverable under this warranty. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This LIMITED WARRANTY gives you specific legal rights, which vary from state to state. This warranty constitutes the sole and exclusive remedy of the purchaser and the exclusive liability of IDEAL, and is instead of all other warranties, and expressly disclaims all other warranties, implied, or statutory as to merchantability, fitness for the purpose sold, description, quality productiveness, or any other matter. No agent, distributor, or other supplier has the authority to modify or amend this warranty or make other representations or warranties other than those contained in this warranty without express written authorization from IDEAL. For warranty service, call IDEAL customer service at 1-800-435-0705.

Scan the barcode on the right to see the new IDEAL T &M Product Line

IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. Sycamore, IL 60178, U.S.A. 800-435-0705 www.Idealind.com ND 9014-1

References

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