IDEAL 61-357 Multimeter Handheld True Rms 10a Instruction Manual

September 5, 2024
IDEAL

IDEAL 61-357 Multimeter Handheld True Rms 10a

Introduction

The IDEAL® 61-357 and 61-347 Digital Multimeters are auto-ranging true root mean square (TRMS) meters that measure AC and DC current (amps) in series via test leads in the designated terminals, measure voltage, frequency, resistance, continuity, capacitance, diodes via test-leads in the designated terminal and measure temperature via a K-Type thermocouple. They also detect the presence of voltage between 40V to 600V AC via a non-contact sensor in the top center of the meter.

WARNINGS: Arc Flash and Shock Hazard, Proper PPE Required. Follow all safety procedures, wear proper PPE in accordance to NFPA 70E. Read and fully understand the instruction manual prior to 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:

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 and all 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 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.
  • When using the probes, keep fingers behind the guard ring 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.

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.

  • 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 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.
  • Never operate the Meter with the back cover removed or the case open.
  • These meters are IP52 dust and water-resistant. Following any contact with water, thoroughly dry meter and test lead jacks prior to subsequent use.
  • 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 61-347 and 61-357 Digital Multimeters:

  1. HV, & Continuity LED
  2. LCD Display
  3. Tactile Barrier
  4. Backlight Button
  5. Rubber Boot
  6. Volts/Ohms Input Terminal
  7. Common (COM) Input Terminal
  8. Mili Amps, Micro Amps Input Terminal
  9. Amps Input Terminal
  10. Measuring Functions Dial
  11. Function Select Button
  12. Function Buttons
  13. NCV Sensing Point
  14. Analog Bar Graph (61-357 only)

Operating Features

  • High Voltage Warning (HI-V)
    The meter beeps once (for 1 second) and a red LED illuminates and remains on as long as the voltage remains above 30V AC or DC, or when the meter’s 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 to toggle in and out of the data hold mode. “H” appears in the upper 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 and 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 and MIN values over time. Depressing the MAX/MIN button for >2 sec. exits the MAX/MIN mode.
    NOTE: When the MAX/MIN function is activated, the Auto Power Off (APO) feature will be disabled. When you exit the MAX/MIN function, Auto Power Off feature is enabled.

  • REL Feature
    A short press of the ‘Δ’ button will activate or deactivate the REL function.

  • Range
    The meter is auto-ranging, however, the user may select a specific range by pressing the range button repeatedly.

  • 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.

  • Analog Bar Graph
    An analog scale representation of the digital readout values. (61-357 only)

Backlight

Press the Backlight button on the meter to turn the backlight on and off. The white backlight will remain lit for about 5 minutes before it automatically turns off to conserve battery power. Or turn the backlight off by pressing the button again.

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. Failure to do so can result in serious injury or death.
  • Use only approved test leads. Do not use improvised connections that could present a safety hazard.
  • Ensure that the test leads are inserted into the correct input jacks when measuring AC or DC current.
  • 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.
  • When using the probes, keep fingers behind the guard rings on the probes.
  • Connect the common test lead before connecting the live test lead. When disconnecting test leads, disconnect the live test lead first.
  • Always ensure that test leads are secured so that they cannot be accidentally snagged or tripped over.
  • These meters are IP52 dust and water-resistant. Following any contact with water, thoroughly dry meter and test lead jacks prior to subsequent use.

WARNING: Arc Flash and Shock Hazard, Proper PPE Required.
Follow all safety procedures, wear proper PPE in accordance to NFPA 70E and assure that the Protective Caps are in place when operating a properly rated electrical meter/tester using the TL-757 Test Leads in a CAT IV 600V or CAT III 1000V environment.
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 III 1000V.

Meter Operation

Non-Contact Voltage Sensing

First, rotate the function key to the NCV position. Place the sensing point 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. The meter beeps On/Off continuously and the Red NCV LED above the display flashes if the sensing antenna detects live voltage greater than 40V AC (50 -60 Hz). Voltages with frequencies higher than 60Hz or electrostatic charges may also be detected by the NCV sensing antenna. 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.
NOTE: 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 and that all applicable PPE and lock out tag out procedures be followed before attempting any work on ANY electrical distribution system.

Lead Warning
When inserting the test lead into any amperage input terminal, but the rotary function switch IS NOT set to the correct relative amperage position, the meter will beep at 3Hz, LCD will display ”LEAd“ and “ ”, flashes at 3Hz. If any amperage function is selected first, but the test lead IS NOT in the relative amperage input jack,the meter will also beep at 3Hz and the LCD will display “LEAd” and “ ”, flashes at 3Hz.

Fuse Notification
The test leads CANNOT be short-circuited or used for measuring while testing the fuse.

  1. If the 600mA/1000V fuse is blown, setting the rotary switch to the “mA” or “uA” setting, the LCD will display “FUSE” and “ ”, and the buzzer will beep continuously at the same time.
  2. If the 11A/1000V fuse is blown, setting the rotary switch to the “A” setting, the LCD will display “FUSE” and “ ”, and the buzzer will beep continuously at the same time.

SEL Button The SEL Button allows the user to toggle between multiple functions when the function dial is used to select a specific function. This can include but is not limited to toggling between degrees F and C, AC and DC voltage or current, continuity, resistance, capacitance and diode measurements.

Measuring AC ( ) or DC ( ) Voltage
To assist with voltage readings, a bar graph will appear in the display.

AC V LoZ Setting* 61-357 Only

Note: When measuring AC voltage, Ghost or stray voltages (caused by induced voltages coupling from one parallel conductor to the next as found when measuring one conductor in multiple conductor circuits) may cause an incorrect value. Selecting the Low impedance position (LoZ) on the dial, (see inset above) while measuring voltage with the 61-357 will defeat the influence of Ghost or Stray voltage.

Caution – Use caution when using the LoZ function on equipment that may be damaged by being connected to a low-impedance source.

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’s to confirm that continuity is present.
  • The red LED will illuminate and the resistance value will be displayed.
  • The default setting is Continuity

Measuring Resistance (Ohms / Ω)

  • Verify the circuit is de-energized to obtain accurate measurements.
  • To exit Continuity and enter the Resistance mode, press the SEL button.

Measuring Capacitance ( )

  • To exit Resistance and enter the Capacitance mode, press the SEL button.

Measuring Diodes ( )

  • To exit Capacitance and enter the Diode Test mode, press the SEL button.

Measuring Frequency ( Hz )

Measuring Temperature ( °F °C )

Measuring Micro Amps (μA)

Measuring Milli Amps (mA)

Measuring Amps (A)

Functions

Functions Operation Table

Functions Indication Table

Function Description
Auto Range Auto detects and displays most pertinent range for measured value.
LCD One LCD. Displays a “-” symbol for all negative readings, displays “AC”

for alternating current or “DC” for direct current and displays “Amps” for current measurement.
LCD Backlight| White backlight. The backlight will automatically power off after 5 minutes of inactivated
High Voltage Alarm| 1) Only applicable to ACV / DCV

  1. For ACV and DCV, when voltages in excess of 30V is measured or the measured voltage is over limit, then the high voltage alarm symbol

“ ****” appears on the screen display, simultaneously the LED remains RED and beeping lasts for 1 second then becomes silent during measurement.

Regular Prompt| 1) When turning the dial switch to any setting position except OFF, the buzzer will beep one time and the NCV LED flashes 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.
Lead Warning| When inserting the test lead into any amperage input terminal, but the rotary function switch IS NOT set to the relative amperage position, the meter will beep at 3Hz, LCD will display ” LEAd “ and “  ”, flashes at 3Hz. If any amperage function is selected first, but the test lead IS NOT in relative amperage input jack,the meter will also beep at 3Hz and the LCD will display “ LEAd ” and “”, flashes at 3Hz.
Function| Description
---|---
Fuse Notification| The test leads CANNOT be short-circuited or used for measuring while testing the fuse.

1.  If the 600mA/1000V fuse is blown, setting the rotary switch to the “mA” or “uA” setting, the LCD will display “ FUSE ” and “ ****”, and the buzzer will beep continuously at the same time.

2. If the 11A/1000V fuse is blown, setting the rotary switch to the “A” setting, the LCD will display “ FUSE ” and “ ****”, and the buzzer will beep continuously at the same time.

Low Battery Indication| When the battery voltage < 3.6 ±0.2V, the low battery indication ‘ ****‘ is displayed on the screen and the meter will still work normally. When the battery voltage drops to less than 3.1 ±0.2V, “bAtt” is displayed for 5 seconds then shuts off. When the battery voltage is less than 3.2V, accuracy is no longer assured.
APO| The unit will be automatically power off after 30 minutes of inactivity and enter the low-power state. Current draw is approx. £50 micro A.
Restore APO| All the buttons can wake up the unit, or rotate the dial switch to the OFF setting and then turn the unit back on to wake it up.
Disable Auto Power Off Function| Pressing the “Select” key while turning on the unit on at the same time, will cancel the auto shutdown function. Buzzer will beep 5 times and the LCD will not display the “APO” symbol.
Mechanical Housing| Single Injection Molding with rubber boot.

Specifications

Electrical Specifications

Function| Range 61-347 & 61-357| Resolution| Accuracy
---|---|---|---
±(a%+b)
AC Voltage (V) TRMS (61-357 has LoZ)| 600mV| 0.1mV| ±(1.5%+8)
6V| 0.001V| ±(1.3%+5)
60.00V| 0.01V
600.0V| 0.1V
1000V| 1V| ±(1.5%+5)
AC Current (A) TRMS| 600.0μA| 0.1μA| ±(2%+5)
6000μA| 1μA
60.00mA| 0.01mA
600.0mA| 0.1mA
6.000A| 0.001A| ±(2.5%+5)
10.00A| 0.01A
DC Voltage (V)| 600mV| 0.1mV| ±(1.5%+8)
6V| 0.001V| ±(1.3%+5)
60.00V| 0.01V
600.0V| 0.1V
1000V| 1V| ±(1.5%+5)
DC Current (A)| 600.0μA| 0.1μA| ±(2%+5)
6000μA| 1μA
60.00mA| 0.01mA
600.0mA| 0.1mA
6.000A| 0.001A| ±(2.5%+5)
10.00A| 0.01A
Resistance (W)| 600.0Ω| 0.1Ω| ±(1.5%+5)
6.000kΩ| 0.001kΩ
60.00kΩ| 0.01kΩ
600.0kΩ| 0.1kΩ| ±(2%+5)
6.000MΩ| 0.001MΩ
60.00MΩ| 0.01MΩ
Function| Range 61-347 & 61-357| Resolution| Accuracy
---|---|---|---
±(a%+b)
Capacitance| 600.0nF| 0.1nF| ±(5%+15)
6.000uF| 0.001uF
60.00uF| 0.01uF
600.0uF| 0.1uF
6000uF| 1uF| ±10%
Frequency Hz| 9.999Hz ~ 9.999KHz| 0.001Hz ~

0.1KHz

| ±(0.5%+5)
Duty Cycle %| 0.1%~99.9%| 0.1%|
Temp. °F| -40~1832°F| 1°F| ±(2.0%+7)@-40~32°F

±(2.0%+6)@33~1832°F

Temp. °C| -40~1000°C| 1°C| ±(2.0%+4)@-40~0°C

±(2.0%+3)@1~1000°C

Continuity| | 0.1 W| ≤10Ω: Buzzer beeps and red indicator LED illuminates continuously
≥70Ω: No buzzer beep
Diode test|
| 0.001V| Silicon PN joint with forward voltage about 0.5V to 0.8V
NCV| 40-600V| ≥40V/(50~60Hz), with direct wire contact, red indicator LED flashes at a frequency of 3Hz , and the buzzer beeps at a frequency of 3Hz simultaneously

  1. Overload Protection: 1000VRMS MAX Fuses FF 0.6A 1000V and FF 11A 1000V
  2. Accuracy a is % of reading and b is LSD (Least Significant Digit).

Environmental Specifications

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

86ºF to 140ºF (30ºC to 40ºC) (75%RH)

104ºF to 122ºF (40ºC to 50ºC) (45%RH)

---|---
Operating Altitude:| < 6500 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):| 7.83 in. x 3.74 in. x 2.24 in.

(199 mm. x 95 mm. x 57 mm.)

---|---
Weight:| 1.147 LBS (0.52 KG)
Display:| LCD
Display Count:| 6000
Power Source:| 3 x 1.5V AAA
Battery Life:| 100 Hours Typical
Ingress Protection Rating:| IP52 dust and water resistant

EMC/EMI
CISPR 22 3rd Edition. Class B Limits.
EN 55032
CISPR 32
CISPR 11
FCC 15. 107 with reference to 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:
UL 61010-1, 3rd Edition, May 11, 2012, Revised November 21 2018, CAN/
CSA-C22.2 No. 61010-1-12, 3rd Edition, Amendment 1:2018, Revision dated November 21 2018,
IEC 61010-2-033: 2019
Overvoltage CAT IV 600V CAT III 1000V.
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 if meter appears damaged. Visually inspect the meter to ensure the case is 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.

  • Thermocouple Inspection
    Inspect the thermocouple for signs of wear or breakage. Replace if necessary to guarantee accuracy of readings.

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 prior to 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

  • For the 10 Amp Terminal – 11 Amp 1000V AC DC IR30kA Fast Acting Fuse, 10 x 38 mm Ceramic or equivalent
  • For the 600 Milli Amp Terminal – 600 Milli Amp 1000V AC DC Fast Acting Fuse, 6 x 32 mm Ceramic or equivalent
  • To ensure the meter is in a safe state of operation, make sure the fuses are properly seated and that the battery cover is secured to the back of the meter. With the leads in the terminals but not connected to or touching any voltage source, turn the function dial to the applicable Amperage setting and verify the FUSE indicator is NOT displayed. This indicates that the replacement fuse in not blown or popped. Use only specified replacement fuses.

Disposal

Disposal of Waste, Electrical & Electronic Equipment
In order to preserve, protect and improve the quality of the environment, protect human health and utilize natural resources prudently and rationally, the user should return unserviceable product to relevant facilities in accordance with statutory regulations. The crossed-out wheeled bin indicates the product needs to be disposed separately and not as municipal waste. Do not dispose of this product as unsorted municipal waste. It must be properly disposed of in accordance with 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 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 via domestic refuse. The chemical symbols for the respective hazardous substances are Cd = Cadmium, Hg = Mercury, 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 a period of two (2) years from 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. Warranty does not cover consumables such as fuses, 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 in lieu of any and all other warranties, and expressly disclaims all other warranties, implied, or statutory as to merchantability, fitness for 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

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)  >>

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>

Related Manuals