This morning I had the opportunity to sit down with two of our plant engineers and my newly acquired talking multimeter. Some of the instructions in the manual were not obvious to me but soon explained. Remember too that I am not an electronics expert so some of the functions are not clear to me. There is one function none of us worked out, something labelled "REL". It is mentioned but the manufacturer assumes that I am not so much of an idiot as to need this function explained.
The multimeter is not exactly as described in the manual but very similar. It comes with removable test leads, the manual reports them as attached.
In the box is the main body of the meter, two test leads with pointed caps over the pointed probes and caps inserted into the bayonet like fittings which insert into sockets on the front of the body of the meter. There is also a nylon carry wallet and the manual.
The body of the meter is about 6 inches high, three and a half wide and about two inches thick, actual specifications will be with the manual further down when I get there. The lower end is bevelled for about three quarters of an inch on the face surface and partially rounded at the bottom end of the edges. There is a rubberized boarder wrapping the entire outer edge of the meter giving it both protection and a easily and securely gripped surface.
The rear panel has two screws at the lower edge probably for disassembly, a flip out support leg, something like often found on the back of picture frames to hold them up on a slight angle. I do not find this satisfactory but I suppose optically enabled people would be happy enough to hold it more easily visible.
About the top third of the rear panel has a plastic battery cover. To remove this, a screw is released from the lower edge of this cover, located between the two upper hinges of the support stand. There is a slot at the top of the cover to pry it off with. It is a little tight. It gives access to the bay for three double 'A' batteries.
Of more interest is the front panel. The top quarter contains the LCD display. This display reveals the meter numbers but some other characters such as "OL" when the meter is reading out of range, "overload". There are some other symbols to indicate modes. The LCD display can be back lit for better viewing clarity or low light conditions.
The lower mounting for the meter is rounded, a little like a smile I suppose with three buttons quite flush mounted around this curve. The left most of
these buttons is labelled "HOLD", the second or middle button "FUNCTION" and the right most button is "REL". So far we do not know what is meant by "REL".
It seems to have something to do with calibrating capacitor readings.
Below these three buttons are two round and textured buttons. The left most is the "LOC" button which turns on the back light. If you press it in and rotate
it, the light is locked on.
The right button of this pair is the "TALK" button. Press it and the display is spoken. Press and rotate it and continuous talking is enabled where the
reading is continuously repeated at about two second intervals until this feature is disabled.
Below the buttons there is a rotary select dial, about two inches in diameter. It is recessed in the centre with a bar to grasp to turn for selection of
the various options.
On my model the bar is set horizontally when the switch is to the far left or counter clockwise position, the off position. It rotates through 7 positions
to the fully clockwise position again horizontally and again off.
Below this dial and in the corners left vacant because the dial is round are the sockets for the probe wires. The left one is the black, the right is the active lead. The cables push in with the wires coming off at 90 degrees. The active probe differs from the other one in that there is a small button on it which will, if pressed and released within about a second and a half will cause the meter reading displayed to be spoken. If held longer it causes the light to come on for 30 seconds. The tips of the probes are also lit for sighted people to locate them I suppose.
The functions selected by the rotary dial beginning from the left most off position are:
DC voltage *
AC voltage
RESISTANCE *
CAPACITANCE
FREQUENCY
AMPERAGE *
NOTE: * indicates multiple function.
* "DC" mode: Pressing the "FUNCTION" key here will toggle to reading an AC voltage over a DC carrier.
* The "RESISTANCE" mode position has three functions selected by pressing the "FUNCTION" button. This switches between "RESISTANCE", "DIODE" and "CONTINUITY"
modes. A loud beep is heard as the modes change. In the CONTINUITY mode, a continuous tone is generated when a circuit is in tact.
*"AMPERAGE" or current: The "FUNCTION" key toggles between AC and DC.
Otherwise, the range selection is all automatic. You are warned not to exceed 1000 volts DC or 750 volts AC. I cannot speak to the accuracy of this meter
except to say that it is very consistently reading 60 Hz frequency when I attach it to the wall circuit. The engineers at work thought they might buy one
for the Hospital for calibrating our emergency generator. Apparently dedicated frequency meters cost around three hundred dollars. One thought he would
buy one just to listen to a clear intelligent female voice since his wife doesn't talk to him any more.
It should be noted that reference to 500 volts is made in the manual as is reference to selecting measurement ranges however this latter requirement must apply to an earlier version of the meter as there is no way to select ranges.
Below I will insert the manual as I scanned it last week with K1000. I hope this helps satisfy some of your curiosity. For 40 bucks Canadian this is a pretty good deal in my view and the device appears to me to be well made and executed.
Your LCD Digital talking Multimeter is a portable, compact multimeter that is ideal for eld, shop, and home applications.This Multimeter can display up to 4,000 units. It measures AC voltage up to 750 V, DC voltage up to 1000 V, and resistance up to 40 M.
Rubber Case - Protects the meter.Use extreme caution in use of this device. Improper use of this device can result in injury or death. Follow all safeguards suggested in this user's manual.
In addition to normal safety precautions in dealing with electrical circuits. Do not use this device if you are unfamiliar with electrical circuits and testing procedures. Not for commercial or industrial use. . If this equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
To reduce the risk of re or shock hazard, do not expose this product to rain or moisture.
We have taken every precaution in designing this meter to ensure that it is as safe as we can make it. But safe operation depends on you, the operator.
We recommend that you follow these simple safety rules.
. Never apply voltages to the meter that exceed the limits given in the specifications. Never apply more than 500V DC or 500V RMS AC between the test leads
and ground.
. Use extreme caution when working with voltages above 100V. Always disconnect power from the circuit you are measuring before you connect test leads to
high-voltage points.
. Never connect to a source of voltage when you select the diode check resistance measurement function.
. Always discharge any capacitors of the circuit under test before you attach test leads.
. Always turn off power and disconnect the test leads from the circuit you are testing before you replace the meter's battery.
. Never operate the meter unless its battery compartment cover is fully closed with the screw fully tightened.
. This equipment is rated for installation category III.
. Because many AC/DC sets have a potentially hot chassis, be sure the top of your workbench and the floor underneath it are made of non-conductive materials,
. This meter is fully calibrated and tested. Under normal use, no further adjustment should be necessary.
For your safety, we have added special markings to the meter's panel to remind you of the measurement limitations. The maximum voltage that can be measured is 500 volts RMS AC or 500 volts DC. Refer to the complete operating instructions. To avoid electrical shock or instrument damage, do not connect the test leads to any source that exceeds 500 volts with respect to earth ground. DC 500V/AC 500V MAX.
Caution: Risk of electric shock! Refer to the complete operating instructions.A short press will x the display on the current value and hold it. A second short press returns multimeter to normal mode. The key is operative in all ranges.
To select the function for the meter, press the function key. This key is operative in DC V/AC V, OHM/ DIODE/BEEP and DC/AC mA functions.
Press the key, a brief beep will be heard, then the LCD and test lead will be lit for 30 seconds. If the user turns this key to the lock position, the meter will light until it is released by the user. This key is operative in all functions.
Pressing this key will cause the meter to announce the test result. If the user turns this key to lock the position, the meter will talk until it is released by the user. This key is operative in all functions. Note: Capital and Frequency tests will occasionally take more time to be announced by the meter.
this Key is on the RED test-lead. Pressing this key for less than 1.5 seconds and the meter will announce the result. If the key is held for more than 1.5 seconds, the meter will be lit for 30 seconds. This key is operative in all ranges. Talking /Back Light Key
Warning: The maximum input limit for voltage measurement is 1000V DC and 750V AC (RMS). To avoid electrical shock and damage to the meter, never try to measure a DC voltage above 1000 volts or an AC voltage above 750 volts RMS.
Over Voltage Protection 1000V DC/750V ACTo avoid electrical shock, disconnect both of the meter's test leads from any equipment before you install or remove the meter's battery.
. Do not operate your meter until the battery is properly installed and the battery compartment cover is in place and secured.
Caution: Use only a fresh battery of the required size and recommended type.
When £3 appears on the display, the display dims, or the meter does not seem to measure accurately, replace the battery. If the battery power is extremely
low, ["*+! does not display.
Warning: Dispose of old batteries promptly and properly. Do not bury or burn them.
Caution: Always remove an old or weak battery. Batteries can leak chemicals that can destroy electronic parts. If you are not going to use the meter for
a few weeks, remove the battery.
Caution: Do not try to measure voltage greater than 1000V DC/ 750V RMS AC. To use the meter, open the meter's case by pulling the tabs on the case in opposite
directions. Then unwind the test leads from inside the cover.
Caution: The test leads are permanently attached to the meter. Do not try to remove them. Rotate the selector to the function you want to use. Then connect
the test leads to the circuit you want to measure. See the unit of measure on the front of the meter to distinguish the range. For example, DC V includes
we ranges; 400 my, 4V, 40, 400 and 1000.
Caution: If OL appears when you are measuring voltage, the value you are measuring exceeds the meter's maximum range. Immediately disconnect the probes
from the circuit or your meter might be damaged. Also, note the position of the decimal. When you
1. Set the selector to OFF .
2. Put in carrying case.
3. Tuck the test leads inside the carrying case and close the cover.
Warning: The maximum input limit for voltage measurement is 1000V DC and 750V AC (RMS). To avoid electrical shock and damage to the meter, never try to measure a DC voltage above 1000 volts or an AC voltage above 750 volts RMS. Follow these steps to measure DC or AC voltage:
1. Set the selector to DC V to measure DC voltage or set AC V to measure AC voltage.To measure an AC voltage superimposed on a DC voltage source bias, you must first measure the DC and AC voltages separately, then compute the peak voltage
using this formula:
£^--^9*+T
Warning: To avoid injury to yourself or damage to your meter, never try to measure an AC voltage that is riding on a DC source bias where the peak voltage
exceeds 500 V with respect to earth ground.
Caution: Never try to measure any voltage more than 30V AC on a DC source bias. Follow these steps to measure AC voltage:
The resistance measuring circuit in your meter compares the voltage gained through a known internal resistance with the voltage developed across an unknown
resistance.
Warning: Be sure the circuit under testing has all power removed and any associated capacitors are fully discharged before you make a resistance measurement.
Caution: Your meter has a circuit to protect the resistance range from over-voltage. However, to prevent accidentally exceeding the protection circuit's
rating and to ensure a correct measurement, never connect the test leads to a source of voltage while the selector is set to OHM/DIODE/CONTINUE.
Note:
1. If there is no resistance connected across the test leads or the measured value exceeds the range you set, OL appears when you set the selector to OHM.
This is normal.
2. Connect the test leads across the circuit you want to measure. Or, remove one of the component's leads you want to measure from its circuit and connect the test leads across the component. The meter displays the reading in the chosen range.
3. If you want the meter to announce the test result, press the switch on the red test lead for less than 1.5 seconds. If you want the meter to be alluminated, press the switch on the red test lead for more than 1.5 seconds, and the meter will be lit for 30 seconds.
This measurement lets you check diodes, transistors, and other semiconductors for opens, shorts, and normal operation. It also lets you determine the forward
voltage for diodes. (This is handy when you need to match a diode).
Caution: Do not connect the test leads to a source of voltage when you set the selector to Diode. This could damage the meter or circuit being tested.
3. Connect the test leads across the circuit you want to measure, or remove one of the component's leads you want to measure from its circuit and connect the test leads across the component. Then note the reading.
4. Reverse the test leads and note the second reading.In a circuit, a good diode should till forward-bias reading of 0.5V to 0.8V; however, the reverse-bias reading can vary depending on the resistance of
other
pathways between the probe tips.
Note:
1. The values that appear during the diode check show the actual forward voltage (max. 1.5V).
2. If you want the meter to announce the test result, press the switch on the red test lead for less than 1.5 seconds. If you want the meter to be alluminated, press the switch on the red test lead for more than 1.5 seconds, and the meter will be lit for 30 seconds.
Position the selector switch on the "CAP" function. Press the "REL" key to make the meter "zero".
Automatic range selection: Read the measured value. The capacitance should be discharged before the test. Hold, if necessary, by pressing the "HOLD" key.
If you want the meter to announce the test result, press the switch on the red test lead for less than 1.5 seconds. If you want the meter to be alluminated,
press the switch on the red test lead for more than 1.5 seconds, and the meter will be lit for 30 seconds.
Position the selector switch on the "Hz" function.
Automatic range selection: Read the measured value. Hold, if necessary, by pressing the "HOLD" key. If you want the meter to announce the test result,
press
the switch on the red test lead for less than 1.5 seconds. If you want the meter to be alluminated, press the switch on the red test lead for more than
1.5 seconds, and the meter will be lit for 30 seconds.
Note: Because of high sensitivity in this function, the meter will catch a signal and will display the number with the test-leads open.
Your LCD Digital Multimeter is an example of superior design and craftsmanship. The following suggestions will help you care for the meter so you can enjoy it for years.
Keep the meter dry. If it gets wet, wipe it dry immediately. Liquids might contain minerals that can corrode the electronic circuits.
. Use and store the meter only in normal temperature environments. Temperature extremes can shorten the life of electronic devices, damage batteries, and
distort or melt plastic parts.
. Handle the meter gently and carefully. Dropping it can damage the circuit boards and case and can cause the meter to work improperly.
. Use only fresh batteries of the required size and type. Always remove old or weak batteries. They can leak chemicals that destroy electronic circuits.
Modifying or tampering with the internal components can cause malfunction and may invalidate the waranty.
To keep the meter looking new, occasionally wipe it with a cloth slightly dampened with water. Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong detergents to clean the meter.
Who is Providing This Warranty?
. Orbyx Electronics, LLC ("Orbyx"). as the distributor of this NexxtechT product (your "Product").
What Does This Warranty Cover?
. This warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship in your Product under normal use and conditions.
What is the Period of Coverage?
. This warranty covers your Product for 90 days from the original purchase date.
Who Is Covered?
. This warranty covers the original consumer purchaser. Coverage terminates if you sell or otherwise transfer your Product.
What Will We Do To Correct Problems?
. We will repair your Product or replace your Product with a new or reconditioned equivalent product, at our option.
How Do You Get Service?
. Call Orbyx TOLL FREE at 1-866-363-3059 for instructions for obtaining warranty service from Orbyx's authorized service providers.
. Or, return your Product directly to the retail store from which you purchased the Product.
. When you obtain service for your Product, you must provide a purchase receipt (or other proof of the original purchase date) and a description of the
defect(s).
What Does This Warranty Not Cover?
. This warranty DOES NOT COVER:
. damage due to misuse, abuse, alteration, unauthorized repair, or accident (such as improper electrical current);
. damage due to "acts of God" (such as lightning) or other contingencies beyond our control;
. cosmetic damage;
. externally generated static, signal reception or antenna problems not caused by your Product; or batteries.
. This warranty also DOES NOT COVER, and in no case will we be liable for, any incidental damages (such as transportation costs to and from an authorized
service provider, or loss of time) or consequential damages (such as costs of repairing or replacing other property which
is damaged, including tapes, discs, speakers not included with your Product or other accessories, or external electrical systems) resulting from the use
of your Product. 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.
There are no express warranties other than those expressed herein. Neither the sales personnel nor any other person is authorized to make any other warranties or to extend the duration of any warranties. . ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY (AN UNWRITTEN WARRANTY THAT A PRODUCT IS FIT FOR ORDINARY USE), ARE LIMITED TO 90 DAYS. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you. How Does State Law Apply? . This warranty gives you sped c legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
ORBYX Electronics warrants that this product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of purchase.
Within this period, simply take the product and your proof of purchase to any ORBYX Electronics store or dealer and the product will be repaired without
charge for parts and labour. ORBYX Electronics reserves the right to charge for transportation. Any product which has been subject to misuse or accidental
damage is excluded from this warranty.
This warranty is only applicable to a product purchased through ORBYX Electronics' company owned stores and dealers and to a product that is presented
for
repair in a country where ORBYX Electronics offers the product for sale. While this warranty does not confer any legal rights other than those set out
above, you may have additional statutory rights which wilt vary under the laws of the various countries, states, province and other governmental entities
in which ORBYX Electronics operates. This warranty is subject to all statutory rights you may have in the country of purchase.
Created on ... January 23, 2007