Measuring Ac Or Dc Current; Table 2-12 Rotary Switch Positions Allowing Current Measurements - Keysight Technologies U1281A User Manual

2 Making Measurements

Measuring AC or DC Current

– Before attempting any current measurement, switch off the power source of the
WARNING
circuit and measure the AC or DC voltage to ensure that the power source has been
switched off.
– Never attempt an in-circuit current measurement where the open-circuit potential to
earth is greater than 1000 V. Doing so will cause damage to the multimeter and
possible electric shock or personal injury.
– To avoid possible damage to the multimeter or to the equipment under test:
CAUTION
– Check the multimeter's fuses before measuring current.
– Use the proper terminals, function, and range for your measurement.
– Never place the probes across (in parallel with) any circuit or component when the
– Current can be measured at 440 mA continuously, and > 440 mA to 600 mA for 20
hours maximum. After measuring > 440 mA current, cool down the multimeter for
twice the measuring time taken and use the Null (
Relative Measurements (Null)" on page 100) to zero the thermal effect before
proceeding for low current measurement.
– Current can be measured at 10 A continuously, and 10 A ~ 20 A for 30 seconds
maximum. After measuring > 10 A current, cool down the multimeter for twice the
measuring time taken before proceeding for low current measurement.
Set up your multimeter to measure AC or DC current as shown in Figure 2-27. Open the
circuit path to be tested. Probe the test points, and read the display.
Table 2-12
Legend
A
mA
82
leads are plugged into the current terminals.
Rotary switch positions allowing current measurements
Defaul t function
DC A
DC mA (or μA)
) function (refer to "Making
Function when Shift is pressed
Esc
Scrolls between
– AC A
– AC+DC A, or
– DC A
Scrolls between
– AC mA (or μA)
– AC+DC mA (or μA), or
– DC mA (or μA)
Keysight U1281A/U1282A User's Guide