VOLTCRAFT VC131 Handheld Multimeter User Manual

1. Introduzione

The VOLTCRAFT VC131 is a robust and versatile handheld digital multimeter designed for a wide range of electrical measurement tasks. It serves as an excellent entry-level device, replacing previous models like the VC-130 and VC-135. This multimeter features an automatic measuring range selection function, making it user-friendly for both alternating (AC) and direct (DC) current measurements, though current measurement is limited to DC. Its razor-sharp EBTN display ensures clear readability in various lighting conditions, with a 2.2-inch diagonal screen for large, easy-to-read numbers and symbols. The device is built with a durable two-component housing, integrated soft rubber protection, and slightly raised edges to safeguard the display, rotary switch, and buttons, ensuring longevity and a secure grip even in demanding environments.

Key features include tilt protection for stability, a non-slip design, a built-in torch function for illuminating dark work areas, and a non-contact voltage (NCV) sensor for safely detecting live cables without direct contact. The measuring tips are equipped with removable protective caps for enhanced safety and versatility.

2. Informazioni sulla sicurezza

Always adhere to safety precautions when operating electrical testing equipment. Failure to do so may result in injury or damage to the device.

• Leggere le istruzioni per l'uso: Before using the device, thoroughly read and understand this manual.
• Valutazione della categoria: This device is rated CAT III 600 V. Do not use it for measurements exceeding this category or voltage.
• Ispezionare prima dell'uso: Always inspect the multimeter and test leads for any damage before each use. Do not use if damaged.
• Collegamento corretto: Connect the test leads correctly to the circuit and the multimeter terminals.
• Voltage Rilevamento: Utilizzare il volume senza contattotage (NCV) function to safely check for live wires before making contact.
• Sicurezza della batteria: Ensure correct battery polarity during installation. Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears.
• Sostituzione fusibile: Only replace fuses with the specified type and rating.
• Condizioni ambientali: Use the device within its specified environmental limits (temperature, humidity).
• Evitare l'umidità: Do not expose the multimeter to moisture or operate it in wet conditions.

Figura 2.1: Posteriore view of the VC131 Multimeter, highlighting the battery compartment and printed safety warnings, including the instruction to "Read the operating instructions!" and battery type (9V 1604 6F22).

3. Prodotto finitoview

The VOLTCRAFT VC131 is designed for ease of use and durability. Below is an overview dei suoi componenti e caratteristiche principali.

Figura 3.1: Fronte view of the VOLTCRAFT VC131 Handheld Multimeter, showing the large EBTN display, rotary function switch, and input jacks.

3.1 Caratteristiche principali

• CAT III 600 V Rating: Suitable for measurements in distribution boards, circuit breakers, wiring, and cables.
• Visualizzazione di 2000 conteggi: Provides precise readings with a maximum display value of 1999.
• Automatic Range Selection: Semplifica il funzionamento selezionando automaticamente l'intervallo di misurazione appropriato.
• Funzione torcia: LED integrato lamp for illuminating dark work areas.
• Illuminazione espositiva: Backlit display for clear visibility in low-light conditions.
• Volume senza contattotage (NCV) Test: Rileva AC voltage senza contatto fisico, aumentando la sicurezza.
• Design robusto: Two-component housing with soft rubber protection for durability and a secure grip.
• EBTN Display: Razor-sharp, easy-to-read display in both bright and dark environments.
• Tilt Protection & Non-Slip: Ensures stability when placed on surfaces, with or without the kickstand.
• Removable Protective Caps: Test lead tips are protected and can be uncovered for specific applications.

4. Impostazione

4.1 Installazione della batteria

The VOLTCRAFT VC131 requires a 9V (1604, 6F22) battery for operation. To install or replace the battery:

1. Assicurarsi che il multimetro sia spento e scollegare tutti i cavi di prova dal dispositivo e da tutti i circuiti.
2. Individuare il vano batteria sul retro del multimetro.
3. Using a screwdriver, loosen the screw securing the battery compartment cover.
4. Togliere il coperchio.
5. Inserire la batteria da 9 V rispettando la polarità corretta (+ e -).
6. Richiudere il coperchio del vano batteria e serrare saldamente la vite.

4.2 Collegamento dei puntali di prova

Il corretto collegamento dei puntali è fondamentale per ottenere misurazioni precise e sicure.

Figure 4.1: The VC131 Multimeter shown with its included red and black test leads, ready for connection.

1. Insert the black test lead into the "COM" (common) jack. This is the negative (-) input.
2. Per la maggior parte dei volumitage, resistance, continuity, and diode measurements, insert the red test lead into the "VΩmA" jack. This is the positive (+) input.
3. For high DC current measurements (up to 10A), insert the red test lead into the "10A max" jack.
4. Assicurarsi che i puntali di prova siano completamente inseriti e saldamente collegati.
5. If necessary, remove the protective caps from the test lead tips for specific measurement points.

5. Istruzioni per l'uso

The VC131 features a rotary switch for selecting measurement functions and buttons for additional features.

5.1 Accensione/spegnimento

• Per accendere il multimetro, ruotare l'interruttore di funzione da "OFF" alla funzione di misurazione desiderata.
• To turn off the multimeter, rotate the function switch to the "OFF" position.

5.2 Funzioni di misura

Select the desired function using the central rotary switch.

• Volume DCtage (V–): For measuring direct current voltage. Collegare i cavi in ​​parallelo al circuito.
• Volume ACtage(V~): For measuring alternating current voltage. Collegare i cavi in ​​parallelo al circuito.
• Resistenza (Ω): For measuring electrical resistance. Ensure the circuit is de-energized before measuring.
• Continuity (•))): For checking circuit continuity. An audible beep indicates continuity.
• Diode Test (•|•): Per testare i diodi.
• DC Current (A–, mA–, µA–): For measuring direct current. Connect leads in series with the circuit. Note: AC current measurement is not supported by this model.

5.3 Funzioni speciali

• Pulsante ATTESA: Premere per bloccare la lettura corrente sul display. Premere di nuovo per rilasciare.
• Funzione torcia: The built-in LED light can be activated to illuminate the work area. Refer to the device for the specific button or switch to activate the torch.
• Volume senza contattotage(NCV):
  

  Figure 5.1: The VC131 Multimeter demonstrating the Non-Contact Voltage (NCV) function, with the NCV sensor illuminated, indicating detection of an electromagnetic field.

  To use the NCV function, rotate the switch to the NCV position. Place the front of the multimeter near the suspected live wire. The NCV sensor will detect the electromagnetic field, providing an audible and/or visual indication of voltage presence. This is useful for locating live cables through insulation or checking for voltage senza contatto diretto.

6. Manutenzione

6.1 Pulizia

Per mantenere le prestazioni e l'aspetto del dispositivo:

• Pulisci il casing con annuncioamp panno e un detergente delicato. Non utilizzare detergenti abrasivi o solventi.
• Assicurarsi che non entri umidità nel dispositivo.

6.2 Sostituzione della batteria

Replace the 9V battery when the low battery indicator appears on the display. Refer to Section 4.1 for detailed instructions.

6.3 Sostituzione del fusibile

If the current measurement function stops working, the fuse may need replacement. This procedure should only be performed by qualified personnel.

• Assicurarsi che il multimetro sia spento e che tutti i puntali di prova siano scollegati.
• Aprire il retro casing of the multimeter (this may require removing more screws than just the battery cover).
• Locate the fuse(s).
• Replace the blown fuse with a fuse of the exact same type and rating (e.g., 10A max FUSED, 200mA max FUSED). Refer to the markings near the input jacks for fuse specifications.
• Chiudere bene il casing.

7. Risoluzione Dei Problemi

8. Specifiche