How To Use a Clamp Meter (For Beginners)

Summary

In this how-to video, Meg demonstrates how to use a clamp meter to measure current through insulated wires. She explains the two types of clamp meters—current transformer and Hall effect—highlighting the latter's ability to measure both AC and DC currents. Meg walks viewers through the process of measuring alternating current using a toaster oven, emphasizing the importance of testing wires individually. She also introduces the hold feature for freezing readings and provides helpful tips for accurate measurements. The video closes with an invitation to subscribe and suggest future how-to topics.

Takeaways

• 📏 The purpose of a clamp meter is to measure current through an insulated conductor or wire.
• 💡 There are two types of clamp meters: current transformer (cheaper, tests only AC) and Hall effect (more expensive, tests both AC and DC).
• ⚙️ The Hall effect clamp meter requires manual zeroing of readings before each test.
• 🔄 To use a clamp meter, turn it on by rotating the dial to the appropriate setting, which depends on what you’re testing.
• 🔌 The video example shows testing the current in a toaster oven using the AC amps setting.
• 🔍 Always start with the highest amp setting (200) if you don’t know the current load of the device being tested.
• 👈 Only clamp one wire at a time for an accurate reading, as clamping both will cancel out the measurement.
• 📊 The hold button feature allows users to freeze the current reading for easy reference.
• 🔋 The clamp meter can also measure volts and ohms, but this is a standard multimeter function.
• 📹 The video is part of a 'how-to' series, and the creator invites viewers to suggest future video topics.

Q & A

What is the purpose of a clamp meter?

A clamp meter allows you to measure current through an insulated conductor or wire.

What are the two types of clamp meters mentioned in the video?

The two types are the current transformer clamp meter and the Hall effect clamp meter.

What is the main limitation of the current transformer clamp meter?

The current transformer clamp meter can only test alternating current (AC) due to its magnetic core sensor.

How does the Hall effect clamp meter differ from the current transformer type?

The Hall effect clamp meter does not use a magnetic core but a pulse sensor, allowing it to measure both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC).

What additional step is required when using a Hall effect clamp meter before testing?

You must manually press a button to zero out any readings before testing with a Hall effect clamp meter.

Why is it recommended to set the clamp meter to the highest amp setting (200) first?

Since the current drawn by the device is unknown, setting the clamp meter to the highest rating ensures a safe initial reading.

Why should you only clamp one wire at a time when measuring current?

Clamping both wires together cancels out the current readings because the current in both wires is equal and opposite, resulting in an inaccurate reading.

What feature of the clamp meter allows you to freeze a reading?

The clamp meter has a 'Hold' button, which allows you to freeze the reading at the value displayed when the button is pressed.

What other measurements can a clamp meter take besides current?

Besides current, a clamp meter can also test for voltage and resistance (ohms), similar to a standard multimeter.

How can viewers suggest future how-to videos to the creator?

Viewers can leave suggestions for future how-to videos in the comments section, and the creator may create a video based on those requests.