We can measure the current through different processes. Two are the most common methods: breaking the circuit while connecting the multimeter in series, and electromagnetic induction by a clamp meter.
We must keep in mind that measuring the amount of current in Amperes is often known as Amperage.
The problem is that we cannot always break a circuit to connect a multimeter. Thus, we need a clamp meter for measuring current through a non-invasive method.
And then we require the best clamp meter for amperage as we cannot trust all types of clamp meters.
Although the basic design of a clamp meter is the measuring of current through a non-invasive method, there are many options available in the market.
Every clamp meter does not fulfill its promise of accuracy in measuring current.
Through this blog, we will tell you how to pick the best clamp meter for amperage and which one is the best clamp meter for you.
So stay with us till the end of the blog…
Choosing the best clamp meter for amperage
No matter how complicated a task is presented, once we have a proper clamp meter, we can perform our task smoothly.
Commonly, we consider Klein Tools CL-700 the best clamp meter for amperage. It is simple, versatile, and user-friendly. Moreover, we can trust this model for its durability and accuracy. The number of relevant additional functions is more than a standard clamp meter.
However, there are other famous brands and their unique clamp meters. But we need to pick the best by comparing the following factors.
a. Current rating
We are selecting a clamp meter for the measurement of current in amperes. Hence it is already known that we are expecting a high current range.
A high value for the current rating could be any value maximum than 400 Amps. However, it depends on the user to select a value.
For a common purpose, 200 to 600 Amps is a fine range. We witnessed some users opting for 1000 Amps. Again, it is up to the user.
b. Accuracy and True RMS
We are expecting an accurate clamp meter. Accuracy is a key determining factor for a clamp meter.
We would be dealing with sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal signals. Hence, we need reading in True RMS form that tells us the precise readings of a signal.
No matter what the applications are, we must opt for an accurate and precise clamp meter. These are crucial in our selection.
c. Safety
To perform a different function, we need a safe clamp meter. The safety of the instrument and the safety of users are expected from a clamp meter.
We recommend CAT-III and CAT-IV clamp meters for our users. However, CAT-IV does not matter for the wiring extended after the power meter.
In this way, our clamp meter and the user are safe from any unwanted outcomes.
d. Durability
While measuring current, we may deal with high and low current. A common clamp meter can easily endure low currents, but our clamp meters must be durable for high currents.
Durability is important for a clamp meter. It is a crucial factor for a clamp meter.
Unfortunately, we cannot measure it or fix it. We know the durability of an instrument through an experienced person.
Hare, we will suggest you a durable clamp meter.
e. Auxiliary Functions
Often a clamp meter is equipped with many additional functions like measuring voltage, frequency, temperature, etc.
Some testers can also be there in a clamp meter like a testing diode, capacitor, resistor, transistor, or wire.
These functions are purely optional. It depends on the user to pick the corresponding function.
f. User-friendliness
A good clamp meter is always compatible with every type of user. We can measure user-friendliness through different parameters.
For example, we can look for the perfect hand grip, comfortable knob, easy attachment to the wire, light weightiness, well-defined display, and good clamp-jaw size.
Users can also include their parameters in the list. However, we should be protected from other factors we discussed.
Let’s see our list now…
List of the best amperage clamp meter
By examining the above factors, let’s go through our list.
1. Our Selected: CL-700
For amperage, we selected Klein Tools CL-700(Amazon link) as the best clamp meter. For starters, the Klein Tools manufactures some of the best instruments.
Besides, this clamp meter is durable, sustainable, and safe to use. It is installed with extra safety and good accuracy for measuring current.
Let’s go through it’s qualities.
The Good
The range is automatically selected to the corresponding setup. There is no manual change to our required setup during taking a reading. The range automatically sets to the corresponding values.
The readings are given with True RMS value to increase accuracy. An extra step of true RMS reading is installed. This function is helpful for sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal signals. Besides, the accuracy of reading increases with True RMS reading.
The knob, grip, casing, clamp jaw, and weight improve user-friendliness. The weight of 318 grams makes it portable while other dimensions help us to improve user-friendliness.
The safety is augmented by CAT-IV (600V) and CAT-III (1000V) safety. These values are more than enough for our safety. Although CAT-III was enough, CAT-IV extended the workplace of this clamp meter.
This clamp meter is durable and sustains a 2m drop. This quality is found throughout Klein’s products. We can rely on its durability. Besides, extra double casing reduces the chance of physical damage.
Low input impedance (LoZ) helps us remove ghost voltage in reading. This is one of the amazing features of CL-700. Due to this feature, stay voltages are avoided to disturb our reading.
The addition of many auxiliary functions makes it a very helpful clamp meter. Measuring temperature, voltage, resistance, capacitance, frequency, and testing connectivity are quite helpful and relevant functions.
It can measure current up to 600 Amps. The value is quite large for our daily applications. We can also use these ratings for high-voltage AC lines. However, it is a good and maximum enough value for our use.
The Bad
This clamp meter measures only AC while we also need the capability of a clamp meter to measure DC. In this way, it limits itself only to AC.
Our tasks vary from simple DC circuits to complex AC wirings. Having a clamp meter with both AC and DC measuring capability is nowadays our need.
However, if one has a limited task of dealing with only AC. Then this flaw does not matter.
The Downright Ugly
We often witness some awkwardness with measuring temperature in HVAC (High-Voltage AC).
When we start measuring temperature in HVAC, the accuracy is drastically reduced. In some places, we received from 10 to 20 °F of error in reading.
Hence we would not suggest this clamp meter for measuring temperature in HVAC. For that purpose, other tools can be used.
2. Also Great: Fluke 393 FC
Every engineer and electrician is aware of the name Fluke in instrumentations. Their products are widely considered for durability and accuracy.
This model is not exceptional to these qualities. This specific model is durable and accurate. Moreover, it has many additional functions besides amperage.
Let’s delve into its features…
Salient Features:
- This model measures AC/DC voltage and current.
- The safety level is very amazing. CAT-III (1500V) is a handsome safety value.
- The clamp jaw is made thin for easy access to wires.
- It also measures lower DC voltage (in millivolts), which is rarely found.
- Resistance and capacitance are accurately measured. Diode and connectivity can also be tested.
- Durability and accuracy are plausible.
We are confident to utter that Fluke 393 FC (Amazon link) is one of the best clamp meters for amperage.
These features are rarely found in a single clamp meter at this price. Moreover, the safety level is quite promising for HVAC electricians.
We car rely on this clamp meter for amperage and measuring voltage. We suggest you experience this clamp meter.
3. Also Great: HT-206D
As compared to the above brands, Kaiweets is a new brand. However, their products are highly recommended by our colleagues.
This model of clamp meter is widely chosen by electricians for measuring current. It is known for its efficiency and accurate reading.
It is more like an all-in-one clamp meter. Let’s study its features.
Salient Features:
- AC/DC voltage and current can be measured smoothly
- It is comfortable to hold and toggle through options
- The Auto range selection makes it more comfortable (except for current)
- Besides current and voltage, it can measure capacitance, frequency, resistance, and temperature.
- Likewise, connectivity and NVCT tests can also be performed accurately.
- The display is well-defined and the backlight is available
Without any doubt, we consider Kaiweets HT-206D(Amazon link) an excellent clamp meter for amperage.
It is simple to use, accurate in reading, friendly in use, and has multiple relative functions. We suggest this clamp meter for beginners as well as professionals.
It is available at a reasonable price at the given link.
Conclusion
In short, a good clamp meter for amperage is the one that makes us free from extra safety and low accuracy. Besides, the following factors are the standard for an ideal clamp meter:
- Maximum current rating
- Accurate reading
- Reads in True RMS
- Safe to use
- Durable for a long time
- Have other relative additional functions
- Users feel comfortable in the use
By judging the above factors meticulously, we selected Klein Tools CL-700(Amazon link) for amperage. It is a dedicated clamp meter for amperage: ignoring the other unnecessary functions.
We found it durable in the long run. Its physical toughness is as plausible as its accuracy. But the real factor of its distinction is its user-friendliness.
The mentioned clamp meter is available at a reasonable price at the given link.
Questions
Upon going through the above words, you might have some questions regarding our topic. We answered a few here but you can also write us in the comment section.
Q1: What is Amperage?
The measuring of electric current in its SI(System International) unit of Ampere is called Amperage.
Generally, we do not use this term for measuring current. It got its fame from the frequent use of electricians from different fields.
However, it is widely used now. But we should know that the root of amperage deals with the measurement of current.
Q2: Why should we choose a different clamp meter for amperage?
If you have a trusted and accurate clamp meter for the measurement of current, you should not buy others for this application.
Because all we are doing is measuring current. This task can be performed by your instrument.
But be advised, you need a good, safe, accurate, and good-rating clamp meter for amperage. Because we can face different complex tasks.
Q3: Should we pick a clamp meter with many additional functions?
As we have discussed in the blog, in the case of amperage, these functions are optional. However, we can opt for any according to our needs.
Often, the user faces a task that requires more functions than an amperage. In that case, users must go for a clamp meter with additional relevant functions.
We suggest to consider these auxiliary functions as important.
Q4: If we have NCVT (Non-contact Voltage tester) in a multimeter, do we still need a clamp meter for amperage?
Surprisingly, this question is repeatedly asked by users through different platforms. Be aware that both functions are quite different.
NCVT only tests the existence of voltage in a material. It is not a measuring device but only a tester.
The clamp meter measures the value of current in wires through a non-invasive means. It is a measuring instrument, often supplied with NCVT.
Both are different things.
Q5: What if we use a multimeter for amperage?
It is all about the level of comfort, accuracy, and ease of reading. We can use a multimeter for the same purpose.
However, we will connect the multimeter in series with the corresponding circuit. This will make us break the path of the circuit.
To reduce this effort, different brands designed clamp meters. We simply allow current-carrying wire to pass through the clamp jaw.
And we get our results…
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