The clamp meter changed the course of measurement. It gave up the traditional method of measuring current. We no longer rely on the invasive method of measuring current.
A clamp meter is the best instrument for measuring current safely and accurately. The basic concept behind its design is the safety of users. Moreover, the clamp meter enhances the performance of the measurement.
We use clamp meters in different fields. The reason behind its popularity is its safe method of measurement. Additionally, clamp meters give accurate readings. Hence, convenience, real-time monitoring, data logging, quickness and ease of use, and versatility are some factors that force us to use clamp meters instead of others.
Let’s study in more detail why clamp meters are used for different applications.
Why Clamp Meters are Used?
Clamp meters improved the quality of measurement. It reduces the chances of human error in reading. Some advanced versions of clamp meters record data for further analysis.
In short, we rely on the clamp meter for its quick results and easy use. A common person can use it easily.
Importance of Clamp Meter
The clamp meter is an important instrument due to the qualities mentioned above. However, the basic boost for its fame is its non-invasive method of measurement.
This method of measurement reduces the work effort of the user and enhances the performance of electricians.
Distinguishing Features of a Clamp Meter
A clamp meter has a certain set of functions that are not common to any instrument. Because of them, clamp meters observed a vital role in the field of instrumentation.
We are discussing each feature in detail below.
1. Safety
A clamp meter is a safe instrument. Users get reading at a safe distance from the corresponding target. Moreover, no extra amount of work is needed to get reading in a non-invasive method.
On the contrary, the invasive method exposes the user to many dangers. Breaking a circuit to connect an instrument in series for measuring current is a troublesome and dangerous job.
Especially, when we are dealing with HVAC (High-Volt AC), the clamp meter proved its effectiveness.
2. Accuracy
It is surprising to know that a clamp meter is one of the most accurate instruments. As its method of measurement is quite different from the multimeter, it provides extra accurate results.
It is essential to mention that every clamp meter is not accurate. The reason is simple, some cheap brands claim a good quality clamp meter. Instead, the products are hardly satisfactory.
We have listed a few for our users in the following article. Visit it by clicking the following link.
Here, you will learn everything about an accurate clamp meter.
3. Non-invasive Measurement
The core design of the clamp meter revolves around the non-invasive method. This method helps us read the value of the current without disturbing the circuit.
All we have to do is place the clamp meter’s clamp around the current-carrying wire. The current-carrying wire produces an electromagnetic field.
The electromagnetic field induces a current in the clamp of the clamp meter. Then the induced current is transmitted for conditioning and then displayed.
As we can see, the main circuit was not disturbed in the whole process. This is the beauty of the non-invasive method.
4. Versatile Applications
A clamp meter has a lot of applications. We can use it in many fields and workplaces for measuring current. We found it effective in all fields.
Primarily, a clamp meter is designed for AC circuits and wiring. We can use it for domestic use, industrial use, and monitoring.
However, due to technological advancement, clamp meters have become so advanced that every person with the knowledge of basic electronics needs them.
We can use a clamp meter in solar panel installation, automobile, DC systems, HVAC, HVDC, High Current, etc.
5. Capable of Multi-functionality
We all know that the manufacturing of a clamp meter was to measure AC in wiring and circuits. Later on, DC measuring capability was added. However, designers did not stop there.
More and more functions were added to facilitate users. Measuring voltage and resistance was added later. Moreover, from time to time, other relative functions were installed.
Nowadays, a modern clamp meter can measure frequency, capacitance, and differential temperature besides current and voltage. We can also use a clamp meter for detecting voltage through NCVT (Non-contact voltage tester).
6. Convenience in Measurement
Besides safety and accuracy, the convenience in measurement is another good aspect of a clamp meter. As we mentioned a clamp meter works as a non-invasive method. Hence, no extra effort is required for measuring current.
All we have to do is to put the clamp meter’s clamp around the target wire, and the result is shown on the screen.
Before that, we would break the circuit and connect the multimeter in series to check the dangerous current, and extra care was needed. This method was cumbersome and time-consuming.
7. Data Logging
The modern clamp meter provides the facility to take readings remotely and record the corresponding data. Besides these features, it provides extra safety to the users.
The Fluke has done plausible work in this area. Some of its clamp meters are connected to smartphones via Bluetooth. A separate application then does the job. The Fluke 476FC (Amazon link) is one of the examples.
Later on, this recorded data can be used to draw the behavior of the circuit on a graph for further inspection. Likewise, live performance of a circuit can also be observed.
8. Real-Time Monitoring
The ease of reading the value of current makes us able to monitor the behavior of a circuit in real time. We do not have to switch off the circuit for monitoring purposes.
We can also check the response of the circuit for different changes. It affects the target circuit with a negligible amount of disturbance.
That is why engineers and electricians use a clamp meter instead of a multimeter in the field.
9. Easy to Use
The use of a clamp meter is quite simple. We have discussed it in another blog on this website in detail. (Linked below).
In short word, clamp the clamp meter around the target wire, put the knob of the clamp meter on the current (carefully choose the range), and the results will appear on the LCD.
Conclusion
A clamp meter is an essential instrument for measuring current. It provides extra safety and accuracy. Due to these two features, clamp meters are widely preferred for measurement.
Besides safety and accuracy, its non-invasive method of measurement improves the versatility of the clamp meter. We can use a clamp meter in all fields of electrical and electronics.
From time to time, the capabilities of clamp meters were improved. Nowadays, a clamp meter can measure all relative electrical parameters conveniently.
Manufacturers went ahead and designed the clamp meters that can be connected to smartphones through Bluetooth. We can get our reading on our smartphones on the application.
Moreover, we can record the data of a clamp meter and can make the statistics of the circuit through smartphones.
After all these qualities, a clamp meter is very simple to use. A common person can use these clamp meters for measuring current.
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