The Amprobe RS-3 Pro analog clamp meter is an average-sensing, manual-ranging multimeter for measuring current, voltage, and resistance in electrical testing and heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) applications and in environments where very hot or very cold temperatures might interfere with the performance of a digital meter. This analog meter displays measurements with a needle that moves on a calibrated scale. It has a broader operating temperature range than digital multimeters and can be used outdoors. It has a clamp that measures alternating current (AC) to 600 amp, and it comes with detachable test leads that measure AC voltage to 600 volts (V) and resistance to 1,000 ohms. The clamp has two jaws that close around an electrical conductor up to 1.64" (41 mm) in diameter to measure current without touching or interrupting the circuit. The needle lock secures the needle in place to protect it from damage during transport and to hold it at a reading, even after the meter is disconnected. The resistance measurement also tests for continuity and confirms that the circuit conducts electricity. A finger guard on the body of the meter helps protect fingers from shock.

This average-sensing, or average-responding, meter provides accurate readings when measuring linear loads, such as standard induction motors and incandescent lights, where the current or voltage has a sinusoidal waveform. It is a manual-ranging meter and requires that the operator choose the appropriate operating range. It meets International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) safety standard 61010 and is certified for category IV installations up to 600V, which covers measurements at the source of the low-voltage supply, such as electricity meters and overcurrent protection devices. The meter comes with a soft vinyl carrying case. The meter does not require batteries for measuring current or voltage.

Specifications

H is height, the vertical distance from the lowest to highest point; W is width, the horizontal distance from left to right; D is depth, the horizontal distance from front to back.

Clamp meters (also called clamp-on meters) measure electrical current without cutting through wires or touching or interrupting the electrical circuit. Available in handheld or benchtop models, clamp meters diagnose problems in electrical equipment, wiring, and power supplies. The meter's current clamp has two jaws that fit around a conductor to take measurements. All clamp meters test for current. Some come with test leads and inputs for measuring voltage, capacitance, and resistance. They display information either in analog or digital form. Factors that influence meter choice include the electrical properties to be measured, the anticipated range of results, and the desired level of protection against transient voltages determine meter choice. Safety ratings are based on the International Electrotechnical Commission's (IEC) standards for low-voltage test equipment. IEC 61010 delineates four overvoltage installation categories. In general, a meter with a category IV rating will provide more protection against transient voltages than a meter with a lower category rating.

Amprobe manufactures electrical testing equipment for commercial, industrial, and home use. The company was founded in 1948 and is headquartered in Everett, WA.

What’s in the Box?

• RS-3 Pro analog clamp multimeter
• (1) Test lead set
• (1) 1.5V AAA battery (installed)
• (1) 0.5 amp/1,000V fast-blow fuse (installed
• Soft vinyl carrying case
• Instructions