fluke 117 instruction manual

This manual provides instructions on how to use the Fluke 117 digital multimeter, a true-rms multimeter with a 6000-count display and a bar graph. It covers features, specifications, measurements, maintenance, and warranty information. The manual is applicable to all models, including the Fluke 114 and 115, and all figures show the Model 117 unless otherwise specified.

Introduction

The Fluke 117 is a versatile and reliable digital multimeter designed for electricians and technicians working in various electrical environments. This manual serves as a comprehensive guide to help you understand and utilize the full capabilities of the Fluke 117. It provides detailed instructions on operating the multimeter, performing accurate measurements, and troubleshooting any potential issues. With its user-friendly design and robust features, the Fluke 117 is an essential tool for professionals seeking to ensure safe and efficient electrical testing. This manual covers various aspects of the Fluke 117, from its key features and specifications to its advanced functions, safety guidelines, and maintenance procedures. We encourage you to carefully review this manual to familiarize yourself with the multimeter’s operation and ensure optimal performance.

Features and Specifications

The Fluke 117 boasts a range of features designed to enhance your electrical testing experience. It incorporates a true-RMS measurement capability, ensuring accurate readings even in complex electrical circuits. The multimeter also features a 6000-count display with a bar graph for visual representation of measurements, making it easy to interpret readings. The Fluke 117 is equipped with a Non-Contact Voltage Detection (NCV) mode, allowing you to quickly identify live voltage without direct contact. The AutoVolt function automatically selects AC or DC voltage measurement, simplifying the process. To prevent false readings caused by ghost voltage, the Fluke 117 features a LoZ (Low Impedance) mode. The multimeter incorporates a 10A current range for measuring currents up to 10 amps. The Fluke 117 is designed for portability and convenience, with a compact size and lightweight design. It is powered by a single 9V alkaline battery, ensuring extended use.

Safety Information

The Fluke 117 is a powerful tool, but it’s crucial to use it safely to prevent electrical shock or injury. Always follow these guidelines⁚ Never use the Fluke 117 in environments where there is a risk of explosion or where flammable materials are present. Ensure the Fluke 117 is in good working order before each use. Check for any damage to the probes, leads, or the multimeter itself. Do not use the Fluke 117 if any part is damaged or malfunctioning. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated gloves and safety glasses, when working with electricity. Never touch live wires or components with bare hands. Use insulated tools and keep your body away from energized conductors. When measuring current, always connect the Fluke 117 in series with the circuit, never in parallel. Ensure the current range selected on the Fluke 117 is appropriate for the circuit being measured. Never use the Fluke 117 to test for the presence of voltage in a circuit that is not de-energized.

Getting Started

Before you begin using your Fluke 117, take a moment to familiarize yourself with its features and controls. The front panel of the multimeter includes the rotary function selector dial, which allows you to choose the measurement mode. The display shows the readings, while the bar graph provides a visual indication of the measured value. The Fluke 117 also features a backlit display for improved visibility in low-light conditions. The Fluke 117 uses a single 9V alkaline battery for power. To install the battery, open the battery compartment located on the back of the multimeter. Insert the battery, ensuring the positive (+) terminal is facing the correct direction. Close the battery compartment securely. The Fluke 117 comes with two test leads, which are used to connect the multimeter to the circuit being measured. Make sure to connect the red lead to the positive (+) terminal of the multimeter and the black lead to the negative (-) terminal. Before using the Fluke 117 for any electrical measurements, it’s essential to ensure that the circuit you’re working with is de-energized. Always follow safety precautions and never attempt to measure voltage or current in a live circuit without proper training and safety equipment.

Basic Measurements

The Fluke 117 multimeter is designed to perform a variety of basic electrical measurements. It offers capabilities for measuring voltage, resistance, current, continuity, frequency, capacitance, and diode testing. To make a measurement, first, select the appropriate function on the rotary dial. For example, to measure AC voltage, turn the dial to the “V” position. Next, choose the appropriate measurement range. The Fluke 117 has multiple ranges for each measurement type, allowing you to select the best range for the expected value. Once the function and range are set, connect the test leads to the circuit being measured. Ensure the red lead is connected to the positive (+) terminal and the black lead to the negative (-) terminal. The Fluke 117 displays the measured value on its digital display. The bar graph provides a visual representation of the measured value, helping you quickly assess the magnitude of the reading. The Fluke 117 also includes a “LoZ” (Low Impedance) mode, which can be helpful for preventing false readings caused by ghost voltage. This mode is particularly useful when measuring voltage in circuits with high impedance. Refer to the manual for detailed instructions on using the LoZ mode for specific measurement types.

Voltage Measurement

The Fluke 117 multimeter enables you to measure both AC and DC voltage. To measure AC voltage, rotate the dial to the “V~ ” position. For DC voltage measurements, turn the dial to the “V” position. The Fluke 117 features an AutoVolt function, automatically selecting the appropriate voltage type (AC or DC) based on the detected signal. However, you can manually select the voltage type if needed. When measuring voltage, ensure the test leads are connected correctly. The red lead should be connected to the positive terminal of the circuit, and the black lead should be connected to the negative terminal. The Fluke 117 will display the measured voltage value in the appropriate units (Volts, millivolts, or kilovolts). The range selection for voltage measurements is important to ensure accurate readings. Choose a range that is suitable for the expected voltage value. If the selected range is too low, the meter may overload and display an error message. If the range is too high, the measurement may not be as precise. Remember, safety is paramount when working with electrical circuits. Always take precautions to avoid electrical shock. Before making any measurements, ensure the circuit is de-energized and the test leads are properly connected.

Resistance Measurement

The Fluke 117 multimeter is equipped to measure resistance, which is the opposition to the flow of electrical current. To measure resistance, rotate the dial to the “Ω” position. The Fluke 117 offers multiple resistance ranges to accommodate different measurement needs. Select the appropriate range based on the expected resistance value. For accurate resistance measurements, ensure the circuit is de-energized before connecting the test leads. Connect the red test lead to one end of the component or circuit you want to measure and the black test lead to the other end. The Fluke 117 will display the resistance value in ohms (Ω). If you are measuring a very low resistance, it is recommended to use the “LoZ” (Low Impedance) mode. This mode helps to reduce the effect of ghost voltage, which can lead to inaccurate readings. Always exercise caution when working with electrical circuits. Ensure that the circuit is de-energized before making any resistance measurements. The Fluke 117’s resistance measurement capabilities are essential for diagnosing and troubleshooting electrical problems in various applications.

Current Measurement

The Fluke 117 digital multimeter provides the ability to measure both AC and DC current. To measure current, you’ll need to connect the Fluke 117 in series with the circuit you want to measure. This means you’ll need to break the circuit and insert the multimeter into the break. Before connecting the Fluke 117, ensure the circuit is de-energized. Select the appropriate current range (A or mA) based on the expected current value. Connect the red test lead to the “A” input jack and the black test lead to the “COM” jack. The Fluke 117 will display the current value in amperes (A) or milliamperes (mA). When measuring current, it’s crucial to ensure that the Fluke 117 is properly connected in series with the circuit. Incorrect connections can damage the multimeter or cause a hazardous situation. Always exercise caution when working with electrical circuits. Ensure the circuit is de-energized before making any current measurements.

Continuity Test

The Fluke 117 digital multimeter features a continuity test function, which allows you to check the continuity of electrical circuits and components. To perform a continuity test, set the dial to the continuity symbol (a diode with an arrow pointing towards it). Touch the probes together to ensure the meter beeps, verifying that the meter is functioning correctly. Place the probes across the circuit or component you want to test. If the circuit is continuous, you will hear a beep or see a low resistance reading on the display. This indicates that there is a complete electrical path between the two points you are testing. If there is no beep or a high resistance reading is displayed, it suggests that there is a break in the circuit, a faulty component, or an open connection. The continuity test is a valuable tool for troubleshooting electrical circuits and identifying any potential problems. It helps determine if there is a complete path for current to flow through a circuit or component.

Frequency Measurement

The Fluke 117 multimeter allows you to measure the frequency of AC signals, which is the number of cycles per second. To measure frequency, set the dial to the Hz (hertz) position. Select the appropriate range based on the expected frequency of the signal you are measuring. Connect the probes across the circuit or component you want to measure. The meter will display the frequency value in Hertz (Hz). When measuring frequency, it is essential to ensure that the meter is set to the correct function, AC or DC, for your current probe. The bar graph can be disregarded for frequencies above 1 kHz. It is crucial to exercise caution and avoid electrical shock when working with electrical circuits and components. Refer to a Fluke catalog or contact your local Fluke representative for information on compatible current clamps.

Capacitance Measurement

The Fluke 117 multimeter can measure capacitance, which is the ability of a capacitor to store an electrical charge. To measure capacitance, set the dial to the “Capacitance” symbol (nF) and select the appropriate range. Connect the probes across the capacitor you want to measure. The meter will display the capacitance value in nanofarads (nF). It is important to remember that the bar graph should not be used for frequencies exceeding 1 kHz. To avoid electrical shock, always exercise caution when working with electrical circuits and components. For information on compatible current clamps, refer to a Fluke catalog or contact your local Fluke representative. The Fluke 117 is a versatile tool designed for electricians and professionals who need to perform accurate measurements in various electrical applications.

Diode Test

The Fluke 117 multimeter includes a diode test function, which allows users to check the functionality of diodes. To perform a diode test, set the dial to the “Diode Test” symbol ( ). Connect the red probe to the anode (positive) lead of the diode and the black probe to the cathode (negative) lead. The meter will display the forward voltage drop of the diode, typically around 0.6 to 0.7 volts. If the diode is faulty, the meter will display an open circuit or a very high resistance reading. It is important to note that the diode test function can also be used to check the continuity of other components, such as transistors and fuses. The Fluke 117’s diode test function is a valuable tool for electricians and electronics technicians who need to troubleshoot and repair circuits containing diodes or other semiconductor devices.

Advanced Features

The Fluke 117 incorporates several advanced features designed to enhance its functionality and user experience. One notable feature is AutoVolt, which automatically selects the appropriate voltage measurement range (AC or DC) based on the detected signal. This eliminates the need for manual range selection, simplifying the measurement process and reducing the risk of errors. Another key feature is LoZ (Low Impedance) mode, which helps prevent false readings caused by “ghost voltage” often encountered in high-impedance circuits. LoZ mode effectively reduces the meter’s input impedance, ensuring accurate measurements even in the presence of stray voltages. Furthermore, the Fluke 117 includes Non-Contact Voltage Detection (NCV), allowing for a quick and safe determination of live voltage presence without direct contact. This feature utilizes VoltAlert technology, providing an audible and visual indication when voltage is detected, enhancing safety and efficiency during electrical work.