30 A AC/DC Precision Current Probe, BNC Connector
The TA189 30 A high-precision current probe is for applications requiring non-intrusive current measurement, using closed-loop Hall effect technology to measure both AC and DC current with high stability over long periods of time. Ideal for current leakage monitoring, battery discharge testing, or used in conjunction with an active differential voltage probe such as TA041 it can be used for power quality analysis.
The 30 A precision current clamp allows you to measure from 5 mA up to 30 A without cutting, disconnecting or stripping the wire. It is ideal for measuring the currents in sensors and actuators across most modern passenger and commercial vehicles.
The TA189 provides improved sensitivity, lower noise and faster response. Featuring a 25 mm jaw size this clamp is suitable for measuring battery drain over long periods. It also features an auto power-down facility to save battery life when not in use (this feature can be disabled for battery drain / shutdown current testing).
Using advanced Hall Effect sensors for improved sensitivity and high external field rejection as well as closed loop control for increased accuracy, the TA189 delivers a breakthrough in range and accuracy to meet the challenges of modern vehicles.
These current clamps have been designed for use with PicoScope oscilloscopes and feature additional screening to reduce noise pickup.
To avoid electric shock:
- Use caution during installation and use of this product. High voltages and currents may be present in circuit under test.
- This product must be used only by qualified personnel practising applicable safety precautions.
- Do not use product if damaged.
- Always connect clamp to display device before it is installed around the conductor.
- Always ensure that the clamp is removed from any live electrical circuit, and that leads are disconnected before removing the battery cover.
- Do not hold the clamp anywhere beyond the tactile barrier
- Jaws
- Conventional current direction
- Tactile barrier
- Battery cover
- Battery cover screw
- Jaw trigger
- On/off switch
- Auto zero button
- LED
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![Pico-TA189]()
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Instructions
Switch On
When the probe is switched on to the required measuring range, the green LED will illuminate. The LED starts flashing when the battery voltage is too low for normal operation and warns the user that it requires changing. This procedure is described below.
Auto Power Off
In order to save battery life, the probe will automatically switch itself off after approximately 10 minutes. To disable the Auto power off function, Switch off the probe and Switch on whilst pressing the auto zero button. The red LED will illuminate and the probe will stay on until switched off again.
Auto Zero
The output zero offset voltage of the probe may change due to thermal shifts and other environmental conditions. Select the required measuring range and to null the output voltage
depress the Auto Zero button. Ensure that the probe is away from the current carrying conductor whilst the probe is being nulled.
Current Measurement
- Switch on the probe by selecting the required measuring range and check that the green LED is lit.
- Connect the output lead to the oscilloscope,
- Zero the probe using the Auto Zero button.
- Clamp the jaws of the probe round the conductor ensuring a good contact between the closing faces of the jaws.
- Observe and take measurements as required. Positive output indicates that the current flow is in the direction shown by the arrow on the probe.
Battery Replacement
The green or red LED will flash when the minimum operating voltage is approached. Use the following procedure:
SAFETY WARNING
Before removing the battery cover, ensure that the probe is disconnected from the oscilloscope and remote from any live electrical circuit.
Unclamp the probe from the conductor, turn it off using the On - Off switch and disconnect the output leads from external equipment.
Loosen the captive screw which secures the battery cover. Lift the cover through 30° and pull it clear of the probe body as shown in Fig 1. Replace the battery, re-fit the battery cover and fasten the screw.
Fit only Type 9 V PP3 Alkaline (MN 1604).