The Hioki 3246-60 pen-sized digital multimeter (also known as a multitester) is an average-sensing, auto-ranging meter for measuring voltage and resistance in electrical testing applications. The meter has integral test leads. A built-in flashlight illuminates dark work areas. The pen-sized meter fits in a shirt pocket when not in use. An audible continuity sensor confirms a circuit conducts electricity, and a diode test detects proper functioning of a circuits diodes. The hold function keeps a reading on the LCD, even after the meter is disconnected. The LCD is backlit for readability in low light. The unit automatically turns off after 10 minutes of nonuse to conserve battery life, and a low-battery indicator signals when the meter's battery needs to be replaced. When not in use, the black test lead can be attached to the back of the meter and the red test lead can be covered with the built-in sensor cap to help protect against bumps and abrasions.

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 an undistorted waveform. When turned on, the meter is in auto-ranging mode and automatically selects the correct operating range for the property being measured. It can be switched to manual-ranging mode, which allows the operator to choose the appropriate operating range. The LCD has a 4,200-count resolution, meaning it can display up to 4,199 units (3-1/2 digits) before the operating range needs to be changed. Without the included test lead sleeves, it meets International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) safety standard 61010 and is certified for Category II installations up to 600V, which covers large household appliances and devices connected to a fixed power supply (such as refrigerators and air conditioners). With the included test lead sleeves, it is certified for Category III installations up to 600V, which covers items used with enclosed building circuit installations (such as service panel parts, branch circuits, and fixed installations that are connected directly to a building's AC power supply), and Category IV installations up to 300V, which covers measurements at the source of the low-voltage supply (such as electricity meters and overcurrent protection devices).

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.

Multitesters (also called multimeters) are electrical test meters that measure multiple properties of an electrical circuit, such as current, voltage, resistance, capacitance, and continuity. Available in handheld or benchtop models, multitesters diagnose electrical problems in electrical equipment, wiring, and power supplies. A variety of probes, clamps, and leads can be used to connect the meter to a circuit or device. Multitesters 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. 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.

Hioki manufactures memory recorders, automatic test equipment, and electronic testing and measurement instruments. The company, founded in 1935, is headquartered in Japan and has a U.S. office in Cranbury, NJ.

What's in the Box?

• Hioki 3246-60 average-sensing pen-type digital multimeter
• (1) Set test lead sleeves
• CR2032 lithium button battery (installed)
• Instructions