What are clamp meters and why would you need one?
Clamp meters are an electrical measurement tool with a clamp type JAW. They allow you to measure current without having to make contact with any wires or terminals directly. All you have to do is clamp the conductor to measure amps. This thing makes them much safer than using other types of meters like multimeters (which often require some sort of physical contact). These clamps or ammeters can be used in a variety of situations such as checking for electrical faults, diagnosing car problems and more. I have also made a guide on how to check amps with a clamp meter.
Multimeter Vs clamp meter? Which one to buy?
When it comes to choosing a multimeter or clamp meter, the first question you need to ask yourself is what type of measurements you'll be taking. If you'll mostly be doing electrical work, then a clamp meter may be the better option for you. I have also made a separate guide about Multimeter vs clamp meter for you. Clamp meters are designed to measure AC current, while multimeters can measure both AC and DC current. If you're not sure which type of measurements you'll be taking, then it's best to go with a multimeter, as they can generally do more than just clamp meters. Learn about Fluke 323 vs 324.
Another thing to consider is the price. Multimeters are typically less expensive than clamp meters, so if you're on a budget, that may be something to keep in mind. I have also made a list of best fluke clamp meters for you too.
Specifications
- True RMS: Yes
- Jaw Size: Up to 30mm
- Voltage: 600V (AC/DC)
- Current: 400A (AC)
- Resistance: Up to 4KΩ
- Temperature Range: 14°F to 752°F
- Frequency Range: Up to 500 Hz
- Capacitance: Up to 1000 µF
- Safety Rating: CAT III (600V)
The Fluke 325 clamp meter is a great choice for general purpose electrical measurements. It has a wide range of capabilities, including AC current, AC and DC voltage, resistance, capacitance, and frequency. It also features AutoVolt technology, which automatically detects the voltage type (AC or DC) and sets the correct measurement range.
Fluke 325 clamp meter has an ergonomic design that allows for easy one-handed operation, which can be handy when working in awkward spots. Current measurements in fluke 325 are a bit more precise.
Features
- It is a True RMS clamp meter, so you can measure accurate readings easily.
- An LCD display with backlight option allows you to work in darker places or even at night.
- The jaw size is enough to measure current of cables sizing up to 30mm.
- This meter calculates AC current to 400 amp.
- It is capable of measuring both AC and DC voltage up to 600V.
- You can also measure resistance to 4 kilohms with an audible continuity tester.
- If you want to measure temperature then Fluke 325 is a perfect choice with a temperature measurement range of 14°F to 752°F.
- Frequency measurement is also a major issue in industrial equipment, so you can measure frequency with a Fluke 325 clamp meter up to 500 Hz.
- It is also capable of measuring capacitance up to 1000 µF.
- It has a CAT III (600 V) safety rating, so you can use it for both home and industrial purposes.
Design and Aesthetics of Fluke 325 Clamp meter
The Fluke 325 clamp meter boasts a sleek and ergonomic design that reflects a perfect balance between form and function. Its compact frame is expertly crafted to fit comfortably in the hand, making it easy to handle during measurements. The contrasting color scheme of dark and light grays adds a professional touch. The jaw size, optimally designed to accommodate cables up to 30mm. The meter exudes a sense of robustness with its rugged casing, giving it a durable and reliable appearance. With its blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, the Fluke 325 not only excels in performance but also exudes a sense of quality craftsmanship.
Specifications:
- True RMS: Yes
- Voltage: 600V (AC/DC)
- Current: 600A (AC)
- Resistance: Up to 60kΩ
- Temperature Range: -10°C to 400°C
- Capacitance: Up to 10000 µF
- Safety Standard: Meets IEC safety standard
- Data Communication: Bluetooth connectivity for use with the Fluke App
The Fluke 902 clamp meter is designed for basic electrical measurements but with some modern features. You can connect the Fluke 902 with your phone to record or save readings for later use. It can measure AC current, AC and DC voltage, resistance, and capacitance. This clamp meter is dedicated to HVAC technicians who don't want to carry multiple tools for measurements. The only restriction is that you can not measure DC current with it. Although, Its pocket friendly size makes it the most portable clamp meter of fluke. Let's discuss some of its features in detail.
Features
- True RMS function enables HVAC technicians to measure values precisely.
- On its bigger LCD display you can see the measured values easily.
- The best thing about Fluke 902 is its data communication with phone via Bluetooth. You can read or record the measured values on the Fluke App.
- A backlight option is also available in it.
- It can measure both AC and DC voltages up to 600V.
- Temperature measurement is also a crucial point for HVAC technicians, so you can measure temperature from -10 °C to 400 °C.
- Mainly it is a clamp meter so current measurement is its main feature. Therefore, the current measuring range is 600A. But this range is only for AC current measurement.
- The resistance is also a major break-through of this clamp meter with a maximum measuring range of 60 Kilo-ohms.
- A continuity test with audible alarm is also a good option for this intelligent clamp meter.
- Capacitance can also be measured up to 10000 micro farads.
- It comes with Meets IEC safety standard for a more safer use.
Design and Aesthetics of Fluke 902 Clamp Meter:
The Fluke 902 clamp meter embodies a modern and intuitive design tailored specifically for HVAC technicians. Its larger LCD display dominates the front panel, providing ample space for easy readability of measurements.
The seamless integration of Bluetooth connectivity adds a futuristic touch, allowing users to effortlessly interface with the Fluke App for data recording. The Fluke 902 stands out not only for its exceptional performance but also for its sophisticated and purpose-driven design.
Side by Side Comparison of Fluke 902 vs 325 Clamp meter
Similarities between Fluke 902 and Fluke 325
- Both are True RMS Clamp Meters, so more accurate measurements as compared to other fluke meters.
- You can measure AC and DC voltages with both clamp meters
- Both True RMS clamp meter can measure voltages up to 600V.
- Fluke 325 has a display backlight while Fluke 902 has both display light and flashlight to work in dark places easily.
- Both of these tools have a low impedance for voltage measurement.
- In both clamp meters you can measure resistance, temperature and capacitance easily.
- Both of them are equally safe to use with a safety rating of CAT III 600V.
Differences between Fluke 325 and Fluke 902:
- Fluke 325 have inrush current measurement but fluke 902 lacks this feature.
- Fluke 902 has a slightly bigger display as compared to Fluke 325.
- While Fluke 325 has the Auto Volt range feature which enables it to detect the voltage type automatically and set the correct range.
- Fluke 902 has a data communication feature via Bluetooth. You can connect this clamp meter is compatible with the Fluke Connect app.
- Fluke 902 has an extended resistance range as compared to fluke 325 clamp meter.
- In Fluke 325 you can measure current up to 400A in both AC and DC, while in Fluke 902 it's 600A only for AC circuits.
- In Fluke 325 has a data hold option, so you can see unstable values easily. But fluke 902 lacks this feature.
- Fluke 325 (10.5 Ounces) is a lightweight as compared to Fluke 902 (16 Ounces)
Final thoughts on the Fluke 902 vs 325
If you're looking for a clamp meter that can measure AC current, both Fluke 325 and Fluke 902 are good options. However, if you want a clamp meter with data communication features or one that is lightweight then the Fluke 902 would be the better option. But if you don't need these extra features but high current ranges in both AC and DC, then Fluke 325 would be a good choice. The trend measurements can also be taken with Fluke 902, because of Auto-Volt mode. If you're not a big fan of Fluke, then Klein is also a budget friendly choice.
Therefore, I have made a separate guide for best clamp meter. You can visit the guide of Klein top clamp meters Klein CL800 vs CL900. If you want to measure contact temperature, then use a fluke temperature gun instead of clamp meters.