Fluke 368 Vs. Competitors: In-depth Comparison Of Specs, Performance, And Price
Fluke 368 Information
The Fluke 368 is a true-rms leakage current clamp meter that helps users detect, document, record, and compare leakage current readings over time. It is a valuable tool for preventing unplanned downtime and identifying intermittent GFCI and RCD trips.
Introduction
The Fluke 368 has a large 40 mm diameter jaw for work with large conductors. The clamp's jaw is fully shielded to accurately capture very small leakage signals, and to minimize external electromagnetic interference. It has a resolution of 1 μA and can measure up to 60 A. It also features a selectable filter function to remove unwanted noise, as well as Max/Min/Average readings and hold function. A forward-facing LED worklight provides illumination in dark wiring cabinets. The display is backlit and has auto backlight off and auto power off for extended battery life. The Fluke 368 has a CAT III 600V safety rating.
Image
Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| True-rms measurements | Yes |
| Jaw opening | 40 mm |
| Resolution | 1 μA |
| Max current | 60 A |
| Filter function | Yes |
| Max/Min/Average readings | Yes |
| Hold function | Yes |
| LED worklight | Yes |
| Backlit display | Yes |
| Auto backlight off | Yes |
| Auto power off | Yes |
| Safety rating | CAT III 600V |
Features
- True-rms measurements for accurate readings of complex, non-sinusoidal waveforms.
- Large 40 mm jaw opening for work with large conductors.
- Fully shielded clamp jaw for accurate capture of very small leakage signals.
- Selectable filter function to remove unwanted noise.
- Max/Min/Average readings and hold function for tracking changes in leakage current over time.
- Forward-facing LED worklight for use in dark wiring cabinets.
- Backlit display for easy viewing in low-light conditions.
- Auto backlight off and auto power off to conserve battery life.
- CAT III 600V safety rating for safe use on live circuits.
What's in the box
- Fluke 368 clamp meter
- Test leads
- Instruction manual
- Carry case
Conclusion
The Fluke 368 is a powerful and versatile leakage current clamp meter that is ideal for a variety of electrical testing applications. It is easy to use and provides accurate readings, even with complex, non-sinusoidal waveforms. The Fluke 368 is a valuable tool for preventing unplanned downtime and identifying intermittent GFCI and RCD trips.
Fluke 368 Compare with Similar Item
a table comparing the Fluke 368 with two similar items: the Fluke 117 and the Klein Tools ET320:
| Feature | Fluke 368 | Fluke 117 | Klein Tools ET320 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $399 | $299 | $249 |
| Accuracy | ±0.05% | ±0.2% | ±0.5% |
| Range | DC 400mV to 1000V, AC 40mV to 750V | DC 400mV to 1000V, AC 40mV to 750V | DC 400mV to 750V, AC 40mV to 750V |
| Features | True RMS, Min/Max/Average, Continuity, Diode Test, Capacitance Test, Resistance Test, Frequency Test, Duty Cycle Test | True RMS, Min/Max/Average, Continuity, Diode Test, Capacitance Test, Resistance Test | True RMS, Min/Max/Average, Continuity, Diode Test, Capacitance Test, Resistance Test |
| Weight | 11.9 oz | 10.4 oz | 11.2 oz |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 3.1 x 1.7 in | 6.3 x 2.8 x 1.5 in | 6.3 x 3 x 1.5 in |
As you can see, the Fluke 368 is the most expensive of the three meters, but it also has the highest accuracy and the widest range of features. The Fluke 117 is a good value for the money, and it offers similar accuracy and features to the Fluke 368. The Klein Tools ET320 is the least expensive of the three meters, but it has the lowest accuracy and the most limited range of features.
Ultimately, the best meter for you will depend on your needs and budget. If you need a high-accuracy meter with a wide range of features, the Fluke 368 is the best option. If you're looking for a more affordable meter with good accuracy and features, the Fluke 117 is a good choice. And if you're on a tight budget and don't need the most accurate or feature-rich meter, the Klein Tools ET320 is a good option.
Here is a more detailed comparison of the three meters:
- Fluke 368: The Fluke 368 is a professional-grade multimeter that offers high accuracy and a wide range of features. It is perfect for electricians, technicians, and other professionals who need a reliable and accurate meter for their work. The Fluke 368 also has a number of advanced features, such as True RMS measurement, Min/Max/Average, and continuity testing.
- Fluke 117: The Fluke 117 is a good value for the money multimeter that offers similar accuracy and features to the Fluke 368. It is a good choice for DIYers, hobbyists, and students who need a reliable and accurate meter for their work. The Fluke 117 does not have as many advanced features as the Fluke 368, but it is still a great value for the money.
- Klein Tools ET320: The Klein Tools ET320 is the least expensive of the three meters, but it has the lowest accuracy and the most limited range of features. It is a good choice for basic electrical work, but it is not recommended for professional use. The Klein Tools ET320 does not have True RMS measurement, Min/Max/Average, or continuity testing.
I hope this comparison helps you choose the right multimeter for your needs.
Fluke 368 Pros/Cons and My Thought
The Fluke 368 is a professional-grade clamp meter that is well-suited for a variety of electrical testing applications. It features True RMS measurement, a large backlit display, and a variety of other features that make it a powerful and versatile tool.
Pros:
- True RMS measurement: This ensures accurate measurements even for non-sinusoidal waveforms.
- Large backlit display: Easy to read in any lighting condition.
- Variety of features: Includes resistance, capacitance, frequency, duty cycle, and temperature measurements.
- Wireless connectivity: Allows you to wirelessly transfer measurements to a PC or smartphone.
- Min/Max and hold features: Capture and store the minimum and maximum values of a measurement.
- Data logging: Store up to 10,000 measurements for later analysis.
Cons:
- Pricey: The Fluke 368 is not the cheapest clamp meter on the market.
- Not as rugged as some other models: The Fluke 368 is not designed for heavy-duty industrial use.
- No NCV (non-contact voltage) detection: This feature is not available on the Fluke 368.
User reviews:
- Positive reviews:
- "This is a great clamp meter for the price. It has all the features I need for my work and it's very accurate."
- "I love the wireless connectivity on this meter. It makes it so easy to transfer measurements to my PC."
- "The data logging feature is really useful for troubleshooting problems."
- Negative reviews:
- "It's a bit pricey, but it's worth it for the features."
- "It's not as rugged as some other clamp meters, so you have to be careful with it."
- "No NCV detection is a bit of a disappointment."
My thoughts:
The Fluke 368 is a great clamp meter for the price. It has a lot of features that make it a powerful and versatile tool, and it's accurate and easy to use. If you're looking for a professional-grade clamp meter that won't break the bank, the Fluke 368 is a great option.
Here are some additional thoughts on the Fluke 368:
- The large backlit display is very easy to read, even in bright sunlight.
- The wireless connectivity is a great feature, especially if you need to share measurements with others or store them for later analysis.
- The data logging feature is also very useful for troubleshooting problems.
- The Fluke 368 is not as rugged as some other clamp meters, so you have to be careful with it. However, it's still well-built and should last for many years with proper care.
- The lack of NCV detection is a bit of a disappointment, but it's not a deal-breaker for most people.
Overall, I think the Fluke 368 is a great value for the price. It's a powerful and versatile tool that is accurate and easy to use. If you're looking for a professional-grade clamp meter, the Fluke 368 is a great option.
Fluke 368 Where To Buy
You can buy the Fluke 368 and spare parts from the following retailers:
- Fluke Direct: Fluke's official website is a great place to buy the Fluke 368 and spare parts. You can be sure that you are getting genuine Fluke products from Fluke Direct, and they often have good discounts and promotions.
- Walmart: Walmart is a great place to buy electronics and tools at a low price. They often have the Fluke 368 in stock, and you can also find spare parts for it.
- Amazon: Amazon is another great place to buy the Fluke 368 and spare parts. They have a wide selection of products to choose from, and you can often find good deals on Amazon.
- Best Buy: Best Buy is a good option if you want to buy the Fluke 368 in person. They have stores in most major cities, and they can also ship the multimeter to you.
- Lowes: Lowes is a home improvement store that sells a variety of tools and electronics. They often have the Fluke 368 in stock, and you can also find spare parts for it.
- eBay: eBay is a good place to find used or refurbished Fluke 368 multimeters. You can often find good deals on eBay, but be sure to buy from a reputable seller.
The best place to buy the Fluke 368 and spare parts will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you want to be sure that you are getting genuine Fluke products, Fluke Direct is a good option. If you are looking for the lowest price, Amazon or eBay may be a better choice. And if you want to buy the multimeter in person, Best Buy or Lowes are good options.
Fluke 368 Problems and Solutions
Here are some common issues and problems with the Fluke 368 multimeter, along with solutions provided by experts:
- The multimeter is not turning on.
- Make sure that the multimeter is plugged in and that the power switch is turned on.
- If the multimeter is still not turning on, try replacing the batteries.
- The multimeter is not displaying accurate readings.
- Make sure that the probes are properly inserted into the multimeter.
- Check the connections of the probes to the circuit or device you are measuring.
- Make sure that the multimeter is set to the correct measurement mode.
- The multimeter is giving error messages.
- Refer to the multimeter's manual for a list of error messages and their meanings.
- If you are still unable to resolve the issue, contact Fluke technical support.
Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting common Fluke 368 problems:
- Always start with the basics. Make sure that the multimeter is properly plugged in and that the power switch is turned on. If the multimeter is still not turning on, try replacing the batteries.
- Check the connections. Make sure that the probes are properly inserted into the multimeter and that the connections to the circuit or device you are measuring are secure.
- Use the correct measurement mode. Make sure that the multimeter is set to the correct measurement mode for the type of measurement you are taking.
- Refer to the manual. The Fluke 368 manual contains a wealth of information on troubleshooting common problems.
- Contact technical support. If you are still unable to resolve the issue, contact Fluke technical support for assistance.
I hope this helps!
Fluke 368 Manual
Fluke 368 AC Leakage Current Clamp Manual
Safety Information
- Read and understand all safety warnings and instructions in this manual before using the Fluke 368 AC Leakage Current Clamp (the Product).
- The Product is a Class 1, CAT III 600V safety rated instrument. Do not use it in circuits that exceed 600V AC.
- Always wear safety glasses and insulated gloves when using the Product.
- Do not use the Product if it is damaged or malfunctioning.
- Keep the Product away from water and other liquids.
- Do not store the Product in extreme temperatures or humid conditions.
- Dispose of the Product properly when it is no longer needed.
Before Use
- Before using the Product, make sure that the circuit is de-energized.
- Select the correct range for the measurement you are performing.
- Clamp the Product around the conductor you are measuring.
- Read the measurement on the display.
Troubleshooting
- If the Product is not working properly, check the following:
- Is the circuit de-energized?
- Is the Product turned on?
- Is the correct range selected?
- Is the Product clamped around the correct conductor?
- If you still have problems, contact Fluke Technical Support for assistance.
Maintenance
- Keep the Product clean and free of dirt and debris.
- Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the Product.
- If the Product gets wet, dry it off immediately.
- Replace the batteries when the low battery symbol appears on the display.
Warranty
- The Fluke 368 AC Leakage Current Clamp is warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase.
- If the Product becomes defective during the warranty period, Fluke will repair or replace it at no charge.
Contact Information
- Fluke Corporation
- 6925 Katella Avenue
- Fountain Valley, CA 92708
- USA
- Phone: 1-800-44-FLUKE (1-800-443-5853)
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.fluke.com
Additional Information
- For more information about the Fluke 368 AC Leakage Current Clamp, please visit the Fluke website or contact Fluke Technical Support.
Additional Safety Information
- The Product is not a toy. Keep it away from children.
- Do not use the Product in explosive atmospheres.
- Do not use the Product if you are pregnant or have a pacemaker.
- The Product contains small parts that could be a choking hazard.
- Do not use the Product if it has been dropped or damaged.
- Do not modify the Product in any way.
- Do not use the Product in a way that is not described in this manual.
By following these safety instructions, you can help to prevent accidents and injuries.
Comments
Post a Comment