FAQ
Most frequently asked questions can be found by searching the list below. If you require additional information please contact us directly.
Data Acquisition (DAQ) | Oscilloscopes | Memory Recorders
The data is RECORDER function data with the extension ".rec". The time axis and sampling interval are set in the RECORDER function, and the time axis is selectable in 19 steps between 10ms/div and 1h/div. The time axis resolution is 100 points/div, so the resolution is 10ms when 10s/div is set.
Then, if you set 1ms for the sampling interval, there are 10 sampling data in 10ms (time resolution).
The RECORDER function records the maximum and minumum from these 10 sampled data, resulting in two values for each time.
Unfortunately, we are not in a position to recommend which Max or Min data should be used for your evaluation.
For your reference, the sampling interval is fixed at 1/100 of the time axis range in the MEMORY function.
(1/80 of the time axis range for the 8807 and 8808)
Please use the 9322 Differential Probe to record the waveform of a 400V AC power supply. It is also useful to measure the waveforms of high voltage like inverter output and PV systems, etc. Its maximum input voltage is 2000V DC /1000V AC (CAT II)/600V AC/DC (CAT III), and the output rate is 1/1000.
The normal input cord and 10:1 or 100:1 probes are dependent on the maximum rated voltage to the earth of the Memory HiCORDERs, but the 9322 offers CAT III 600V safety.
In addition to waveform recording, the 9322 has an RMS function and AC coupling function useful for detecting surge noise on a power supply circuit.
Please note that the MR8880 has a maximum rated voltage to the ground of CAT IV 300V / CAT III 600V.
Also, the maximum voltage between channels is 600V AC/DC, making it possible to measure a 400V circuit directly.
Please download the free WaveViewer software from the following link.
https://www.hioki.com/en/support/versionup/detail/?downloadid=410
MR6000, MR8870, MR8880, MR8875, MR8847 series, 8860 series, MR8827, etc.
Data Loggers | Multichannel Loggers
USB Memory
Use a USB flash drive.
USB Communication
Communicate with the LR8431-20 and initiate measurement using the Logger Utility software from a computer (using a USB cable).
USB Drive
Read files on a CF card that is connected to the LR8431-20 from a
computer (using a USB cable).
Data Loggers | Temperature Data Loggers | Compact Loggers
Save interval time: 1 sec. → 42.4 days
2 sec. → 84.9 days
5 sec. → 212 days
10 sec. or more → 1 year
If “All” is selected as the save parameter while using the 3P3W2M setting, the following save times are achieved:
Save interval time: 1 sec. → 16.1 days
2 sec. → 32.3 days
5 sec. → 80.7 days
10 sec. → 161 days
15 sec. → 242 days
30 sec. → 1 year
The maximum file size for measurement data is approximately 200 MB. When this amount is exceeded, a separate file will be created, and data will be saved in the new file.
Reference: The PW3360 series testers’ maximum recording time is 1 year.
Can I use the Wireless Humidity Logger LR8514 (Bluetooth) in China?
Bluetooth communication technology must be approved for use each country.
The LR8514's Bluetooth function is approved for use in China. Please refer to the specification of each model.
LR8514 (Please see Specifications.)
https://www.hioki.com/en/products/detail/?product_key=5837
For your reference, the LR8410-30 is the approved model in the LR8410 series for use in China.
The LR5000 series uses non-volatile memory, so data remains in memory even if the battery is replaced or consumed.
LR5001, LR5011, LR5021, LR5031, LR5041, LR5042, LR5043, LR5051, etc.
Or, you can use the black spray or tape having known emissivity.
LCR Meters | Impedance Analyzers | Capacitance Meters
Connect the Hpot and Hcur to the shield of the coaxial cable, and connect Lpt and Lcur to the core wire. Impedance is measured by opening the one side to obtain [Zo] and shorting the other side to obtain [Zs]. Then, the impedance characteristics is calculated with the formula Z＝√(ZoZs).
Resistance Meters | Battery Testers
Applicable products: 3541, RM3542, RM3543, RM3544, RM3548
Symptoms
1. The measured values are abnormal.
2. The instrument display shows “----.”
3. The instrument display shows “OF.”
Causes and solutions
1. There is a wiring break in the test leads. → Replace the test leads.
*Test leads that have been bent frequently in the past may develop a break in their wiring.
2. The test leads are not connected properly. → Connect the test leads properly.
3. The 3554’s fuse has blown. → Replace the fuse.
4. Zero-adjustment has not been performed properly. → Perform zero-adjustment properly.
5. An appropriate range has not been selected. → Select an appropriate range with the instrument’s range button.
6. The tip of the pin-type lead is damaged. → The tip pin on the 9465-10 and 9772 (9465-90/9772-90) is user-replaceable.
If you use manganese batteries, the continuous operating time becomes significantly less (2.5 hours approx., reference only).
Can I use NiMH (nickel metal hydride ) batteries to power the BT3554?
Technically, you can.
However, the BT3554 was designed to operate with alkaline batteries, so there will be large discrepancies on the battery level indicator because of the different discharge characteristics between NiMH and alkaline batteries.
The indicator operates based on the characteristics of alkaline batteries. Therefore, the unit may shut off suddenly even if the power indicator shows sufficient battery life when you use NiMH batteries.
What is the highest capacity (ampere hour) of a battery on which I can measure internal resistance and voltage?
There is no limit with regardds to battery capacity (Ah), because the battery tester measures using an AC signal and there is no DC current injection to the battery under test.
Please advise what should be noted when making a scanner system for the BT3562. The measured value sometimes shows "-----" when the BT3562 is used with my scanner.
Please note the following.
* Use a relay designed for signals with low noise.
* Locate the HI and LO of the SENSE side as close as possible to each other to minimize the loop area. Do the same for the SOURCE side, etc.
* Keep enough distance betweeen SENSE and SOURCE to prevent interference with each other.
* Keep enough distance between cables and metallic parts (chassis, etc.).
* When using a socket type power relay, a contact error may occur via the oxide film on its contact section and the measurement value may display "-----" (measurement error). Please change the relay to a signal type.
* The cabling path resistance between HI and LO is allowed up to 2-ohm only when using the 3m-ohm or 30m-ohm range. Please pay careful attention when selecting the cable length and thickness, number of relays and probe contact resistance, etc.
Please advise how to calculate measurement accuracy uncertainty on LCR meters.
Please download the LCR Sample Application (IM3523/IM3533/IM3533-01/IM3536/IM3570/IM3590/IM7580) from the link below.
There is an accuracy calculation function for various Hioki LCR models.
https://www.hioki.com/en/support/versionup/detail/?downloadid=257
I cannot transfer the data saved in the memory of the BT3554 via USB. I use the "Application Software for Battery HiTESTER 3554".
The software "Application Software for Battery HiTESTER 3554" is not compatible to the BT3554.
Please use the "GENNECT Cross for Windows" fto transfer the data from the BT3554.
GENNECT Cross for Windows
https://app.hioki.com/appli_pc/index_e.html
This software is also compatible to the previous model 3554, except Indows 8 and 10.
What happens if 500V is input to the 3554 by mistake?
The protective fuse will blow before 100V DC is reached on the 3554.
For your reference, the fuse blows at +/-110V DC or 80V AC (50/60Hz) on the BT3554.
The fuse rating is 250V, but is voltage applied between both ends of the fuse.
Therefore, it is different from the voltage measured between input terminals.
The input voltage is divided by the circuit and the lower voltage is applied to the fuse.
Is it possible to conduct temperature compensation for the internal resistance measured by the BT3554 with the Clip-type Lead with Temperature Sensor 9460?
Ther BT3554 does not have a temperature compensation function.
The 9460 measures the temperature of the battery teminal.
The internal resistance of battery changes according to temperature, so the temperature information can be used as reference to analyze the changes to the battery's internal resistance values.
The cable section is shielded, so the following should be noted when you make your own probes.
Place shielding connected to SOURCE-L.
Cable length should be within 5 meters (using a cable material resistance within 100mΩ/m)
This may be attributed to thermo-electromotive force.
There is more effect if a resistance meter applies a DC current and reads the electric potential difference, like that on the 3540.
The following countermeasures should be considered if the measurement value has a larger error due to thernal electromotive force.
1) Use the average by exchanging the probe terminals
2) Stabilize the ambient temperature to avoid changing of thermo electromotive force due to temperature.
Super Megohmmeters | Electrometers | Picoammeters
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Electrical Safety Analyzers | Hipot Testers
Benchtop Digital Multimeters (DMMs)
Signal Generators | Calibrators
High Precision Power Meters | Power Analyzers
Voltage: DC
Current and active power: DC and 45 to 66 Hz frequency range
Power factor effect (active power with a low power factor): 45 to 66 Hz frequency range
In other frequency ranges, the 3390-10 delivers the same level of accuracy as the 3390 used with the CT6862, CT6863, or 9709.
High accuracy is guaranteed when used in combination with the CT6862-10, CT6863-10, and 9709-10. High accuracy is only guaranteed when these sensors are used in combination with the 3390-10.
Connecting the voltage terminals to the load
Power measurements will include loss from the voltage input terminals’ input resistance. Loss due to the instrument can be minimized when the measured voltage is low and the measured current is small.
Connecting the current terminals to the load
Power measurements will include loss from the current input terminals’ input resistance. Loss due to the instrument can be minimized when the measured voltage is high and the measured current is small.
When using clamp-on sensor input, the sensor’s loss can be ignored for the most part.
Why is power factor expressed with a negative sign? Is there any relationship between the polarity of power factor and active power?
It is positive (+) when voltage lags relative to current.
On the other hand, negative (-) means that voltage leads current.
There is no relationship to the polarity sign of active power (W).
What does it mean to have a negative power factor value?
Our power meters/analyzers display power factor polarty to illustrate the following:
No sign (+): Current LAGs voltage.
Negative (-): Current LEADs voltage.
There are two AC rectification methods for testers: True RMS and MEAN.
Both indicate the same value as long as there is no distortion in the waveforms.
However, the two values will be different if there is distortion generated by inverters and/or switching power supplies.
True RMS testers measure the correct RMS value even if the waveform is distorted.
The polarity sign of power factor represents the phase relationship between voltage and current.
Positive (+): Current lags voltage phase
Negative (-): Current leads voltage phase
(Similar with reactive power polarity)
There are two wiring methods for the power meter to input the current directly.
According to the voltage and current being measure, please use the appropriate wiring method from the following.
1) Connecting the current terminals to the load side
This method measures the power including the loss of the input resistance on the current input terminal.
This method minimizes meter loss when the voltage is high and the current is low.
2) Connecting the voltage terminals to the load side
This method measures the power including the loss of input resistance of the voltage input terminal.
This method minimizes meter loss when the voltage is low and the current is high
Power Quality Analyzers | Power Loggers
Save interval time: 1 sec. → 42.4 days
2 sec. → 84.9 days
5 sec. → 212 days
10 sec. or more → 1 year
If “All” is selected as the save parameter while using the 3P3W2M setting, the following save times are achieved:
Save interval time: 1 sec. → 16.1 days
2 sec. → 32.3 days
5 sec. → 80.7 days
10 sec. → 161 days
15 sec. → 242 days
30 sec. → 1 year
The maximum file size for measurement data is approximately 200 MB. When this amount is exceeded, a separate file will be created, and data will be saved in the new file.
Reference: The PW3360 series testers’ maximum recording time is 1 year.
Connecting the voltage terminals to the load
Power measurements will include loss from the voltage input terminals’ input resistance. Loss due to the instrument can be minimized when the measured voltage is low and the measured current is small.
Connecting the current terminals to the load
Power measurements will include loss from the current input terminals’ input resistance. Loss due to the instrument can be minimized when the measured voltage is high and the measured current is small.
When using clamp-on sensor input, the sensor’s loss can be ignored for the most part.
I am analyzing the binary data recorded by the PW3360-21 on the SF1001, but I cannot save the data in CSV.
The SF1001 saves harmonic data in binary format only.
The other data can be saved in CSV, but the data displayed in "Harmonic: List" and "Harmonic: Graph" cannot be saved in CSV.
The harmonic data displayed in "Time-series graph", "Summary", or "Report Daily/Weekly/Monthly" screen can be saved in CSV. Please use these data as alternatives if you need CSV data.
How can observe the data recorded by the PW3360 (PW3365) on a PC?
The data recorded by the PW3360 and PW3365 is CSV data, so that you can analyze on MS Excel in addition to our optional softwware Power Logger Viewer SF1001. Also, we offer the PW3360/PW3365 Auto Excel Graph Creation Application on our website.
https://www.hioki.com/en/support/versionup/detail/?downloadid=209
Unfortunately, the data cannot be re-loaded to the PW3360 or PW3365 itself.
Is it possible to display the phase voltage in 3P3W (delta) configuration on the PW3198?
Yes, it is possible. First set 3P3W3M wiring. Then, select "PHASE-N" for "Urms type" in the "SYSTEM-MAIN" screem. If you select "LINE-LINE", the voltage between phases (line-to-line) can be displayed.
When I output the event waveform data measured by the PQ3100 ifrom the PQ ONE in CSV, the CSV file has only 1 digit after the second in the Time column of the CSV data. I would like to have the same resolution to the PQ ONE screen.
What is the rated current of the Magnet adapter 9804? I plan to use it for the power supply with the Voltage Line Power Adapter PW9003.
It is 2A rated.
However, please note that it is not able to measure the current.
Is it possible to measure the leakage current using the Clamp on Power HITESTER 3169?
There is no clamp on sensor selection for the Leak Current Sensors 9657-10 or 9675 on the 3169.
However, you can use them by making the following settings.
Sensor: 9661 (100mV AC/A)
CT ratio: 0.01
By observing the fundamental frequency (1st order) captured during harmonic measurement, you can identify leakage current at 50/60Hz.
Why are the waveforms recorded by the PW3198 are different between transient and other events?
The PW3198 measures normal power quality items and transient overvoltage separately and differently:
* Normal power quality event: 200kS/s, waveform saved for "2 cycles + 200ms + 2 cycies" after thinning to 20kS/s
* Transient overvoltage: 2MS/s, waveform saved for 2ms before and after detection as 2MS/s data through 5kHz LPF to remove the fundamental frequency component.
Applicable models: PW3198, 9624-50, 3196
I recorded power using the Clamp On Power Logger PW3360 at15min intervals. However, I cannot find the maximum data. Why?
On the PW3360, you can select to record "Average only" or "All".
Average only: Record the average value of each interval
All: Record the maximum, minimum and avarage values of each interval.
Pleaase confirm if "All" has been set.
Is it possible to set the 50A range on the PW3360 when using the Clamp On Sensor 9694 (5A AC)?
The rated current of the 9694 is 5A AC, but its maximum input current is 50A continuous.
Therefore, the 9694 can be used in the 50A range with the PW3360.
However, please note that the accuracy of the 9694 is specified only up to 5A, and there is no defined accuracy for the 10A and 50A ranges.
I want to measure inrush current using the PW3198. In the EVENT2-CURRENT screen, there are "Inrush" and "I peak" selections. Which one is more appropriate to capture inrush current at 5A instantaneous peak?
Both are able to detect and capture the event waveform, though the detection timing is slightly different due to the differing threshold definitions:
Inrush: Detect when the current RMS value (half cycle) is 5A or higher.
I peak: Detect when the waveform peak is 5A or higher.
RMS fluctuation
The signals are calculated as RMS values every 200ms for both voltage and current (10 cycles on 50Hz and 12 cycles on 60Hz).
It is difficult to find instantaneous voltage drops that take place in half or 1 cycle, because it is averaged in a longer calculation period. Most equipment is not affected by voltage drops with a duration of a half or 1 cycle. Rather, It is used to watch fluctuation trends during longer periods or a few cycles.
Voltage fluctuation
The voltage RMs value is calculated in every cycle, so you can see an instantaneous voltage drop that happens in half a cycle or 1 cycle. This is useul for finding the instantaneous votlage fluctuation.
The SF1001 can change the date of the data recorded by the PW3360 and PW3365, so that you can easily display different data in one graph.
Please refer to "2.8 Changing the Date of Measurement Data" in the SF1001 instuction manual for details.
[Applicable models]
PW3360, PW3365, SF1001
After the power is recovered, logging continues with a new data file.
The recording interval can be set from 1s to 60min.
If you set to a 10s interval, there are 50 data in 10s. Then, the maximum, minimum and average of 50 values are recorded.
This is helpful for understanding power fluctuation even if you use a long interval.
This is the same as the PW3365.
Current Probes | Current Sensors
*CAT III: A circuit from the primary side of a device (fixed equipment) drawing electricity directly from a distribution panel or from a distribution panel to an outlet
There is no difference with regards to rated current and output rating so the CT9667 can be used with products that are currently paired with the 9667.
Optical Power Meters | PV maintenance | LAN Cable Testers
Magnetic Field | Temperature | Sound Level | Lux | Rotation
Unfortunately, nothing is displayed if the revolution is slower than 30.00r/min (non-contact, average ON).
The low revolution measurement principle of the FT3405 and FT3406 calculates the revolution from the pulse period generated by the reflection light.
For high revolutions, it counts the number of reflection pulses in a specific period.
For low revolutions, it may help to add more reflection tape like 2 or 4 pieces to increase the number of reflection pulses.
If you use 4 tapes, divide the dispayed revolution by 4.
The laser marker is set to OFF as the default setting upon shipment from the HIOKI factory.
Please press the left button (▼) for 1s or longer while pulling the measurement trigger lever.
The same operation once again turns the laser marker OFF.
You can turn continuous measurement mode ON/OFF by pressing the [▲/LOCK] key (except in emissivity, HAL or LAL mode).
Applicable models: FT3700, FT3701
Can the FT3424 measure LED lighting?
The FT3424 can measure LED illuminance (lx) only.
It cannot to measure color temperature, color rendering, and chromaticity, etc.
LED lighting systems have a brightness adjustment capability in these days.
If the adjustment is made by controlling the ON/OFF period of the LED device, (PWM control), you have to be careful when measure the illuminance especially in regards to the precision level.
Switching in a PWM system is made at high frequency that cannot be sensed by human eyes. There are dramatic illuminance changes, so that peak illuminance may not be properly detected and a lower value may be displayed.
The FT3424 is designed to display the correct value even if testing PWM-controlled LED lighting.
Testers | Digital Multimeters (DMMs)
Constant-voltage method: The current is given by the resistance value being measured and the internal circuit’s reference resistance value and protective resistance, and it varies with the measurement voltage that is applied. I = Measurement voltage / (Reference resistance + protective resistance + resistance being measured)
Constant-current method: A constant current flows to the resistance being measured, and the resistance value is calculated from the resulting voltage drop. Measurement currents for individual ranges can be checked in the product’s user manual.
Threshold: 20Ω (default value), 50Ω, 100Ω, 500Ω
When a short is detected, the DMM beeps and the red backlight is lit.
Unfortunately, currently no supplier produces a 22.5V battery now, so we will not be able to supply it.
It is used only for the high resistance ranges like MΩ, etc., so you can use the other ranges without this battery.
< Applicable models >
OL-64D, F-66, AF-105, AS100D, A-10, etc.
Insulation Testers | Megohmmeters
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Clamp Meters | Clamp Multimeters
*CAT III: A circuit from the primary side of a device (fixed equipment) drawing electricity directly from a distribution panel or from a distribution panel to an outlet
• The inverter may be displaying the primary-side current value.
• The value may be affected by inverter noise and harmonics.
• The difference may derive from the difference between RMS (true RMS) and MEAN (average rectified) measurement. (The 3285 uses RMS.)
For example, if the expected current is 1A, 2 turns will result in 2A, which can be better handled by a higher range meter because two current signals will be measured by the clamp. Then simply take 1/2 of the reading to get the actual current of a single wire.
The AVG value of the 3285 is calculated by "(MAX value + MIN value)/" as soon as REC starts.
On the other hand the CM4370 displays the average value of all measurement data obtained as soon as measurement starts.
[Applicable models]
3281, 3282, 3283, 3284, 3285, CM4371, CM4372, CM4373, CM4374
Effect of magnetic field shows the possibile effect on the measurement results when there is no input to the clamp on sensor under a 400A/m magnetic field environment.
When the current (I) flows, the magnetic field strength is equivalent to "I/2πr".
For example, specifications for the effects of a 400A/m magnetic field refers to the magnetic field strength emitting from 100A of current flow approximately 4cm from the conductor, based on the following calculation.
400[A/m]＝100[A]/2πr
2πr＝100/400
ｒ＝100/800π
≒0.0398[m]
No, the 3280-10 and 3280-20 are not designed to use with an AC flexible sensor.
Their successor models 3280-10F and 3280-20F are designed to be connectible to the CT6280 flexible sensor to measure higher currents.
[Reference]
3280-70F: Set of the 3280-10F and CT6280
3280-90F: Set of the 3280-20F and CT6280
Please confirm if the arrow label (→) is oriented in the same direction as the flow of power from the power supply to the equipment being measured.
Ground Resistance Testers | Phase Rotation Meters | Voltage Detectors
Automatic Test Equipment (ATE)
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Meter Relays
Specialized Solutions
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Other Electrical Measuring Instruments
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