Low amp clamp meters are essential tools for electricians, mechanics, and technicians to measure the current flowing through a conductor without having to break the circuit.
They are particularly useful for measuring low current levels, such as in circuits with sensitive electronic components or devices that consume very little power.
In this article, we will be discussing the best low amp clamp meters on the market and what makes them stand out from the rest. We will be reviewing their features, accuracy, and ease of use, as well as providing a comparison of their prices. Whether you are a professional electrician or a DIY enthusiast, this article will help you find the perfect low amp clamp meter for your needs.
- Overview:
- General technology corp GCT CM 100
- Triplett 9045 Low Current Clamp Meter with NCV:
- B&K Precision 316 Mini:
- Electronic Specialties 688 Low Current Clamp Meter:
- Extech 380950 Mini:
- Extech 380941:
- ESI 695 AC/DC Low Current Probe:
- ESI 687 80 Amps DC/AC Low Current Probe Digital Multimeter:
- Buyer’s Guide
- Wrap up:
General technology corp GCT CM 100
If you’re tired of using a clunky, low-amp meter for your electrical work, it’s time to upgrade to something more streamlined. The General Technology Corp GCT CM 100 is a small, handy clamp meter that can fit into tight spaces, making it perfect for measuring current and voltage in a variety of settings.
With the ability to measure AC/DC current from 0.001 to 100 amps, the GCT CM 100 is ideal for measuring parasitic draws and identifying current leaks. It can also measure up to 600 volts AC/DC voltage. This makes it a great choice for electricians, mechanics, and technicians.
One of the best things about the GCT CM 100 is that it’s easy to use. To take a measurement, simply zero it out by pressing the zero button when you’re near a live wire or conductor, and then take your reading. This feature makes it a time-saver for anyone working in the automotive field, as it can help you quickly identify and resolve tiny issues that might be missed by other clamp meters.
Other features that make the GCT CM 100 stand out include its ability to measure DC milliamps without locating the endpoint, its small, narrow jaw that can fit into tight spaces, and its ability to check fuses, motors, heaters, power lines, and compressors. Additionally, the GCT CM 100 has an audible continuity testing function, resistance measurement function, high-resolution display hold, and peak detector.
The GCT CM 100 comes with a pair of test leads, 2 AAA batteries, a user manual, and a carrying pouch. This makes it easy to take it with you wherever you go. And, with a price that’s competitive with other clamp meters on the market, the GCT CM 100 is an excellent value for anyone looking for a reliable, accurate, and easy-to-use clamp meter.
Overall, the General Technology Corp GCT CM 100 is a great choice for electricians, mechanics, and technicians. Its ability to measure current and voltage in a variety of settings, as well as its ease of use and competitive price, make it a standout choice among clamp meters on the market. With excellent customer reviews, you can trust the GCT CM 100 to be a reliable and accurate tool for your electrical work.
Triplett 9045 Low Current Clamp Meter with NCV:
If you’re looking for a compact, non-contact voltage tester that packs a punch, the Triplett 9035 is the perfect tool for you. This high-performance 4000-count clamp meter comes with a backlit LCD display, allowing you to easily read measurements even in dark environments.
The Triplett 9035 offers a wide range of measuring features, including the ability to measure 400A AC current, resistance, AC/DC voltage, diode testing, capacitance, continuity, and temperature. This makes it a versatile tool that can tackle a variety of electrical tasks.
One of the standout features of the Triplett 9035 is its ergonomic design. The outer part of the clamp meter is covered with rubber, making it comfortable to hold and drop-resistant. It also has an auto power-off function to help save battery life, as well as a low battery indicator to let you know when it’s time to replace the battery.
Additionally, the Triplett 9035 is designed for safety and durability. It has a CAT III 600v rating, which means it’s built to withstand overloads in complex systems and circuitry. This makes it a great tool for troubleshooting unexplained circuit failures.
The Triplett 9035 is designed for both residential and industrial fields, including HVAC services, security, electrical, and IT. It’s small and portable, easily fitting into your tool bag, so you can take it with you wherever you go. The package includes test leads, a 9v battery, a temperature probe, and a carrying case.
At a very reasonable price, the Triplett 9035 is a great low-amp clamp meter that offers accurate and reliable performance. With excellent customer reviews, you can trust this clamp meter to be a valuable addition to your electrical toolkit.
B&K Precision 316 Mini:
If you’re in need of a versatile and reliable digital clamp meter, the B&K Precision 316 mini is an excellent choice. This auto-ranging, average sensing clamp meter can measure current, resistance, and voltage with ease. Its jaws clamp around the wire while taking measurements without touching the circuits, allowing you to measure AC/DC current up to 100 amps.
With a pair of test leads included, this clamp meter can measure AC/DC voltage up to 600 volts and up to 10K ohms of resistance. The data hold function allows you to hold and save the last measurement after circuits are disconnected, preventing data loss.
An audible continuity sensor verifies that the circuit conducts electricity and a low battery indicator lets you know when the battery needs to be replaced.
The B&K Precision 316 mini is designed to measure sinusoidal waveform current and voltage, as well as linear loads such as lights and induction motors. It has an auto-range feature that selects the range according to the measurement that needs to be performed, and a peak hold function that saves the peak value of the circuit.
The auto-off function allows the clamp meter to turn off after 30 minutes of inactivity, helping to save the battery life. The rotary dial and four-digit LCD display make it easy to select the function and read the measurement. It can also display analog waveform results.
The B&K Precision 316 mini is a low-amp clamp meter that can measure 1mA DC and is ideal for finding battery discharge, power supply, switch and other electrical equipment faults and help in their repair. It is designed for research and development, industrial and domestic fields. It also meets CAT II installation to 600 volts ratings and is internationally electro technical commission safety certified, ensuring your safety while using it.
It is small and handy device that can take measurements even in tight spaces, making it easy to carry around. The customer reviews of this clamp meter show its authentic quality and it is a good choice for those looking for a reliable low amp clamp meter.
Electronic Specialties 688 Low Current Clamp Meter:
Electronic specialties 688 is a true RMS clamp meter that measures AC/DC current, resistance, capacitance, AC/DC volts, frequency, and temperature.
It is a true RMS clamp meter with zero drift stability which helps the inaccuracy of the clamp meter.
An Electronic Specialty 688 is a low amp clamp meter ideal for battery testing and parasitic draw it can read down to 1mA so it’s an ideal tool for measuring low amp.
This clamp meter had wide jaws large enough to fit on fat cables and wires. It’s a very good tool for testing gear for a car. It can easily find out the peak value, with minimum/maximum function and its data hold process can save the last measurement of the circuit even after disconnecting it.
It is featured with an auto-off function it can turn off by itself when you did not remember to turn
it off after 30 minutes if the true RMS meter is not in further use. It is a plus point for saving the clamp meter battery.
It arrives with a pair of test leads, a temperature probe, a battery, a manual for guidance, and a carrying case so you can take it with you quickly. It’s an ideal clamp meter for technicians.
The customer reviews of Electronic specialties 688 are very positive, especially in areas of low amp measurements, battery testing, and parasitic draw. Plus, they are satisfied with its large jaws, which can easily take measurements through wide cables and wires.
Extech 380950 Mini:
The Extech 380950 Mini is a great option for those looking for a digital clamp meter that can measure even the thinnest wires and cords. Its small clamp jaws are perfect for measuring in tight and narrow spaces, making it a versatile tool for a variety of projects.
The Extech 380950 is a feature-rich clamp meter, with a 4000 counts display and 1mA resolution for low current sensitivity. It can measure AC/DC current, AC/DC voltage, frequency, resistance, duty cycle, capacitance, and continuity. This means you don’t have to bring a whole toolbox with you to take all these measurements.
It is a lightweight, robust clamp meter that is small in size, making it easy to fit in your toolbox or take with you on the go, whether you’re working in the field, on vehicles, or at home.
It is an ideal low-current clamp meter for troubleshooting in plant maintenance, HVAC services, electrical field, marine, automotive, telecom field, fleet maintenance, residential, and motorcycle electrical repair, all those problems which may not be deduced by other high-rated clamp meters.
The Extech 380950 is easy to use, with a single rotary dial for switching between functions and a hold function for accurate measurements.
It also has an auto-off feature to save battery life. The package includes 2 AAA batteries, a pair of test leads, and a carrying case, making it easy to take with you to your workplace, field or office.
Overall, customers have been very positive about the Extech 380950. They love the accuracy and quick range selection functions, the LCD display, low amp measurement, device quality, and multi-functionality.
That’s why it is listed as a great option for a low-amp clamp meter. Whether you’re a professional or a DIY enthusiast, the Extech 380950 is a great choice for your electrical projects.
Extech 380941:
Extech 380941 is a digital mini clamp meter that measures up to200 AC/DC amps. It has a small jaw that is specially designed for those wires or circuits which are established in very less or narrow space that gives 10mAresolution and very little current sensitivity. This clamp meter is very helpful in troubleshooting tasks in HVAC services, plant maintenance, telecom field, motorcycle repair as well as in all industrial and residential areas.
Extech 380941 comes up with minimalist design and functions. All the functions can be operated by a single dial you can simply switch the dial for the required measurement. There is a zero button. After pushing it the clamp meter is ready to take DC current measurements. It can measure voltages, frequency, and continuity functions as well, which means there is no need to take different tools with you for all these measurements.
It is well designed to fulfill safety ratings. There is an additional 3-prong AC lines partition which ensures you that you can easily measure power cables with molded plugs.
Extech 380941 fulfills CAT III 300 volts safety ratings so you don’t have to worry about safety while using this device. It comes along with one year warranty. It is a good choice for you if you want a low amp clamp meter for your daily use because of its safety and its simple functions as well as because of its accuracy and troubleshooting.
In conclusion, all the reviews are very encouraging. They like its simplicity, design and structure, variety of functions, display, safety ratings, and accurate measurements. Its low amps measurements are a plus point they work for their battery and draws.
ESI 695 AC/DC Low Current Probe:
ESI 695 is AC/DC low current probe that works with many lab scopes and other modern digital multimeters which have a millivolts range as well as the banana plug connector (most digital multimeters have this), the current amp switches the amp range in the volts so you can read the output on your digital Multimeter.
ESI 695 probe can measure 0.1amps to 80 amps so it can measure parasitic drain testing accurately.
You can use it with a graphing meter for taking output in the graphical current waveform for indicative examination by fuel ignition, primary ignition coils, fuel pumps, and more.
You can measure fuel pump current by using this probe with picoscope its output is 100v per amp, so you can set the voltage range with that. The time is clear then set it with the typical fuel injector pattern.
This page will explain it. https://www.picoauto.com/library/automotive-guided-tests/injector-current.
Its jaw opening clamp is ½ inches which works on most negative batteries cable and finds out the actual problem.ESI 695 probe has a low voltage indicator which indicates when it battery is about to discharge along with the auto power-off function when the probe is not in use for 30 minutes.
Reviews of the ESI 695 probe are excellent, customer give good remarks about this probe in automotive fields as well as they like its auto shut-off function.
ESI 687 80 Amps DC/AC Low Current Probe Digital Multimeter:
ESI 687 low current probe DMM is a clamp meter it is a great tool that measures 10 different testing functions like current up to 80A, voltages 600V, resistance up to 40M, frequency 10MHz, diode testing, duty cycle, and continuity testing with audible beep.
ESI 687 probe DMM featured auto-ranging, data hold which can hold the output data of your measurement after disconnecting clamp with the circuit, continuity with audible beep while the circuit is live, overload protection, and clamp opening 5/8 inches which are sufficient to fits over most of the negative battery cables.
ESI687 can be used for testing fuel injectors, electric motors, charging systems, battery drain, and fuel pumps.
To measure low amp down to 1milliamp, ESI687 is an ideal tool, especially for locating parasitic drains.
While taking the measurements first you have to push zero near the location which you are about to measure. It can check the car fuse easily you just have to pull the fuse and insert the adaptor in the fuse socket put the car fuse in the adopter and clip the wire loop with the device to measure the flowing current in it.
It can easily find out the current leakage in your house wiring, it comes with a complete package with 9 volts battery and a carrying case.
It’s a simple, easy-to-use and understood, handy, and accurate multimeter at a low price. The customer’s reviews about this clamp meter are very encouraging, they like its design, accuracy, simple function, and best choice for parasitic drains testing.
Buyer’s Guide
With a low current clamp meter, you can measure just about any type of electricity. Even in modern times, it’s common and useful for people who work with electricity all day long!
True RMS feature:
Clamp meters are a standard tool for electricians, but have you ever wondered what the true RMS means? True RMS is a feature that’s on most digital clamp meters. It stands for Root Mean Square and it tells you how much power your circuit carries at any given moment in time. This measurement is more accurate than an average reading because not only is the peak value is taken into consideration but also the time between peaks.
Jaw size:
When looking for a low amp clamp meter, make sure to pay attention to the jaw size. This is the measurement of the opening where you clamp the meter around the wire. The smaller the jaw size, the more versatile the meter will be in measuring smaller wires and in tight spaces. But, keep in mind that smaller jaws may not be able to measure larger wires.
AC/DC measurement:
When you’re looking for a low amp clamp meter, make sure it can measure both AC and DC current. AC current is the type of electricity that comes from your power outlets, while DC current is the type of electricity that comes from batteries. Some meters can only measure one or the other, so if you’re working with both types of electricity, make sure you get a meter that can measure both.
Display:
A clear and easy-to-read display is essential when using a low amp clamp meter. Make sure to look for a meter with a backlit display or a large, easy-to-read digital display. This will make it easier to read measurements, even in dimly lit environments.
Functions:
Different low amp clamp meters will have different functions and features. Some meters may only measure current, while others may measure current, voltage, resistance, and more. Consider what types of measurements you’ll be taking most often and look for a meter that has those functions.
Safety:
Safety is of the utmost importance when working with electricity. Look for
a meter that is rated for the level of voltage you’ll be working with, and that has safety features such as overload protection and a low battery indicator. Also, look for certifications such as CAT III or CAT IV rating, which indicate that the meter has been tested and approved for use in certain environments.
Durability:
A low amp clamp meter is an investment, so make sure to look for one that is built to last. Look for a meter with a rugged design and one that is made with high-quality materials. It should also come with a warranty or guarantee for added peace of mind.
Accessories:
Some low amp clamp meters come with accessories such as test leads, carrying cases, or temperature probes. Consider what accessories would be useful for you and look for a meter that comes with them.
Price:
Low amp clamp meters can range in price from budget-friendly to quite expensive. Consider your budget and what functions and features are most important to you. Keep in mind that a more expensive meter may have more advanced features and better accuracy, but it may not be necessary for your needs.
FAQs:
- What is a low amp clamp, and what is it used for?
- A low amp clamp, also known as a low current clamp, is a type of electrical tool used to measure low levels of electrical current. It is often used in electrical testing and diagnostic applications, such as checking the current draw of a device or circuit.
- How does a low amp clamp work?
- Low amp clamps work by using a transformer to isolate the measured current from the rest of the circuit. The transformer allows the clamp to measure the current without interrupting the flow of electricity. The clamp’s jaws are placed around a conductor, and the measured current is displayed on a digital readout or analog meter.
- What are the benefits of using a low amp clamp?
- Using a low amp clamp has several benefits, including the ability to accurately measure low levels of current without interrupting the circuit, the ability to measure current in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas, and the ability to measure current in live circuits. Low amp clamps can also help to identify problems in electrical systems, such as short circuits or faulty components.
- How do I choose the right low amp clamp for my needs?
- When selecting a low amp clamp, it’s essential to consider the range of current that needs to be measured, the type of conductor being measured, and the intended use of the clamp. It’s also a good idea to consider the durability and accuracy of the clamp, as well as any additional features it may have, such as temperature measurement or data logging capabilities.
Wrap up:
All the clamp meters which are described in this article are highly impressive because of their qualities, features, and performance, which perform measurements accurately and fulfill the safety ratings. All clamp meters are multi-functional, measuring voltage, resistance, diode testing, duty cycle, and frequency, and all have the common feature of low amp measurements.
Also, check our Fluke 324 review.