Klammermåleenheder

Klammermåleenheder, often translated as clamp meters or clamp-on meters, are electrical testing instruments that clamp around a conductor to measure electrical current. Unlike traditional multimeters that require the circuit to be broken and the meter to be inserted in series, clamp meters offer a non-intrusive method for current measurement. This makes them particularly useful for measuring high currents or in situations where interrupting the circuit is inconvenient or potentially hazardous.

The core principle behind a clamp meter's operation is electromagnetic induction. The alternating current flowing through the conductor generates a magnetic field. The clamp jaws of the meter contain a ferromagnetic core that concentrates this magnetic field. A coil wound around the core then senses the changing magnetic field, and this induced voltage is proportional to the current flowing through the conductor. Internal circuitry converts this signal into a reading displayed on the meter.

Clamp meters typically measure alternating current (AC). Some advanced models are also capable of measuring direct current (DC), which employs Hall effect sensors to detect the magnetic field generated by DC current. In addition to current, most clamp meters also function as basic multimeters, offering measurements for voltage, resistance, and continuity. They are widely used by electricians, technicians, and engineers for troubleshooting electrical systems, performing maintenance, and checking power consumption. Safety features, such as CAT ratings, are important considerations when selecting a clamp meter for specific applications.