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Fluke debuts world’s first clamp meters for solar testing up to 1500V

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Fluke has unveiled two world-first products, with the company debuting new clamp meters designed for use with solar power installations up to 1500V. 

The new clamp meters from Fluke are the first to meet the latest safety standard, boasting the ability to test solar installation voltages up to 1500V. That means it’s ready for the next-generation of solar installations that are now coming to market.

Dubbed the Fluke 393 and 393 FC, these two True-rms solar clamp meters claim to offer an enhanced level of safety by meeting the IEC/EN 61010-2-032:2019 standard for clamp meters. That safety includes an IP54 rating, which makes the Fluke 393 usable in a variety of weather conditions and climates. 

The clamp meter’s insulated test leads are rated to CAT III 1500V DC, while the meters also offer CAT IV protection to 600V AC.

The ability to make quick, easy and accurate measurements allows maintenance technicians to keep solar installations producing energy. The challenge is that solar combiner boxes are often small and congested, making it difficult to attach meters to make measurements. The Fluke 393 promises to meet this challenge with a 25% thinner jaw than previous Fluke clamp meter models, making it easier and faster to take measurements in restricted spaces.

The 393 FC differs from the standard 393 by offering connectivity to Fluke Connect, eliminating the need for handwritten notes. Fluke Connect allows maintenance technicians and service staff to document values and share them with their team. Up to 65,000 data points can be recorded and uploaded.

Beside voltage and current measurements, the new clamp meter provides DC power measurement and data logging to improve work efficiency.

Productivity is enhanced by an audio beep that indicates correct PV polarity, as well as visual continuity indication to make continuity testing easier in low light conditions. Additionally, the meters offer a dual line display for simultaneous measurements.

Hans-Dieter Schuessele of Fluke, commented,: “As the world’s first solar clamp meters to offer CAT III safety at 1500 V, the new 393 and 393 FC clamp meters set a new standard in solar installation testing. Designed to be supremely safe and easy to use, they are a major contribution to helping installers and maintenance staff get solar farms online rapidly and keep them producing renewable energy.”

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