BTMETER BT-38C Pen Type Digital Multimeter

1. Introduction

The BTMETER BT-38C Pen Type Digital Multimeter is a portable, stable, and anti-dropping instrument designed for accurate electrical measurements. Featuring a 6000-count LCD monitor with 12mm high characters, it provides clear readings for various applications. Its robust circuitry, incorporating large-scale IC A/D converters and overload protection, ensures reliable performance.

This multimeter is ideal for measuring DC and AC voltage, resistance, capacitance, positive diode voltage drop, and continuity. It is designed to simplify circuit maintenance, HVAC system diagnostics, car repair, and general industrial use, eliminating the need to juggle multiple test leads.

Note: Using the equipment in a manner not specified by the manufacturer may impair the protection provided by the instrument.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present and in good condition:

• 1 x BTMETER BT-38C Pen Type Digital Multimeter
• 1 x Integrated Test Lead (black)
• 1 x Detachable Test Lead (red)
• 1 x User Manual
• 1 x Packaging Box

3. Product Features

The BT-38C multimeter offers a range of features for efficient and safe operation:

• Auto Range: Automatically selects the appropriate measurement range.
• 6000 Counts LCD Display: Provides high-resolution readings.
• DC Voltage Measurement: Up to 600V.
• AC Voltage Measurement: Up to 600V.
• Resistance Measurement: Up to 60MΩ.
• Capacitance Measurement: Up to 99.99mF.
• Diode Test: For checking diode functionality.
• Continuity Alarm: Audible alert for continuous circuits.
• Data Hold: Locks the displayed reading for easy recording.
• Backlit LCD Screen: Improves visibility in low-light conditions.
• Lamp Light (Flashlight): Integrated LED for illuminating work areas.
• Low Battery Indication: Alerts when batteries need replacement.
• Auto Power Off: Conserves battery life by automatically shutting down after inactivity.
• Overload Protection: Ensures safety when input exceeds specified limits.
• CE Certified: Meets European safety standards.

4. Panel Layout

Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of your multimeter:

1. Test Lead Fixture: Secures the COM (black) test lead.
2. LCD Display: Shows measurement readings, units, and function indicators.
3. HOLD Key: Press to lock the displayed value. The "DH" sign will appear. Press again to exit. Long press (over 2 seconds) to activate/deactivate the backlight and lamp light.
4. SELECT Key: Used to switch between measurement functions (e.g., Resistance, Diode, Continuity, Capacitance, or AC/DC voltage) within a given toggle switch position.
5. COM Input Test Lead: The integrated black test lead.
6. Toggle Switch: Rotary switch to select the main measurement mode (OFF, V/C for Voltage/Capacitance, Ω-)))->|- for Resistance/Continuity/Diode).
7. REL Key: Press to enter relative measuring mode. "REL" is displayed. The meter shows the difference between the current measurement and a stored reference value. Press again to exit.
8. Protective Casing: Provides durability and grip.
9. Battery Cover: Located at the bottom for battery access.
10. Lamp Light: Integrated LED flashlight for illuminating dark work areas.

5. Setup

5.1 Battery Installation

The BT-38C requires two 1.5V 'AAA' R03P batteries (not included). Follow these steps to install them:

1. Ensure the multimeter is turned OFF.
2. Locate the battery cover at the bottom of the multimeter.
3. Use a screwdriver to open the battery cover.
4. Insert two 1.5V 'AAA' R03P batteries, observing the correct polarity (+/-).
5. Replace the battery cover and secure it with the screw.

WARNING: To avoid electrical shock, do not operate the multimeter with the battery cover opened.

6. Operating Instructions

Always ensure the multimeter is set to the correct function and range before making any measurements. Avoid changing the toggle switch position during a live measurement.

6.1 General Operation

1. Turn the toggle switch to the desired primary measurement function (V/C or Ω-)))->|-).
2. Use the "SELECT" button to cycle through the sub-functions (e.g., DC Voltage, AC Voltage, Capacitance, Resistance, Diode, Continuity).
3. Connect the test leads to the circuit or component under test.
4. Read the measurement on the LCD display.

6.2 DC Voltage Measurement

1. Set the toggle switch to the V/C position.
2. Press the "SELECT" button repeatedly until "DC" is displayed on the screen.
3. Connect the red test lead to the positive (+) side of the DC source and the black test lead to the negative (-) side.
4. Read the DC voltage value on the display.

6.3 AC Voltage Measurement

1. Set the toggle switch to the V/C position.
2. Press the "SELECT" button repeatedly until "AC" is displayed on the screen.
3. Connect the test leads across the AC voltage source.
4. Read the AC voltage value on the display.

6.4 Resistance Measurement

1. Set the toggle switch to the Ω-)))->|- position.
2. Press the "SELECT" button repeatedly until "Ω" is displayed on the screen.
3. Connect the test leads across the component whose resistance you want to measure.
4. Read the resistance value on the display.

6.5 Continuity Test

1. Set the toggle switch to the Ω-)))->|- position.
2. Press the "SELECT" button repeatedly until the buzzer icon ")))" is displayed on the screen.
3. Connect the test leads across the circuit or component.
4. If there is continuity (low resistance), the buzzer will sound.

6.6 Diode Measurement

1. Set the toggle switch to the Ω-)))->|- position.
2. Press the "SELECT" button repeatedly until the diode icon "->|-" is displayed on the screen.
3. Connect the red test lead to the anode (positive) of the diode and the black test lead to the cathode (negative). Note the forward voltage drop.
4. Reverse the test leads. A good diode should display "OL" (Overload) in this reverse-biased condition.

6.7 Capacitance Measurement

1. Set the toggle switch to the V/C position.
2. Press the "SELECT" button repeatedly until "F" (Farad) is displayed on the screen.
3. Connect the test leads across the capacitor.
4. Read the capacitance value on the display. For large-capacity capacitors (e.g., 100uF to 60mF), it may take approximately 10 seconds for the final stable reading to appear.

6.8 Data Hold (HOLD Key)

To freeze the current reading on the display, press the "HOLD" key. The "DH" indicator will appear. Press the "HOLD" key again to release the reading and return to live measurement.

6.9 Backlight and Lamp Light

To activate the LCD backlight and the integrated lamp light (flashlight), press and hold the "HOLD" key for more than 2 seconds. To turn them off, press and hold the "HOLD" key again for more than 2 seconds. The lights will automatically turn off after 15 seconds of inactivity.

6.10 Relative Measuring Mode (REL Key)

Press the "REL" key to enter relative measuring mode. The "REL" indicator will be displayed. In this mode, the meter displays the difference between the current measurement and a stored reference value (the value present when "REL" was pressed). Press the "REL" key again to exit this mode.

6.11 Auto Power Off

The multimeter is equipped with an auto power-off feature to conserve battery life. If there is no operation for approximately 15 minutes, the meter will automatically switch to standby mode. To exit standby mode, press any key. To disable the auto power-off function, press and hold the "SELECT" key while turning on the multimeter.

7. Specifications

8. Safety Information

Always adhere to safety precautions to prevent personal injury or damage to the multimeter.

• Overload Protection: The instrument is equipped with overload protection. If the input exceeds the effective value of 600V AC and DC voltage, the buzzer will sound to alert you.
• Input Limits: Input signals must not exceed the specified limits of the multimeter.
• Battery Cover: Do not operate the multimeter with the battery cover open to avoid electrical shock.
• Voltage Measurement Caution: Exercise caution when measuring voltages higher than DC 60V or AC 30V to prevent electrical shock.
• Toggle Switch Position: Do not change the toggle switch position randomly during a measurement. Always disconnect the test leads from the circuit before changing functions.
• TV Set/Switched Power Measurement: When measuring TV sets or switched power supplies, be aware of positive pulses that may damage the circuit.
• Power Off: After completing operations, set the toggle switch to OFF to conserve battery power.

9. Maintenance

9.1 Cleaning

To clean the multimeter, wipe the casing with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the plastic components or internal circuitry.

9.2 Battery Replacement

When the low battery indicator (a "BT" symbol) appears on the display, replace the batteries promptly to ensure accurate measurements and proper operation. Refer to Section 5.1 for battery installation instructions.

9.3 Long-Term Storage

If the multimeter will not be used for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent potential damage from battery leakage.

10. Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues and their solutions:

• No Display or Faint Display:
  • Check battery installation and ensure correct polarity.
  • Replace batteries if the low battery indicator is on or if the display is faint.
  • Ensure the toggle switch is not in the OFF position.
• "OL" (Overload) Displayed:
  • The measured value exceeds the current range. The multimeter is auto-ranging, but extreme values may still show OL.
  • For diode measurement, "OL" is expected when the diode is reverse-biased.
  • For continuity, "OL" indicates an open circuit.
• Buzzer Sounds Continuously During Voltage Measurement:
  • This indicates that the input voltage exceeds 600V AC or DC, triggering the overload protection. Disconnect immediately.
• Multimeter Turns Off Automatically:
  • This is the Auto Power Off feature. Press any key to resume operation.
  • If you wish to disable this feature, refer to Section 6.11.
• Inaccurate Readings:
  • Ensure test leads are properly connected and not damaged.
  • Check battery level; low batteries can affect accuracy.
  • Verify the correct function and sub-function are selected for the measurement.

11. User Tips

Enhance your experience with these practical tips:

• Diode Polarity: For accurate diode measurements, ensure correct polarity: connect the red test lead to the positive side and the black test lead to the negative side. Reversing the leads should display 'OL' for a healthy diode.
• Capacitor Measurement Time: When measuring large capacitors, allow sufficient time (up to 10 seconds for 100uF-60mF) for the reading to stabilize and display accurately.
• Low-Light Operation: Utilize the integrated backlight and flashlight features by long-pressing the 'HOLD' button. This ensures clear readings and safe operation in dimly lit environments, making your work easier and more precise.
• Battery Conservation: Remember to turn the multimeter OFF after use or rely on the auto power-off feature. For long-term storage, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.

12. Warranty and Support

BTMETER provides the following support for your BT-38C Pen Type Digital Multimeter:

• Warranty: This product comes with a 1-year warranty from the store against manufacturing defects.
• Returns: You may return the product within 7 days if there are any quality problems.
• Customer Support: For any inquiries or assistance, please contact customer support. All emails will be answered within 24 hours.