Fluke TL175 TwistGuard Test Leads User Manual

1. Introduction

The Fluke TL175 TwistGuard Test Leads are designed for electrical measurement applications, offering enhanced safety and versatility. These test leads feature an adjustable tip shroud mechanism and a WearGuard lead wire wear indication system, ensuring reliable performance and user safety across various measurement environments. They are compatible with all instruments that accept standard 4mm shrouded banana plugs.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: To prevent possible electrical shock, fire, or personal injury:

• Always use the test leads with the appropriate safety category rating for the measurement environment.
• Inspect test leads for damage before each use. Do not use if insulation is damaged or if the inner contrasting color of the WearGuard system is exposed.
• Ensure the test lead tips are fully inserted into the measurement device.
• Do not apply more than the rated voltage, as marked on the test leads.
• Keep fingers behind the finger guards on the probes during measurements.
• Use caution when working with voltages above 30 V AC RMS, 42 V peak, or 60 V DC. These voltages pose a shock hazard.

3. Product Features

• TwistGuard Extendable Tip Shroud: Patented design allows users to twist the probe handle to extend or retract the tip shroud, reducing tip exposure for higher safety categories (CAT III, CAT IV) and providing full tip exposure for lower categories (CAT II).
• WearGuard Lead Wire Indication: Each test lead features two layers of silicone insulation. If the outer layer is nicked or scuffed, the inner contrasting color becomes visible, indicating the need for replacement.
• Double Insulated Silicone Leads: Designed to withstand high temperatures and maintain flexibility in cold conditions.
• Extra-Heavy Duty Strain Relief: Reinforced strain relief on both probe-end and plug-end for enhanced durability, tested beyond 30,000 bends.
• Universal Input Plugs: Compatible with all instruments that accept standard 4mm shrouded banana plugs.
• Removable 4mm Lantern Tips: Includes removable tips that thread onto the lead tip for versatile connections.

Figure 1: Overview of Fluke TL175 TwistGuard Test Leads, showing the red and black leads with their respective probe tips and banana plugs.

4. Setup and Installation

1. Inspect Leads: Before connecting, visually inspect both test leads for any signs of damage, cuts, or exposed inner insulation. If damage is found, replace the leads immediately.
2. Connect to Instrument: Insert the shrouded banana plugs (black for common, red for voltage/current) firmly into the corresponding input jacks of your multimeter or test instrument. Ensure a secure connection.
   

   Figure 2: Fluke TL175 Test Leads properly connected to a digital multimeter.
3. Adjust TwistGuard Shroud: The TwistGuard feature allows you to adjust the exposed tip length.
   • For CAT II measurements (e.g., wall outlets), twist the probe handle to fully expose the 19mm tip.
   • For CAT III or CAT IV measurements (e.g., circuit breaker panels, main service), twist the probe handle to retract the shroud, exposing only the 4mm tip for increased safety.
     

     Figure 3: A hand twisting the probe handle to adjust the TwistGuard tip shroud.

4. Attach Lantern Tips (Optional): If your application requires a different connection type, the included 4mm lantern tips can be threaded onto the probe tips.

5. Operating Instructions

Once properly connected and adjusted, the Fluke TL175 Test Leads function as standard test probes for your electrical measurements. Always refer to your multimeter's instruction manual for specific measurement procedures.

• Voltage Measurement: Select the appropriate voltage range on your multimeter. Ensure the TwistGuard shroud is set for the correct safety category. Place the black probe on the common or ground point and the red probe on the point to be measured.
• Current Measurement: For current measurements, ensure the red lead is connected to the correct current input jack on your multimeter (e.g., 10A or mA). The circuit must be broken to insert the meter in series.
• Resistance/Continuity: Select the resistance or continuity function. The leads can be used to test circuit continuity or component resistance.

Figure 4: Using a Fluke TL175 Test Lead in a circuit breaker panel, demonstrating a CAT IV application with the shroud retracted.

Figure 5: Fluke TL175 Test Leads used to test an electrical outlet, suitable for CAT II applications with tips fully exposed.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Clean the test leads with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect the leads for any signs of wear or damage, especially the WearGuard insulation. If the inner contrasting color is exposed, the leads are compromised and should be replaced to maintain safety.
• Storage: Store the test leads in a clean, dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. Avoid sharp bends or kinks in the cables.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Reading or Intermittent Reading:
  • Ensure the banana plugs are fully inserted into the multimeter.
  • Check for visible damage to the lead insulation or connectors.
  • Perform a continuity test on the leads themselves by touching the tips together. If no continuity, the leads may be internally broken and require replacement.
• Inaccurate Readings:
  • Verify the multimeter is set to the correct function and range.
  • Ensure the test lead tips are making good contact with the circuit points.
  • Check for corrosion or dirt on the probe tips or banana plugs.

8. Specifications

What's in the Box:

• Fluke TL175 TwistGuard Test Leads (Red and Black)
• Removable 4mm Lantern Tips

9. Warranty and Support

The Fluke TL175 TwistGuard Test Leads come with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase, covering defects in materials and workmanship. For warranty claims, technical assistance, or further information, please contact Fluke Corporation customer support or visit the official Fluke website.

Manufacturer: Fluke Corporation

Date First Available: June 1, 2011