PEAKMETER PM1508
PEAKMETER PM1508 Handheld Insulation Resistance Tester User Manual
Brand: PEAKMETER
Model: PM1508 (EC-PM1508)
1. Introduction
The PEAKMETER PM1508 is a high-precision handheld insulation resistance tester designed for various electrical measurement applications. It functions as a megohmmeter and can perform insulation resistance tests, AC/DC voltage measurements, frequency measurements, and low resistance tests. Its robust design and advanced features make it an ideal tool for professionals in industrial and scientific fields.
Key features of the PM1508 include:
- Maximum insulation resistance measurement up to 100GΩ with a basic accuracy of ±1.5%.
- Polarization Index (PI) and Dielectric Absorption Ratio (DAR) measurement capabilities.
- Compare function for quick pass/fail assessments.
- Zeroing function for accurate low resistance measurements.
- Lock function to hold readings.
- Backlight for improved visibility in low-light conditions.
- Handheld design for portability and ease of use.

Figure 1.1: PEAKMETER PM1508 Insulation Resistance Tester, showing the device, its retail box, and a protective carrying case.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety information before operating the PEAKMETER PM1508. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or damage to the device.
- Always observe local and national safety codes.
- Do not use the device if it appears damaged or is not operating properly.
- Ensure the test leads are in good condition and properly connected before any measurement.
- WARNING: To avoid electrical shock, remove test leads before opening the case for battery replacement or any internal maintenance.
- Do not apply voltage exceeding the maximum rated voltage to the input terminals.
- Use caution when working with high voltages.
- Keep the device dry and clean.
The PEAKMETER PM1508 complies with safety standards EN61010-1, EN61010-2-032, EN61326, and is rated CAT III 600V.

Figure 2.1: Rear view of the PM1508, highlighting the battery cover and the safety warning regarding electrical shock.
3. Product Components and Package Contents
The PEAKMETER PM1508 package typically includes the following items:
- Test Leads (Red and Black)
- Alligator Clips (Red and Black)
- Clip Battery (likely referring to the batteries required for operation)
- Cloth Bag (carrying case)
- User Manual
- Color Box (packaging)

Figure 3.1: Contents of the PM1508 package, illustrating the main unit and its accessories.
4. Setup
4.1 Battery Installation
The PEAKMETER PM1508 requires 4 x 1.5V AA batteries for operation. To install or replace batteries:
- Ensure the device is turned OFF and all test leads are disconnected.
- Locate the battery compartment on the back of the device (refer to Figure 2.1).
- Use a screwdriver to open the battery compartment cover.
- Insert the 4 AA batteries, observing the correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Replace the battery compartment cover and secure it with the screw.
4.2 Connecting Test Leads
To connect the test leads:
- Insert the red test lead into the "VΩHz" input jack.
- Insert the black test lead into the "COM" input jack.
- For insulation resistance tests, ensure the leads are connected to the appropriate "INSULATION TEST" terminals (VΩHz and COM).

Figure 4.1: Detailed view of the PM1508's display, rotary dial, and input terminals.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Device Overview
Familiarize yourself with the main components of the PM1508:
- LCD Display Area: Shows measurement readings, units, and various indicators.
- Rotary Dial: Used to select different measurement functions (e.g., Insulation Test voltages, Hz, Vac, Vdc, Off).
- Buttons:
- PI/DAR: Polarization Index/Dielectric Absorption Ratio function.
- COMP: Compare function.
- ZERO: Zeroing function.
- HOLD: Enter/exit the reading hold mode.
- TEST: Start/end the test.
- *: On/off the LCD Backlight.
- Lock: Lock function.
- Input Ports: For connecting test leads.

Figure 5.1: Front panel layout and function labels of the PM1508.
5.2 General Operation
- Power On/Off: Rotate the dial from "OFF" to any desired function to power on the device. Rotate back to "OFF" to power off.
- Backlight: Press the "*" button to turn the LCD backlight on or off.
- Hold Function: In any measurement mode, press the "HOLD" key to freeze the current reading on the display. Press it again to exit hold mode.
5.3 Insulation Resistance Test
The PM1508 offers five selectable output voltages for insulation resistance testing:
- 50V (100%~120%)
- 100V (100%~120%)
- 250V (100%~120%)
- 500V (100%~120%)
- 1000V (100%~120%)

Figure 5.2: Available output voltages for insulation resistance tests.
To perform an insulation resistance test:
- Rotate the dial to the desired insulation test voltage (e.g., 50V, 100V, 250V, 500V, or 1000V).
- Connect the test leads to the circuit or component under test.
- Press the "TEST" button to start the measurement. The device will apply the selected voltage and display the insulation resistance.
- Press "TEST" again to stop the measurement.
- In insulation test mode, when a single measurement ends, the HOLD mode will be automatically activated. Press the key to exit HOLD mode.
- The Lock function is only valid in insulation resistance measurement mode. Press this key to turn on/off the LOCK function. In the process of insulation resistance measurement, press the key to end the measurement.
5.4 Voltage Test (ACV/DCV)
To measure AC or DC voltage:
- Rotate the dial to "Vac" for AC voltage or "Vdc" for DC voltage.
- Connect the test leads across the voltage source.
- The display will show the measured voltage.
5.5 Frequency Measurement
To measure frequency:
- Rotate the dial to "Hz".
- Connect the test leads to the circuit where frequency needs to be measured.
- The display will show the measured frequency.
5.6 Low Resistance Test
To perform a low resistance test:
- Rotate the dial to the "Ω" position.
- Connect the test leads to the component or circuit.
- The display will show the resistance value.
- Use the "ZERO" function to compensate for test lead resistance for more accurate low resistance measurements.
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning
To ensure long-term performance and accuracy, keep the device clean:
- Wipe the case with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use abrasives or solvents.
- Ensure no moisture enters the device.
6.2 Battery Replacement
Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the display. Refer to Section 4.1 for detailed battery installation instructions.
6.3 Storage
If the device is not used for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent leakage and damage to the unit. Store the device in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
7. Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with the PEAKMETER PM1508. If the problem persists, contact customer support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | Dead or incorrectly installed batteries. | Check battery polarity; replace batteries if necessary. |
| Inaccurate readings. | Dirty test leads or input jacks; low battery; incorrect function selected. | Clean leads and jacks; replace batteries; ensure correct function is selected. Use Zeroing function for low resistance. |
| Display is dim or flickering. | Low battery. | Replace batteries. |
| No reading during insulation test. | "TEST" button not pressed; open circuit; leads not connected properly. | Press "TEST" button; check circuit continuity; ensure leads are securely connected. |
8. Specifications
8.1 Insulation Test Specifications
| Source Output Voltage | Range | Resolution | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50V (100%~120%) | 0.00~50.0MΩ | 0.01Ω | ±(1.5%+5) |
| 50.0~200MΩ | 1MΩ | ±(5%+5) | |
| 0.2~1.0GΩ | 0.01GΩ | ±(10%+5) | |
| 100V (100%~120%) | 0.00~100MΩ | 0.01MΩ | ±(1.5%+5) |
| 100~500MΩ | 1MΩ | ±(5%+5) | |
| 0.5~2.0GΩ | 0.01GΩ | ±(10%+5) | |
| 250V (100%~120%) | 0.00~200MΩ | 0.01MΩ | ±(1.5%+5) |
| 200~500MΩ | 1MΩ | ±(5%+5) | |
| 0.5%~5.0GΩ | 0.01GΩ | ±(10%+5) | |
| 500V (100%~120%) | 0.00~200MΩ | 0.01MΩ | ±(1.5%+5) |
| 0.5~1.0GΩ | 0.01GΩ | ±(5%+5) | |
| 1.0~10GΩ | 0.1GΩ | ±(10%+5) | |
| 1000V (100%~120%) | 0.00~1000MΩ | 0.01MΩ | ±(1.5%+5) |
| 1.00~10.0GΩ | 0.01GΩ | ±(5%+5) | |
| 10~30GΩ | 1.0GΩ | ±(10%+5) | |
| 30~100GΩ | 1.0GΩ | ±20% |
The short-circuit current of resistance test: <2.0mA
8.2 Voltage Test Specifications
| Voltage Type | Test Range | Resolution | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACV | 10~600V (50/60Hz) | 1V | ±(1.5%+5) |
| DCV | 0~±600V | 1V | ±(1.5%+5) |
8.3 Frequency Measurement Specifications
| Test Range | Resolving Power | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|
| 1~1KHz | 0.1Hz | ±(0.1%+3) |
8.4 Low Resistance Test Specifications
| Test Range | Resolving Power | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|
| 0.01~200Ω | 0.1Ω | ±(2%+5) |
8.5 General Specifications
- Power Supply: 4 * 1.5V AA Batteries
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 193mm x 93mm x 54mm (7.6 x 3.66 x 2.13 inches)
- Net Weight: 368g (not including batteries)
- Gross Weight: 818g
- Safety Rating: EN61010-1, EN61010-2-032, EN61326, CAT III 600V
- Product Dimensions (Amazon): 15 x 10 x 18 cm; 1 kg (Note: Discrepancy with manufacturer's stated dimensions, use manufacturer's for precision)
- ASIN: B0D7PPW8XP
- Model Number: EC-PM1508
- Country of Origin: China

Figure 8.1: Physical dimensions of the PM1508.
9. Warranty and Support
9.1 Warranty Information
This product is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific details regarding warranty terms, duration, and coverage, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official PEAKMETER website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
9.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or service inquiries, please contact PEAKMETER customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the manufacturer's official website or in the product packaging.