UNI-T UT181A Intelligent Multimeter Operating Manual

UNI-T UT181A OPERATING MANUAL

Model: UT181A

Preface

Dear users,

Thank you for selecting new UNI-T meters. In order to use this meter properly, please read through this manual carefully before you use it, especially the section on "Safety Precautions". If you have finished reading this manual, we recommend that you properly keep this manual for reference in the future.

Limited Warranty and Limited Liability

UNI-T company guarantees that the product will be free from any defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase within one year. This warranty does not apply to fuses, disposable batteries, or damage from accident, neglect, misuse, alteration, contamination, or abnormal operation or handling. Resellers are not authorized to give any other guarantee in the name of UNI-T. If any warranty service is required during the warranty period, please contact your nearest authorized UNI-T service center to obtain return authorization information; then send the product to that service center with a description of the problem. This warranty is the only compensation that you can get. In addition, UNI-T does not provide any warranty, express or implied, for example, implied warranty applicable for a particular purpose. Meanwhile, UNI-T is not responsible for any special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damage or loss as a result of any reason or speculation. Because some regions or countries do not allow limitations on implied warranties and incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations of liability and provisions may not apply to you.

I. Overview

The Model UT181A is a 60000 counts, 4 5/6 digits, handheld auto-range true RMS intelligent Multimeter (hereinafter referred to as "the meter"). The overall circuit is designed with LSI ADC as the core. The full-range overload protection circuit and unique appearance design make it a special electrical meter with superior performance. It can be used to measure parameters such as AC and DC voltage, AC and DC current, resistance, conductance, diode, continuity, capacitance, temperature, frequency, and pulse width. It is provided with functions for data hold, maximum/minimum/average measurement, comparison measurement, relative measurement, peak detection, trends capture, and data record/readback for as many as 20,000 pieces.

This Operating Manual covers information on safety and cautions. Please read the relevant information carefully and observe all the Warnings and Notes strictly.

⚠️ Warning: Please read the "Rules for Safe Operation" before using the meter.

II. Unpacking Inspection

Open the package case and take out the meter. Please check the following items to see any missing or damaged part:

  1. One operating manual
  2. A pair of test leads
  3. Two K type temperature probes
  4. One temperature connector
  5. One charging adapter
  6. One charging connector
  7. One USB cable
  8. One CD
  9. One cloth bag
  10. One warranty card

If you find any missing or damage, please contact your supplier immediately.

III. Rules for Safe Operation

Please note the "Warning Signs and Words." Warnings indicate the conditions and actions which pose hazards to users or may damage the meter or equipment under test.

This Meter is designed to comply with the safety standards: Conforms to UL STD. 61010-1, 61010-2-030, 61010-2-032, 61010-2-033; Certified to CSA STD. C22.2 NO. 61010-1, 61010-2-030; IEC STD 61010-2-032, 61010-2-033 in pollution degree 2, measurement category (CAT III 1000V, CAT IV 600V) and double insulation, as well as with the IP65 standards for waterproof and dustproof. If you use the meter without following the operating instructions, the protection provided by the meter may be impaired or lost.

Measurement Category III (CAT III) is for measurements performed in the building installation. Examples are measurements on distribution boards, circuit-breakers, wiring, including cables, bus-bars, junction boxes, switches, socket-outlets in the fixed installation, and equipment for industrial use and some other equipment, for example, stationary motors with permanent connection to the fixed installation.

Measurement Category IV (CAT IV) is for measurements performed at the source of the low-voltage installation. Examples are electricity meters and measurements on primary overcurrent protection devices and ripple control units.

  1. Never use a damaged meter. Before using the meter, check the meter case to see cracks or any missing plastic part. Pay special attention to the insulation around the connectors.
  2. Before using the meter, ensure the battery cover is closed and latched. Before opening the battery cover, remove the test leads from the meter.
  3. Inspect the test leads for damaged insulation or exposed metal. Check the test leads for continuity. If any test lead is damaged, replace it before using the meter.
  4. Do not apply more than the rated voltage, as marked on the meter, between the terminals or between any terminal and grounding.
  5. Do not use the meter when removing the cover or opening the case.
  6. When the meter works at a voltage 30V (rms) in AC, 42V (peak) in AC, or over 60V in DC, special care should be taken for there is danger of electric shock.
  7. Replacement fuse must comply with the specifications in this Operating Manual.
  8. Use proper terminals, function, and range for your measurement. Do not operate the meter separately.
  9. When measuring the current, shut off the power to the circuit then connect the meter to the circuit. Remember: The meter and the circuit must be connected in series.
  10. When making electrical connections, connect the common test lead before connecting the main test lead; when disconnecting, disconnect the main test lead before disconnecting the common test lead.
  11. If the meter works improperly, do not use it. The protection measures of the meter may have failed. If in doubt, send the meter for repair.
  12. Do not store or use the meter in an environment of high temperature, humidity, inflammable, explosive, and strong magnetic field.
  13. When using the probes, keep your fingers behind the finger guards.
  14. Do not use the low-pass filter to verify hazardous voltage, for there may be a voltage over the indicated value. First, measure the voltage to check whether it is hazardous in the case of not connecting a filter, then select low-pass filtering.
  15. Before testing resistance, continuity, conductance, diode, or capacitor, shut off the power to the circuit and discharge all high-voltage capacitors.
  16. Before measuring the current, check the fuses of the meter.
  17. Do not measure the voltage or current higher than the allowed input values. When the range of measured values cannot be determined, set the functional range switch at the maximum-range position.
  18. When the symbol [battery symbol] shows on the LCD display, the battery should be promptly charged to ensure measurement accuracy.
  19. Do not arbitrarily change the wiring within the meter to avoid damaging the meter and endangering the safety.
  20. Soft cloth and mild detergent should be used to clean the surface of the meter when servicing. No abrasive and solvent should be used to prevent the surface of the meter from corrosion, damage, and accident.
  21. To test the known voltage before use to confirm the product function is correct.
  22. If you want to replace the test lead, you need to replace it with a test lead of the same or higher grade of CAT III 1000V/CAT IV 600V.

⚡ Dangerous Voltage: When the meter detects the voltage ≥30V or overload (OL), the symbol will display as a warning for potential hazardous voltage.

IV. Electrical Symbols

? Double Insulated
Grounding
⚠️ Warning
~ AC (Alternating Current)
- DC (Direct Current)
? Continuity Buzzer
➡️| Diode
Capacitance
~/- AC or DC (Alternating Current or Direct Current)
Danger High Voltage
CE Conforms to Standards of European Union.
[Intertek logo] This symbol signifies the product complies with both USA and Canada requirement.

V. Meter Structure (see Figure 1)

A diagram showing the front view of the UNI-T UT181A multimeter. It labels the Case (1), LCD Display (2), Function Keys (3), Rotary Switch (4), and Input Terminals (5).

  • 1. Case: The outer housing of the meter.
  • 2. LCD: The Liquid Crystal Display screen for showing measurements and status.
  • 3. Function Keys: Buttons (F1-F4, HOLD, RANGE, MAX MIN, SELECT) used to control meter functions.
  • 4. Rotary Switch: A dial used to select measurement modes and ranges.
  • 5. Input Terminals: Sockets for connecting test leads and probes.

VI. LCD Display (see Figure 2)

A diagram illustrating the LCD display of the UNI-T UT181A multimeter, detailing various indicators:

  • 1. Label of Function Keys: Indicates auxiliary functions under the current measuring interface.
  • 2. Simulation Bar: Analog display of input signals.
  • 3. Minus Sign: Indicates a negative reading.
  • 4. Lightning Symbol: Indicates Danger - High Voltage (⚡).
  • 5. Time and Date: Displays the time and date set in the internal clock.
  • 6. Small Measurements: Real-time input values displayed when primary and secondary displays are covered by menus or pop-up messages.
  • 7. Telecommunication: Indicates the USB/Bluetooth function is enabled (? or ?).
  • 8. Buzzer: Indicates the button sound is enabled (?).
  • 9. Battery Capacity: Indicates the capacity level of the rechargeable battery (?).
  • 10. Range Indicator: Shows the current range and range mode (auto or manual) for the meter.
  • 11. Unit: Indicates the measurement unit (e.g., V, A, Ω).
  • 12. Aided Function Display: Indicates an aided measuring function, such as LPF (Low Pass Filter).
  • 13. Aided Display: Indicates aided measuring information on input signals.

VII. Keys, Rotary Switch and Input Terminals

(1) Keys

The 14 keys on the meter are used to activate selected features of the extensible rotary switch, browse menus, or control the meter power.

Key Function
? (Power) Turn on or turn off the meter power.
F1, F2, F3, F4 Select the sub-functions and modes related to the functions of the rotary switch.
◀▶ (Cursor keys) Used to select menu items, scroll reading information, and input data.
HOLD Keep the current reading on the display.
RANGE Switch the range mode of the meter to manual mode, then cycle through available ranges. Long press to return to automatic range measurement.
MAX MIN Starts to record MAX MIN values.
SELECT ⚙️ Press to select complex functions. Long press to enter Help Menu.
? (Backlight) Press to switch the backlight brightness. Long press to turn off the backlight.

(2) Rotary Switch

Knob Function
V Measurement of AC Voltage
mV Measurement of mV in AC and mV in AC+DC
V Measurement of voltage in DC and AC+DC
mV °C°F Measurement of mV in AC and temperature
Ωns)) Measurement of resistance, continuity, and specific conductance
➡️| Diode test and capacitance measurement
Hz% ms-Pulse Measurement of frequency, duty cycle, and pulse width
μA Measurement of µA in AC, DC, and AC+DC
mA Measurement of mA in AC, DC, and AC+DC
A Measurement of ampere in AC, DC, and AC+DC
? (CHG) Battery charge

(3) Input Terminals

Terminal Description
A Input terminals for measuring current (maximum duration is 30 seconds for 20A overload and suspend for 10 minutes) and frequency from 0A to 10.00A.
mA μA Input terminals for measuring current and frequency from 0A to 600mA.
COM Common terminals for all measurements.
VΩCHz Input terminals for measuring voltage, continuity, resistance, diode, conductance, capacitance, frequency, period, and duty cycle.

In addition to the above, four terminals are used for charging and temperature measurement through corresponding connectors. "Lead Error!" will show on the display for warning if the probes are inserted improperly.

VIII. Technical Index

1. General Specifications

Maximum voltage between any terminal and ground 1000 V
Fuse protection of mA or μA input terminals 0.8A H 1000V Fuse Type 6X32mm
Fuse protection of A input terminals 10A H 1000V Fuse Type 10X38mm
Max. display 60000
Range Auto/Manual
Polarity Auto
Operating temperature -20°C ~ 50°C
Storage temperature -30°C ~ 60°C
Relative humidity ≤80% (0°C~30°C), ≤75% (30°C~40°C), ≤45% (40°C~50°C)
Electromagnetic compatibility In the RF-field of 1V/m: Overall accuracy = specified accuracy + 5% of range. No specified index for the RF-field over 1V/m.
Operating altitude 0~2000m
Temperature coefficient 0.1X (specified accuracy)/ °C (<18°C or >28°C)
Internal battery Lithium battery of 7.4V 2200mAh
Power adapter Input: 100V~240V, 50/60Hz, 0.2A max; Output: DC10V 500mA (short-circuit protection for output). External diameter of 5.5 mm and internal diameter of 2.5mm.
Low battery indicator The symbol [battery symbol] shows on the LCD.
Dimension About (225 X 100 X 60) mm
Weight About 608g (including battery)
Safety standards IEC/EN61010-1, EN61010-2-030, EN 61010-2-033 in pollution degree 2, CAT III 1000V, CAT IV 600V
Standards for waterproof and dustproof IP65

2. Electrical Specifications

Accuracy: ±(% Reading + Digits), one-year calibration period; If the temperature variation of environment reaches ±5°C, the accuracy can be adopted after two hours. The accuracy can be adopted after two hours when the battery charging is completed. Ambient temperature: 23°C ± 5°C; Ambient humidity: ≤75%RH; Temperature coefficient: 0.1x (Accuracy)/ °C (<18 °C or >28°C)

(1) AC Voltage

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
45~1kHz 1k~10kHz 10k~20kHz 20k~100kHz
60mV 0.001mV ±(0.6%+60) ±(1.2%+60) ±(3%+60) ±(4%+60)
600mV 0.01mV ±(0.3%+30) ±(1.2%+40) ±(3%+40) ±(4%+40)
6V 0.0001V ±(0.3%+30) ±(1.2%+40) ±(3%+40) ±(4%+40)
60V 0.001V ±(0.3%+30) ±(1.2%+40) ±(3%+40) ±(4%+40)
600V 0.01V ±(0.3%+30) ±(1.2%+40) ±(3%+40) Only for reference
1000V 0.1V ±(0.6%+30) ±(3%+40) ±(6%+40) Only for reference
  • Input impedance: About 10MΩ
  • Overload protection: 1000V
  • Display: True virtual value for 10% to 100% of the range.

(2) DC Voltage

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
60mV 0.001mV ±(0.025%+20)
600mV 0.01mV ±(0.025%+5)
6V 0.0001V ±(0.025%+5)
60V 0.001V ±(0.03%+5)
600V 0.01V ±(0.03%+5)
1000V 0.1V ±(0.03%+5)
  • Input impedance: About 10MΩ
  • Overload protection: 1000V
  • Relative mode (REL) is required to compensate bias voltage for 60mV.

(3) AC Voltage + DC Voltage

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
50~1kHz 1k~10kHz 10k~35kHz
60mV 0.001mV ±(1%+80) ±(3%+40) ±(6%+40)
600mV 0.01mV ±(1%+80) ±(3%+40) ±(6%+40)
6V 0.0001V ±(1%+80) ±(3%+40) ±(6%+40)
60V 0.001V ±(1%+80) ±(3%+40) ±(6%+40)
600V 0.01V ±(1%+80) Only for reference Only for reference
1000V 0.1V ±(1.2%+80) Only for reference Only for reference
  • Input impedance: About 10MΩ
  • Overload protection: 1000V
  • Display: True virtual value for 10% to 100% of the range.

(4) AC Current

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
45~1kHz 1k~10kHz
600 μA 0.01 μA ±(0.6%+40) ±(1.2%+40)
6000 μA 0.1 μA ±(0.6%+20) ±(1.2%+40)
60mA 0.001mA ±(0.6%+40) ±(1.2%+40)
600mA 0.01mA ±(0.6%+20) ±(1.2%+40)
10A 0.001A ±(1%+20) ±(3%+40)
  • Display: True virtual value for 10% to 100% of the range.
  • Overload protection: μA/mA range: 0.8A H 1000V Fuse Type Φ 6x32 mm; 10 A range: 10A H 1000V Fuse Type 10x38mm.
  • Switch on for 30 seconds and suspend for 10 minutes for 20A. Not specified for over 10A.

(5) DC Current

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
600 μA 0.01 μA ±(0.08%+20)
6000 μA 0.1 μA ±(0.08%+10)
60mA 0.001mA ±(0.08%+20)
600mA 0.01mA ±(0.15%+10)
10A 0.001A ±(0.5%+10)
  • Overload protection: μA/mA range: 0.8A H 1000V Fuse Type Φ 6x32 mm; 10 A range: 10A H 1000V Fuse Type 10x38mm.
  • Switch on for 30 seconds and suspend for 10 minutes for 20A. Not specified for over 10A.

(6) AC Current + DC Current

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
50~1kHz 1k~10kHz
600 μ A 0.01 μ A ±(0.8%+40) ±(2.0%+40)
6000 μ A 0.1 μ A ±(0.8%+20) ±(2.0%+40)
60mA 0.001mA ±(0.8%+40) ±(2.0%+40)
600mA 0.01mA ±(0.8%+20) ±(2.0%+40)
10A 0.001A ±(1.2%+20) ±(3%+40)
  • Display: True virtual value for 10% to 100% of the range.
  • Overload protection: μA/mA range: 0.8A H 1000V Fuse Type Φ 6x32 mm; 10 A range: 10A H 1000V Fuse Type 10x38mm.
  • Switch on for 30 seconds and suspend for 10 minutes for 20A. Not specified for over 10A.

(7) Resistance

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
600Ω 0.01Ω In REL state: ±(0.05%+10)
6KΩ 0.0001KΩ ±(0.05%+2)
60KΩ 0.001KΩ ±(0.3%+10)
600KΩ 0.01KΩ ±(2%+10)
6MΩ 0.0001MΩ ±(2%+10)
60MΩ 0.001MΩ ±(2%+10)
  • Overload protection: 1,000V
  • Humidity for 60 MΩ: <50%

(8) Conductance

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
60nS 0.01nS ±(2%+10)
  • Overload protection: 1000V
  • Humidity: <50%

(9) Capacitance

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
6nF 0.001 nF ±(3%+10)
60nF 0.01nF ±(2.5%+5)
600nF 0.1nF ±(2%+5)
6μF 0.001μF ±(2%+5)
60μF 0.01μF ±(5%+5)
600μF 0.1μF Not specified
6mF 1μF Not specified
60mF 10μF Not specified
  • Overload protection: 1000V
  • Display digits: 6000

(10) Temperature

Range Resolution Accuracy
-40℃~40℃ 0.1°C ±(2.0%+30)
40℃~400℃ ±(1.0%+30)
400℃~1000℃ ±2.5%
-40°F~104°F 0.2°F ±(2.5%+50)
104°F~752°F ±(1.5%+50)
752°F~1832°F ±2.5%
  • Overload protection: 1000V
  • Two-channel temperature measurement can be performed via temperature connectors.
  • Temperature sensor: Applicable to K type (chromel-silicel) thermocouple. Spare parts are point contact K type (chromel-silicel) thermocouple (only applicable to the measurement when temperature is below 230 ° C).

(11) Frequency

Range Resolution Accuracy
60Hz 0.001 Hz ±(0.02%+8)
600Hz 0.01 Hz
6kHz 0.0001kHz
60kHz 0.001kHz
600kHz 0.01kHz ±(0.01%+5)
6MHz 0.0001MHz
60MHz 0.001MHz
  • Overload protection: 1000V
  • Input amplitude: 10Hz~30MHz: 600mV ≤ a ≤ 30Vrms. Greater than 30MHz: Not specified.

(12) Duty Cycle

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
10%~90%(10Hz~2kHz) 0.01% ±(1.2%+30)
  • Overload protection: 1000V
  • When the rise time is less than 1 μs, the signals center on trigger level.

(13) Pulse Width

Range Resolution Accuracy Tolerance: ±(% Reading + Digits)
250mS 0.001mS~0.01mS ±(1.2%+30)
  • Overload protection: 1000V
  • When the rise time is less than 1 μs, the signals center on trigger level.
  • The pulse width is greater than 2 μs for 10Hz to 200kHz. The pulse width depends on signal frequency.

(14) Continuity Test

Range Resolution Remark
? (Continuity) 0.01Ω Open circuit voltage is around 3V; when the buzzer selects short circuit for sound warning, the resolution is less than 10Ω. The buzzer continuously sounds. If the resolution is greater than 50Ω, the buzzer does not sound. When the buzzer selects open circuit for sound warning, the resolution is greater than 50Ω. The buzzer continuously sounds. If the resolution is less than 10Ω, the buzzer does not sound.
  • Overload protection: 1000V

(15) Diode Test

Range Resolution Remark
➡️| (Diode) 0.0001V Open-circuit voltage is around 3V. The forward voltage drop value of the measured PN junction is approximately ≤ 3V. When the buzzer activates, it will beep briefly for the normal semiconductor junction; if the semiconductor junction shorts out, it will beep continuously. Silicon PN junction drops between 0.5~0.8V as the normal value.
  • Overload protection: 1000V

IX. Measurement Operation

1. Meter Power Control

1) Manually start up and shut down the meter power

When the meter is off, long press the power button (?) to start the meter. When the meter is on, long press to shut it off. The meter cannot be powered off when charging.

2) Indicators for Battery Capacity

The meter is powered by lithium battery. The indicators for battery capacity are in the upper right corner of the display to indicate the relative conditions of the battery. Various indicators for battery capacity are described in the following table:

Meaning Battery Capacity
? [Full Battery Symbol] Full capacity
? [Half Battery Symbol] Half capacity
? [Empty Battery Symbol] Empty

When the battery capacity is lower than 3% of full capacity, the meter will automatically shut down.

3) Backlight Control

If the display is not visible in low-light situations, press the backlight key (?) to switch the backlight brightness. Long press the key to turn off the backlight and enter power saving mode. When the backlight is off, the green light flashes to indicate that the meter is still collecting data. Press any key or turn the rotary switch to turn on the backlight again.

4) Auto Power-off

If there is no turning of the rotary switch or key action within the time set in the menu item "POWE OFF" under the meter setting "AUTO POWER SAVE", the meter will automatically shut down. Long press the power button (?) to restart the meter. When the item "POWE OFF" is set as OFF, Auto power-off will be completely prohibited.

5) Power Saving Mode

Set the control time of automatic reduction for backlight brightness and off time for display via the meter menu bar "AUTO POWER SAVE" to enter power-saving mode. Please refer to the detailed description about the meter settings.

2. Meter settings

Press the function key SETUP (Menu) to set and view the relevant information on the meter. Press the cursor keys (◀▶) to select relevant menu items of the meter as follows.

1) Keypad Tone

Set as ON to enable key sound and OFF to disable key sound. Meanwhile, the buzzer symbol ? in the upper right corner will appear or disappear for its ON and OFF.

2) Lead Alarm Buzzer

Set as ON to enable the alarm sound for wrong insertion by probe and OFF to disable the alarm sound for mis-inserted probe.

3) Communication

Set as ON to enable USB or Bluetooth communication while a symbol ? or ? will appear in the upper left corner. Set as OFF to disable USB or Bluetooth communication while the symbol disappears.

4) Date & Time

Press the function key SET (Menu) to set the date and time within the meter. Press or to select the required edit position, and press or to enter different numbers, then press the function key OK (Menu) to confirm. To cancel the settings, press the function key CANCEL (Menu).

5) AUTO POWER SAVE

Press the function key SET (Menu) to set the control time of automatic reduction for backlight brightness, off time of display, and auto power-off time. Press or to move the cursors to select different items. Press or to enter the time for power saving mode of this item with minute unit.

Menu Item Description Set Value
Brightness Down Control time of automatic reduction for backlight brightness ON: 1-60 Min OFF: This function is disabled
Display Off Off time of display ON: 1-60 Min OFF: This function is disabled
Power Off Auto power-off time ON: 1-60 Min OFF: This function is disabled

Press the function key OK (Menu) to confirm the above settings. To cancel the settings, press the function key CANCEL (Menu).

6) More Settings

Press the function key ENTER (Menu) to set the languages of help information, format memory, reset the meter settings, check product model, serial number, and available memory space. Press the cursor keys (◀▶) to select the relevant menu items of the meter as follows.

  • Help Menu Language
    Press the function key SET (Menu) to set the language for help information. Press or to select a different language. Then press the function key OK (Menu) to confirm. To cancel the settings, press the function key CANCEL (Menu).
  • Memory Format
    Press the function key FORMAT (Menu) to enter memory format, then press the function key YES (Menu) to confirm. To cancel the format, press the function key NO (Menu).
  • Reset All Setting
    Press the function key RESET (Menu) to reset the menu with default settings, then press the function key YES (Menu) to confirm. To cancel the reset, press the function key NO (Menu).
  • About
    Press the function key ABOUT (Menu) to check product model, serial number, and available memory space.

3. AC Voltage

  1. Insert the red test lead into the V terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to V or mV as shown in Figure 5. Connect the test leads to the power or load under test in parallel.
  3. Directly read the measured voltage values on the display. True virtual values are displayed for AC measurement.
  4. Press the function key MENU (Menu) to enter one menu item in which basic AC voltage measurement can be modified. Press the cursor keys (◀▶) to select menu items. The red cursor key indicates the selected item, then press F1 to enter the corresponding measuring mode, press F2 to enter relative value measurement, press F3 to set dBm resistance, and press F4 to close the window of additional function.

▲ Attention:

  • Do not input a voltage higher than 1000V. Higher voltage may be measured but it poses risk to damage the meter.
  • When measuring high voltage, special care should be taken to avoid electric shock.
  • After completing all the measuring operations, disconnect the connection between the test leads and the circuit under test.
  • The response mode of AC coupled true RMS is adopted for the conversion of AC with sinusoidal input calibration. The accuracy of non-sinusoidal wave must be adjusted based on the following:
  • For crest of 1.4~2.0, the accuracy shall be added 1.0%.
  • For crest of 2.0~2.5, the accuracy shall be added 2.5%.
  • For crest of 2.5~3.0, the accuracy shall be added 4.0%.

Figure 5

4. DC Voltage

  1. Insert the red test lead into the V terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to DC V or DC mV as shown in Figure 6. Connect the test leads to the power or load under test in parallel.
  3. Directly read the measured voltage values on the display.
  4. Press the function key MENU (Menu) to enter one menu item in which basic DC voltage measurement can be modified. Press the cursor keys (◀▶) to select menu items. The red cursor key indicates the selected item, then press F1 to enter the corresponding measuring mode, press F2 to enter relative value measurement, and press F4 to close the window of additional function.

▲ Attention:

  • Do not input a voltage higher than 1000V. Higher voltage may be measured but it poses risk to damage the meter.
  • When measuring high voltage, special care should be taken to avoid electric shock.
  • After completing all the measuring operations, disconnect the connection between the test leads and the circuit under test.

Figure 6

5. AC and DC Current

  1. Insert the red test lead into the μA/mA or A terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to the position as shown in Figure 7. Press the key SELECT to select the required AC or DC to be measured. Connect the test leads to the test circuit in series.
  3. Directly read the measured current values on the display. True virtual values are displayed for AC measurement.
  4. Press the function key MENU (Menu) to enter one menu item in which basic AC or DC current measurement can be modified. Press the cursor keys (◀▶) to select menu items. The red cursor key indicates the selected item, then press F1 to enter the corresponding measuring mode, press F2 to enter relative value measurement, and press F4 to close the window of additional function.

⚠️ Warning:

  • Before connecting to the test circuit in series, turn off the power to the circuit first and discharge all the high-voltage capacitors.
  • Use proper input terminals and functions for measurement. If the current size cannot be estimated, the range of large current should be measured first.
  • When the test lead is inserted in the input terminal of current, do not connect its test prod to any circuit in parallel; it will blow the fuses within the meter and damage the meter.
  • After completing all the measuring operations, disconnect the connection between the test leads and the circuit under test.

Figure 7

6. Resistance

  1. Insert the red test lead into the Ω terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to the measurement Ωns)), and current Ω is the default resistance measurement as shown in Figure 8. Connect the test leads to both ends of the measured resistance.
  3. Directly read the measured resistance values on the display.

▲ Attention:

  • If the open circuit of measured resistance or resistance value exceeds the maximum range of the meter, "OL" will show on the display.
  • When measuring the in-circuit resistance, all the power within the measured circuit must be shut off before measurement and all the capacitors must be discharged to ensure a correct measurement.
  • When measuring low resistance, the test lead will bring about measurement errors of resistance between 0.10 to 0.20. To obtain accurate readings, relative measurement can be adopted. First short the input test lead, then press the key MENU and press F2 to enter the relative measurement. Perform the measurement of low resistance after the meter automatically subtracts the display value of shorted test lead.
  • If the resistance value is greater than 0.50 for a shorted test lead, the test lead should be checked to see any loose or other factors.
  • When measuring the resistance above 1MΩ, the readings require a few seconds to be stable. It is normal for the measurement of high resistance. In order to obtain stable readings, short test lines can be used for the measurement.
  • Do not input a voltage higher than 30V in AC(rms), AC(peak 42V) or 60V in DC to avoid personal injury.
  • After completing all the measuring operations, disconnect the connection between the test leads and the circuit under test.

Figure 8

7. Conductance

  1. Insert the red test lead into the Ω terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to the measurement Ωns)), press the key SELECT to select conductance measurement 60nS. Connect the test leads to both ends of the measured resistance as shown in Figure 8.
  3. Directly read the measured conductance value on the display.

▲ Attention:

  • When measuring the in-circuit resistance, all the power within the measured circuit must be shut off before measurement and all the capacitors must be discharged to ensure a correct measurement.
  • Do not input a voltage higher than 30V in AC(rms), AC(peak 42V) or 60V in DC to avoid personal injury.
  • After completing all the measuring operations, disconnect the connection between the test leads and the circuit under test.

8. Capacitance

  1. Insert the red test lead into the terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to the measurement , press the key SELECT to select capacitance measurement. Connect the test leads to both ends of the measured capacitance as shown in Figure 9.
  3. Directly read the measured capacitance value on the display.

▲ Attention:

  • If the measured capacitance shorts or capacitance value exceeds the maximum range of the meter, "OL" will show on the display.
  • For the measurement of capacitance within small range, relative measurement REL should be adopted to avoid the influence of distributed capacitance for correct readings.
  • For the measurement of capacitance greater than 600 μF, it needs longer time for correct readings.
  • To ensure the measuring accuracy, the capacitor should be discharged completely then put into the meter to measure especially for a capacitor with high voltage thus to avoid damage to the meter and personal injury.
  • Do not input a voltage higher than 30V in AC(rms), AC(peak 42V) or 60V in DC to avoid personal injury.
  • After completing all the measuring operations, disconnect the connection between the test leads and the capacitor under test.

Figure 9

9. Continuity test

  1. Insert the red test lead into the Ω terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to the measurement Ωns)), press the key SELECT to select the continuity test ?. Connect the test leads to both ends of the measured resistance as shown in Figure 8. Press the function key MENU (Menu) to enter the menu items. If pressing the key SHORT (Menu), then the buzzer selects short circuit for alarm sound, the measured resistance between both ends <10Ω, the buzzer continuously sounds. If the resolution is greater than 50Ω, the buzzer does not sound. If pressing the key OPEN (Menu), then the buzzer selects open circuit for alarm sound, the measured resistance between both ends > 50Ω, the buzzer continuously sounds. If the resolution is less than 10Ω, the buzzer does not sound.
  3. Directly read the measured resistance value on the display.

⚠️ Warning:

  • When measuring the in-circuit resistance, all the power within the measured circuit must be shut off before measurement and all the capacitors must be discharged to ensure a correct measurement.
  • Do not input a voltage higher than 30V in AC(rms), AC(peak 42V) or 60V in DC to avoid personal injury.
  • After completing all the measuring operations, disconnect the connection between the test leads and the circuit under test.

10. Diode

  1. Insert the red test lead into the + terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal. The polarity of red test lead is "+" and "-" for black test lead.
  2. Set the rotary switch to ➡️| and the diode measuring mode ➡️| is default. Connect the test leads to both ends of the measured diode as shown in Figure 10. Directly read the approximate forward PN junction voltage of the measured diode on the display.
  3. Press the function key MENU (Menu) to enter menu items. If pressing the key ALARM, the buzzer starts up. It will beep briefly for the normal semiconductor junction; if the semiconductor junction shorts out, it will beep continuously. Silicon PN junction drops between 0.5~0.8V as the normal value. If pressing the key NORMAL, the buzzer will not start up.

▲ Attention:

  • If the measured diode is in open circuit or the polarity is reversed, "OL" will display.
  • When measuring the in-circuit diode, all the power within the measured circuit must be shut off before measurement and all the capacitors must be discharged.
  • Open-circuit voltage of diode test is around 3V.
  • Do not input a voltage higher than 30V in AC(rms), AC(peak 42V) or 60V in DC to avoid personal injury.
  • After completing all the measuring operations, disconnect the connection between the test leads and the circuit under test.

Figure 10

11. Frequency/Duty Cycle Measurement /Pulse Width

  1. Insert the red test lead into the V terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to the measurement Hz% ms-Pulse, press the key SELECT to select Hz or Duty% or ms-Pulse. Connect the test leads to the signal source under test in parallel as shown in Figure 11.
  3. Directly read the measured values of frequency or duty cycle or pulse width on the display.

▲ Attention:

  • Simulation bar displays the frequency of the measured signal for duty cycle and pulse width.
  • Do not input a voltage with higher frequency than 30Vrms to avoid personal injury.
  • After completing all the measuring operations, disconnect the connection between the test leads and the circuit under test.

Figure 11

12. Temperature

  1. Set the rotary switch to the measurement mV °C°F, then press the key SELECT to select Celsius °C or Fahrenheit °F. Insert the temperature connector into four terminals and connect two temperature probes to the temperature connector. The probes detect the surface of the object under test as shown in Figure 12.
  2. Directly read Celsius or Fahrenheit temperature values of the two surfaces under test on the display.
  3. Press the function key MENU (Menu) to open one menu item F2 in which basic temperature measurement can be modified to enter the relative measuring mode. Press F4 to close the window of additional function. Press the cursor keys (◀▶) to select menu items. The red cursor key indicates the selected item, then press F1 to enter corresponding value measurement. Press F2 to enter relative value measurement, and press F4 to close the window of additional function.

▲ Attention:

  • The ambient temperature for the meter shall not exceed the range from 18° C to 28 °C, otherwise it will cause measurement errors. The measurement effects are more obvious at low temperatures.
  • Remove the temperature probes after completing all the measuring operations.
  • Point contact K type (chromel-silicel) thermocouple (only applicable to the measurement when temperature is below 230° C).

Figure 12

13. LPF Measurement

  1. Insert the red test lead into the V terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to V. Connect the test leads to the power or load to be tested in parallel as shown in Figure 5.
  3. Press the function key MENU (Menu) to enter one menu item. Press the cursor keys (◀▶) to select Low Pass, then press the function key (Menu) Low Pass to enter LPF measuring mode.
  4. The meter performs the measurement in AC mode. The AC signals go through a filter which holds up the voltage higher than 1KHz. As shown in the following figure, the low-pass filter can measure the composite signals of sinusoidal wave generated by inverter and variable-frequency motor.

▲ Attention:

  • To avoid electric shock or personal injury, do not use low-pass filter to verify hazardous voltage, for the voltage over the indicated value may exist. First, measure the voltage in the case of disconnecting the filter to see any hazardous voltage. Then select the filter function.
  • In the LPF measuring mode, the meter will turn to manual mode. Press the key RANGE to select a range. When the low-pass filter is enabled, the automatic range is unavailable.
  • Do not input a voltage above 1000V. Higher voltage may be measured but it poses the risk of damaging the meter.
  • After completing all the measuring operations, disconnect the connection between the test leads and the circuit under test.

14. dBV

  1. Insert the red test lead into the V terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to V. Connect the test leads to the power or load to be tested in parallel as shown in Figure 5.
  3. Press the function key MENU (Menu) to enter one menu item. Press the cursor keys (◀▶) to select the menu item dBV, then press the function key (Menu) dBV to enter dBV measurement.
  4. dBV is primarily shown and AC voltage value is secondly shown on the display. AC voltage of the measured signal is displayed on the simulation bar.

15. dBm

  1. Insert the red test lead into the V terminal and the black test lead into the COM terminal.
  2. Set the rotary switch to V. Connect the test leads to the power or load to be tested in parallel as shown in Figure 5.
  3. Press the function key MENU (Menu) to enter one of the menu items, press the cursor keys (◀▶) to select the menu item dBm. A reference impedance (resistance) must be used for the measurement of dBm to calculate dB value on the basis of 1mW. Press the function key RES (Menu) to select a reference impedance value. Press or to scroll between ten defined reference values: 4,8,16,25,32,50,75,600, 1000 and 1200. Press the function key EDIT (Menu) and the cursor keys (◀▶) to select any one of the reference impedance values between 4Ω~1200Ω. Press the function key OK (Menu) to set reference values. Press the function key dBm (Menu) to enter dBm measurement.
  4. dBm is primarily shown and AC voltage value is secondly shown on the display. AC voltage of the measured signal is displayed on the simulation bar.

16. Maximum and Minimum Value

Press MAX MIN to activate the measurement of maximum and minimum values. Real-time measurements are primarily displayed. Maximum, average, and minimum values, elapsed time, start date and time corresponding to the three values are secondly displayed. Press the function key RESTART (Menu) to re-activate the measurement of maximum and minimum values. Press the function key EXIT (Menu) to exit the measurement of maximum and minimum values.

17. Relative value

Press the function key MENU (Menu) to enter a next interface, press the function key REL (Menu) to enter the measuring mode of relative values, then press the function key REL (Menu) to activate the measurement of relative values. By this time, the measurements _ basic values are primarily displayed and the relative values and real-time measurements are secondly displayed. Press the function key MENU (Menu) to select basic measurement to exit the measurement of relative values.

18. Peak detection

Press the function key MENU (Menu) to select Peak item, then press the function key PEAK (Menu) to activate peak detection. Response time is 1ms. Transient values can be more accurately measured by using peak recording function.

19 Compare Mode COMP

Press the function key COMP (Menu) to enter the measurement of compare mode. Press or to select the settings of compare mode as follows.

1) Pass Mode

Press the function key EDIT (Menu) to enter the setting mode of compare types. Press or to set one of the four types as follows:

  • INNER (Low Value ≤ Input Value ≤ High Value)
  • OUTER (Input Value < Low Value or Input Value > High Value)
  • <Value
  • >Value

Press the function key OK (Menu) to confirm the above settings. To cancel the settings, press the function key CANCEL (Menu).

2) Beep Mode

Press the function key EDIT (Menu) to enter buzzer start mode. Press or to select one of the three items as follows:

  • PASS ON: It indicates that the buzzer starts to sound when the compare result shows as PASS.
  • FAIL ON: It indicates that the buzzer starts to sound when the compare result shows as FAIL.
  • OFF: Buzzer close.

Press the function key OK (Menu) to confirm the above settings. To cancel the settings, press the function key CANCEL (Menu).

3) Low Value or High Value or Value

Press the function key EDIT (Menu) to set compare reference values. Press or to move the cursors to select edit locations. Press or to enter different numbers. Press the function key OK (Menu) to confirm. To cancel the settings, press the function key CANCEL (Menu).

20. Recording Measurement Data

After completing the settings, press the function key START (Menu) to start the measurement of compare mode. Press the function key EXIT (Menu) to exit the measurement of compare mode.

Press the function key SAVE (Menu) to enter the modes of single recording, continuous recording, and inquire recording. Press the cursor keys (◀▶) to select the following modes.

1) Save

Press the function key SAVE (Menu) to record the current measuring data for once up to 20000 pieces.

2) View Save

Press the function key VIEW (Menu) to view one-time recorded data. Press or long press the function key PREV (Menu) to view the previous recorded data. Press or long press the function key NEXT (Menu) to view the next recorded data. Press the function key DELETE (Menu) to delete the current recorded data. Press the function key RETURN (Menu) to return to the last menu. In addition to displaying the recorded data, the location and total number of current recorded data are displayed in the lower left corner. The date and time of current data recording are displayed in the lower right corner.

3) Delete All Save

Press the function key DELETE (Menu) to delete all one-time recorded data. Press the function key YES (Menu) to confirm. To cancel the operation, press the function key NO (Menu).

4) Record

Press the function key ENTER (Menu) to enter the continuous recording mode with maximum recording pieces up to 10000. Press or and move cursors to select the three settings as follows.

  • Edit Name
    Press the function key EDIT (Menu) to name the continuous recording items. Press or to move the cursor and select edit locations. Press the F1 key to switch the input mode to "Uppercase" mode, then press or to input uppercase letters. Press the F2 key to switch the input mode to "Lowercase" mode, then press or to input lowercase letters. Press the F3 key to switch the input mode to "Digital" mode, then press or to enter numbers or symbols. Press the F4 key to save exit and exit edit mode.
  • Set Interval
    Press the function key EDIT (Menu) to set the interval time of continuous recording. Press or long press to move the cursors to select edit locations. Press or long press to enter different numbers. The interval time can be set as 1Sec ~ 60Min.
  • Set Duration
    Press the function key EDIT (Menu) to set the duration time of continuous recording. Press or long press to move the cursors to select edit locations. Press or long press to enter different numbers. The duration time can be set as days, hours and minutes.
  • Max Duration
    Indicates the maximum time for continuous recording. After completing the settings, press the function key START (Menu) to start a continuous recording as shown in Figure 13. The character REC shows on the display and flashes with a red dot. The relevant display information is shown in the following table:
Information Description
Elapsed Time Run time displayed in hours:minutes:seconds
Remaining Time Time left displayed in hours:minutes:seconds
Samples Total recording points for present recorded events
Start Time and date started from recording period

Figure 13

To manually stop recording, press the function key STOP (Menu). When stop recording, return to the menu View Record to view the record events. See the relevant operations in the following menu View Record.

5) View Record

Press the function key (Menu) to view the information on record events as shown in Figure 14. The basic display information is in the following table:

Information Description
Name Name of record event
Interval Interval time
Duration Actual duration time after continuous recording stops
Samples Total recording points for present record events
Maximum Maximum value for present record data
Average Average value for all data of present record
Minimum Minimum value for present record data
REC Position of present record incident and total number of record events
Start Time and date started from recording period

Figure 14

Press the function key PREV (Menu) to display basic information on the previous record. Press the function key NEXT (Menu) to display basic information on the next record. Press the function key RETURN (Menu) to return to the previous menu. Press the function key TREND (Menu) to view the trend chart of present record as shown in Figure 15. The display information of trend data is in the following table:

No. Description
Measured value corresponding to cursor
Date and time for measurement corresponding to cursor
Cursor
Trend line
Time label of X-axis to display during elapsed time
Name of record event
Time and date started from recording period

Figure 15

View the trend chart. Press or long press the F2 key to move the cursor left. The cursor moves one data to the left for each pressing. Long pressing, the cursor speeds up to move left. Press or long press the F3 key to move the cursor right. The cursor moves one data to the right for each pressing. Long pressing, the cursor speeds up to move right. Press or to scale the graph vertically. Press or to scale the graph horizontally.

Press the F1 key to delete this record. Press the function key YES (Menu) to confirm the deletion. To cancel the deletion, press the function key N0 (Menu).

6) Delete All Record

Press the function key DELETE (Menu) to delete all record events. Press the function key YES (Menu) to confirm. To cancel the operation, press the function key N0 (Menu).

X. Maintenance and Repair

21. Communication

Figure 16

USB Communication Bluetooth Communication (optional)

Turn on communication via settings (see detailed operations in the meter settings). The symbol ? or ? will appear in the upper left corner on the display as shown in Figure 16. The meter carries on USB communication with USB cable (standard accessory) connecting to PC. The meter can use Bluetooth module (optional) and mobile phone for Bluetooth communication.

1. General Maintenance and Repair

Regularly clean the meter case with damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use abrasives, isopropyl alcohol or solvents. Dirt or moisture on the terminals can affect readings but also enable the warning function mistakenly due to mis-insertion. Clean the terminals according to the following steps:

  1. Turn off the meter and remove all test leads.
  2. Clean up the dirt on the terminals.
  3. Soak a clean cotton swab in mild detergent and water. Clean each terminal with the cotton swab. Dry each terminal with canned compressed air to force water and detergent to flow out of the terminals.
  4. In case of anything abnormal for the meter, stop using it and send it for repair.
  5. When the meter needs to be verified or repaired, qualified service personnel or designated maintenance department are required to repair it.

2. Testing Fuse

As shown in Figure 17, the measurement of the meter is for resistance function. Insert a test lead into the terminal as shown in Figure 17 and contact the probe tip at the other end of test lead with the metal in the terminal of current input. If the message "Lead Error!" (connection error for test lead) appears, it shows that the probe tip is inserted too deeply in the terminal of current input. Draw out the test lead a little until the error message disappears and OL (overload) or resistance reading appears on the display. If the resistance reading for A terminal is less than 0.50Ω, it shows that the fuse F2 is normal. If the reading is OL, you need to replace F2; If the resistance reading of μA m is less than 1.2MΩ, it shows that the fuse F1 is normal. If the reading is OL, F1 needs to be replaced;

Figure 17

3. Repalcing Fuse

Inspect or replace the meter fuse as shown in Figure 18 according to the following steps:

  1. Turn off the meter and remove the test leads from the terminals.
  2. Use a flat-head screwdriver to turn a counterclockwise semicycle for the screw on the battery cover then remove the battery cover.
  3. Gently pry one end of the fuse and then remove the fuse from the clip.
  4. The required fuse installed for mA or μA input terminal: 0.8A H 1000V Fuse Type 6X32mm (F1). The required fuse installed for A input terminal: 10A H 1000V Fuse Type 10X38 mm (F2).
  5. Reinstall the battery cover and then turn the screw clockwise semicycle to tighten the battery cover.

Figure 18

4. Battery charge

When the indicator of battery level in the upper right corner is less than 5% of full capacity, the meter should be immediately charged, otherwise it will affect the measurement accuracy. As shown in Figure 19, set the rotary switch to ? (CHG), the string "Please plug in AC adapter!" on the display prompts you to insert a power adapter for charging. Connect the power connector to the four terminals in the meter, then insert the power adapter into the power connector. The character "Charging" on the display indicates it is in charging with a red light 5% stepped in charging process. When the battery is fully charged, the red light is off and the charging process action stops.

▲ Attention:

  • You must use the power adapter specified by the manufacturer.

Figure 19

Company Information

UNI-TREND TECHNOLOGY (CHINA) CO., LTD.

No6, Gong Ye Bei 1st Road,
Songshan Lake National High-Tech Industrial Development Zone, Dongguan City,
Guangdong Province, China

Tel: (86-769) 8572 3888

http://www.uni-trend.com

Models: UT181A Industrial Digital Multimeter, UT181A, Industrial Digital Multimeter, Digital Multimeter, Multimeter

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