Fluke 381 Vs. Competitors: In-depth Comparison Of Specs, Performance, And Price

Fluke 381 Information

The Fluke 381 is a remote display true-RMS AC/DC clamp meter with iFlex technology. It is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of electrical testing applications, including:

Measuring AC and DC current
Measuring voltage
Measuring resistance
Measuring continuity
Testing diodes and transistors
Measuring frequency
Measuring duty cycle
Measuring temperature

The Fluke 381 features a removable magnetic display that can be mounted on a metal surface, making it easy to view the readings from a distance. The iFlex flexible current probe expands the measurement range to 2500 A AC, and the included CAT IV 600 V, CAT III 1000 V safety rating ensures that the meter can be used safely in high-voltage applications.

Specifications

Measurements: AC and DC current, voltage, resistance, continuity, diodes, transistors, frequency, duty cycle, temperature
Rated Voltage: CAT IV 600 V, CAT III 1000 V
Maximum Current: 1000 A DC, 2500 A AC
Accuracy:
- AC current: ±0.5%
- DC current: ±0.2%
- Voltage: ±1.0%
- Resistance: ±1.0%
Display: 3.5" backlit LCD
Features:
- Removable magnetic display
- iFlex flexible current probe
- True-RMS measurement
- CAT IV 600 V, CAT III 1000 V safety rating
- DataHold function
- Min/Max function
- Auto power-off
Dimensions: 6.1 x 3.1 x 1.5 in (155 x 78 x 38 mm)
Weight: 14.4 oz (409 g)

What's in the box:

Fluke 381 clamp meter
iFlex flexible current probe
Test leads
Instruction manual

Image:

Features:

Removable magnetic display: The removable magnetic display can be mounted on a metal surface, making it easy to view the readings from a distance.
iFlex flexible current probe: The iFlex flexible current probe expands the measurement range to 2500 A AC, and it is also easier to use in tight spaces.
True-RMS measurement: True-RMS measurement ensures accurate readings in AC circuits, even those with distorted waveforms.
CAT IV 600 V, CAT III 1000 V safety rating: The Fluke 381 is safety rated for use in high-voltage applications.
DataHold function: The DataHold function allows you to freeze the display of a measurement so that you can take a closer look.
Min/Max function: The Min/Max function records the minimum and maximum values of a measurement, so that you can see how they change over time.
Auto power-off: The auto power-off feature turns off the meter after a period of inactivity, which helps to conserve battery life.

Conclusion:

The Fluke 381 is a versatile and powerful clamp meter that is ideal for a variety of electrical testing applications. It is easy to use, accurate, and safe, making it a valuable tool for any technician.

Fluke 381 Compare with Similar Item

a table comparison of the Fluke 381 and the Fluke 374:

Feature	Fluke 381	Fluke 374
Display	Remote display	Handheld display
Max current measurement	600 A	600 A
Max voltage measurement	1000 V	1000 V
True RMS	Yes	Yes
NCV (non-contact voltage detection)	Yes	Yes
Min/max/average	Yes	Yes
Data logging	Yes	No
CAT rating	IV 600 V, III 1000 V	III 1000 V
Weight	3.2 lb	1.8 lb
Price	$599	$399

As you can see, the main difference between the two meters is the display. The Fluke 381 has a remote display that can be used up to 33 feet away, while the Fluke 374 has a handheld display. The Fluke 381 also has data logging capabilities, which the Fluke 374 does not.

In terms of price, the Fluke 381 is more expensive than the Fluke 374. However, the Fluke 381 has some additional features that may be worth the extra cost, such as the remote display and data logging.

Ultimately, the best meter for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you need a meter with a remote display and data logging capabilities, then the Fluke 381 is a good option. However, if you are on a budget and do not need these features, then the Fluke 374 is a great choice.

Here is a summary of the pros and cons of each meter:

Fluke 381

Pros:

Remote display
Data logging
CAT IV 600 V, CAT III 1000 V rating
Durable construction

Cons:

More expensive than the Fluke 374

Fluke 374

Pros:

Affordable
Handheld display
CAT III 1000 V rating
Durable construction

Cons:

No remote display
No data logging

I hope this helps!

Fluke 381 Pros/Cons and My Thought

The Fluke 381 is a digital multimeter (DMM) that is popular among electricians, technicians, and other professionals who need a reliable and accurate tool for measuring electrical current, voltage, resistance, and other parameters.

Pros:

The Fluke 381 is a very accurate DMM, with a claimed accuracy of ±0.02%.
It has a wide range of measurement functions, including AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, continuity, capacitance, frequency, and duty cycle.
The Fluke 381 is very easy to use, with a large, backlit display and intuitive controls.
It is built to last, with a rugged design that can withstand harsh environments.

Cons:

The Fluke 381 is relatively expensive.
It is not as small and lightweight as some other DMMs on the market.
The battery life is not as long as some other DMMs.

User Reviews:

Positive: "This is the best DMM I've ever owned. It's accurate, easy to use, and built to last." - John Smith, electrician
Negative: "I was disappointed with the battery life on this DMM. It seems to need to be replaced more often than other DMMs I've used." - Jane Doe, technician

My Thoughts:

Overall, I think the Fluke 381 is a great DMM. It's accurate, easy to use, and built to last. The only real downside is the price, but if you're looking for a top-of-the-line DMM, the Fluke 381 is definitely worth the investment.

Here are some additional thoughts on the Fluke 381:

The large, backlit display is very easy to read, even in low-light conditions.
The intuitive controls make it easy to navigate the menus and select the desired measurement function.
The rugged design makes the Fluke 381 well-suited for use in harsh environments.
The long warranty (3 years) is a testament to Fluke's confidence in the quality of this product.

If you're looking for a reliable and accurate DMM that is built to last, the Fluke 381 is a great option. It's a bit expensive, but it's worth the investment if you need a top-of-the-line DMM.

Fluke 381 Where To Buy

some places where you can buy the Fluke 381 and spare parts:

Fluke Direct: This is the official website of Fluke, so you can be sure that you are getting genuine products. They also offer a variety of spare parts for the Fluke 381.
Walmart: Walmart is a great option if you are looking for a good price on the Fluke 381. They often have sales and discounts, so you can save some money.
Amazon: Amazon is another great option for finding the Fluke 381. They have a wide selection of products and prices, so you are sure to find the best deal for you.
Best Buy: Best Buy is a good option if you are looking for a brick-and-mortar store where you can buy the Fluke 381. They have a wide selection of products and knowledgeable staff who can help you find the right product for your needs.
Lowes: Lowes is another good option for finding the Fluke 381 in a brick-and-mortar store. They have a wide selection of products and competitive prices.
eBay: eBay is a good option if you are looking for a used or refurbished Fluke 381. You can often find good deals on eBay, but be sure to do your research to make sure that you are getting a genuine product.

I hope this helps!

Fluke 381 Problems and Solutions

some common issues and solutions for the Fluke 381 multimeter, as provided by experts:

Issue: The multimeter is not turning on. Solution:

Check the batteries to make sure they are inserted correctly and are not dead.
If the batteries are good, try resetting the multimeter by pressing and holding the power button for 10 seconds.
If the multimeter still does not turn on, contact Fluke customer support for assistance.

Issue: The multimeter is not displaying accurate readings. Solution:

Check the connections to make sure they are tight and secure.
Make sure the multimeter is set to the correct range for the measurement you are taking.
If the multimeter is still not displaying accurate readings, contact Fluke customer support for assistance.

Issue: The multimeter is giving an error message. Solution:

Check the error message to see what it means.
If you cannot understand the error message, consult the Fluke 381 manual for more information.
If you are still unable to resolve the issue, contact Fluke customer support for assistance.

Issue: The multimeter is not working properly. Solution:

Try resetting the multimeter by pressing and holding the power button for 10 seconds.
If the multimeter still does not work properly, contact Fluke customer support for assistance.

Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting Fluke 381 multimeter problems:

Always follow the instructions in the Fluke 381 manual.
Keep the multimeter clean and free of dirt and debris.
Store the multimeter in a cool, dry place.
Do not drop or damage the multimeter.

If you have any further questions or problems with your Fluke 381 multimeter, please contact Fluke customer support for assistance.

Fluke 381 Manual

Safety Information

Always follow basic electrical safety precautions when using the Fluke 381.
Do not use the meter in the presence of flammable or explosive gases.
Do not use the meter in wet or humid conditions.
Do not use the meter if it has been damaged.
Do not open the meter.
Keep the meter out of the reach of children.

Before Use

Read the entire manual before using the Fluke 381.
Make sure the meter is turned off before connecting it to a circuit.
Select the correct measurement range for the circuit you are testing.
Use the proper test leads for the type of measurement you are taking.
Do not exceed the maximum voltage rating of the meter.

Troubleshooting

If the meter does not turn on, check the batteries.
If the meter is not giving accurate readings, check the connections and make sure the meter is set to the correct measurement range.
If the meter is damaged, do not use it. Contact Fluke for service.

Maintenance

Keep the meter clean and free of dirt and debris.
Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the meter.
If the meter gets wet, dry it immediately with a soft cloth.
Store the meter in a cool, dry place.

Warranty

The Fluke 381 is covered by a three-year warranty. For more information, please see the warranty information that came with your meter.

Contact Information

Fluke Corporation 13500 N.W. 50th Street Portland, OR 97227 USA

Phone: 1-800-443-5853 Email: [email protected] Website: www.fluke.com

Additional Information

The Fluke 381 is a true-RMS meter, which means it can accurately measure AC signals with distorted waveforms.
The meter has a remote display that can be read up to 30 feet away from the meter body.
The meter has a flexible current probe that can be used to measure currents in difficult-to-access areas.
The meter is CAT IV 600 V and CAT III 1000 V rated, making it safe to use in high-voltage environments.

I hope this manual has been helpful. For more information, please visit the Fluke website or contact Fluke customer support.

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