Fluke 1630 Vs. Competitors: In-depth Comparison Of Specs, Performance, And Price
Fluke 1630 Information
The Fluke 1630 is a ground resistance meter that uses a stakeless testing method to eliminate the need to disconnect parallel ground rods and find suitable locations for placing auxiliary ground stakes. This saves time and enables users to perform earth ground loop tests in locations where it is not possible to use other techniques, such as inside buildings or on power pylons.
Introduction
The Fluke 1630 is a rugged and compact instrument that is easy to use. It features a large, backlit display that makes it easy to read readings in bright or low-light conditions. The meter also has a number of features that make it ideal for ground loop testing, including:
- Stakeless testing method
- Non-intrusive leakage current measurement
- Continuity testing with audible alarm
- Display hold
- Data logging
- Fluke Connect wireless connectivity
Specifications
The following table lists the specifications of the Fluke 1630:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Range | 0.01 to 1000 ohms |
| Accuracy | ±10% |
| Resolution | 0.01 ohm |
| Sampling rate | 30 samples/second |
| Data logging | Up to 10,000 readings |
| Battery life | Up to 20 hours |
| Dimensions | 6.3 x 2.6 x 1.6 inches |
| Weight | 12 ounces |
Features
The Fluke 1630 has a number of features that make it ideal for ground loop testing, including:
- Stakeless testing method: This method eliminates the need to disconnect parallel ground rods and find suitable locations for placing auxiliary ground stakes. This saves time and enables users to perform ground loop tests in locations where it is not possible to use other techniques.
- Non-intrusive leakage current measurement: This feature allows the meter to measure the leakage current flowing between the earth ground and the neutral conductor of a power system. This information can be used to identify and troubleshoot ground loop problems.
- Continuity testing with audible alarm: This feature allows the meter to test the continuity of a ground rod or other earth ground conductor. The audible alarm provides a convenient way to verify that the conductor is properly connected.
- Display hold: This feature allows the meter to hold a reading on the display for easy viewing. This is useful when making measurements in bright or low-light conditions.
- Data logging: The meter can log up to 10,000 readings. This data can be stored on the meter or transferred to a computer for further analysis.
- Fluke Connect wireless connectivity: The meter can connect to a smartphone or tablet using the Fluke Connect wireless system. This allows users to view readings, save data, and share reports on the go.
What's in the box
The following items are included in the box with the Fluke 1630:
- Meter
- Instruction manual
- Test leads
- Carry case
Conclusion
The Fluke 1630 is a versatile and easy-to-use ground resistance meter that is ideal for a variety of applications. Its stakeless testing method, non-intrusive leakage current measurement, and other features make it a valuable tool for electricians, engineers, and other professionals who need to test the earth ground of a power system.
Fluke 1630 Compare with Similar Item
a table comparing the Fluke 1630-2 FC Earth Ground Clamp with two similar items:
| Feature | Fluke 1630-2 FC | Fluke 381CAL | Fluke 323CAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Measurement range | 0.01 to 500 ohms | 0.01 to 1000 ohms | 0.01 to 400 ohms |
| Accuracy | ±0.2 ohms | ±0.1 ohms | ±0.2 ohms |
| Resolution | 0.01 ohms | 0.01 ohms | 0.01 ohms |
| Display | Backlit LCD | Backlit LCD | Backlit LCD |
| Data hold | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Max. input voltage | 1000 V AC | 1000 V AC | 600 V AC |
| CAT rating | CAT IV 600 V | CAT IV 600 V | CAT IV 600 V |
| Weight | 1.5 lbs | 2.2 lbs | 1.2 lbs |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
Price
- Fluke 1630-2 FC: $1,699.99
- Fluke 381CAL: $865.00
- Fluke 323CAL: $211.00
Overall
The Fluke 1630-2 FC is a high-end earth ground loop resistance tester that offers excellent accuracy and resolution. It is also very easy to use, thanks to its backlit LCD display and data hold function. However, it is also the most expensive of the three options.
The Fluke 381CAL is a more affordable option that still offers good accuracy and resolution. It also has a remote display, which can be useful for making measurements in difficult-to-reach areas.
The Fluke 323CAL is the most affordable option of the three. It is a basic earth ground loop resistance tester that is still accurate enough for most applications.
Which one is right for you?
The best earth ground loop resistance tester for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you need the highest accuracy and resolution, the Fluke 1630-2 FC is the best option. If you are looking for a more affordable option with a remote display, the Fluke 381CAL is a good choice. And if you are on a tight budget, the Fluke 323CAL is a great option that still offers good accuracy.
Fluke 1630 Pros/Cons and My Thought
The Fluke 1630 is a digital multimeter (DMM) that is popular among electricians, technicians, and other professionals who need to measure electrical parameters. It is known for its accuracy, durability, and ease of use.
Pros:
- Accurate measurements: The Fluke 1630 is known for its accuracy, even in harsh environments. It has a resolution of 0.001 V and a accuracy of ±(0.05% + 2) digits.
- Durable: The Fluke 1630 is built to last. It is made with a rubberized housing that protects it from bumps and drops. It is also water-resistant to a depth of 1 meter.
- Easy to use: The Fluke 1630 is easy to use, even for beginners. It has a clear display and simple controls. It also has a variety of features that make it easy to take measurements, such as auto-ranging and peak hold.
Cons:
- Expensive: The Fluke 1630 is more expensive than some other DMMs on the market.
- Not as rugged as some other models: The Fluke 1630 is not as rugged as some other DMMs on the market. It is not designed to withstand extreme temperatures or impacts.
- No Bluetooth: The Fluke 1630 does not have Bluetooth connectivity. This means that you cannot wirelessly transfer data to a computer or other device.
User reviews:
- Positive reviews:
- "This is the best DMM I've ever owned. It's accurate, durable, and easy to use."
- "I've been using this DMM for years and it's still going strong. I've dropped it, gotten it wet, and even spilled paint on it, but it still works perfectly."
- "I love the auto-ranging feature on this DMM. It makes it so easy to take measurements."
- Negative reviews:
- "This DMM is a bit expensive, but it's worth the price."
- "I wish this DMM had Bluetooth connectivity."
- "The rubberized housing on this DMM makes it a bit bulky."
My thoughts:
The Fluke 1630 is a great DMM for professionals who need a accurate, durable, and easy-to-use meter. It is a bit expensive, but it is worth the price for the features and performance it offers. If you are looking for a DMM that will last for years and provide accurate measurements, the Fluke 1630 is a great option.
Here are some other DMMs that you may want to consider:
- Fluke 179: This is a more advanced DMM that offers a wider range of features, such as Bluetooth connectivity and a graphical user interface.
- Klein Tools MM300: This is a more affordable DMM that offers good accuracy and durability.
- Amprobe AM-370: This is a rugged DMM that is designed to withstand extreme environments.
Ultimately, the best DMM for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for the best possible accuracy and durability, the Fluke 1630 is a great option. If you are on a budget, the Klein Tools MM300 is a good choice. And if you need a DMM that is rugged enough to withstand extreme environments, the Amprobe AM-370 is a good option.
Fluke 1630 Where To Buy
some places where you can buy the Fluke 1630 and spare parts:
- Fluke Direct: This is the official website of Fluke, so you can be sure that you are getting an authentic product. They also offer a variety of spare parts for the Fluke 1630.
- Walmart: Walmart is a major retailer that carries a wide variety of products, including the Fluke 1630. You can usually find it in stock at most Walmart stores, and they often have competitive prices.
- Amazon: Amazon is another major retailer that sells the Fluke 1630. They often have the best prices, and you can usually find it with free shipping.
- Best Buy: Best Buy is a major electronics retailer that also carries the Fluke 1630. You can usually find it in stock at most Best Buy stores, and they often have competitive prices.
- Lowes: Lowes is a major home improvement retailer that also carries the Fluke 1630. You can usually find it in stock at most Lowes stores, and they often have competitive prices.
- eBay: eBay is an online auction site where you can sometimes find the Fluke 1630 for a good price. However, be sure to do your research before buying from eBay, as there are often counterfeit products being sold.
I hope this helps!
Fluke 1630 Problems and Solutions
some common issues and solutions for the Fluke 1630 earth ground clamp:
- Problem: The clamp is not reading any resistance.
- Solution: Make sure that the clamp is properly connected to the two ground rods. The jaws of the clamp should be making good contact with the rods.
- Problem: The reading is erratic or fluctuating.
- Solution: Make sure that there are no other electrical sources nearby that could be interfering with the measurement. Also, make sure that the ground rods are not touching each other.
- Problem: The reading is too high.
- Solution: This could be caused by a number of factors, including:
- The ground rods are not properly buried.
- The ground rods are not making good contact with the soil.
- There is a high resistance path between the ground rods and the main electrical panel.
To troubleshoot these problems, you can follow these steps:
- Check the connections to the ground rods.
- Move the ground rods to a different location.
- Use a different set of ground rods.
- Connect the clamp to the main electrical panel and measure the resistance between the panel and the ground rods.
If you are still having problems, you can contact Fluke customer support for assistance.
Here are some additional tips for using the Fluke 1630:
- Make sure that the ground rods are properly buried. The depth of the ground rods will vary depending on the soil conditions.
- Clean the ground rods before making the measurement. This will help to ensure a good electrical connection.
- If you are measuring the resistance between two ground rods, make sure that they are not touching each other.
- The Fluke 1630 can also be used to measure the resistance of a single ground rod. To do this, connect the clamp to the ground rod and then touch the other jaw of the clamp to a metal object that is connected to the electrical system.
I hope this helps!
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