FLUKE has released 1587 and 1577 insulation multimeters, combining a 1kV digital insulation tester with a full-featured true-rms digital multimeter in a single handheld device that weighs 0.454kg and fits in a toolbox or on a tool belt.
Traditional insulation testers are large, bulky and not easily carried. The insulation multimeters combine the most frequently used features of an insulation tester and a DMM in a lightweight tool. The insulation multimeters are ideal for troubleshooting and preventive maintenance on motors, cables and switchgear.
The 1587 provides insulation resistance testing up to 2 GΩ, with five output voltages from 50V to 1000V. The 1577 tests up to 600 MΩ of resistance with either 500V or 1000V. A remote test probe enables one-handed insulation testing via a trigger on the probe handle.
Insulation testing is disabled if the meters are connected to a live circuit with more than 30V. Following testing, the meters automatically discharge all capacitive voltage from the equipment under test to help prevent accidental shocks.
In addition, the advanced circuitry of the 1587 is capable of accurately measuring voltage and frequency on variable frequency motor drive systems through a low pass filter. Such systems are increasingly common in industry, but create electrical noise that baffles ordinary DMMs. Both models have large display digits and a bright white backlight to make work easier in low-light environments.
The insulation multimeters are built for safety with 600 V Cat IV and 1000 V Cat III ratings. They are engineered to withstand voltage spikes of 8kV. The meters come with test leads and probes, alligator clips, a K-type thermocouple (1587 only), and the remote test probe, in a hard case. They are powered by four AA batteries, good for as many as 1000 insulation tests. The meters' impact absorbing yellow boot accepts the Fluke TPAK magnetic hanging system for hands-free operation.