General
Measurement range 1	5 mA bis 10 A
Measurement range 2	2 A bis 150 A AC
Gear ratio 1	1 mA AC / 1 mV AC
Gear ratio 2	1 A AC / 1 mV AC
Operating temperature	-10 °C bis +50 °C
Relative humidity	0 % RH bis 85 % RH
Operating altitude	0 m bis 2000 m
Certification	EN 61010-1 / EN 61010-2-031 / EN 61010-2-032
Drop test	1,5 m
Vibration test	5-15 Hz (1,5 mm), 15-25 Hz (1 mm), 25-55 Hz (0,25 mm)

The AC-Mini current clamp MINI 05 from Chauvin Arnoux is a compact measuring instrument for non-invasive current measurement in AC circuits. It serves as an accessory for multimeters and enables direct current measurement without opening the conductors. The device is particularly suitable for use in confined spaces such as enclosures, control systems, or distribution boxes, where space and accessibility are limited. The current clamp has a clamping capacity of up to 10 mm in diameter, making it suitable for thin cables and conductors in electrical installation and small industrial applications.

Applications

The MINI 05 is used in service and industrial applications where low to medium power levels are measured. It is ideal for electricians who need to check current values during maintenance, servicing, or installation of electrical systems. When combined with a multimeter, current values can be displayed in amperes, although the current clamp itself does not have a display. Measurement is performed via a voltage output connected to a measuring device using a cable with two insulated, bent 4-mm banana plugs.

Functions and equipment in detail

The current clamp offers two switchable measurement ranges: one from 5 mA to 10 A and another from 2 A to 150 A AC. The transformation ratios are directly readable: 1 mA AC corresponds to 1 mV AC and 1 A AC corresponds to 1 mV AC. This allows for easy scaling of measured values on the connected multimeter. The bandwidth ranges from 48 Hz to 500 Hz, covering standard mains voltages (50/60 Hz) as well as frequency converter applications. Typical accuracy is ≤ 3 % in the range up to 10 A and ≤ 2 % in the range from 2 A to 150 A.

Technology explained simply

The current clamp operates as a clamp current transformer, detecting the magnetic flux around a conductor and converting it into a proportional output signal. The output signal is an alternating voltage transmitted via cable to a measuring device. The output technology with insulated 4-mm banana plugs ensures a safe and reliable connection. The current clamp is designed for a maximum load impedance of ≤ 10 Ω, ensuring compatibility with common multimeters and measuring instruments. Electrical safety is certified according to EN 61010-1, EN 61010-2-031, and EN 61010-2-032, with a category rating of 300 V CAT IV and 600 V CAT III. The protection class IP40 protects against contact with moving parts and against solid foreign objects larger than 1 mm, but does not protect against water or dust.

Compatibility and accessories

The MINI 05 is designed as an accessory for multimeters that have an AC voltage input. The direct transformation ratios (1 mA AC / 1 mV AC and 1 A AC / 1 mV AC) allow for easy scaling of the display. The current clamp is not intended for use with devices that lack voltage inputs or appropriate measurement ranges for the output signal (1 mV to 30 V). The current clamp is part of the MINI series, which also includes other models with different clamping diameters and measurement ranges.

Mounting and installation

The current clamp is simply closed around the conductor to be measured. The cable connection is made via the two insulated 4-mm banana plugs to a suitable measuring device. The current clamp is designed for an operating temperature of -10 °C to +50 °C and can be operated at a relative humidity of 0 to 85 % RH. Storage is possible at -40 °C to +80 °C. Mechanical robustness is ensured by a drop test from 1.5 m and an impact resistance of 100 g / 6 ms / half period. Dimensions are 130 x 37 x 25 mm, and the weight is approximately 180 g.

Advantages in operation

The MINI 05 is characterised by its compact design and low weight, making it particularly easy to handle. The direct transformation ratios simplify the interpretation of measured values. Electrical safety in CAT III and CAT IV categories allows use in various application environments, including distribution networks. The current clamp is suitable for use in electrical systems with an operating voltage up to 600 V CAT III and 300 V CAT IV. The bandwidth of 48 Hz to 500 Hz covers most industrial and household applications. The current clamp is designed for use in environments up to an altitude of 2000 m above sea level.