General
Rated current	40 A AC / 60 A DC – 400 A AC / 600 A DC

The PAC17 current clamp from Chauvin Arnoux is a measuring instrument from the PAC model series, based on the Hall effect, and designed for accurate measurement of direct and alternating currents. It is suitable for measurements in the range from low to high currents and is specifically designed for applications requiring high bandwidth and flexible measurement options. The clamp enables current measurement up to 600 A DC and 600 A peak, and can be used for both direct and alternating current measurements. Measurement is performed via an encircling diameter of 30 mm or alternatively via two smaller current bars, each with a diameter of 24 mm, allowing flexible adaptation to different conductor cross-sections.

Applications

The PAC17 is designed for use in industrial environments as well as in complex electrical installations. It is particularly suitable for analyzing current waveforms, especially for capturing peak currents that occur, for example, during motor start-up or transient loads. The high bandwidth of up to 30 kHz makes the device particularly suitable for use with an oscilloscope to display time-resolved current signals.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The clamp features two measurement ranges that can be selected according to requirements. The smaller range covers 0.5 A to 60 A peak or 60 A DC, while the larger range covers 0.5 A to 600 A peak or 600 A DC. The turns ratios are 1 A/10 mV and 1 A/1 mV, generating an output signal in the form of a direct or alternating voltage. Typical accuracy is ≤ 1.5 % for the smaller range and 2 % for the larger range. An integrated automatic DC zero adjustment (ZeroDC) ensures easy operation and high measurement accuracy by automatically correcting any zero point drift. Additionally, a selectable standby mode is available to reduce power consumption.

Technology Explained Simply

The Hall effect used in the PAC17 enables current measurement without direct electrical contact with the conductor. A magnetic field proportional to the flowing current is generated, and a Hall sensor detects this field and converts it into an electrical signal, which is transmitted via the coaxial cable with an insulated BNC connector to a measuring device such as an oscilloscope. The BNC connection ensures reliable and interference-free signal transmission, especially at high frequencies.

Compatibility and Accessories

The PAC17 current clamp is primarily designed for use with oscilloscopes to display time-resolved current waveforms. Connection is made via the integrated coaxial cable with BNC connector, which can be directly connected to the oscilloscope's input cable.

Mounting and Installation

Mounting is done by clamping around the conductor or current bars to be measured. The clamp can encircle a single conductor with a diameter up to 30 mm or two separate conductors, each with a diameter of 24 mm. Operation is performed using the integrated functions, including automatic zero adjustment and standby mode. The included operating manual provides detailed instructions for correct handling.

Advantages in Operation

The PAC17 offers high measurement accuracy combined with flexibility through two measurement ranges. The automatic zero adjustment function reduces the need for manual settings and increases the reliability of measurement results. The high bandwidth of 30 kHz enables the capture of fast current waveforms, which is beneficial for diagnosing electrical systems. The robust construction and BNC output ensure reliable signal transmission in industrial environments.

Contents: PAC17 current clamp, operating manual.