How Does an Infrared Ammeter Work?
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Ammeter Overview
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An infrared ammeter combines sensors for temperature and current into a single device. This enables electrical engineers to quickly determine important information without needing several different units. Ammeters are used to measure electrical current in a circuit, which is measured in "amperes." This measurement is vital in electronics troubleshooting and repair work, where information is needed to determine if a device is receiving the proper current.
Traditional ammeters use metal probes to contact components and wires. More advanced models, however, feature a "clamp meter," which uses tongs to clamp around a wire and determine current without probes. Clamp sensors measure current by detecting the electrical pulses moving through a wire. These pulses cause electromagnetic waves, which influence the sensors inside of the ammeter clamp.
Infrared Thermometer Function
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An infrared thermometer functions by detecting the heat radiation emanating from a surface. By measuring temperature using infrared energy, these thermometers gather readings without any physical contact.
Infrared thermometers contain a lens, which focuses the heat signature of an object. A detector translates this energy into an electrical pulse. By comparing these pulses to a known range, the true temperature of a surface is displayed.
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Sensor Combination
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The functionality of an infrared ammeter comes from the combination of temperature and current readings. Typically, the infrared feature is used to locate overheating components in a device. Once located, the tool is switched to ammeter mode, where it can measure the actual current causing the electrical problem.
By using this combination unit, troubleshooting becomes much more efficient. Because both sensors function with minimal invasive contact, tests can be completed without disassembling components. This adds to both safety and convenience.
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References
- Photo Credit T. Ttrung
