The Extech EX570 is a heavy duty, CAT-IV-rated meter built for usage in an industrial environment. Extech build good multimeters and standout features of the EX570 are its infrared thermometer, high CAT rating, tough build quality and 40,000-count display. It can measure high amperages, too, and has good resistance and capacitance ranges.
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Main Features
- Large backlit display with bar graph
- Infrared laser thermometer
- Memory storage
- True RMS
- CAT III-1000V, CAT IV-600V
- DC accuracy from 0.06%
- Hold & Relative modes
- Min/Max/Average
- Auto power off
- Dimensions: 7.25″ (184mm) x 3.25″ (82.5mm) x 2.25″ (57mm)
- Weight: 12.3oz (349g)
What’s Included?
- Two sets of test leads
- Hanging strap (magnetic)
- Thermocouple
- Carry case
- 9V battery
See here for the EX570 online manual
In-depth Review of the Extech EX570
As with others in the EX500 series of Extech meters, the EX570 is a well protected multimeter, being splash and waterproof. It is well suited to factory maintenance work and has solid input protection. You can test all the main scales, including voltage, current, resistance, and capacitance and frequency. Diode tests and continuity come standard, the latter of which does not compare with the speed of a Fluke.
On temperature, the EX570 is both contact and non-contact, with an included Type K thermocouple for standard temperature inputs and an in-built infrared thermometer/laser for remote temperature readings. The latter is perfect for monitoring plant equipment – like motors and control panels – for excessive heat, as well as for HVAC work. Distance/spot ratio of the infrared thermometer is 30:1.
Modes are many on the EX570, to include Min/Max & Average to pick up the low and high amounts in a test (and their average), Hold and Peak Hold, and Relative modes. There is memory storage for three readings, making it convenient for record taking.
Other pluses include a large backlit display, which comes with bar graph, and the magnetic hanging strap, ideal for hands-free use. It is also True RMS allowing for more accurate measurements of non-standard AC waves. Those into variable control motor drive systems would benefit from this.
An auto off mode kicks in after 15 minutes of non-use, saving the 9V battery somewhat. This can be disabled.
SPECS
| range | accuracy | resolution | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DC voltage | 400mV / 1000V | ±(0.06%+2) best | 0.01mV-0.1V |
| AC voltage | 400mV / 1000V | ±(0.5%+3) best | 0.01mV-0.1V |
| DC current | 400µA / *20A | ±(0.7%+3) @ 4000µA | 0.01µA-0.001A |
| AC current | 400µA / *20A | ±(2.0%+3) @ 10A | 0.01µA-0.001A |
| Resistance | 400Ω / 40MΩ | ±(0.3%+4) @ 4 kΩ | 0.01Ω-0.001MΩ |
| Capacitance | 40nF / 40000µF | ±(3.5%+40) @ 400nF | 0.001-1µF |
| Frequency | 40Hz / 40MHz | ±(0.1%+1) | 0.001Hz-0.001MHz |
| Duty Cycle | 0.1 to 99.9% | ±(1.0%+2) | 0.01% |
| Pulse width | 100µs / 100ms | ||
| Temperature °F | -50 to 1382°F | ±(1.0%+4.5°F) | 1°F |
| Temperature °C | 45 to 750°C | ±(1.0%+2.5°C) | 1°C |
| Infrared temp | -30 to 1022°F | ±(2.0%+4°F) @ 213 to 1022°F | 1°C/1°F |
Build Quality
The EX570 is a rugged multimeter, built with industrial usage in mind. Its IP64-rated, double-molded housing is splash proof and dustproof and you also get two sets of fairly good quality test leads. Probe ends are shrouded to boot. Some may find the rotary selector switch clunky compared with high end devices.
Display: The display is large and backlit and measures to 40,000 counts, or 4 3/4 digits. This would allow you to get a reading of 399.99V. Along with this is a bar graph to observe readings analog-style.
Safety Features
The category rating of the Extech EX570 is 1000V at CAT-III and 600V CAT-IV – protected to 8KV surge energy. The latter allows you to work at switch gear level. Fuses are 500mA on the low side and 10A on the high current input. They are HRC, sand-filled fuses.
Pros and Cons
PROS
- Lots of features
- High current rating
- High category rating
- Infrared laser pointer
- True RMS accuracy
- Rugged
- Includes hanging strap
- Good display
- Good value
CONS
- Continuity sluggish
- Selector switch could be ‘tighter’
Conclusion
The Extech EX570 is a tough, True RMS meter meant for heavier duty works than your average multimeter. It is good for pros as well as for keen DIYers that would have a need for more features than standard meters. Remote temperature sensing and the quality display are highlights.
Alternatives: There are several other meters in the EX500 series of Extech multimeters, including the standard 4,000-count EX505 and the EX540 data logger. Other options from different brands, aside from the pricey industry standard Fluke 87, might include the cheaper Amprobe AM570 or the more expensive Klein MM6000.