An all-in-one device, the Fluke T5-1000 is a handy tool for pros and amateurs alike; able to measure volts, higher amps, resistance and continuity. A multimeter-cum-amp clamp, this useful meter can measure to 2000V and AC current to 100A without breaking circuit. Notables include its OpenJaw™ design, SlimReach™ leads and full auto dial.
Good for general, high-voltage, lower resolution work.
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Key Features
- Measures AC/DC volts to 1000V automatically
- OpenJaw™ design measures current to 100A
- Extra SlimReach™ probes
- Tidy probe storage
- Auto sleep
- Size: 8″ (203mm) x 2″ (51mm) x 1.2″ (30mm)
- Weight: 10.6oz (300g)
What’s Included?
- Meter
- Leads
- Batteries x2 AA
- Instructions
Optional: belt holster
In-depth Review of the Fluke T5-1000
The T5 was built with simplicity in mind, having an easy dial with just four positions and an open-jaw current measurement case. It is full auto ranging, so you simply select the appropriate position and await the results.
Of the test ranges, voltage on the T5-1000 is up to 1000V for both AC and DC. It manages this to CAT-III, with 600V to Cat-IV. There’s just the one voltage position, so it very usefully deciphers AC from DC and displays results appropriately.
On the current front, you can measure to 100A in AC only. It is not as precise or accurate and lacks the finesse of a traditional amp clamp meter, but is nevertheless a handy tool for getting general amperage values.
Although it has most of what you need and is easy to use, unfortunately it can be awkward to handle as it can’t be propped up or hung. The probe holder does help somewhat, however.
Kit forms of the T5: A holster lets you clip the device to your belt and better stores the test leads. The T5-H5 kit also includes a non-contact volt stick, while the Max has a remote temperature sensing unit.
SPECS
| Range | accuracy | resolution | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC voltage | to 1000V | ±(1.5%+2) | 1V |
| DC voltage | to 1000V | ±(1.0%+1) | 1V |
| AC amperage | to 100A | ±(3.0%+3) | 0.1A |
| Resistance | to 1kΩ | ±(1.0%+2) | 1Ω |
Performance/Functions
You won’t get the speed of a traditional Fluke multimeter regards auto ranging and continuity, but the T5 is timely. Most impressive its battery life, courtesy of a couple of AAs able to dish out 300-400 hours usage. A low battery icon indicates change advisable. There is also a sleep mode to help preserve power, while a basic data hold freezes on-screen values.
Build Quality
This is as rugged as most Flukes, with trademark tough yellow case and an easy-fit in the palm of the hand. Both unit and shrouded leads are built to take 1000V, with the latter tucking nicely into the rear. It also comes with detachable ‘SlimReach’ probe tips.
Third hand: Not immediately apparent – including with this electrician who also has a T5 – is the addition of a lead holder. It doesn’t have a useful hanger or metallic rear, but makes up for this somewhat with this extra, allowing you to have one probe within the unit, so you effectively end up with two snug parts when testing as opposed to three awkward bits.
Display: The display is quite basic and not backlit. Resolution is also limited, but again, this is not a precision tool. You get all icons so will know what criteria you are measuring – i.e. AC or DC volts – and it has low battery indication.
Safety
As it doesn’t measure amperage directly through its circuitry, the Fluke T5-1000 does not need to be fuse protected, though of course it has the appropriate components to protect it from high voltage surges. It is rated to CAT-III 1000V and up to CAT-IV @ 600V. In addition, a red LED lights on touching down high voltage.
Pros and Cons
PROS
- Multi-use
- AC amperage
- CAT-IV rated
- Great price for a Fluke
- Good battery power
- Hardy
CONS
- Low resolution
- No backlight
- No capacitance or frequency ranges
- Can be awkward to use
Conclusion
In this review of Fluke’s T5-1000 we have a good bit of kit for general purpose works. It is the ultimate in safe testing vs usability vs price, having a good voltage range together with safe testing of amperage. Nice touches like an extra set of slim lead attachments and good battery life make this a good bet, though some might find it a pain to hold & test. Would be great if it could measure DC amps.
You might also like to check out our reviews of Fluke’s amp clamp multimeters, here and here.