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Frequently asked questions (FAQ).

4 Function Digital Multi-Meter

ETA’s DMM4F Two Range Four Function Digital Multimeter provides multiple features that are easily programmed by ETA or by the user. The standard model includes two voltage functions and two current functions. One voltage and three current functions are also available. The silk screened face plate can be custom designed or private labeled for OEM needs. The meter is designed especially for Alternative Energy Systems using Photovoltaic, Wind or Water Power and works well with “maximum power trackers” where voltage transformation takes place between the input and the output. The significant boost in current is easily read. Power out vs. power in can be calculated with two simple multiplications.

The meter is enclosed in a light weight plastic case. The LCD display, printed circuit board assembly, and battery are attached to the front panel which is easily removed with four mounting screws. A press-on cable connector is included. Connector pin-outs for the eight input wires are shown in the table. Since the meter is fully isolated, the four inputs can go to any points in the system. The maximum input voltage is 200 VDC (full scale for the meter). The meter can be attached by drilling and bolting through the case back or with the hook and loop fasteners provided.

The DMM4F is designed for multiple applications in the industrial, commercial and consumer markets is often used with maximum power trackers or transformers that optimize power transfer from the energy source to the load.  For example, a relatively high input voltage is maintained at the “peak power point” of a photovoltaic array.  The voltage is transformed down to the ideal load voltage, transferring maximum possible current to the load which may be a water pump or a battery bank. The meter aids in adjusting equipment settings for maximum power transfer.  In order to accurately assess battery condition and remaining capacity, the battery voltage should be read to an accuracy of 0.5% or better. The battery charge or discharge rate in amps often needs to be read to an accuracy of 2% or better.  The DMM4F provides the required accuracies. A chart of battery voltage and current for most battery types can be obtained from ETA.  The quick disconnect connector allows the meter to be used in more than one location.

Specifications

Dimensions: height 4.0" x width 3.0" x depth 2.50"
Weight: 0.5 lb; .22 kg
Current Draw at 9.0 VDC: <0.2 mA
Battery: 9.0 VDC "transistor" type, alkaline
Functions: Four; 2-voltages, 2-currents; (3 or 4 currents optional)
Voltage Range:  0.00 to 19.99 or 0.0 to 199.9 Volts,accuracy 0.1%
Current Range: 0.00 to 19.99 or 0.0 to 199.9 Amps; accuracy 1.1%
Shunts: 1 mOhm, 10 mOhm; 1.0% for above accuracy
Operating Temperature Range: 0 ºC to +50 ºC; 32 ºF to 122 ºF
Humidity: 0% to 95% non-condensing