Operate the current probe
CAUTION.
To prevent damage to the TCP305A & TCP312A probes, do not drop
the probe, subject it to physical shock or rapid temperature changes, and do not
insert insulated conductors larger than 5.0 mm (0.2 in) into the probe jaw or
damage may result. If the slider will not close around the conductors, do not
force the slide closed; either reduce the number of conductors, or use a smaller
conductor, if possible, without exceeding the amperage rating of the wire.
CAUTION.
To reduce risk of
fi
re, do not connect or disconnect the current probe to
or from a live, uninsulated conductor. The core is not insulated. Always remove
power before you connect or disconnect the probe to or from bare conductors.
To improve EMI rejection at high frequencies, use the optional ground lead. Refer
to the
TCPA300/400 Ampli
fi
ers and TCP300A/400 Series Current Probes User
Manual
, Tektronix part number 077-1183-xx, for additional instructions.
Operate the current probe slide
The current probes each have a slide mechanism that opens and closes the probe
jaw. This allows you to clamp the probe around a conductor under test. The slide
must be locked closed to accurately measure current or to degauss the probe. If a
probe is unlocked, the PROBE OPEN indicator on the ampli
fi
er will light.
The current probes can be used to measure current on uninsulated wires. However,
the circuit must be de-energized when connecting or removing the current probe.
TCP305A and TCP312A
slide operation
The slide operation of the TCP305A and TCP312A current probes is shown in the
following illustration.
Ampli
fi
ers and Current Probes Compliance and Safety Instructions
21
