The Fluke Calibration 773 is a professional milliamp process clamp meter designed for measuring, sourcing and simulating electrical process signals in industrial automation and process control applications.
The instrument enables accurate measurement of 4 to 20 mA current loops without disconnecting the circuit, making it particularly suitable for troubleshooting transmitters, control valves, programmable logic controllers and industrial instrumentation.
With a measurement accuracy of 0.2%, a resolution of 0.01 mA in its primary clamp measurement range and integrated current and voltage sourcing functions, the Fluke Calibration 773 combines several essential process calibration functions in one portable instrument.
Unlike conventional multimeters, the Fluke Calibration 773 allows technicians to measure current signals without interrupting the electrical connection. This helps prevent unnecessary process interruptions and reduces maintenance time.
The instrument is especially useful for commissioning, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting and calibration of industrial process control systems.
europascal offers professional calibration equipment and technical support for demanding industrial measurement applications. Additional services are available through the europascal Calibration Service.
Your Benefits at a Glance
The Fluke Calibration 773 combines precise current measurement with versatile process calibration functions.
Its main advantages include:
- Measurement of 4 to 20 mA signals without disconnecting the circuit
- Noncontact current measurement up to approximately 100 mA
- Clamp measurement accuracy of 0.2% plus 5 counts in the primary range
- Resolution of 0.01 mA
- Current measurement through test leads
- Current sourcing from 0 to 24 mA
- Current simulation from 0 to 24 mA
- Integrated 24 V loop power supply
- DC voltage measurement up to 30 V
- DC voltage sourcing up to 10 V
- Automatic current ramp functions
- Automatic 25% step functions
- Simultaneous current measurement and sourcing
- Scaled milliamp output
- Detachable current clamp
- Backlit display
- Portable battery powered operation
- Suitable for industrial process instrumentation
- Ideal for troubleshooting PLC inputs and outputs
- Suitable for temperature, pressure and flow transmitters
Noncontact Measurement of 4 to 20 mA Signals
The most important feature of the Fluke Calibration 773 is its ability to measure current signals without disconnecting the electrical circuit.
Conventional current measurements normally require the circuit to be opened so that the measuring instrument can be connected in series.
This procedure can interrupt the process signal and potentially affect the operation of industrial equipment.
The Fluke Calibration 773 eliminates this requirement by using a highly sensitive current clamp.
The clamp detects the magnetic field generated by the current flowing through the conductor.
This allows technicians to measure the current while the process remains operational.
Typical applications include checking transmitter outputs, monitoring control signals and troubleshooting industrial automation systems.
The noncontact measurement method is particularly advantageous in production environments where interruptions must be minimized.
High Measurement Accuracy
The Fluke Calibration 773 provides accurate current measurements for industrial process applications.
In its primary clamp measurement range, the manufacturer specifies an accuracy of:
±(0.2% of reading + 5 counts)
The instrument provides a resolution of:
0.01 mA
This allows small variations in process current to be detected.
The instrument is particularly suitable for checking standardized 4 to 20 mA signals.
For measurements above the primary clamp range, a separate accuracy specification applies.
The accuracy specifications must always be considered together with the applicable measurement range and resolution.
Current Measurement up to 100 mA
The Fluke Calibration 773 provides two clamp measurement ranges.
| Measurement Range | Accuracy |
|---|---|
| 0 to 20.99 mA | ±(0.2% of reading + 5 counts) |
| 21.0 to 100.0 mA | ±(1% of reading + 5 counts) |
The extended measurement range makes the instrument suitable for checking older industrial control systems using current signals above 20 mA.
This includes applications with 10 to 50 mA signals.
The instrument can therefore be used for both modern and legacy process instrumentation.
Current Measurement Using Test Leads
In addition to noncontact clamp measurements, the Fluke Calibration 773 supports conventional current measurement through its test terminals.
The measurement range is:
0 to 24.00 mA
The specified accuracy is:
±(0.2% of reading + 2 counts)
This function is useful when a direct electrical connection is preferred or when a process current must be measured in series.
It also allows the instrument to be used for comparison measurements between clamp and conventional current measurement methods.
Current Sourcing from 0 to 24 mA
The Fluke Calibration 773 can generate precise current signals for testing industrial process equipment.
The current sourcing range is:
0 to 24.00 mA
The specified accuracy is:
±(0.2% of output + 2 counts)
The maximum output capability is 24 mA into a load of 1,000 Ω.
This function is particularly useful for testing control system inputs.
For example, a technician can generate a defined current signal and verify whether a programmable logic controller interprets the signal correctly.
Current sourcing can also be used to test current to pressure converters and other industrial devices.
Current Simulation
The Fluke Calibration 773 supports current simulation.
The simulation range is:
0 to 24.00 mA
The specified accuracy is:
±(0.2% of output + 2 counts)
In simulation mode, the instrument controls the current in a loop powered by an external supply.
This differs from current sourcing, where the instrument actively provides the current.
The simulation function is useful for testing transmitter inputs and control systems that provide their own loop power.
The maximum external voltage for current simulation is 50 V DC.
Integrated 24 V Loop Power Supply
The Fluke Calibration 773 includes an integrated 24 V loop power supply.
This allows technicians to power compatible two wire transmitters during testing.
The instrument can simultaneously provide loop power and measure the current signal.
This function is particularly useful when a transmitter must be tested outside its normal installation environment.
For example, a pressure transmitter can be powered by the instrument while its output signal is monitored.
The integrated loop supply reduces the need for additional external equipment.
DC Voltage Measurement
The Fluke Calibration 773 provides DC voltage measurement for industrial process applications.
The measurement range is:
0 to 30.00 V DC
The specified accuracy is:
±(0.2% of reading + 2 counts)
This function is particularly useful for checking 24 V power supplies.
It can also be used to measure voltage signals from programmable logic controllers and industrial transmitters.
Voltage measurement expands the functionality of the instrument beyond conventional milliamp clamp meters.
DC Voltage Sourcing
The Fluke Calibration 773 can generate DC voltage signals.
The voltage sourcing range is:
0 to 10.00 V DC
The specified accuracy is:
±(0.2% of output + 2 counts)
The maximum output current is 2 mA.
This function is useful for testing devices that accept standardized voltage signals.
Typical examples include:
- 0 to 10 V control inputs
- 1 to 5 V process signals
- PLC analog inputs
- Industrial control modules
- Signal converters
The instrument allows technicians to verify whether the connected equipment responds correctly to the applied voltage.
Automatic Ramp and Step Functions
The Fluke Calibration 773 supports automatic current and voltage output functions.
These functions simplify testing of industrial control systems.
Automatic Current Ramping
The instrument can automatically vary its current output.
This allows the response of connected equipment to be checked over a defined signal range.
Automatic ramping is particularly useful for testing analog inputs and control devices.
Automatic 25% Steps
The instrument can generate standardized output steps.
For a 4 to 20 mA signal, typical test points are:
| Output Percentage | Current |
|---|---|
| 0% | 4 mA |
| 25% | 8 mA |
| 50% | 12 mA |
| 75% | 16 mA |
| 100% | 20 mA |
These values allow technicians to verify the linearity and scaling of industrial measurement systems.
Automatic stepping reduces manual adjustments and helps improve testing efficiency.
Simultaneous Current Measurement and Sourcing
The Fluke Calibration 773 provides a useful simultaneous measurement and sourcing function.
The instrument can measure a current signal with its clamp while generating a separate current signal.
This function is particularly useful for testing industrial devices with both analog inputs and outputs.
For example, a control valve positioner can receive a defined input current while its feedback signal is measured.
This allows technicians to evaluate the relationship between input and output signals.
The function can also be used for checking signal isolators and other process control equipment.
Scaled Milliamp Output
The Fluke Calibration 773 includes a scaled milliamp output function.
This function generates an output current corresponding to the current measured by the clamp.
The scaled output can be connected to a compatible recording instrument.
This allows process current signals to be monitored or recorded without disconnecting the original current loop.
The function is particularly useful when troubleshooting intermittent process problems.
A compatible data logging multimeter can record the scaled output over time.
This provides additional information about signal variations during normal process operation.
Detachable Current Clamp
The Fluke Calibration 773 features a detachable current clamp.
The clamp can be separated from the main instrument and connected through its cable.
This allows current measurements to be performed in locations where access is restricted.
Typical examples include densely populated control cabinets and industrial junction boxes.
The detachable design improves handling and allows the display to remain visible while the clamp is positioned around the conductor.
This is particularly useful during troubleshooting and maintenance work.
Calibration of Temperature Transmitters
The Fluke Calibration 773 is suitable for checking the electrical output signals of temperature transmitters.
Temperature transmitters commonly convert RTD or thermocouple signals into standardized 4 to 20 mA outputs.
The instrument can measure these signals without disconnecting the current loop.
For example, a temperature transmitter with a measuring range from 0 °C to 100 °C may provide:
| Temperature | Output Current |
|---|---|
| 0 °C | 4 mA |
| 25 °C | 8 mA |
| 50 °C | 12 mA |
| 75 °C | 16 mA |
| 100 °C | 20 mA |
The Fluke Calibration 773 can verify the transmitter output current.
However, the instrument does not generate RTD resistance values or thermocouple voltages for direct sensor simulation.
A suitable temperature calibrator is required for complete temperature transmitter calibration.
Calibration of Pressure Transmitters
The Fluke Calibration 773 is also suitable for checking pressure transmitter output signals.
Many industrial pressure transmitters use a 4 to 20 mA output.
The instrument allows the output current to be measured without interrupting the circuit.
This is particularly useful during maintenance and troubleshooting.
For a complete pressure transmitter calibration, a suitable pressure reference and pressure generation system are additionally required.
The Fluke Calibration 773 verifies the electrical signal but does not generate or measure pressure.
Testing PLC Inputs and Outputs
The Fluke Calibration 773 is particularly useful for testing programmable logic controllers.
Industrial PLC systems frequently use standardized analog signals.
Typical signal ranges include:
- 4 to 20 mA
- 0 to 20 mA
- 0 to 10 V
- 1 to 5 V
The instrument can generate current and voltage signals to test PLC analog inputs.
It can also measure current and voltage signals generated by compatible control system outputs.
This makes the Fluke Calibration 773 a versatile instrument for industrial automation maintenance.
Portable Design
The Fluke Calibration 773 is designed for portable industrial applications.
The instrument operates using four AA alkaline batteries.
Its dimensions are approximately:
41.3 × 76 × 248 mm
The instrument weighs approximately:
415 g
The compact design makes it convenient for use in control cabinets, industrial facilities and field service applications.
The instrument also includes a backlit display for improved readability.
Technical Highlights
| Specification | Fluke Calibration 773 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Fluke |
| Model | 773 |
| Product type | Milliamp Process Clamp Meter |
| Primary clamp measurement range | 0 to 20.99 mA |
| Primary clamp accuracy | ±(0.2% + 5 counts) |
| Extended clamp measurement range | 21.0 to 100.0 mA |
| Extended clamp accuracy | ±(1% + 5 counts) |
| Primary clamp resolution | 0.01 mA |
| Current measurement through test leads | 0 to 24.00 mA |
| Current measurement accuracy | ±(0.2% + 2 counts) |
| Current sourcing | 0 to 24.00 mA |
| Current simulation | 0 to 24.00 mA |
| Current sourcing accuracy | ±(0.2% + 2 counts) |
| Maximum current source load | 1,000 Ω at 24 mA |
| Maximum current simulation voltage | 50 V DC |
| DC voltage measurement | 0 to 30.00 V |
| DC voltage measurement accuracy | ±(0.2% + 2 counts) |
| DC voltage sourcing | 0 to 10.00 V |
| Voltage sourcing accuracy | ±(0.2% + 2 counts) |
| Maximum voltage source current | 2 mA |
| Loop power supply | 24 V |
| Automatic current ramp | Yes |
| Automatic step output | Yes |
| Simultaneous current measurement and sourcing | Yes |
| Scaled milliamp output | Yes |
| Detachable clamp | Yes |
| Display | Backlit LCD |
| Power supply | Four AA batteries |
| Operating temperature | −10 °C to +50 °C |
| Protection rating | IP40 |
| Dimensions | 41.3 × 76 × 248 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 415 g |
Calibration Service by europascal
Regular calibration is essential for maintaining reliable and traceable electrical measurements.
europascal provides professional calibration services for electrical measuring instruments and process calibration equipment.
When the Fluke Calibration 773 is used for industrial measurements, the accuracy of its current and voltage functions should be verified at suitable intervals.
Relevant calibration parameters include:
- Noncontact current measurement
- Current measurement through test leads
- Current sourcing
- Current simulation
- DC voltage measurement
- DC voltage sourcing
- Measurement repeatability
- Display resolution
The measurement uncertainty must be evaluated according to the applicable calibration procedure.
For professional calibration services and metrological traceability, visit the europascal Calibration Service.
Why Choose the Fluke Calibration 773?
The Fluke Calibration 773 combines noncontact current measurement with advanced process calibration functions.
Its ability to measure 4 to 20 mA signals without disconnecting the circuit is particularly valuable in industrial production environments.
The instrument allows technicians to troubleshoot process signals without interrupting normal operation.
Current sourcing, current simulation and integrated loop power provide additional flexibility.
DC voltage measurement and sourcing expand the range of possible applications.
Automatic ramp and step functions simplify testing of industrial control systems.
The detachable current clamp improves accessibility in confined installation spaces.
Simultaneous current measurement and sourcing make the instrument especially useful for testing control valves, signal isolators and industrial automation equipment.
For maintenance technicians, calibration engineers and industrial automation specialists, the Fluke Calibration 773 provides a practical combination of measurement accuracy, versatility and portability.
europascal supports customers with professional calibration equipment, technical advice and calibration services.
Typical Applications for the Fluke Calibration 773
The Fluke Calibration 773 is suitable for numerous industrial measurement and calibration applications.
Typical applications include:
- 4 to 20 mA loop measurement
- Industrial process troubleshooting
- Temperature transmitter testing
- Pressure transmitter testing
- Flow transmitter testing
- PLC analog input testing
- PLC analog output testing
- Control valve testing
- Signal isolator testing
- Current loop simulation
- Current signal generation
- DC voltage measurement
- DC voltage sourcing
- Industrial automation
- Preventive maintenance
- Commissioning
- Process instrumentation
- Electrical calibration
- Industrial quality assurance
The combination of noncontact current measurement, current and voltage sourcing, integrated loop power and portable construction makes the Fluke Calibration 773 a professional solution for demanding industrial process applications.
Find more Fluke Calibration products here.
Manufacturer information for the Fluke Calibration 773 can be found on the official Fluke website.
