Garage Lube

PICO-TA388 2000A Current Clamp

The 2000A current clamp, also known as the high current amp clamp, allows you to measure up to 2000 amps without cutting, or disconnecting or stripping wires. Simply clamp the jaws around the cable to be tested and plug the clamp into your PicoScope.

The TA388 has a specification to match our popular TA167 200A/2000A clamp but it is fitted with a PicoBNC+ interface.

The clamp can be auto-configured by PicoScope software when connected to the scope. Ranging is carried out automatically with no user switching required. The clamp is powered via the scope and therefore does not require any batteries. Additionally, the clamp is auto-zeroed whenever connected to the scope. These current clamps have been designed for use with PicoScope oscilloscopes and feature additional screening to reduce noise pickup.

The PICO-TA388 Current Clamp can either be purchased as an accessory within one of our popular diagnostic kits or individually but requires a PicoScope featuring the PicoBNC+ such as the 4225A or 4425A.

To take advantage of the PicoBNC+ capabilities, Pico Technology has changed from the PICO-TA167 2000A/200A Clamp to this new model, which is powered from the laptop via the Scope. The shape of the new clamp is different to the PICO-TA167, resulting in changes to foam cut-outs, and has a narrow-width profile.

The 2000A Amp Clamp is automatically recognised by the PicoScope software when it is connected to the Scope and is auto-ranged in the software. Hence, there is no requirement for manual switching of ranges. The Clamp is automatically zeroed by the software when it is connected to the scope thereby eliminating the manual zero adjustment.

There is a minor price adjustment compared to the exisiting BNC PICO-TA167, which makes this new Clamp a very attractive option given the elimination of batteries and the automatic, plug-and-play features provided.

PICO-TA473 60A Current Clamp

The TA473 current clamp, or low current amp clamp, is ideal for use with PicoScope automotive oscilloscopes for measuring currents between 10 mA and 60 A. This enables the PicoScope to display current waveforms for fuel injectors and fuel pumps. The TA473 has a specification superior to both the TA018 and TA234, bringing improved performance and diagnostic accuracy to the workshop.

In common with the TA388 (above), it is fitted with a PicoBNC+ interface. The clamp can be auto-configured by PicoScope software when it is connected to the scope. Ranging is carried out automatically with no user switching required. The clamp is powered via the scope and therefore does not require any batteries. Additionally, the clamp is auto-zeroed whenever it is connected to the scope.

In use, there is no need to break into the circuit or disturb the isolation as the opening jaws simply clamp around the current-carrying conductor. No electrical contact is required.

These current clamps have been designed for use with PicoScope oscilloscopes and feature additional screening to reduce noise pickup. The PICO-TA473 Current Clamp can either be purchased as an accessory within one of our popular diagnostic kits or individually but requires a PicoScope featuring the PicoBNC+ such as the 4225A or 4425A.

To take advantage of the PicoBNC+ capabilities, Pico Technology has changed from the PICO-TA234 30A Clamp and the PICO-TA018 60A Clamp to this new model, which is powered from the laptop via the Scope. The shape of the new clamp is different from the PICO-TA234 and PICO-TA018, resulting in changes to foam cut-outs. Furthermore, the performance is substantially better than the PICO-TA018.

The new 60A Camp is automatically recognised by the PicoScope software when it is connected to the Scope. Hence, there is no requirement for manual switching of ranges. The Clamp is automatically zeroed by the software when it is connected to the scope thereby eliminating the manual zero adjustment.

There is a minor price adjustment compared to the BNC PICO-TA234, which makes this new Clamp a very attractive option, given the elimination of batteries, the very high resolution offered and the automatic, plug-and-play features provided.

PICO-TA496 60ADC Compact Current Clamp

The PICO-TA496 is a natural choice if you are a PicoScope 4225A and 4425A user looking to add a compact, low amps clamp to your PicoScope probe collection.

The PicoBNC+® 60ADC Compact Current Clamp's reduced form factor fits comfortably in your hand and improves accessibility in tight and difficult-to-access test locations, making it easier to hold and use around vehicles.

The in-built PicoBNC+® technology makes the TA496 easy to use. As the clamp is scope-powered there are no batteries for you to change and it is always ready to go. Automatic probe recognition saves you from having to select the probe in the software. Automatic range switching means you don’t have to change the range on the probe itself, just select a range in the software and the probe will take care of itself.

You don’t even have to zero the clamp, PicoBNC+® can take care of that too.

The clamp's signal accuracy and clarity are improved, particularly in low current ranges andiIts cleaner waveforms bring noticeably better diagnostic accuracy to your workshop.

The above image shows a comparison of waveforms from the TA018 (blue) and the TA496 (red) current clamps, showing the latter's improved accuracy.

The TA496 Clamp is CAT II 300V rated and double insulated, so is suitable for use within a wide range of automotive environments.