PicoBNC+™ Current Clamps

Using a PicoBNC+ TA388 2000A Current Clamp

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.

Specifications

PicoBNC+™ PICO-TA388 2000A Current Clamp
Attribute Published Specification
Model PicoBNC+™ Current Clamp: 200A/2000A AC/DC
Phsyical
Combined length of lead and probe 2.85m
Jaw size 32mm diameter
Weight 320g
Electrical
Working current range ± 2000A DC or AC peak
Overload current 2200A DC for one minute
Maximum voltage and CAT ratings 300V
Hardware bandwidth 20kHz
Temperature coefficient ± 0.1% of reading / °C
Hardware resolution ± 100mA up to 200A
± 500mA above that
Accuracy 1% ± offset up to 1500A
5% from 1500A to 2000A
Operating temperature range 0°C to 50°C
Storage temperature range –20°C to +85°C
Operating humidity 15% to 85% (non-condensing)
Bandwidth Frequency range DC to 20kHz (–1 dB)
Calibration / zero offset requirements On start up
PicoBNC+ TA473 Current Clamp

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.

Specifications

PicoBNC+™ PICO-TA473 60A Current Clamp
Attribute Published Specification
Model PicoBNC+™ Current Clamp: 60A AC/DC
Phsyical
Combined length of lead and probe 2.85m
Jaw size 22mm diameter
Weight 320g
Electrical
Working current range ± 60A DC or AC peak
Overload current 100A DC for one minute
Maximum voltage and CAT ratings 150V CATII
Hardware bandwidth 20kHz
Temperature coefficient ±0.15% of reading / °C
Hardware resolution ± 1mA with resolution enhancement
± 10mA no enhancement
Accuracy 2% + 10mA (1% from Scope)
Operating temperature range 0°C to 50°C
Storage temperature range –20°C to +85°C
Operating humidity 15% to 85% (non-condensing)
Bandwidth Frequency range DC to 20kHz (–1 dB)
Calibration / zero offset requirements On start up

PICO-TA496 60ADC Compact Current Clamp

PICO-TA496 PicoBNC+ 60 A DC 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.

Using a PICO-TA496 60AC Compact Current Clamp

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.

TA018 and TA496 Comparison

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.

Typical Uses & Example Applications

You can use the TA496 to capture waveforms from many common, electronically-controlled actuators, such as:

  • Petrol and diesel injectors
  • Ignition coils
  • Exhaust Gas Recirculation, turbo, evaporative emissions, fuel quantity, fuel pressure control and throttle valves
  • Fuel pumps
  • Window and wiper motors, etc.

Guided Test

Specifications

PicoBNC+™ PICO-TA473 60ADC Compact Current Clamp
Electical Characteristics
Current measurement ranges Two ranges: ±10A peak, ±60A peak
Frequency range DC to 40kHz (−3dB)
Power control Power on when PicoBNC+ is connected
Resolution 5mA (with 20kHz scope hardware filter and 500Hz software filter)
DC accuracy At 23°C ± 5°C, 70 %RH maximum
When used with a 4225A or 4425A PicoScope
0 to 60 A: ±4% of reading ± 630 mA
0 to 50 A: ±4% of reading ± 630 mA
0 to 20 A: ±2% of reading ± 190 mA
0 to 10 A: ±2% of reading ± 65 mA
0 to 5 A: ±2% of reading ± 35 mA
0 to 2 A: ±2% of reading ± 20 mA
0 to 1 A: ±2% of reading ± 20 mA
0 to 0.5 A: ±2% of reading ±20 mA
Zero offset adjustment Automatic on connection to PicoScope
Manual button in software
Coupling to PicoScope AC/DC, selectable in software
Filtering 20kHz hardware lowpass filter in PicoScope. Enabled by default, selectable by user.
Remanence (0 A—60 A—0 A) 300mA typical
Working voltage CAT II 300 V, pollution degree 2
General characteristics
Maximum conductor diameter 9mm (0.35")
Output connection PicoBNC+®
Cable length 2.85m (9' 4")
Dimensions 167mm x 68mm x 26mm (6.6" x 2.7" x 1.0")
Weight 0.25kg (8.8 oz)
Environmental specifications
Operating temperature range 0 to 50°C
Storage temperature range −20 to +70°C
Operating humidity 70 %RH, max., noncondensing
Storage humidity 80 %RH, max., noncondensing
Compliance
Safety EN 61010-1, EN 61010-2-032
Environmental RoHS, WEEE
EMC CE, FCC, UKCA
PICO-TA388 PicoBNC+ Current Clamp: 2000A AC/DC
PicoBNC+ Current Clamp: 2000A AC/DC
PICO-TA388
R 6,115.78
PICO-TA473 PicoBNC+ Current Clamp: 60A AC/DC
PicoBNC+ Current Clamp: 60A AC/DC
PICO-TA473
R 6,115.78
PICO-TA496 PicoBNC+ Current Clamp: 60A AC/DC Compact
PicoBNC+ Current Clamp: 60A AC/DC Compact
PICO-TA496
R 5,641.28
PICO-PA194 Foam Tray for Clamps and COP Probe
PICO-PA195 Foam Tray for Current Clamps
PICO-PA196 Foam Tray for Current Clamps
Foam Tray - BNC+ 2 x Current Clamps + COP
PICO-PA194
R 1,298.29
Foam Tray - BNC+ 3 x Current Clamps
PICO-PA195
R 1,298.29
Foam Tray - BNC 3 x Current Clamps
PICO-PA196
R 1,298.29
Using a PicoBNC+ TA473 60A Current Clamp