Can AC amp clamp meter measure DC current?

[paulcheung]

HI guys,

Can I use my AC Clamp ampere meter to measure DC current? or do I have to buy a DC clamp meter or AC/DC clamp meter. I try to use my AC clamp amp meter to measure my battery amperes to my inverter kind get something but seem not accurate compare to the inverter monitor's reading.

Thank you.

 

[Mark R]

It depends on the clamp design, and the meter design, including whether it offers true RMS on the clamp.

Wouldn't it be easier to check with the manufacturer of the meter?

 

[paulcheung]

Yes, just order one ac/dc clamp amp meter from amazon.com
Thanks

 

[bryanl]

An AC clamp can't measure DC since it's just a transformer. You need a clamp with a Hall effect sensor mounted in its core material.