Owner's Manual

Digital MultiMeter
Model No. 82140
and

Voltage Detector
Model No. 82174

CAUTION: Read, understand and

follow Safety Rules and Operating
Instructions in this manual before
using this product.

! Safety
! Operation
! Maintenance
! Espaol

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

www.craftsman.com
070606
1

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
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4
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12
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15
16
16
17
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18

Warranty
Safety Instructions
Safety Symbols
Control and Jacks
Symbols and Annunciators
Specifications
Battery Installation
Operating Instructions
DC Voltage Measurements
AC Voltage Measurements
DC Current Measurements
Resistance Measurements
Continuity Check
Diode Test
Battery Test
Maintenance
Replacing Batteries
Replacing Fuses
Troubleshooting
Service and Parts
Model 82174 instructions

ONE YEAR FULL WARRANTY

ONE YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN MANUAL RANGING
MULTIMETER
If this CRAFTSMAN Manual Ranging MultiMeter fails to give complete
satisfaction within one year from the date of purchase, RETURN IT TO
THE NEAREST SEARS STORE OR OTHER CRAFTSMAN OUTLET IN
THE UNITED STATES, and Sears will replace it, free of charge.
If this CRAFTSMAN Manual Ranging MultiMeter is used for commercial
or rental purposes, this warranty applies for 90 days from the date of
purchase.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have
other rights which vary from state to state
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Dept. 817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
For Customer Assistance Call 9am-5 PM (EST)
Monday through Friday 1-888-326-1006
WARNING: USE EXTREME CAUTION IN THE USE OF THIS DEVICE.
Improper use of this device can result in injury or death. Follow all
safeguards suggested in this manual. In addition to the normal safety
precautions used in working with electrical circuits. DO NOT service this
device if you are not qualified to do so.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This meter has been designed for safe use, but must be operated with
caution. The rules listed below must be carefully followed for safe operation.
1.

NEVER apply voltage or current to the meter that exceeds the

specified maximum:
Function

VAC
V DC or V AC
mA DC
A DC
Resistance, Continuity

Input Limits
Maximum Input
600V DC/AC
600V DC/AC, 200Vrms on 200mV range
200mA 250V fast acting fuse
10A 250V fast acting fuse(30 seconds max
every 15 minutes)
250Vrms for 15sec max

2.

USE EXTREME CAUTION when working with high voltages.

3.

DO NOT measure voltage if the voltage on the "COM" input jack

exceeds 500V above earth ground.

4.

NEVER connect the meter leads across a voltage source while the
function switch is in the current, resistance, or diode mode. Doing so
can damage the meter.

5.

ALWAYS discharge filter capacitors in power supplies and disconnect

the power when making resistance or diode tests.

6.

ALWAYS turn off the power and disconnect the test leads before
opening the doors to replace the fuse or batteries.

7.

NEVER operate the meter unless the back cover and the battery and
fuse doors are in place and fastened securely.

SAFETY SYMBOLS
This symbol adjacent to another symbol, terminal or
operating device indicates that the operator must refer
to an explanation in the Operating Instructions to avoid
personal injury or damage to the meter.
WARNING

This WARNING symbol indicates a potentially

hazardous situation, which if not avoided, could result
in death or serious injury.

CAUTION

This CAUTION symbol indicates a potentially

hazardous situation, which if not avoided, may result
damage to the product.

MAX
500V

This symbol advises the user that the terminal(s) so

marked must not be connected to a circuit point at
which the voltage with respect to earth ground
exceeds (in this case) 500 VAC or VDC.
This symbol adjacent to one or more terminals
identifies them as being associated with ranges that
may, in normal use, be subjected to particularly
hazardous voltages. For maximum safety, the meter
and its test leads should not be handled when these
terminals are energized.
This symbol indicates that a device is protected
throughout by double insulation or reinforced insulation.

CONTROLS AND JACKS

1.

LCD Display

2.

Function switch

3.

COM jack

4.

10A jack

5.

Positive jack

Note: Tilt stand, fuse and battery

compartment are on rear of unit.

3
4
5

SYMBOLS AND ANNUNCIATORS

)))

Continuity
Diode test

"

micro (amps)

milli ( volts, amps)

kilo (ohms)

##$#

ohms

VDC

volts direct current

VAC

volts alternating current

ADC

amps direct current

BAT

Battery test

SPECIFICATIONS
Function
DC Voltage
(V DC)

AC Voltage
(V AC)
DC Current
(A DC)

Resistance

Battery Test

Range
200mV
2000mV
20V
200V
600V
200V
600V
2000"A
20mA
200mA
10A
200$
2000$
20k$
200k$
2000k$
9V
1.5V

Resolution
0.1mV
1mV
0.01V
0.1V
1V
0.1V
1V
1"A
10"A
100"A
10mA
0.1$
1$
0.01k$
0.1k$
1k$
10mV
10mV

Accuracy
%(0.5% reading + 2 digits)

%(1.2% reading + 10 digits

(50/60Hz)
%(1.0% reading + 2 digits)
%(1.2% reading + 2 digits)
%(2.0% reading + 2 digits)
%(0.8% reading + 2 digits)

%(1.0% reading + 2 digits)

%(1.0% reading + 2 digits)

NOTE: Accuracy specifications consist of two elements:

! (% reading) This is the accuracy of the measurement circuit.
! (+ digits) This is the accuracy of the analog to digital converter.
o

NOTE: Accuracy is stated at 65 F to 83 F (18 C to 28 C) and less than

75% RH.

SPECIFICATIONS
Diode Test
Continuity Check
Battery Test current
Input Impedance
ACV Bandwidth
DCA voltage drop
Display
Overrange indication
Polarity
Measurement Rate
Low Battery Indication
Battery
Fuses
Operating Temperature
Storage Temperature
Operating Humidity
Storage Humidity
Operating Altitude
Weight
Size
Safety

Test current of 1mA maximum, open circuit

voltage 2.8V DC typical
Audible signal will sound if the resistance is
less than approximately 30$
9V (6mA); 1.5V (100mA)
>1M!
45Hz to 450Hz
200mV
3 digit, 2000 count LCD, 0.5 digits
1 is displayed
Automatic (no indication for positive polarity);
Minus (-) sign for negative polarity.
2 times per second, nominal
BAT is displayed if battery voltage drops
below operating voltage
one 9 volt (NEDA 1604) battery
mA, A ranges; 0.2A/250V fast blow
A range; 10A/250V fast blow
41oF to 104oF (5oC to 40oC)
-4oF to 140oF (-20oC to 60oC)
Max 80% up to 87F (31C) decreasing linearly
to 50% at 104F (40C)
<80%
7000ft. (2000) meters maximum.
9.17 oz. (260g).
4.78 x 2.38 x 1.57 (121.5mm x 60.6mm x
40mm)
For indoor use and in accordance with
Overvoltage Category II, Pollution Degree 2.
Category II includes local level, appliance,
portable equipment, etc., with transient
overvoltages less than Overvoltage Category III.

BATTERY INSTALLATION
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads from any
source of voltage before removing the battery door.
1. Disconnect the test leads from the meter.
2. Remove the protective rubber holster (if installed).
3. Open the battery door by loosening the screw using a
Phillips head screwdriver.
4. Insert the battery into battery holder, observing the
correct polarity.
5. Put the battery door back in place. Secure with the
screw.
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not operate the meter until the
battery door is in place and fastened securely.
NOTE: If your meter does not work properly, check the fuses and batteries
to make sure that they are still good and that they are properly inserted.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: Risk of electrocution. High-voltage circuits, both AC and DC,
are very dangerous and should be measured with great care.
1. ALWAYS turn the function switch to the OFF position when the meter is
not in use.
2. If OL appears in the display during a measurement, the value exceeds
the range you have selected. Change to a higher range.
NOTE: On some low AC and DC voltage ranges, with the test leads not
connected to a device, the display may show a random, changing reading.
This is normal and is caused by the high-input sensitivity. The reading will
stabilize and give a proper measurement when connected to a circuit.
DC VOLTAGE MEASUREMENTS
CAUTION: Do not measure DC voltages if a motor on the circuit is
being switched ON or OFF. Large voltage surges may occur that can
damage the meter.
1. Set the function switch to the highest V DC
position.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the
negative (COM) jack.
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the
positive (V) jack.
3. Touch the black test probe tip to the negative side
of the circuit.
Touch the red test probe tip to the positive side of
the circuit.
4. Read the voltage in the display. Reset the
function switch to successively lower V DC
positions to obtain a higher resolution reading.
The display will indicate the proper decimal point and value. If the
polarity is reversed, the display will show (-) minus before the value.
10

AC VOLTAGE MEASUREMENTS
WARNING: Risk of Electrocution. The probe tips may not be long
enough to contact the live parts inside some 240V outlets for
appliances because the contacts are recessed deep in the outlets. As
a result, the reading may show 0 volts when the outlet actually has
voltage on it. Make sure the probe tips are touching the metal contacts
inside the outlet before assuming that no voltage is present.
CAUTION: Do not measure AC voltages if a motor on the circuit is
being switched ON or OFF. Large voltage surges may occur that can
damage the meter.
1. Set the function switch to the highest V AC position.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the
negative (COM) jack.
Insert red test lead banana plug into the positive (V)
jack.
3. Touch the black test probe tip to the negative side of
the circuit.
Touch the red test probe tip to the positive side of
the circuit.
4. Read the voltage in the display. Reset the function
switch to successively lower V AC positions to obtain
a higher resolution reading. The display will indicate
the proper decimal point and value.

11

DC CURRENT MEASUREMENTS
CAUTION: Do not make current measurements on the 10A scale for
longer than 30 seconds. Exceeding 30 seconds may cause damage to
the meter and/or the test leads.
1. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative
(COM) jack.
2. For current measurements up to 200mA DC, set the
function switch to the highest DC mA position and
insert the red test lead banana plug into the (mA) jack.
3. For current measurements up to 10A DC, set the
function switch to the 10A range and insert the red test
lead banana plug into the (10A) jack.
4. Remove power from the circuit under test, then open
up the circuit at the point where you wish to measure
current.
5. Touch the black test probe tip to the negative side of the circuit.
Touch the red test probe tip to the positive side of the circuit.
6. Apply power to the circuit.
7. Read the current in the display. For mA DC measurements, reset the
function switch to successively lower mA DC positions to obtain a
higher resolution reading. The display will indicate the proper decimal
point and value.

12

RESISTANCE MEASUREMENTS
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect power to the unit under
test and discharge all capacitors before taking any resistance
measurements. Remove the batteries and unplug the line cords.
1. Set the function switch to the highest $# position.
2. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the
negative (COM) jack
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the
positive $ jack.
3. Touch the test probe tips across the circuit or
part under test. It is best to disconnect one side
of the part under test so the rest of the circuit will
not interfere with the resistance reading.
4. Read the resistance in the display and then set
the function switch to the lowest $ position that is
greater than the actual or any anticipated resistance. The display will
indicate the proper decimal point and value.
CONTINUITY CHECK
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, never measure continuity on
circuits or wires that have voltage on them.
1. Set the function switch to the
position.
2. Insert the black lead banana plug into the
negative (COM) jack
Insert the red test lead banana plug into the
positive ($) jack.
3. Touch the test probe tips to the circuit or wire
you wish to check.
4. If the resistance is less than approximately 30$,
the audible signal will sound. If the circuit is
open, the display will indicate 1.
13

DIODE TEST
1. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the
negative COM jack and the red test lead banana
plug into the positive diode jack.
2. Turn the rotary switch to the
/ ))) position.
3. Touch the test probes to the diode under test.
Forward voltage will indicate 400 to 700mV.
Reverse voltage will indicate I. Shorted devices
will indicate near 0mV. Shorted devices will
indicate near 0mV and an open device will
indicate I in both polarities.
BATTERY TEST
1. Insert the black test lead banana plug into the negative COM jack and
the red test lead banana plug into the positive V jack.
2. Select the 1.5V or 9V BAT position using the
function select switch.
3. Connect the red test lead to the positive side of
the 1.5V or 9V battery and the black test lead to
the negative side of the 1.5V or 9V battery.
4. Read the voltage in the display.
Good
Weak
9V battery:
>8.2V
7.2 to 8.2V
1.5V battery: >1.35V 1.22 to 1.35V

14

Bad
<7.2V
<1.22V

MAINTENANCE
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads from any
source of voltage before removing the back cover or the battery or fuse
doors.
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not operate your meter until the
battery and fuse doors are in place and fastened securely.
This MultiMeter is designed to provide years of dependable service, if the
following care instructions are performed:
1. KEEP THE METER DRY. If it gets wet, wipe it off.
2. USE AND STORE THE METER IN NORMAL TEMPERATURES.
Temperature extremes can shorten the life of the electronic parts and
distort or melt plastic parts.
3. HANDLE THE METER GENTLY AND CAREFULLY. Dropping it can
damage the electronic parts or the case.
4. KEEP THE METER CLEAN. Wipe the case occasionally with a damp
cloth. DO NOT use chemicals, cleaning solvents, or detergents.
5. USE ONLY FRESH BATTERIES OF THE RECOMMENDED SIZE
AND TYPE. Remove old or weak batteries so they do not leak and
damage the unit.
6. IF THE METER IS TO BE STORED FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME,
the batteries should be removed to prevent damage to the unit.

15

REPLACING THE BATTERIES

WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads from any
source of voltage before removing the battery door.
1. When the batteries become exhausted or drop below the operating
voltage, BAT will appear in the right-hand side of the LCD display.
The batteries should be replaced.
2. Follow instructions for installing batteries. See the Battery Installation
section of this manual.
3. Dispose of the old batteries properly.
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not operate your meter until the
battery door is in place and fastened securely.
REPLACING THE FUSES
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads from any
source of voltage before removing the fuse door.
1. Disconnect the test leads from the meter and any item under test.
2. Remove the protective rubber holster.
3. Open the fuse door by loosening the screw on the door using a Phillips
head screwdriver.
4. Remove the old fuse from its holder by gently pulling it out.
5. Install the new fuse into the holder.
6. Always use a fuse of the proper size and value (0.2A/250V fast blow
for the 200mA range, 10A/250V fast blow for the 10A range).
7. Put the fuse door back in place. Insert the screw and tighten it securely.
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not operate your meter until the
fuse door is in place and fastened securely.
UL LISTED
The UL mark does not indicate that this product has been evaluated for the
accuracy of its readings.

16

TROUBLESHOOTING
There may be times when your meter does not operate properly. Here are
some common problems that you may have and some easy solutions to
them.
Meter Does Not Operate:
1. Always read all the instructions in this manual before use.
2. Check to be sure the batteries are properly installed.
3. Check to be sure the batteries are good.
4. If the battery is good and the meter still does not operate, check to be
sure that both ends of the fuse are properly installed.
If You Do Not Understand How the Meter Works:
1. Purchase the instructional book Multitesters and Their Use for Electrical
Testing (Item No. 82303) at your local Sears store.
2. Call our Customer Service Line 1-888-326-1006.

SERVICE AND PARTS

Item Number
82374
93894
82378
82140-DB
82140-DF
82140-CS

Description
Fuse kit
9V battery
Set of black and red Test Leads
Replacement battery door
Replacement fuse door
Rear cover screws

For replacement parts shipped directly to your home

Call 9 am 5 pm Eastern Time, M - F
1-888-326-1006

17

Owner's Manual

Voltage Detector

Model No. 82174

CAUTION: Read, understand and follow Safety Rules and Operating

Instructions in this manual before using this product.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
www.craftsman.com
022205
FIVE YEAR FULL WARRANTY
FIVE YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN Voltage Detector.
If this CRAFTSMAN Voltage Detector fails to give complete
satisfaction within five years from the date of purchase, RETURN IT
TO THE NEAREST SEARS STORE OR OTHER CRAFTSMAN
OUTLET IN THE UNITED STATES, and Sears will replace it, free of
charge.
If this CRAFTSMAN Voltage Detector is used for commercial or rental
purposes, this warranty applies for 90 days from the date of
purchase.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have
other rights which vary from state to state
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Dept. 817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
For Customer Assistance Call 9am-5 PM (EST), Monday through
Friday 1-888-326-1006

18

WARNING: USE EXTREME CAUTION IN THE USE OF THIS

DEVICE. Improper use of this device can result in injury or death.
Follow all safeguards suggested in this manual in addition to the
normal safety precautions used in working with electrical circuits. DO
NOT service this device if you are not qualified to do so.

SAFETY SYMBOLS
This symbol adjacent to another symbol, terminal or
operating device indicates that the operator must refer to
an explanation in the Operating Instructions to avoid
personal injury or damage to the Voltage Detector.
WARNING

This WARNING symbol indicates a potentially hazardous

situation, which if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.

CAUTION

This CAUTION symbol indicates a potentially hazardous

situation, which if not avoided, may result in damage to the
Voltage Detector.
This symbol indicates that a device is protected
throughout by double insulation or reinforced insulation.

UL LISTED
The UL mark does not indicate that this product has been evaluated for the
accuracy of its readings.

19

SPECIFICATIONS
Voltage Sensitivity
Frequency
Detection distance
Over voltage
Operating Temperature
Storage Temperature
Humidity
Altitude
Battery
Dimensions/Weight
Safety

100 to 240V AC
50/60Hz
<0.2
Category III 600V
o
o
32 to 122 F (0 to 50 C)
o
o
-4 to 140 F (-20 to 60 C)
<85%RH
<2000 meters (6561 feet)
2 AAA batteries
6x0.75x1 inches / 2oz
For indoor use and in accordance with
Overvoltage Category III, Pollution Degree 2.

BATTERY INSTALLATION
6. Open the battery door (end cap) by gently
prying up/out at the pocket clip using a small
screwdriver.
7. Insert two AAA batteries (observe polarity).
8. Replace the battery door.
NOTE: If your meter does not work properly,
check the battery to make sure that it still
good and that it is properly inserted.

20

End cap
Removal
for battery
replacement

En
R
fo
re

WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not operate the meter until the
battery cover is in place and fastened securely.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: Risk of Electrocution. High-voltage circuits, both AC and
DC, are very dangerous and should be measured with great care.

AC VOLTAGE DETECTION
WARNING: Risk of Electrocution. Before using to check for voltage in
an outlet, always test the Voltage Detector on a known live circuit to
verify that the Voltage Detector is working properly.

WARNING: Risk of Electrocution. Keep hands and fingers on the body

of the probe and away from the probe tip
To check for the presence of AC electrical voltage in an outlet:
1. Touch the probe tip to a cord plugged into the outlet, or insert the probe
tip into all the outlet holes.
2. If AC electrical voltage is present, the detector light will flash and the
audible warning will sound.
NOTE: Random beeps and flashes due to detection of static charges are
normal. Detection of live conductors will produce a steady flash
and beep.

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