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Contact us: Email: info@schwick.de Phone: +49 2191 598 280; Please note: We can only deliver to businesses or educational institutions.

UNI-T UT196 Solar Multimeter True RMS 1700V DC 1500V AC IP65

Product information "UNI-T UT196 Solar Multimeter True RMS 1700V DC 1500V AC IP65"

Main Product Features

  • High-voltage measurement: Handles up to 1700 V DC and 1500 V AC for modern utility-scale solar arrays and wind power systems
  • True RMS measurement: Accurate AC voltage readings across a 45 Hz to 1 kHz frequency response range
  • Low Pass Filter (LPF): Effectively isolates high-frequency noise generated by inverters, variable frequency drives, and motor controllers
  • Rugged outdoor construction: Certified IP65 waterproof and dustproof enclosure, engineered to survive 2-metre drops
  • Comprehensive safety: Certified for CAT III 1000 V and CAT IV 600 V environments with 1700 V DC / 1500 Vrms AC overload protection
  • Clear dual display: 6000-count backlit screen with an integrated high-speed analogue bar graph
  • Specialist diagnostic tools: Non-contact voltage detection (NCV), Peak Hold, Max/Min, Relative mode, Data Hold, and an integrated work flashlight

Designed for Demanding Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Systems

As commercial and residential solar installations continuously migrate to higher string voltages to minimise power transmission losses, standard digital multimeters no longer suffice. The UNI-T UT196 Solar Pro Digital Multimeter is engineered specifically to meet the high-voltage demands of modern photovoltaic facilities, wind power systems, and industrial power utilities. With an exceptional voltage capability reaching up to 1700 V DC and 1500 V AC, the UT196 equips field engineers, solar installers, and maintenance teams with the exact technical headroom needed to commission and diagnose utility-grade PV arrays safely and accurately.

Precision Diagnostics with True RMS and Low Pass Filtering

Solar inverters, power conversion controllers, and industrial variable speed drives inherently produce considerable amounts of high-frequency electrical harmonics and switching noise. The UT196 incorporates True RMS measurement alongside an advanced Low Pass Filter (LPF) mode. When engaged, the low-pass filter suppresses high-frequency interference, enabling technicians to obtain stable, reliable fundamental voltage readings without false artefacts. In addition, its low-impedance mode aids in diagnosing sensitive electronics and eliminating ghost or stray voltages that often lead to incorrect fault assessments.

Built for Tough Outdoor Operations

PV systems are installed in demanding environments—from scorching rooftops to desert solar farms subject to windblown sand and heavy rain. The UNI-T UT196 features an IP65-rated housing that guarantees absolute ingress protection against dust and water jets. Built with industrial shock-absorbing materials, the instrument is drop-tested to withstand impacts from heights of up to 2 metres. Even in poorly illuminated inverter housings or under intense direct sunlight, the dual 6000-count backlit display with an analogue bar graph and the built-in LED flashlight ensure effortless visibility and swift workflow.

Strict Compliance with European Safety Standards

Safety is the primary consideration when working on live high-voltage DC combiner boxes and central inverters. The UNI-T UT196 provides full overload protection up to 1700 V DC and 1500 Vrms AC and is tested in strict accordance with the highest international safety categories, classified as CAT III 1000 V and CAT IV 600 V. The instrument fully complies with all relevant European Union directives and CE standards (including EN 61010 electrical safety norms and RoHS guidelines), giving professionals uncompromised peace of mind when performing mission-critical operations.

ParameterMeasurement RangeAccuracy
DC Voltage600 mV / 6 V / 60 V / 600 V / 1700 V±(0.2% + 5)
AC Voltage (True RMS)600 mV / 6 V / 60 V / 600 V / 1500 V±(0.8% + 3)
AC Frequency Response45 Hz to 1 kHz-
Resistance600 Ω / 6 kΩ / 60 kΩ / 600 kΩ / 6 MΩ / 60 MΩ±(0.8% + 2)
Capacitance60 nF / 600 nF / 6 µF / 60 µF / 600 µF / 6 mF / 60 mF±(1.9% + 5)
Frequency60 Hz to 1 MHz±(0.08% + 4)
Display Count6000 counts (Dual display with bar graph)-
Safety RatingCAT III 1000V, CAT IV 600V-
Ingress Protection & ImpactIP65, 2 m drop tested-
Power SupplyStandard 9 V block battery (6F22)-
Dimensions & Weight195 x 95 x 58 mm, approx. 485 g-

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why do I need a multimeter rated up to 1700 V DC for solar installations?

Modern utility-scale and commercial photovoltaic string systems operate at open-circuit voltages (Voc) approaching or exceeding 1000 V DC, frequently peaking at 1500 V DC in cold weather conditions. Standard 1000 V multimeters lack the required rating and safety margin. The UT196 is rated up to 1700 V DC to handle these elevated voltages safely.

What does the Low Pass Filter (LPF) function do?

Solar inverters and drive controllers create high-frequency noise that can distort standard digital multimeter readings. The LPF function filters out this high-frequency noise, isolating the true fundamental sine wave or DC signal to deliver highly accurate readings.

Is the UNI-T UT196 safe for use in adverse weather?

Yes. The meter features an IP65-certified ingress protection rating, making it dust-tight and resistant to water jets from any direction. Combined with a 2-metre drop-proof casing, it is specifically built for rugged outdoor site conditions.

Does this multimeter comply with EU safety regulations?

Yes, the UNI-T UT196 is CE-certified and conforms strictly to European standards (EN 61010-1) under CAT III 1000 V and CAT IV 600 V safety ratings, ensuring maximum user protection against transients and overvoltages.

Can the UT196 measure AC current?

While the instrument does not feature internal direct current shunts, it supports AC current measurements up to 3000 A when paired with an optional external current clamp sensor.

Technical data
Product number: 202658

Manufacturer

Company Name
Uni-Trend Technology (China) Co., Ltd.

Address
No.6, Gong Ye Bei 1st Road, Songshan Lake National High-Tech Industrial Development Zone,
Dongguan City, Guangdong Province, 523 808, CN

Phone
(+86-769)85723888

EU Responsible Person

Company Name
P+C Schwick GmbH

Address
Bergisch Born 87A, 42897 Remscheid, NRW, Germany

E-Mail
info@schwick.de

Phone
+492191598280

Safety Instructions

⚠️ Safety and Warning Instructions for Measurement and Testing Equipment

Before using our measurement and testing equipment (such as multimeters, current/ground fault clamps, voltage testers, laser and environmental measuring devices, laboratory power supplies, oscilloscopes, and testing and inspection tools), please be sure to observe the following warnings:

Electrical Safety & Voltage Hazards (Danger to Life)

  • Risk of electric shock: Check devices and test leads for damage (e.g., cracks in the insulation, exposed wires) before each use. Damaged devices or cables must never be used!
  • Measurement categories (CAT): Pay attention to the permissible overvoltage category (e.g., CAT III 600V, CAT IV 300V). Never use the devices in mains circuits that exceed the specified category or the maximum rated voltage/current.
  • Voltage-free condition: Perform resistance, continuity, diode, or capacitance measurements exclusively on voltage-free circuits. Capacitors must be discharged before measurement.
  • Fuses: Replace defective fuses in multimeters exclusively with the exact same type (usually high-resistance ceramic fuses with the same voltage and current specifications). Never bypass them!
  • Grounding & Lab Power Supplies: Operate mains-powered test equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, lab power supplies, function generators) only from properly grounded outlets. Incorrect voltage or current settings on laboratory power supplies can destroy connected components, which can lead to fire or explosion (e.g., of electrolytic capacitors).

Laser Radiation & Optical Hazards

  • Eye injuries: Many devices (laser rangefinders, infrared thermometers, tachometers) use aiming lasers. Never look directly into the laser beam and do not point it at people or animals.
  • Reflections: Caution around reflective surfaces! The laser beam can be deflected and unintentionally strike the eye.
  • Risk of glare: Borescopes and inspection cameras often have very bright LEDs. Do not look directly into the light source.

Heat, fire hazard & environmental conditions

  • Risk of burns: When using thermal imaging cameras or contact thermometers to measure hot components (e.g., in industrial settings or on engines), there is a risk of accidentally touching hot surfaces. The measuring device itself does not protect against the heat of the test object.
  • Wetness & Moisture: Never use electrical measuring instruments in wet, damp, or extremely condensing environments unless they explicitly have a corresponding IP protection rating. Moisture inside the device can lead to fatal short circuits.
  • Explosion hazard: The devices are generally not EX-protected. Do not use them in environments containing explosive gases, vapors, or dust.

Mechanical hazards & handling

  • Rotating machine parts: When using tachometers, anemometers, or stroboscopes on running machines, there is an extreme risk of entanglement. Maintain a safe distance and do not wear loose clothing, have your hair down, or wear dangling jewelry. Ensure that test leads do not come into contact with moving parts.
  • Falls & Equipment Damage: A dropped measuring device (e.g., multimeter, insulation tester) may be internally damaged, which means protection against electric shock is no longer guaranteed. If in doubt, have the device tested at 230V before using it again.
  • Magnetic fields: Some devices or mounts contain strong magnets. Keep them away from pacemakers, magnetic data storage devices, and sensitive electronics.

General Information & Health

  • Technical expertise: Work on electrical systems (especially those operating at 50V AC / 120V DC or higher) must only be performed by appropriately trained professionals.
  • Batteries: Remove batteries/rechargeable batteries if the device is not used for an extended period of time to prevent damage and burns caused by leaking battery acid.
  • Children: These high-precision test and measurement devices are not toys. Keep them out of the reach of children.
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