Chauvin Arnoux CA 5273 TRMS Digital Multimeter

CA 5273 is a handheld TRMS digital multimeter from Chauvin Arnoux with 6000-count double display, a low-impedance voltage position (VLowZ) for electrical installations, 10 A current measurement, capacitance up to 60 mF and K-thermocouple temperature, rated 1000 V CAT III and 600 V CAT IV.

A rugged electrician multimeter with ghost-voltage rejection

The manual describes the CA 5273 as a stand-alone portable digital multimeter that combines, in one instrument, AC voltage with low input impedance for electrical work, AC or DC voltage with high input impedance for electronics, frequency, resistance, audible continuity, semiconductor-junction testing, capacitance, AC or DC current and temperature from a K thermocouple.

The VLowZ position is the feature aimed at installation work. Its input impedance is below 1 MΩ, which avoids reading phantom voltages caused by coupling between lines, and its low-pass filter (cut-off below 300 Hz) lets the meter read the RMS voltage supplied by a PWM variable-speed drive. The manual warns that above 150 Hz the reading is reduced considerably, so the full-bandwidth V position must be used for higher frequencies.

Features given in the manual

• 6000-count display with a secondary display and a 63-element bargraph, plus backlighting.
• AUTO AC/DC detection on V and A: the larger component is displayed, and coupling can be forced.
• MAX/MIN with 100 ms capture, HOLD and range selection with four function keys and a nine-position switch.
• Audible continuity (beep below 30 Ω ± 3 Ω) and diode test.
• Capacitance from 6 nF to 60 mF, with a “run” indication while acquisition is in progress.
• Temperature in °C or °F from a K thermocouple; overload alarm beep above 600 V.
• Automatic shut-down after ten minutes without use.

Technical specification

Voltage, frequency and current

Resistance, capacitance, temperature

General specification

Choosing the right voltage position

Use V for general-purpose DC and AC work and for electronics, and VLowZ when a high-impedance meter would show a ghost voltage on a disconnected cable. Use the 10 A terminal and its 30 kA HRC fuse for current; the bag (reference P01298074) is the listed accessory.

Operation and care

Connect the black lead to COM and the red lead to the plus input; use the 10 A terminal for current and place the probes in series between source and load. All resistance measurements must be made with the power off. To test the fuse, set the switch to Ω, connect the V socket to the 10 A socket and read below 2 Ω; if not, replace the fuse. Disconnect all cables before opening the battery or fuse cover.

The manual forbids use in an explosive atmosphere, requires leads rated to IEC 61010-031 at the instrument category or higher, and asks for a metrological check at least once a year.

Day-to-day uses in Oman and the GCC

Electricians and maintenance technicians use a 1000 V CAT III / 600 V CAT IV TRMS meter on distribution boards, motor control centres and HVAC equipment. Capacitance and temperature ranges also help during air-conditioning service. The meter is specified to 50 °C operating temperature, which should be kept in mind for readings taken inside hot enclosures.

Accessories

The manual lists one accessory, a bag of 120 x 200 x 60 mm (reference P01298074). The meter comes with its leads, probes, temperature probe and battery. Other measuring instruments from the same group are in the Portable Test & Measurement category.

Frequently asked questions

What is the VLowZ position for?

It reads voltage through an input impedance below 1 MΩ so that phantom voltages from line coupling are suppressed, and it filters at 300 Hz so a PWM drive output reads as RMS.

What safety rating does the CA 5273 have?

The manual gives 1000 V CAT III and 600 V CAT IV, pollution degree 2, double insulation, at altitudes below 2000 m.

What is the maximum current it can measure?

The 10 A range displays up to 20 A, but 10 to 20 A is allowed for only 30 s with a 5-minute pause, at an ambient temperature of 35 °C maximum.

How is temperature measured?

From a K thermocouple connected to COM and the plus input; a temperature probe is included in the delivery.

Is Seven Star LLC a Chauvin Arnoux distributor?

No. Seven Star LLC is not a Chauvin Arnoux distributor; it is an independent Muscat-based supplier that quotes Chauvin Arnoux products on request.

Documents and quotation

This page carries the official Chauvin Arnoux user manual for CA 5273. Seven Star LLC is an independent supplier in Muscat and sources Chauvin Arnoux products on request; tell us the quantity and delivery point to receive a quotation. Always confirm the order code and technical values in the document first. See more in the product category.