A current clamp allows the user to test amperage levels without breaking into the circuit, like you would have to with a multimeter. To use it, you first turn on the clamp and set it to the appropriate setting. Open the clamp and put a single wire within it. A reading should appear almost instantly on the screen and update somewhat frequently.
- Amp Clamp
- Clamp Meter
- Clamp-on Ammeter
- Curent Probe
- Tong Tester
A current clamp may also go by:
Types of Current Clamps
The different types of current clamps will have perks and drawbacks, and it's important to know the limits of the one you plan to buy or already own.
Current Transformer Clamp
This design uses a transformer to make the magnetic field around a wire more detectable.
Iron Vane Clamp
Hall Effect Sensor Clamp
Rogowski Coil Clamp
DC Amp Clamps Versus Multimeters: Why Own Both? by Cars Simplified
Multimeters are limited in how much current they can measure before they are damaged. Using a current clamp to test a circuit before using the multimeter to get a more precise measurement is a good way to avoid destroying fuses while also having the ability to measure amperage beyond what the multimeter can.