Fluke 376 Review
Great Product
Fluke 376 Review
Reviewed by: Sean Masri
Last modified:
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Fluke 376 Review Summary
The iFlex cable, included as a detachable option in addition to the traditional clamp jaws, permits you to encircle large and awkwardly proportioned wiring looms and components.
Being a true contractor-grade machine, this tool includes project-specific features — such as inrush current to troubleshoot start-up amperages, and a low pass filter to investigate VFD motors.
Accuracy is guaranteed by welcome TRMS technology, while auto-ranging saves you the hassle of having to switch measurement metrics mid-project. And, with CAT III and IV safety ratings — the 376 Fluke is compatible with three-phase and high-energy mains utility systems.
A backlit LCD screen delivers impressive illumination — allowing you to operate the tool in dark and poorly lit conditions. Furthermore, an included carry case delivers effortless portability and elevated protection, while the provision of two AA power cells enables you to use the meter straight after unboxing.
This machine comes from Fluke, one of the most respected brands in circuitry testing. The 376 replaces the now-discontinued 337 model, and is a close sibling of the Bluetooth compatible 376 FC.
Specifications:
- Weight – 13.68 ounces
- Voltage – 1000 volts
- Current – 2500 amps (via iFlex)
- Safety Rating – CAT IV
Features:
- Flexible current probe.
- Low pass filter.
- Inrush current detector.
Pros:
Cons:
Features and Benefits of the Fluke Clamp Meter 376
However, does this novel inclusion make the unit a one-trick-pony, or does it contain everything that the dedicated pro needs for hardcore electrical projects? Time to investigate what’s under the hood.
iFlex Flexible Current Probe
Let’s start with the stand-out feature of the 376 model.
In addition to the traditional jaws concomitant to all clamp meters (if they didn’t have the jaws, they would be multimeters), the 376 incorporates a detachable current probe.
Much like an electrician’s lasso, you can encircle awkwardly sized and shaped wiring and conductors that would otherwise be impossible to surround with the relatively small clamp meter jaws.
Not just boosting operational options, but also increasing maximum current detection to an eye-watering 2500 amps.
Inrush Current Detection
Troubleshooting motor amperage can be challenging — with the majority of clamp meters only measuring running current, not start-up.
The problem is, industrial-grade motors pull substantial amps as they launch — rapidly dropping once the unit is working normally. This makes it virtually impossible to fault-find power breaker trips caused by excessive precursory energy.
Pleasingly, the Fluke 376 Clamp Meter incorporates inrush current measurement — permitting you to differentiate between start-up grunt and running amps and then resolve the issue.
Low Pass Filter
Prepare yourself for some engineering stuff.
Factory-grade three-phase induction motors utilize a VFD (variable frequency drive) to ensure a consistent speed. This works through an intelligent system that continually adjusts input voltage and frequency.
However, when you try to diagnose issues on these systems, the substantial amount of electrical noise they create can interfere with multimeter and clamp meter readings.
The low-pass filter included in the 376 Fluke removes this unwanted disruption, ensuring accurate results.
CAT III and CAT IV Certification
Marking the 376 as a truly professional level machine, this clamp meter boasts CAT III (1000 volts) and CAT IV (600 volts) certification.
This permits the unit to be utilized with both three-phase systems and high-energy utility loads.
TRMS
Unsurprisingly for a contractor-grade tool, the Fluke Multi Clamp 376 includes TRMS — True Root Mean Square — technology. This delivers more precise electrical analysis than basic RMS units, by investigating wave fluctuations instead of simply peak throughput.
This accuracy is critical if your projects include circuitry that deals with delicate components — such as microchips and PCBs.
If you want to learn more about TRMS vs RMS — and why it’s important for your clamp and multimeter — take a look at my complete guide.
Auto-Ranging
If you’re a trade pro dealing with dangerously high energy loads, your full attention needs to be on your project to ensure safety — messing around fiddling and twiddling with buttons and dials can be hazardous.
Hence, it’s reassuring to discover that the Fluke TRMS 376 incorporates an auto-ranging system, automatically detecting whether your results should be displayed in tens, hundredths, or thousandths — without you having to manually select the correct metric.
Usually, this is also a bonus for novice users, as it means that the operator requires no prior knowledge of resistance or capacitance ranges. However, considering the high specification of the 376, it’s unlikely to be utilized by any lay-user apart from the most experienced serious electrical amateur.
Backlit LCD Screen
Providing welcome illumination to your readout results, an integrated backlit LCD screen permits you to effortlessly operate the 376 Clamp Meter in challenging light conditions.
A simple press of the front-mounted button lights up the display, allowing use inside poorly lit basements, attics, engine bays, and machine housing.
Included Accessories
In addition to the base clamp meter unit, the Fluke Tester 376 also arrives complete with:
- iFlex current probe.
- Testing leads.
- Probe protectors.
- Manual.
- Soft carry zip case.
- 2 x AA batteries.
What Is the Difference Between the Fluke 376 vs 376 FC?
Be careful my young clamp meter Padawan — this article examines the 376, it’s not a
Fluke 376 FC Review.
If you check out the Fluke 376 FC specs, you’ll discover they’re virtually identical machines. They have the same CAT safety certification ratings, include the iFlex current probe, and boast the exact ratings for voltage, current, and frequency.
However, there is one crucial difference.
The 376 FC Fluke boasts Bluetooth tech — allowing it to send data to your mobile devices, such as tablets, cells, and laptops. The basic 376 model — the focus of this review — doesn’t possess this capability.
Fluke Clamp Meter Model 376 Specifications
| Fluke 376 | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 13.68 ounces |
| Continuity | Yes |
| True RMS | Yes |
| Voltage | 1000 Volts |
| Current | 600 Amps (jaw)/2500 Amps (iFlex) |
| Highest Safety Rating | CAT IV |
| Size | 9.68 x 3.26 x 1.69 inches |
| Batteries | 2 x AA |
| Capacitance | 1000 μF |
| Resistance | 6000 Ω |
| Backlight | Yes |
| Frequency | 5.0 - 500.0 Hz |
| Temperature Testing | No |
| Warranty | Three years |
What Do Users Say About the Fluke Clamp Meter TRMS 376?
In my eyes, the 376 Fluke is a premier pro-grade clamp meter for the professional whose projects lead them to investigate awkwardly sized wiring looms and components.
However, with minimal personal hands-on experience with this circuitry tester, it’s tough for me to give an entirely thorough review. So, to ensure the most comprehensive examination possible — I turned to the owners of this machine to discover exactly how it functions in the field.
Reassuringly, the feedback was remarkably positive. Proponents of the 376 unit celebrated the novel iFlex current probe, applauded the contractor-grade inrush current system and low pass filter, and welcomed the accurate TRMS technology.
Sure, some naysayers weren’t totally won over. One electrician was disappointed that for a high-end unit, there was no temperature testing facility. Furthermore, a couple of owners criticized the lack of onboard storage for the iFlex cable — although, considering it’s larger than the base unit itself, I have no idea where they thought it could be integrated.
However, all users concurred that the Fluke TRMS Clamp 376 was a true commercial level testing meter for the genuine electrical pro.
Alternatives to the Fluke AC/DC 376 Clamp Meter
Is the mighty Fluke Clamper 376 failing to stir your electrical loins?
Should this machine not meet your personal preferences or the demands of your DIY or trade projects, fear not. I’ve sourced some impressive alternatives that may more suitably address your requirements.
Fieldpiece SC680
If you demand a pro-level meter, but are disappointed that the premium 376 model lacks temperature testing capabilities — I may have found a solution.
Like the Fluke machine, the Fieldpiece SC680 includes a low pass filter, CAT IV certification, inrush current detection, and a backlit LCD screen. However, able to investigate heat levels from -58 degrees to 2372 degrees Fahrenheit — it’s more suited to HVAC engineers than the non-temperature scrutinizing 376.
- Possesses wireless integration, not possible with the Fluke.
- Easier on the bank balance than the 376 clamp meter.
- Includes a flashlight, not a feature of the Fluke.
Klein CL800
The CL800 from the respected brand Klein Tools offers pro-level CAT IV certification, auto-ranging, temperature testing, and TRMS technology. However, at under half the price of the Fluke, it’s more appealing to the general tradesperson and serious DIYer.
- Microamps feature, not included on the 376.
- No LCD backlight, integrated into the Fluke model.
- Lacks the 376’s iFlex probe.
Fluke 365
The 365 Fluke incorporates a detachable jaw head. Secured to the base unit via a 35.4-inch cable, you can position the clamp around awkwardly located wires and components without having to squeeze in a full-sized meter.
- TRMS and Auto-ranging, like the Fluke 376.
- CAT III certified, as opposed to the CAT III and IV of the 376.
- Lighter on your pocket than the 376 Fluke.
Conclusion
A low pass filter and inrush current technology allow you to diagnose troublesome VFD motors and investigate problematic power breaker issues. Its CAT IV rating permits use in high-energy environments, and its TRMS technology guarantees accuracy.
Admittedly, being project and contractor-specific, many features will lead the machine to be over-specced for general electricians and the serious amateur — meaning these guys would pay over the odds for capabilities that are redundant in their day-to-day work.
However, for the trade pro whose projects demand versatility, exactitude, and elimination of noise and stray voltages — few units come close to the Fluke 376.
Fluke Multi Clamp Meter 376 FAQs
Q: What Is the Fluke 376 Price?
This machine boasts a unique flexible current probe, TRMS, auto-ranging, and a low pass filter. To check out the current cost of the Fluke 376.
Q: Where Can I Find the Fluke 376 Manual?
For rapid access to the Fluke 376 Manual.
Q: What Is the Fluke 376 FC Price?
The Fluke Clamp Meter 376 FC is virtually identical to the standard 376 model, apart from it includes wireless Bluetooth technology. To check out the curret cost of the Fluke 376 FC.
Q: Where Can I Buy the Fluke Clamping Meter 376?
The Fluke Multi Clamp Meter 376 is a pro-grade machine with a novel iFlex current probe. You can get your hands on this impressive tool here.
Q: Where Can I Buy the Fluke Clamp 365 Multimeter?
The Fluke Clamping Multimeter 365 offers TRMS technology, auto-ranging, a detachable clamp head, and a memory hold function. You can get your hands on this machine by clicking here.
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