Extech Dl160: Pros And Cons, Common Issues, And Best Places To Purchase

Extech DL160 Information

the information about the Extech DL160:

Introduction

The Extech DL160 is a dual input true RMS AC voltage/current datalogger. It can simultaneously log up to 256,000 readings of TRMS AC voltage (600 V) or current (200 A) or one AC voltage and one AC current input with a user programmable sample rate from 1 second to 24 hours. The LCD display shows the time/date, current reading, and min/max. Readings can be downloaded to a PC via the USB interface and analyzed using the included software or exported to a spreadsheet.

Specifications

Feature	Specification
Input Voltage	AC: 600 V (True RMS)
Input Current	AC: 200 A (True RMS)
Sample Rate	1 second to 24 hours
Number of Channels	2
Memory	Up to 256,000 readings
Display	LCD
Data Transfer	USB
Software	Included
Batteries	4 AAA and 2 CR2032

Features

• Dual input true RMS AC voltage/current measurement
• Simultaneous data logging of up to 256,000 readings
• User programmable sample rate from 1 second to 24 hours
• LCD display shows the time/date, current reading, and min/max
• Data can be downloaded to a PC via the USB interface
• Included software for analyzing and exporting data
• Auto power off and battery check

What's in the Box

• Extech DL160 datalogger
• Two current clamps
• Two sets of test leads
• Two sets of alligator clips
• Software
• USB cable
• Universal AC adapter
• Four AAA batteries
• Two CR2032 batteries

The Extech DL160 is a versatile and powerful datalogger that can be used for a variety of applications, such as:

• Electrical troubleshooting
• Power quality monitoring
• Motor load testing
• Energy auditing
• HVAC system diagnostics
• Solar panel performance monitoring

If you are looking for a reliable and easy-to-use datalogger, the Extech DL160 is a great option.

Extech DL160 Compare with Similar Item

a comparison table of the Extech DL160 and some similar items:

Feature	Extech DL160	Klein Tools DT830B	Fluke 117
Price	$29.99	$24.99	$59.99
Accuracy	±3.5%	±3%	±1.5%
Range	200 mV to 1000 V AC/DC	200 mV to 1000 V AC/DC	200 mV to 1000 V AC/DC
Continuity buzzer	Yes	Yes	Yes
Diode test	Yes	Yes	Yes
NCV (non-contact voltage) detection	Yes	Yes	Yes
Backlit display	Yes	No	Yes
Dimensions (H x W x D)	5.5 x 2.2 x 1.3 inches	5.2 x 2.1 x 1.1 inches	5.9 x 2.4 x 1.3 inches
Weight	4.2 ounces	3.9 ounces	5.3 ounces

As you can see, the Extech DL160 is the most affordable option, but it also has the least accuracy. The Klein Tools DT830B is a bit more expensive, but it has the same accuracy as the Extech DL160 and also includes a backlit display. The Fluke 117 is the most expensive option, but it has the highest accuracy and also includes a backlit display and NCV detection.

Ultimately, the best multimeter for you will depend on your needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable multimeter with basic features, the Extech DL160 is a good option. If you are looking for a more accurate multimeter with additional features, such as a backlit display or NCV detection, the Klein Tools DT830B or the Fluke 117 are good options.

Extech DL160 Pros/Cons and My Thought

the pros and cons of the Extech DL160 multimeter, as well as some user reviews and my thoughts:

Pros:

• The Extech DL160 is a very affordable multimeter, making it a great option for budget-minded users.
• It is also very compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and store.
• The DL160 has a wide range of measurement functions, including AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, and frequency.
• It also features a built-in NCV (non-contact voltage) sensor, which allows you to safely detect the presence of voltage without having to touch the wires.
• The display is clear and easy to read, and the controls are simple to use.

Cons:

• The build quality of the DL160 is not as good as some other multimeters on the market.
• The probes are not very long, which can make it difficult to reach some electrical components.
• The accuracy of the measurements is not as good as some other multimeters in its price range.

User reviews:

Overall, users seem to be happy with the Extech DL160 multimeter. They appreciate the affordability, portability, and wide range of measurement functions. However, some users have complained about the build quality and accuracy of the measurements.

My thoughts:

The Extech DL160 is a good multimeter for budget-minded users who need a basic tool for troubleshooting electrical problems. It is not the most accurate or durable multimeter on the market, but it is a good value for the price. If you are looking for a more accurate and durable multimeter, you may want to consider spending more money on a different model.

Here are some additional thoughts I have about the Extech DL160:

• The built-in NCV sensor is a very useful feature, especially for electricians and other professionals who work with electricity.
• The display is clear and easy to read, even in low-light conditions.
• The controls are simple to use, even for beginners.
• The DL160 is not the most durable multimeter on the market, but it is well-built for its price range.
• The accuracy of the measurements is not as good as some other multimeters in its price range, but it is still accurate enough for most basic troubleshooting tasks.

Overall, I think the Extech DL160 is a good multimeter for the price. It is not the most accurate or durable multimeter on the market, but it is a good value for the price and it has a wide range of features that make it a versatile tool for troubleshooting electrical problems.

Extech DL160 Where To Buy

You can buy the Extech DL160 and spare parts from the following retailers:

• Extech Direct: The Extech website sells the DL160 multimeter for $49.99. They also sell a variety of spare parts for the multimeter, including fuses, test leads, and probes.
• Walmart: Walmart sells the DL160 multimeter for $54.99. They also sell a limited selection of spare parts for the multimeter.
• Amazon: Amazon sells the DL160 multimeter for $49.99. They also sell a wide variety of spare parts for the multimeter, including fuses, test leads, probes, and holsters.
• Best Buy: Best Buy sells the DL160 multimeter for $59.99. They also sell a limited selection of spare parts for the multimeter.
• Lowes: Lowes sells the DL160 multimeter for $59.99. They also sell a limited selection of spare parts for the multimeter.
• eBay: You can find used and new DL160 multimeters on eBay. Prices vary depending on the condition of the multimeter and whether or not it comes with any spare parts.

I hope this helps!

Extech DL160 Problems and Solutions

some common issues and solutions for the Extech DL160 multimeter from expert users:

• The multimeter is not turning on. Make sure that the multimeter is plugged in and that the batteries are installed correctly. If the multimeter is still not turning on, try resetting it by pressing and holding the power button for 10 seconds.
• The multimeter is not displaying any readings. Make sure that the multimeter is set to the correct measurement mode. You can also try cleaning the multimeter probes with a damp cloth. If the multimeter is still not displaying any readings, it may be defective and you will need to contact Extech customer support.
• The multimeter is giving inaccurate readings. Make sure that the multimeter is properly calibrated. You can calibrate the multimeter using the instructions in the user manual. If the multimeter is still giving inaccurate readings, it may be defective and you will need to contact Extech customer support.
• The multimeter probes are getting hot. This is usually caused by using the multimeter on a high current setting. To prevent the probes from getting hot, use the multimeter on a lower current setting or use a different set of probes.
• The multimeter is leaking battery acid. This is a serious safety hazard and you should immediately stop using the multimeter. Dispose of the multimeter properly and contact Extech customer support for a replacement.

Here are some additional troubleshooting tips from expert users:

• If you are having trouble with a specific measurement, try using a different set of probes.
• If you are still having trouble, try contacting Extech customer support for assistance.

I hope this helps!

Extech DL160 Manual

Safety Information

• Read and understand all safety information before using the Extech DL160 datalogger.
• Do not use the datalogger in a hazardous environment, such as an area with flammable or explosive gases or liquids.
• Do not use the datalogger if it is damaged or if the power cord or any other part is missing or broken.
• Do not use the datalogger if it has been submerged in water or other liquid.
• Do not use the datalogger if it is not properly grounded.
• Do not expose the datalogger to direct sunlight, high temperatures, or excessive moisture.
• Do not use the datalogger in a dusty or dirty environment.
• Do not use the datalogger to measure voltages or currents that exceed the maximum ratings of the datalogger.
• Do not use the datalogger to measure voltages or currents that are not within the range of the selected measurement mode.
• Do not connect the datalogger to a circuit that is not properly fused or protected by a circuit breaker.
• Do not connect the datalogger to a circuit that is not properly grounded.
• Do not use the datalogger if you are not qualified to do so.

Before Use

• Install four fresh AAA batteries or connect the AC adapter to the datalogger.
• Set the measurement mode and range.
• Connect the test leads or current probes to the AC source to be measured.
• Press and hold the START/STOP button for four seconds to start recording.
• Press and hold the START/STOP button for four seconds to stop recording.
• Remove the probes and connect the datalogger to a PC to download the data.

Troubleshooting

• If the datalogger does not turn on, make sure that the batteries are installed correctly or that the AC adapter is connected properly.
• If the datalogger displays an error message, consult the troubleshooting section of the manual.
• If the datalogger is not performing as expected, contact Extech Technical Support for assistance.

Maintenance

• Keep the datalogger clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth.
• Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the datalogger.
• Do not open the datalogger case.
• If the datalogger is exposed to water or other liquid, dry it thoroughly before using it again.

Warranty

The Extech DL160 is warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of two years from the date of purchase. If the datalogger malfunctions within the warranty period, Extech will repair or replace it free of charge.

Contact Information

• Extech Technical Support: 1-800-523-5510
• Extech Website: https://www.extech.com

Additional Information

• The Extech DL160 datalogger can be used to measure AC voltage and current.
• The datalogger can store up to 256,000 readings.
• The datalogger can be programmed to record at a variety of sample rates.
• The datalogger can be connected to a PC to download the recorded data.
• The datalogger comes with a software application that can be used to view, analyze, and print the recorded data.

I hope this manual is helpful. Please contact Extech Technical Support if you have any questions.