Alphatek Instaltest 61557 continuity fault

[Lineman]

Evening guys, new member here and first post. Have a 61557 and the continuity setting seems kaput. Readings obtained are >1999ohms with the leads closed. Its definitely not the leads or the clips/probes because I bought new

and the fault is also present with the tip commnder. I think its either the meter faulty or I have placed it on some mysterious setting as if I press the "display" button it seems to cycle to a different reading (2 continuity readings for one test????). Unable to null leads or use constant continuity readings (the beeping one). Driving me mad this lads and any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[telectrix]

shot in the dark, but try taking the batteries out, then refitting. also, is there a user replaceable fuse like in the megger testers?

 

[Lineman]

thanks mate, tried that, theres a 315ma fuse which is intact. No joy with battery removal. Reckon sending it to metrel is looking likely.

 

[MarkieSparkie]

Remember to back-up all important stored data before replacing batteries.
Ensure you have a good set of alkaline batteries (Duracell or Enegiser preferred) fitted.
Try taking out the batteries for least 60 seconds, then replacing the batteries should restore the manufacturers default settings.

 

[Darkwood]

ive got similar machine and i have issues with fuses getting dead contact points in fuse carriers, try removing all fuses and wire wool the contact points off fuses and holders if they test ok...

 

[MarkieSparkie]

ive got similar machine and i have issues with fuses getting dead contact points in fuse carriers, try removing all fuses and wire wool the contact points off fuses and holders if they test ok...

Wire-wool is a poor choice for cleaning the contacts: 1) You risk small fragments of wire breaking off getting inside the electronics causing shorts on the PCB. 2) Rusting if the tester is exposed to humid conditions or condensation due to ambient temperature step changes e.g. cold van to heated building.
The best way to clean the terminals is to use a glass-fiber brush to remove tarnish and/or isopropyl alcohol on a cotton-bud to remove grease or oils.

 

[Darkwood]

Wire-wool is a poor choice for cleaning the contacts: 1) You risk small fragments of wire breaking off getting inside the electronics causing shorts on the PCB. 2) Rusting if the tester is exposed to humid conditions or condensation due to ambient temperature step changes e.g. cold van to heated building.
The best way to clean the terminals is to use a glass-fiber brush to remove tarnish and/or isopropyl alcohol on a cotton-bud to remove grease or oils.

Good point made, just going by my meter which is similar and has sealed entry to electronics but agree the idea is correct my solution probably not the best.

 

[MarkieSparkie]

If the removal/replacement of batteries method suggested in my post #4 does not clear the fault.
Reset:
Once the batteries are in place, with the instrument OFF press the CAL key and keep it pressed now switch ON the MFT, a rES (meaning RESET function is complete) message should appear on the display after a short while.
Battery and Fuses:
If in continuity mode (R=-200mA) if:- 1) A FuS message is displayed when the leads are shorted check Fuse F1. 2) If >1999 Ohms message is displayed when the leads are shorted, check Fuses F2 and F3.
Check the continuity of all fuses - In the battery compartment are 3 fuses. Fuse F1, left hand side vertical, is a M315mA/250V, 20x5mm ceramic cartridge fuse that protects the internal circuitry if the instrument is subjected to a main voltage by mistake in continuity (R+-200mA) mode. Fuses F2 and F3 are special ceramic cartridge fuses made by Littlefuse (FLQ4) T4A/500V, 38x10mm,with a breaking capacity of 10kA/500V, they are in series with the input terminals on all ranges.
Continuity measurement inhibited:
When conducting a continuity measurement if a voltage >9Vac/dc is detected between the terminals the test will be automatically inhibited, the voltage will be displayed together with a ! symbol and a beep warning (if not turned OFF in menu).
Tip Commander:
When using the tip commander if the red lamp is ON this indicates a low battery condition. Remove the cover of the commander by undoing the the 2 screws on the back. Inside is a 9V (6LR61) alkaline battery which should be replaced.

 

[Lineman]

Thanks to all who contributed to the question appreciate you taking the time to answer! Verdict: needs repair to the sum of £220 which is double it's value! So a new meter is required but thanks again

 

[sparkie_Al]

I know I am late to this one, so I wonder if you replaced the unit with something else.
Incidentally I had this with my unit and replaced the lead set (as they are under 3yr warrenty) and THAT was the problem.