Fluke 8502A Digital Multimeter

The Fluke 8502A is a 6.5-digit digital multimeter built around microprocessor control and bus architecture for precision measurement across calibration, R&D, and manufacturing environments. Its modular construction houses active components in plug-in modules connected to a mainframe motherboard, enabling flexible option selection and reduced service downtime. The instrument performs digital filtering on averaged samples and executes various operations on measured inputs before display, controllable via front panel or remote interface.

– Technical Specifications

Display & Resolution
• 6.5-digit resolution with 5½-digit display plus polarity and decimal point
• High Resolution mode expands to 6½ digits using the exponent display
• Engineering notation via exponent display showing polarity and exponent value
• LED indicators for function identification and autoranging status
• Warning and error codes displayed as “HHHHHH” (input exceeds full scale) or “H” (input >40V in Scaling, External Reference, or Offset modes)

Measurement Capabilities
Standard configuration includes DC Voltage (5 ranges), DC Ratio, Resistance (8 ranges), and DC Current (5 ranges). Optional modules expand functionality: AC Voltage (4 ranges) via AC Averaging Module (-01) for sinewaves or True RMS AC Converter Module (-09A) for sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal waveforms; AC Current available with optional current converter.

Accuracy & Performance
• DC Voltage: 6 PPM accuracy
• DC Ratio: ±0.001% + 1 Digit
• True RMS AC Converter Module (-09A): frequency-dependent accuracy spanning 30 Hz to 100 kHz
• Thermal True RMS Converter Module (8502A/AT): up to 0.015% accuracy
• System throughput: up to 500 readings per second
• Overrange capability: up to 212%
• Response time: maximum 6 seconds (True RMS and Thermal modules)

– Key Features

• Plug-in modular architecture for scalable measurement options
• Microprocessor-controlled measurement with digital filtering
• Remote interface support alongside front-panel control
• LED status indicators for real-time function and range visibility
• High overrange tolerance for transient protection

– Typical Applications

Precision calibration, component characterization, production test, and electronic design validation where 6.5-digit resolution and low DC accuracy requirements drive measurement confidence.

– Compatibility & Integration

Plug-in module ecosystem supports AC measurement expansion. Remote control capability enables system integration into automated test environments.