Keysight Technologies

U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters

Data Sheet

Trustworthy Measurements in the Palm of Your Hand!

Introduction

Gain the confidence to achieve trustworthy measurements thanks to the precision, accuracy
and repeatability of the Keysight Technologies, Inc. U1280 series handheld digital multimeters
(DMMs). Why feel tied to the bench when it comes to the need of troubleshooting electronic
circuits in the system? Now you can get accurate and reliable measurement with 60,000-count
display resolution and 0.025% basic DCV accuracy for troubleshooting electronic circuits of the
system.

Key Features
–– 60,000-count dual display
–– Up to 0.025% basic DCV accuracy
–– Longer battery life up to 800 hours
–– Certified to IP 67 for water and dust protection
–– Tested to withstand a 3-meter (10-ft) drop
–– CAT III 1000 V / CAT IV 600 V overvoltage protection
–– Special features1
–– Vsense for non-contact voltage detection
–– Square wave output for generating pulse width modulation (PWM) signal
–– Frequency counter
–– Low pass filter
–– For Keysight Remote Link solution, add on optional U1117A Infrared (IR)-to-Bluetooth®
adapter to get instant wireless Bluetooth connection

1.  U1282A only

03 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

Prolonged battery life and rugged

The last thing you want is for your tools to run out of juice when you need it the most.
The U1280 series handheld DMMs lets you carry out test and measurements over a longer
duration than ever before. With up to 800 hours of battery life, you have a handheld
DMM which works for a long time minus the hassle of battery change, especially useful
for frequent usage or prolong testing. Put your battery concerns behind and fully focus
on your work at hand, as it should be for maximum productivity.

When operating in harsh conditions, you’d need tools which are strong enough to stand
up to the task. The U1280 series are housed in robust over mold enclosures and certified
to IP 67, providing superior protection to monitor against dust and water immersion.
Better yet, it is also designed to absorb the impact of a 3-meter (10 ft) drop.

Vsense for non-contact voltage detection

Troubleshooting in most electrical environment is typically dangerous due to the high
voltages involved. Now with the unique built in Vsense feature, you get a quick sense of
AC voltage presence without the need to probe. When voltage presence is detected, it
produces a unique combination of audible beeper alert and blinking LED light to alert
users. This is especially useful to safeguard users from exposure to live wires, suspected
AC voltage presence or simply an act of safety precaution before initiating a task. Work
with a peace of mind knowing your safety comes first with Keysight’s U1280 Series
handheld DMM.

Figure 1. Large display and backlit keypad allow

users to complete their jobs even in subdued
lighting conditions.
04 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

Comprehensive data logging experience with Keysight Meter Logger software

When it comes to the need to observe measurements over a period of time, Keysight
Meter Logger software provides a comprehensive data logging experience with Keysight
U1280 Series as well as other Keysight U1200 Series handheld DMMs. The handheld
DMM can be easily connected to the Meter Logger software that runs on a PC via
Infrared (IR)-to-USB cable, or to do so wirelessly with the optional Keysight Remote
Link solution. Keysight Meter Logger software provides users the flexibility and useful
configuration to log their measurements, such as the flexibility to select sample interval,
enable limit levels on the data log and email notification option for when the limit is
exceeded. The data log measurements can be presented either by trend plot or table
format for easy interpretation and further analysis — essential for troubleshooting and
commissioning tasks. Once the measurements are recorded in the software, users can
transfers the logged data into various types of report formats with just a click of the button.

Figure 2. U1282A data log trend plot with markers and limit levels. Figure 3. U1282A data log in table format.

Graph report
Table report
Graph and table
report Limit test report
Manual test report
Figure 4. Various test reports formats available for data logging Distribution report
05 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

Manual logging made easy with Hold & Export

button
While data logging over a period of time is useful to capture
measurements for further observations and analysis, manual data
log is just as useful to conveniently record measurements and
reduce human error occurrence from conventional manual data
entering process. Better yet, users are able to store measurement
readings into the handheld DMM’s internal memory and at the
same time export the measurements to the Keysight Meter
Logger software or Keysight Remote Link solution via the DMM’s
infrared port — all of these by simply pressing the ‘Hold & Export’ Figure 5. Hold & Export button—one press for three actions: Measure, save it
into handheld DMM’s memory and send the measurement out via infrared port.
button. When the situation requires users to concentrate on Optional U5404A remote switch probe emulates ‘Hold & Export’ button.
probing, the optional U5404A remote switch probe can be used
to perform manual logging by emulating the ‘Hold & Export’
button of the U1280 Series handheld DMMs.

Built-in low pass filter

Today, three-phase AC electric motors are the most important
workhorses in industry and commercial facilities. With the advent
of solid state electronics, variable speed drives (VFD) are used to
regulate the speed of three-phase AC motors to increase the effi-
ciency of AC motors. However, the increased use of VFDs present
challenges to technicians in getting accurate voltage, current
and frequency measurements that match with readings shown on
the VFD’s control panel display. Many true RMS DMMs that have
high AC bandwidth are measuring VFD signals up to 20% to 30%
higher than the drive’s controller display due to the reason that
DMMs are measuring the carrier frequency/switching frequency
Figure 6. Data logging experience with Keysight Meter Logger software
generated by VFDs. Keysight U1280 Series comes with LPF (low
pass filter) feature which blocks unwanted high frequency signal
from VFDs’ switching components. The net result is an accurate
measurement of VFD’s output signal which helps to expedite the
maintenance or troubleshooting tasks of VFDs.

Programmable
Keysight U1280 Series comes with programmability capability that
allows avid programmer to create computer programs to control
the handheld DMM. The programmability of Keysight U1280
Series allows users to automate Keysight U1280 Series or even
integrate into bigger test systems.

Figure 7. Pair up the U1280 series with Keysight Remote Link solution for
wireless measurement option
06 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

Front panel

Vsense* red LED indicator for

non-contact voltage detection

60,000-count dual display

Frequency counter for low voltage application

Data logging:
– Manual data logging up to
100 readings, or,
– Auto/event data logging up to
10,000 readings
Broad range of measurement functions:
Low pass filter (LPF)* to reduce voltage, current, frequency, capacitance,
unwanted noise when measuring resistance, continuity, diode test and
AC voltage temperature

Square wave output* for generating pulse

width modulation (PWM) output

CAT IV 600 V CAT III 1000 V overvoltage

protection

Remote switch probe terminal

Back panel

Probe holder/storage
IR-USB connectivity

* U1282A only
07 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

U1280 series comparison

U1281A U1282A
Basic features
Display resolution 60,000 60,000
Auto/manual ranging Yes Yes
Analog bar graph Yes Yes
Backlight Yes Yes
AC bandwidth 30 kHz 100 kHz
True RMS AC + DC AC + DC
Measurements
Voltage DC Range 60 mV to 1000 V 60 mV to 1000 V
Accuracy 0.025 % + 5 cnts 0.025 % + 5 cnts
Voltage AC Range 60 mV to 1000 V 60 mV to 1000 V
Accuracy 0.3 % + 25 cnts 0.3 % + 25 cnts
Current DC Range 600 µA to 10 A 600 µA to 10 A
Accuracy 0.05 % + 5 cnts 0.05 % + 5 cnts
Current AC Range 600 µA to 10 A 600 µA to 10 A
Accuracy 0.6 % + 25 cnts 0.6 % + 25 cnts
Resistance Range 600 Ω to 60 MΩ 60 Ω to 600 MΩ
Accuracy 0.05 % + 2 cnts 0.05 % + 2 cnts
Frequency Range 99.999 Hz to 9.9999 MHz 99.999 Hz to 9.9999 MHz
Accuracy 0.005 % + 3 cnts 0.005 % + 3 cnts
Capacitance Range 10 nF to 100 mF 10 nF to 100 mF
Accuracy 1 % + 5 cnts 1 % + 5 cnts
Temperature Thermocouple type K-type J, K-type
Continuity with beeper Yes Yes
Diode test Yes Yes
Data management
Min/max recording Yes Yes
Display hold Yes Yes
Auto hold Yes Yes
Null Yes Yes
PC-Connectivity Infrared (IR)-USB; Infrared (IR)-USB;
IR-Bluetooth (optional with U1117A) IR-Bluetooth (optional with U1117A)
Special features
Square wave output Yes
Vsense: non-contact voltage detect Yes
Frequency counter Yes
Low pass filter Yes
Safety and regulatory
Over-voltage safety protection CAT III 1000 V / CAT IV 600 V CAT III 1000 V / CAT IV 600 V
EN/IEC 61010-2-030: 2010 compliance Yes Yes
EN/IEC 61010-1: 2010 compliance Yes Yes
General
Operating temperature –20 °C to 55 °C –20 °C to 55 °C
0 % to 80 % R.H. 0 % to 80 % R.H.
Battery (included) 4 x 1.5 V AA 4 x 1.5 V AA
Battery life 800 hours 800 hours
Warranty 3-year 3-year
Calibration One year, or; Two years (with 1.5 times One year, or; Two years (with 1.5 times
of one year specification) of one year specification)
Dimensions (H x W x D) 218 x 96 x 59 mm 218 x 96 x 59 mm
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General specifications
Display 5-digit liquid crystal display (LCD) with maximum reading of 66,000-count
Automatic polarity indication.
Power consumption 250 mVA / 330 mVA with backlight
Battery type 4x 1.5 V AA alkaline battery (ANSI/NEDA 15A or IEC LR6), or;
4x 1.5 V AA zinc chloride battery (ANSI/NEDA 15D or IEC R6), or; 4x 1.5 V AA Lithium battery
(ANSI/NEDA 15-LF or IEC FR6)
Battery life 800 hours typical based on new alkaline batteries for DC voltage measurement
Connectivity Infrared (IR) port, connect with:
–– IR-USB cable, or;
–– U1117A IR-to-Bluetooth adapter (Bluetooth Class 1), or;
–– U1177A IR-to-Bluetooth adapter (Bluetooth Class 2)
Fuse 10 x 35 mm, 440 mA / 1000 V, 10 kA minimum fast-acting fuse
10 x 38 mm, 11 A / 1000 V, 20 kA minimum fast-acting fuse
Operating environment Full accuracy from –20 °C to 55 °C; and up to 80 % R.H. for temperature up to 30 °C decreasing
linearly to 50 % R.H. at 55 °C
Pollution Degree II
Altitude up to 3000 meters
Storage compliance –40 °C to 70 °C, 0 to 80 % R. H. (with battery removed)
Safety compliance EN/IEC 61010-2-030: 2010
EN/IEC 61010-1: 2010
Measurement category CAT III 1000 V / CAT IV 600 V
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) Susceptibility and Emissions: commercial limits per EN/IEC 61326-1
Ingression protection rating IP-67, protected against dust and the effect of immersion between 15 cm and 1 m
Temperature coefficient 0.05 x (specified accuracy) / °C (from –20 °C to 18 °C or 28 °C to 55 °C)
Common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) > 120 dB at DC, 50/60 Hz ± 0.1 % (1 kΩ unbalanced)
Normal mode rejection ratio (NMRR) > 60 dB at 50/60 Hz ± 0.1 %
Dimensions (H x W x D) 218 x 96 x 59 mm
Weight 701 grams (with batteries)
Warranty Three years for main unit
Three months for standard shipped accessories
Calibration cycle One year, or;
Two years (with 1.5 times of one year specification)

Specification assumptions
–– Accuracy is given as ± (% of reading + counts of least significant digit) at 23 °C ± 5 °C,
with relative humidity less than 80 % R.H.
–– Accuracy is specified for 1-year after calibration, at operating temperature of room
temperature. Multiply 1.5 times of the accuracy for 2-year after calibration.
Example ± (1.5 X % of reading + 1.5 X counts of least significant digit).
–– AC and AC µA / mA / A specifications are AC coupled.
–– True RMS measurement is valid from 5 % of range to 100 % of range.
–– For non-sinusoidal waveforms, add (0.1 % of reading + 0.3 % of full scale) typically
–– The maximum circuit limitation of peak signal is 300 % typically for voltage and current
except 250 % and 150 % typically for range 600 V and 1000 V respectively.
–– The crest factor is according to the maximum circuit limitation of peak signal
–– Specification is based on 5 times/second of data refresh rate
–– CMRR and NMRR are based on 5 times/second of data refresh rate
09 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

DC specification for U1281A/U1282A

Function Range Resolution Accuracy ± (% of reading + Test current / burden voltage
counts of least significant digit)
Voltage3,4 60 mV 0.001 mV 0.05 % + 101 —
600 mV 0.01 mV 0.025 % + 51 —
6V 0.0001 V 0.025 % + 52 —
60 V 0.001 V 0.025 % + 5 —
600 V 0.01 V 0.025 % + 5 —
1000 V 0.1 V 0.025 % + 5 —
Current 3,4,5 600 µA 0.01 µA 0.12 % + 10 0.0301 V (50 Ω)
6 mA 0.0001 mA 0.05 % + 5 0.312 V (50 Ω)
60 mA 0.001 mA 0.10 % + 201 0.115 V (0.5 Ω)
600 mA 0.01 mA 0.15 % + 51 0.896 V (0.5 Ω)
6A 0.0001 A 0.3 % + 10 0.240 V (0.01 Ω)
10 A2 0.001 A 0.3 % + 5 0.4 V (0.01 Ω)
Diode test1,2,3 — 0.0001 V 0.5 % + 10 < 1.7 mA
Function Range Resolution Accuracy ± (% of reading + Continuity threshold
counts of least significant digit)
Resistance/ 60 Ω5 0.001 Ω 0.15 % + 20 3 5±3Ω
audible continuity1,2 600 Ω 0.01 Ω 0.05 % + 10 3 25 ± 11 Ω
6 kΩ 0.0001 kΩ 0.05 % + 2 0.123 ± 0.052 kΩ
60 kΩ 0.001 kΩ 0.05 % + 2 1.12 ± 0.5 kΩ
600 kΩ 0.01 kΩ 0.05 % + 2 12.1 ± 5.2 kΩ
6 MΩ 0.0001 MΩ 0.15 % + 2 0.109 ± 0.05 MΩ
60 MΩ4 0.001 MΩ 1.5 % + 3 0.109 ± 0.05 MΩ
600 MΩ4,5,6 0.01 MΩ 3.0 % + 3 (< 100 MΩ) 0.109 ± 0.05 MΩ
8.0 % + 3 (< 600 MΩ)
600 nS 0.01 nS 1 % + 20 None

Notes for DC specifications 3. 600 µA to 60 mA ranges (connection with mA terminal) overload protection
by 10 x 35 mm, 440 mA/1000 V, 10 kA minimum fast-acting fuse.
A. Notes for voltage specification. 4. 6 A and 10 A ranges (connection with A terminal) overload protection by
1. The accuracy is specified after NULL function is used to zero out thermal 10 x 38 mm, 11 A / 1000 V, 20 kA minimum fast-acting fuse.
effect (by shorting test leads). 5. Ensure good ventilation and no heat element close to the meter.
2. The temperature coefficient for 6 V range is 0.075 x (specified accuracy) /
°C (from –20 °C to 18 °C or 28 °C to 55 °C). C. Notes for diode test specification
3. The accuracy is specified for 10 MΩ (nominal) input impedance. 1. Overload protection: 1000 Vrms for circuits < 0.3 A short circuit current.
4. Overload protection for 60 mV and 600 mV ranges: 1000 Vrms for circuits 2. Built-in buzzer sounds when reading is below 0.05 V approximately, and
< 0.3 A short circuit current. Overload protection for other ranges: 1000 Vrms. single tone for normal forward-biased diode or semiconductor junction as
0.3 V ≤ reading ≤ 0.8 V.
B. Notes for current specification 3. The maximum threshold voltage display is less than +3.1 V.
1. Current can be measured up to 440 mA continuously. Maximum of
20 hours for measuring current more than 440 mA. 60 mA and 600 mA D. Notes for resistance/audible Continuity specification
ranges have thermal effect of 0.35 µA/mA to be offset after current 1. Maximum open voltage: < +2.7 V
applied to these ranges. Cool down the meter for at least 6 seconds if 2. Built-in buzzer sounds as transient when resistance less than 25 ± 11 Ω.
100 mA was applied, and at least 3 minutes if 600 mA was applied; or It may capture the intermittent for longer than 1 ms.
alternatively use the NULL function to zero-out thermal effect with open 3. The accuracy is specified after Math Null, which is used to subtract the
test lead before measuring the signal. test lead resistance and the thermal effect. Ensure good ventilation and
2. Current can be measured up to 10 A continuously. Maximum of 30 seconds no heat element close to the meter.
for measuring current more than 10 A to 20 A, add 0.3 % to specified 4. For 60 MΩ and 600 MΩ ranges, the R.H. is specified for < 60 % at 30 °C.
accuracy. The multimeter needs to be cool down after measuring current 5. Only available in U1282A
that is more than 10 A. Cool down the meter for twice the duration of the 6. For 600 MΩ range: temperature coefficient is 0.1 x (specified accuracy) /
measured time and use NULL function to zero-out thermal effect before °C (from –20 °C to 18 °C or 28 °C to 55 °C).
proceeding with lower current measurement.
10 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

AC and AC + DC voltage specification for U1281A / U1282A1,2

Function Range Resolution Accuracy ± (% of reading + counts of least significant digit)
20 Hz to 45 Hz to 1 kHz 1 kHz to 10 kHz 10 kHz to 20 kHz 20 kHz to 100 kHz5
45 Hz
AC voltage 60 mV 0.001 mV 1.0 % + 60 0.3 % + 25 0.7 % + 25 1.5 % + 60 3.5 % + 60
True RMS 600 mV3 0.01 mV 1.0 % + 60 0.3 % + 25 0.7 % + 25 1.5 % + 60 3.5 % + 60
6V 0.0001 V 1.0 % + 60 0.3 % + 25 0.7 % + 25 1.5 % + 60 3.5 % + 60
60 V 0.001 V 1.0 % + 60 0.3 % + 25 0.7 % + 25 1.5 % + 60 3.5 % + 60
600 V 0.01 V 1.0 % + 60 0.3 % + 25 0.7 % + 25 1.5 % + 60 4 3.5 % + 60 4
1000 V 0.1 V 1.0 % + 60 0.3 % + 25 0.7 % + 25 1.5 % + 60 4 N/A
LPF (Low Pass 2.0 % + 60 2.0 % + 25 for < 200 Hz N/A N/A N/A
Filter) enabled, 6.0 % + 60 for < 440 Hz
applicable for all
voltage ranges
and resolutions
AC + DC voltage 60 mV 0.001 mV 1.05 % + 0.35 % + 35 0.75 % + 35 1.55 % + 70 3.55 % + 70
True RMS 70
600 mV3 0.01 mV 1.05 % + 0.35 % + 30 0.75 % + 30 1.55 % + 65 3.55 % + 65
65
6V 0.0001 V 1.05 % + 0.35 % + 30 0.75 % + 30 1.55 % + 65 3.55 % + 65
65
60 V 0.001 V 1.05 % + 0.35 % + 30 0.75 % + 30 1.55 % + 65 3.55 % + 65
65
600 V 0.01 V 1.05 % + 0.35 % + 30 0.75 % + 30 1.55 % + 65 4 3.55 % + 65 4
65
1000 V 0.1 V 1.05 % + 0.35 % + 30 0.75 % + 30 1.55 % + 65 4 N/A
65

Notes
1. Overload protection: 1000 Vrms. Overload protection for mV range: 1000 Vrms for short circuits with
< 0.3 A current.
2. Input impedance: 10 MΩ in parallel with < 100 pF (nominal). The accuracy is specified for 10 MΩ
(nominal) input impedance.
3. Add additional 2 % error as crest factor > 2
4. For voltage that is lower than 300 Vrms, and frequency lower than 30 kHz.
5. Additional error when frequency is more than 30 kHz: 0.1 of least significant digit x square of
frequency. The bandwidth of U1281A is up to 30 kHz only.

Frequency Counts of least Formula Additional error

significant digit
30 kHz 0.1 0.1 x 30 x 30 90
50 kHz 0.1 0.1 x 50 x 50 250
100 kHz 0.1 0.1 x 100 x 100 1000

The bandwidth for U1281A is up to30 kHz only.

11 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

AC and AC + DC current specification for U1281A / U1282A8,9

Function Range Resolution Accuracy ± (% of reading + counts of least significant digit)
20 Hz to 45 Hz 45 Hz to 1 kHz 1 kHz to 20 kHz5 20 kHz to 100 kHz5,6,7
AC current 600 µA1 0.01 µA 1.0 % + 40 0.6 % + 25 1.0 % + 30 5 % + 40
True RMS 6 mA 0.0001 mA 1.0 % + 40 0.6 % + 25 1.0 % + 30 5 % + 40
60 mA 0.001 mA 1.0 % + 40 0.6 % + 25 1.0 % + 30 5 % + 40
600 mA 2 0.01 mA 1.0 % + 40 0.6 % + 25 1.5 % + 30 5 % + 40
6A 0.0001 A 1.0 % + 40 4 0.6 % + 25 1.5% + 30 6 N/A
10 A3 0.001 A 1.0 % + 40 4 0.6 % + 25 1.5% + 30 6 N/A
AC + DC current 600 µA1 0.01 µA 1.12 % + 50 0.72 % + 35 1.12 % + 40 5.12 % + 50
True RMS 6 mA 0.0001 mA 1.05 % + 45 0.65 % + 30 1.05 % + 35 5.05 % + 45
60 mA 0.001 mA 1.10 % + 60 0.70 % + 45 1.05 % + 50 5.10 % + 60
600 mA 2 0.01 mA 1.15 % + 45 0.75 % + 30 1.65 % + 35 5.15 % + 45
6A 0.0001 A 1.15 % + 50 4 0.95 % + 35 1.65 % + 40 6 N/A
10 A 3 0.001 A 1.15 % + 45 4 0.95 % + 30 1.65 % + 40 6 N/A

Notes
1. Typical performance for current ≤ 30 µArms.
2. Current can be measured up to 440 mA continuously. Maximum of 20 hours for measuring current
more than 440 mA.
3. Current can be measured up to 10 A continuously. Maximum of 30 seconds for measuring current
more than 10 A to 20 A, add 0.3 % to specified accuracy. The multimeter needs to be cool down
after measuring current that is more than 10 A. Cool down the meter for twice the duration of the
measured time and use NULL function to zero-out thermal effect before proceeding with lower
current measurement.
4. Input current < 3 Arms.
5. These specifications are for typical performance.
6. For current < 3 Arms and < 5 kHz.
7. Additional error when Frequency is more than 30 kHz: 0.1 of least significant digit x square of
frequency. The bandwidth of U1281A is up to 30 kHz only.

Frequency Counts of least Formula Additional error

significant digit
30 kHz 0.1 0.1 x 30 x 30 90
50 kHz 0.1 0.1 x 50 x 50 250
100 kHz 0.1 0.1 x 100 x 100 1000

8. 6 A and 10 A ranges (connection with A terminal) overload protection by 10 x 38 mm, 11 A / 1000 V,

20 kA minimum fast-acting fuse. 600 µA to 600 mA ranges (connection wth µ.mA terminal) overload
protection by 10 x 35 mm, 440 mA / 1000 V, 10 kA minimum fast-acting fuse.
9. Ensure good ventilation and no heat element close to the meter.
12 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

Temperature specification for U1281A / U1282A 2,3,4,5

Thermal type Range Resolution Accuracy ± (% of reading +
as specified below)
K –200 °C to 1372 °C 0.1 °C 1 % + 1 °C
–328 °F to 2502 °F 0.1 °F 1 % + 1.8 °F
J1 –210 °C to 1200 °C 0.1 °C 1 % + 1 °C
–346 °F to 2192 °F 0.1 °F 1 % + 1.8 °F

Notes
1. Only for U1282A
2. The specification above is specified after 60 minutes of warm-up time.
3. The accuracy does not include the tolerance of the thermocouple probe.
4. Do not allow the temperature sensor to contact a surface that is energized about 30 Vrms or 60 V DC.
Such voltages pose a shock hazard.
5. The temperature calculation is specified according to the safety standards of EN/IEC-60548-1 and
NIST 175.

Capacitance specification for U1281A / U1282A1,2,3

Range Resolution Accuracy ± (% of reading +
counts of least significant digit)
10 nF 0.001 nF 1.0 % + 5
100 nF 0.01 nF 1.0 % + 5
1 µF 0.0001 µF 1.0 % + 5
10 µF 0.001 µF 1.0 % + 5
100 µF 0.01 µF 1.0 % + 5
1 mF 0.0001 mF 1.0 % + 5
10 mF 0.001 mF 1.0 % + 5
100 mF 0.01 mF 2.5 % + 10

Notes
1. Overload protection: 1000 Vrms for short circuits with < 0.3 A current.
2. The accuracy for all ranges is specified based on a film capacitor or better, and after the Null
function is used to subtract the test lead resistance and thermal effect (by opening the test leads).
3. The maximum display is 1200 counts / 12000 counts selectable
13 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

Frequency specification for U1281A / U1282A

Range Resolution Accuracy ± (% of reading + Minimum input frequency
counts of least significant digit)
99.999 Hz 0.001 Hz 0.02 % + 31 0.5 Hz
999.99 Hz 0.01 Hz 0.005 % + 3
9.9999 kHz 0.0001 kHz 0.005 % + 3
99.999 kHz 0.001 kHz 0.005 % + 3
999.99 kHz 0.01 kHz 0.005 % + 3
9.9999 MHz 0.0001 MHz 0.005 % + 3, < 1 MHz

Notes
1. The frequency measurement is susceptible to error when measuring low-voltage, low-frequency signals.
Shielding inputs from external noise pickup is critical for minimizing measurement errors. For U1282A only,
turning on LPF (low pass filter) may help to filter out the noise and achieve a stable reading.

U1281A / U1282A sensitivity1 for voltage measurement

Input range Minimum sensitivity (RMS sine wave) Trigger level for DC coupling
Maximum input2 for 15 Hz to 100 kHz Typical bandwidth 15 Hz to 100 kHz Typical bandwidth
specified accuracy at full scale at full scale
60 mV 2.5 mV 1 MHz 4.5 mV 1 MHz
600 mV 12 mV 1 MHz 15 mV 1 MHz
6V 0.25 V 900 kHz 0.45 V 900 kHz
60 V 2.5 V 600 kHz 4.5 V 600 kHz
600 V 25 V 100 kHz 45 V 100 kHz
1000 V 33 V 100 kHz 50 V 100 kHz

U1281A / U1282A sensitivity1 for current measurement

Input range Minimum sensitivity (RMS sine wave)
Maximum input2 for specified accuracy 15 Hz to 30 kHz Typical bandwidth at full scale
60 µA 38 µA 100 kHz
6 mV 0.38 mA 100 kHz
60 mV 3.8 mA 100 kHz
600 mV 38 mA 100 kHz
6A 0.38 A 100 kHz
10 A 1A 100 kHz

Notes
1. The sensitivity is typical performance.
2. Refer to ‘AC Specifications’ for specified accuracy of maximum input.
14 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

Duty cycle and pulse width for U1281A / U1282A1,2,3

Duty cycle mode Range Accuracy at full scale
DC coupling 99.999% 0.3 % per kHz + 0.3 %
AC coupling 99.999% 0.3 % per kHz + 0.3 %
Pulse width range Resolution Accuracy
99.999 ms 0.001 ms Duty cycle accuracy / frequency + 1
999.99 ms 0.01 ms Duty cycle accuracy / frequency + 1
2000.0 ms 0.1 ms Duty cycle accuracy / frequency + 1

Notes
1. The accuracy for duty cycle and pulse width is based a square wave of full scale input to the 6 V
range. For AC coupling, the duty cycle range can be measured within 5 % to 95 % for signal
frequency more than 15 Hz.
2. The pulse width (positive or negative) must be more than 10 µs. The range of the pulse width is
determined by the frequency of the signal.
3. The range of the duty cycle is determined by the frequency of the signal: {10 µs x frequency x 100 %}
to {[1 –(10 µs x frequency)] x 100 %}

Peak hold for U1281A / U1282A

Signal width Accuracy for DC mV / voltage / current
Single event > 1 ms 2 % + 400 for all ranges
Repetitive > 250 µs 2 % + 1000 for all ranges

dB specification for U1281A / U1282A

dB base Reference Default reference
1 mW (dBm) 1 to 9999 Ω 50 Ω
1 V (dBV) 1V 1V

Notes
1. The reading of dBm is indicated in decibels of power above or below 1 mW, or decibels of voltage
above or below 1 V. The formula is calculated according to the voltage measurement and specified
reference impedance. Its accuracy is depended on the accuracy of the voltage measurement.
2. Auto-ranging mode is used
3. The bandwidth is according to voltage measurement.
15 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

Frequency counter specification for U1282A3

Division Range Resolution Accuracy Sensitivity1 Minimum input frequency
1 99.999 Hz 0.001 Hz 0.02 % + 52 30 mV 0.5 Hz
999.99 Hz 0.01 Hz 0.002 % + 5 30 mV
9.9999 kHz 0.0001 kHz 0.002 % + 5 30 mV
99.999 kHz 0.001 kHz 0.002 % + 5 30 mV
999.99 kHz 0.01 kHz 0.002 % + 5 200 mV
9.9999 MHz 0.0001 MHz 0.002 % + 5, < 1 MHz 200 mV
100 9.9999 MHz 0.0001 MHz 0.002 % + 5, < 20 MHz 330 mV 1 MHz
99.999 MHz 0.001 MHz

Notes
1. The sensitivity is specified as input with a load of 50 Ω.
2. The frequency measurement is susceptible to error when measuring low-voltage, low-frequency
signals. Shielding inputs from external noise pickup is critical for minimizing measurement errors.
For non-square wave signal, add additional 5 counts.
3. The maximum measurement level is ± 1.8 Vp.

Square wave output specification1 for U1282A 2,3

Output Range Resolution Accuracy
0.5, 1, 2, 5, 6, 10,15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 75, 80 Hz 0.01 Hz 0.005 % + 2
100, 120, 150, 200, 240, 300, 400, 480, 600, 800 Hz 0.1 Hz
1200, 1600, 2400, 4800 Hz 1 Hz
Duty cycle1 0.390 % to 99.609 % 0.390625 % 0.4 % at full scale
Pulse width1 1 / frequency Range / 256 Range / 256 + 2 µs
Amplitude Fixed + 2.2 V 0.1 V 0.2 V

Notes:
1. The specification is typical performance.
2. The positive or negative pulse width must be greater than 2 µs for adjustment of the duty cycle or
pulse width under different frequencies. Otherwise, the accuracy and range will be different from the
specification defined.
3. Output impedance: 600 Ω (nominal)

Multimeter data refresh rate

Function Slow (times/second) Fast (times/second)
ACV (V or mV) 5 40
DCV (V or mV) 5 40
Ω 5 40
Diode 5 40
Capacitance 1 (< 100 µF) —
DC µA, mA or A 5 40
AC µA, mA or A 5 40
Temperature 5 40
Frequency 1 (> 10 Hz) —
Duty cycle 1 (> 10 Hz) —
Pulse width 1 (> 10 Hz) —
16 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

Ordering Information

U1281A U1282A
Standard shipped accessories
4 ½-digit handheld digital multimeter, test leads (red and black), infrared
(IR)-to-USB cable, AA batteries (4x), Quick Start Guide, Certificate of Calibration
Optional accessories
U1117A infrared(IR)-to-Bluetooth adapter
–– Enable Bluetooth connection to Keysight handheld digital multimeters
–– Up to 100-meter operating rage

U1115A remote logging display

–– Displays up to 4 Keysight handheld digital multimeters measurements
–– 60,000 points interval logging
–– Extended measurement distance of up to 100-meter

U5404A remote switch probe for U1280 Series

–– Measure and save measurement with a single touch of button

U1594A hard carrying case

Hard carrying case with two compartments for U1280 Series handheld
digital multimeters.

U1595A rugged carrying case

–– High quality, water and dust proof carrying case designed to store up to
two handheld and accessories

U1583B AC current clamp

–– Dual range 40 A and 400 A
–– BNC-to-banana plug adapter provided for use with handheld digital
multimeters
17 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

Optional accessories
U1161A extended test lead kit
Includes two test leads (red and black), two test probes, medium sized alligator clips
and 4-mm banana plugs.
–– Test leads: CAT III 1000 V, CAT IV 600 V, 15 A
–– Test probe (4-mm tips): CAT III 1000 V, CAT IV 600 V, 15 A
–– Medium-sized alligator clips: CAT III 1000 V, CAT IV 600 V, 15 A
–– 4-mm banana plugs: CAT II 600 V, 10 A
U1168B standard test lead kit
Includes two test leads (red and black), 4-mm test probes, alligator clips,
fine-tip test probes, SMT grabbers and mini grabber (black).
–– Test leads: CAT III 1000 V, CAT IV 600 V, 15 A
–– Test probe (19-mm tips): CAT II 1000 V, 15 A
–– Test probe (4-mm tips): CAT III 1000 V, CAT IV 600 V, 15 A
(highly recommended for CAT IV environment)
–– Alligator clips: CAT III 1000 V, CAT IV 600 V, 15 A
–– Fine-tip test p[robes: CAT II 300 V, 3 A
–– SMT grabber: CAT II 300 V, 3 A
–– Mini grabber: CAT II 300 V, 3 A
U1180A temperature sensors and probes
Includes thermocouple adapter, thermocouple bead J-type and thermocouple bead K-type.
–– T/C adapter J/K type
–– T/C bead J-type: –20 to 200 °C
–– T/C bead K-type: –20 to 200 °C

U1181A immersion temperature probe

–– Type K T/C for use in oil and other liquids
–– Measurement range: –50 to 700 °C
–– Includes adapter U1184A for connection to DMM

U1182A industrial surface temperature probe

–– Type K T/C for use on still surfaces
–– Measurement range: –50 to 400 °C
–– Includes adapter U1184A for connection to DMM

U1183A air temperature probe

–– Type K T/C for use in air and non-caustic gas
–– Measurement range: –50 to 800 °C
–– Includes adapter U1184A for connection to DMM

U1184A temperature probe adapter

–– Mini-connector-to-banana-plug adapter for use with DMM

U1185A thermocouple (J-type) and temperature probe adapter

–– T/C adapter J/K type
–– T/C bead J-type: –20 to 200 °C

U1186A thermocouple (K-type) and temperature probe adapter

–– T/C adapter J/K type
–– T/C bead J-type: –20 to 200 °C
18 | Keysight | U1280 Series Handheld Digital Multimeters - Data Sheet

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