The Keysight U1281A is a 4 ½ digit handheld digital multimeter built for field service and maintenance work. It measures AC/DC voltage and current, resistance, capacitance, and frequency with a dual display and backlit screen for operation in low-light conditions. The meter combines high measurement accuracy with a rugged, portable design and intuitive interface for efficient troubleshooting.
Technical Specifications
Display & Power
• 4 ½ digit (20,000 count) dual display with backlight
• One 9V battery (Alkaline or NiMH rechargeable)
• Battery life: approximately 200 hours (Alkaline)
• Operating temperature: 0°C to 55°C
DC Voltage
• Ranges: 200 mV to 1000 V
• Accuracy: ±(0.05% of reading + 5 digits) at 200 mV; ±(0.025% of reading + 5 digits) at higher ranges
• Input impedance: 10 MΩ nominal, 12 pF nominal
AC Voltage (True RMS)
• Ranges: 200 mV to 1000 V
• Frequency response: 50 Hz to 10 kHz (200 mV range); 50 Hz to 20 kHz (higher ranges)
• Accuracy: ±(0.5% of reading + 10 digits) at 200 mV; ±(0.3% of reading + 10 digits) at higher ranges
• Input impedance: 10 MΩ nominal, 12 pF nominal
DC & AC Current (True RMS)
• Ranges: 200 µA to 10 A
• DC accuracy: ±(0.15% of reading + 5 digits) for 200 µA–20 mA; ±(0.3% of reading + 10 digits) for 200 mA; ±(0.5% of reading + 10 digits) for 10 A
• AC accuracy: ±(0.75% of reading + 10 digits) for 200 µA–20 mA; ±(1% of reading + 10 digits) for 200 mA; ±(1.5% of reading + 10 digits) for 10 A
• AC frequency response: 50 Hz to 10 kHz (200 µA–20 mA); 50 Hz to 1 kHz (200 mA and 10 A ranges)
• Burden voltage: 200 mV nominal at full scale
Resistance
• Ranges: 200 Ω to 20 MΩ
• Accuracy: ±(0.2% of reading + 5 digits) to ±(1% of reading + 10 digits) depending on range
• Open circuit voltage: 0.45 V to 2.8 V depending on range
Capacitance
• Ranges: 20 nF to 20 mF
• Accuracy: ±(1% of reading + 10 digits) to ±(5% of reading + 20 digits) depending on range
Frequency
• Ranges: 200 Hz to 200 kHz
• Accuracy: ±(0.01% of reading + 5 digits)
• Input sensitivity: 50 mV RMS typical
Additional Functions
• Continuity test with audible beep; response time less than 1 ms
• Diode test: 2 mA nominal test current, 2.8 V DC nominal test voltage
• Temperature measurement with optional Type K thermocouple probe
– Key Features
• True RMS AC measurements across voltage and current functions
• High-contrast backlit display for visibility in poor lighting
• Dual-display format for simultaneous readings
• Audible continuity indicator for rapid component checking
• High input impedance reduces loading effects on circuits
– Typical Applications
• Field service and maintenance diagnostics
• Electrical troubleshooting and circuit verification
• Component testing (diodes, continuity)
• AC/DC power circuit analysis
• Frequency measurement in industrial and commercial systems
– Compatibility & Integration
Temperature measurement capability requires optional Type K thermocouple probe.
