The Fluke 376 FC and Fluke 179 are different types of meters designed for different applications. The 376 FC is a clamp meter designed for measuring high levels of current as well as voltage. The 179 is a multimeter with the capability for measuring relatively high voltages, but relatively low levels of current. Both meters offer True RMS measurement capability. Read on for a more in-depth explanation of the differences between these tools.

Measurement Capabilities

The Fluke 376 FC is a clamp meter which can measure voltage up to 1000 V AC/DC as well as current up to 999.9 A AC/DC using the meter's integrated jaw. This meter also includes Fluke's flexible iFlex current probe as standard which allows you to measure current up to 2500 A on conductors which would normally be inaccessible with a rigid clamp. Other measurements are also possible including frequency up to 500 Hz, resistance up to 60 kΩ, and capacitance up to 1000 μF. The 376 FC also includes a 500 mV DC measurement range to interface with other accessories as well as min, max, average and in-rush recording functions to capture variations automatically.

The Fluke 179 is a multimeter which can measure voltage up to 1000 V AC/DC as well as current up to 10 A AC/DC (with 20 A overload measurement up to 30 seconds). Basic DC accuracy for this meter is 0.09%. Other measurements are also possible including frequency up to 100 kHz, resistance up to 50 MΩ, and capacitance up to 10,000 μF. The 179 also features temperature measurement capability for temperatures ranging from -40°C to 400°C. The 179 also includes a 600 mV DC measurement range as well as min, max, and average functions and the capability for performing diode tests.

Special Features

The 376 FC is compatible with the Fluke Connect® system of wireless connected tools. This powerful systems lets you log and trend measurements to pinpoint intermittent faults, transmit results wirelessly via the Fluke Connect® Measurements app, create and send reports right from the field, and capture measurements from safely outside the arc flash zone using Bluetooth connectivity to your Apple or Android devices. Fluke Connect® also lets you record results directly to your phone and the Fluke Cloud™. You can even use Fluke Connect® to create and share reports from the field via email, or converse in real time with ShareLive™ video calls.

In addition, the 376 FC also includes built-in logging capabilities which are helpful for capturing intermittent faults while performing other tasks. An integrated VFD low pass filter on this meter is also crucial for taking accurate motor drive measurements. Auto shut off and display hold features are also found on this unit in addition to a bright display backlight.

The Fluke 179 is not compatible with Fluke Connect®. That said, it does also feature a bright display backlight as well as display hold. On this meter, you can also view ana analog bar graph of your measurements on screen. The display on this meter supports up to 6,000 counts and 3-1/2 digits. The 179 also has overvoltage protection against transient spikes up to 6 kV.

Safety & Warranty

The 376 FC has been rated to IP30 against water and dust ingress. Both meters are safety rated to CAT III 1000 V and CAT IV 600 V. The 376 FC includes a standard 3-year warranty, while the 179 comes standard with a limited lifetime warranty.

Want to know more? Check out the tables below for complete specifications or give us a call at 877-571-7901. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.