HIOKI DT4256 - Versatile Digital Multimeter for Service and Maintenance

Key Specifications

• Direct AC/DC current input up to 10 A 
• AC/DC voltage up to 1000 V 
• Voltage detection function
• Automatic AC/DC detection
• Support for multi range current sensors 

Typical Applications

• Troubleshooting in electrical installations and control systems
• Direct AC/DC current and voltage measurements 
• 4 to 20 mA instrumentation signal measurement 
• Current measurements up to 1000 A with compatible multi range current sensors

Detailed Product Overview

This combination of voltage and current measurements with resistance, capacitance, frequency, continuity measurement and diode testing makes the DT4256 the most universal model among the DT4252, DT4253, DT4255 and DT4256. During AC voltage measurement, frequency can be displayed as a secondary reading. The instrument meets CAT III 1000 V and CAT IV 600 V safety ratings. 

Direct Current, 4 to 20 mA and External Current Sensors

For direct current measurement, the DT4256 provides 3 common AC/DC current ranges: 600 mA, 6 A and 10 A. These ranges cover typical direct current checks without requiring an external current sensor. The instrument also provides an additional 60 mA DC range. This range is suitable for smaller DC currents and also allows 4 to 20 mA signals to be measured directly, while the secondary display shows the corresponding percentage value from 0% to 100%. 

For AC current measurement, the DT4256 supports compatible HIOKI multi range current sensors. With the 9010-50, 9018-50 and 9132-50, the instrument covers AC current measurements from 10 A up to 1000 A via the 9704 Conversion Adapter. Up to 500 A, the 9010-50 covers frequencies up to 1 kHz, while the 9018-50 extends the frequency range up to 3 kHz and provides higher amplitude and phase accuracy. When the selected range on the instrument matches the selected range on the connected sensor, the measured value is displayed directly as a current value on the instrument. 

Additional Features 

Additional functions include HOLD and AUTO HOLD, MAX/MIN/AVG display, and a low pass filter. The wide viewing angle display with backlight supports work in dimly lit environments and when the instrument cannot be viewed straight on. HOLD and AUTO HOLD help retain measured values directly at the test point, while MAX/MIN/AVG supports the review of changing values over time. The instrument also provides contactless voltage detection for preliminary checks before contact measurement. 

The rear stand helps position the instrument at the measurement location, and with the holster attached, the instrument is specified to withstand drops from a height of 1 m onto concrete. The DT4256 is powered by four AA alkaline batteries and provides a continuous operating time of approximately 130 hours with the backlight off. The supplied L9300 test leads are rated for current measurements up to 10 A and use an integrated cap with a sliding protective finger guard. This allows the exposed metal tip length and the applicable measurement category to be adjusted without separate caps that could be removed or lost. 

Optional Accessories 

The optional L4933 Contact Pin Set can be attached to the tip of the L9300 and is useful for narrow or recessed contact points. The optional L4934 Small Alligator Clip Set provides stable contact on conductors and smaller terminals. For PC based applications, the DT4256 supports communication via the optional DT4900-01 Communication Package, which enables optically isolated data transfer and remote operation. 

For attachment to smooth magnetic surfaces such as control cabinet doors or switchgear panels, the optional Z5004 Magnetic Strap or Z5020 Extra Strong Magnetic Strap can be used. Like all HIOKI digital multimeters, the DT4256 has been developed in Japan and is manufactured exclusively in HIOKI’s own production facilities in Japan.