Summary of CurrentRanger – Auto-ranging current meter
CurrentRanger is a precision, auto-ranging nanoAmp ammeter designed for hobby and professional use. It features uni/bi-directional modes, Bluetooth data logging, an OLED display option, and ultra-fast range switching without glitches. Powered by a LiPo battery or USB, it utilizes a SAMD21 microcontroller for full digital control and firmware customization. The device offers low noise zero-offset, low burden voltage, and a Low Pass Filter mode, making it ideal for capturing fast current transients with high precision.
Parts used in the CurrentRanger:
- SAMD21 Cortex M0+ microcontroller
- OLED display
- Bluetooth serial module
- LiPo battery
- Touchpads
- Buzzer (optional)
- Analog outputs
- Input terminal options
Felix designed a precision Auto-ranging nanoAmp ammeter with loads of features. He writes:
CurrentRanger is a nanoAmp current meter featuring auto-ranging, uni/bi-directional modes, bluetooth data logging options and more.
It is a highly hackable and affordable ultra low-burden-voltage ammeter, appropriate for hobby and professional use where capturing fast current transients and measurement precision are important.
Here are some of the features of this instrument which sets it apart:
- Low noise zero-offset with 3-ranges (1mV output per nA/µA/mA)
- Low input burden voltage, high precision & bandwidth analog outputs
- Increased flexibility and usability with several input and output terminal options
- Auto-ranging capable
- Use standalone with a small OLED display or with a multimeter/oscilloscope
- Ultra fast range switching between any ranges (even nA to mA) without any glitching/bouncing of a mechanical switch
- Low Pass Filter mode – very useful to capture low noise signals on oscilloscopes
- Unidirectional mode – most used mode in measuring DC currents ranging from [0, 3.3A]
- Bidirectional mode – split supply biasing allows AC currents measurement ranging from [-1.65A, 1.65A]
- LiPo battery powered – long life and extended measurement range
- Auto-power-off
- Full digital control for power & range switching via touchpads
- OLED display option to read output with usable precision
- Datalogging possible via Bluetooth serial module
- SAMD21 Cortex M0+ powered, change firmware to your needs
- Optional buzzer for audible feedback
- What makes CurrentRanger suitable for capturing fast current transients?
It features ultra-fast range switching between any ranges without glitching or bouncing. - Can I measure AC currents with this device?
Yes, bidirectional mode allows AC current measurement ranging from negative 1.65 Amps to positive 1.65 Amps. - How does the device handle power management?
It is powered by a LiPo battery for long life and includes an auto-power-off feature. - Is it possible to customize the firmware?
Yes, the SAMD21 Cortex M0+ processor allows users to change the firmware to their needs. - Does the instrument support data logging?
Yes, datalogging is possible via a Bluetooth serial module. - What are the available input and output configurations?
It offers several input and output terminal options and provides low input burden voltage analog outputs. - How can I get audible feedback while measuring?
An optional buzzer can be added for audible feedback. - Does the device have a built-in display?
It supports an OLED display option to read output with usable precision.
