UEi Test Instruments ATTPC2 Pipe Clamp Temperature Probe

I am impressed with the quality of workmanship of this temperature probe. Although I have not used it on a actual application, I did a comparison with a Fluke K-type bead probe and they were within 2 degrees F. I will do an immersion test in ice water to check the accuracy of the Fluke probe, thus the accuracy of the UEI probe. Not sure I want to immerse my new UEI probe, though that would be the best accuracy check. If I find any deficiencies, I will revise this review.11/6/2013:Yesterday I did a comparison between the two probes by clipping them together and placing them in a refrigerator for about 4 hours, taking 5 different readings. The good news, the UEI ATTPC2 probe reads just 1 degree higher than the Fluke at temperature range of 38-42 degrees F. The bad news, when I tested the Fluke K-type bead probe submerged in 32 degree ice water it read 37 degrees F., a 5 degree error. This means a 6 degree error on the UEI probe. Not a real problem for me since I can compensate for the error when I use it. It does point out that regardless of the probe used, you need determine if there is a error so you can compensate for it. I used a Fluke 12 VOM with a Fluke 80TK Thermocouple Module for my test. I would recommend that you test the accuracy of the probe using your most commonly used meter and if you regularly use different meters, establish the error for each combination of meter and probe.

As a professional HVAC/R Tradesman I depend on my tools for accuracy and longevity, especially in critical refrigeration.I had thought I did my home work and read the reviews here and elsewhere. Most were positive, but not all.I use digital gauges and clamps at the condensing unit and depend on the purchased clamps (2) for readings at the evap using my Fluke 52, so I can gather all readings at once with no loss in time, resulting in a change of readings.The contact bands on the clamp (picture attached) break easily and are not made for daily professional use, especially for the $50.00 cost of each one, I had expected to last longer than 6 months.The second clamp contact band is showing signs of breakage as well.I always clean the pipe contact area and attach with care not to turn once clamped.I can not recommend this product at this time. There is a stated one (1) year limited warranty. Let's see how that goes...This product may be suitable for a lab environment or Tech that does not require daily use (minimal) or a few times a month.I just ordered the PYLE Meters PCTL01 Pipe Clamp for $14.00 and will see how this works and post updates.Initial accuracy my be different on any product but you digital meter will adjust the correction using ice water. For higher temps I use a calibrated spirit and digital thermometer that both read the same and compare the type K to those for accuracy.

Well, it's not actually a calibration since you can't really callibrate these, but you will need to make a few measurements with these vs a calibrated clamp. I found that mine read consistently 6 degrees too cool in the 45-80 degree range. I just wrote "+ 6" on the probe in sharpie so that I remember to add 6 degrees to my readings.

I own 2 of these pipe temperature probes. One for superheat and one for subcooling. A co-worker of mine working in the HVAC field has always talked about how great FLUKE meters are. I let him borrow one of my UEi pipe clamp temperature probes to check against his FLUKE pipe clamp temperature probe. He gave me my UEi pipe temperature probe back after the side-by-side comparison. My co-worker told me that there was never more than a one degree difference between his FLUKE and my UEi pipe clamp temperature probe. Both pipe temperature probes featured a 'k' style plug making them compatible with his FLUKE meter.

Under the product information on main page says it opens up to 4 inch piping. If you look under fine print for this particular temp clamp however it says up to 1 inch. That should be posted on main page, not the up to 4 inches for other clamps.

Wire breaks where it meets the handle. Every year I have to buy a new one. Love the accuracy.

I tested the clamp verses a calibrated thermometer, and it was at first four degrees difference, then tested at various temps, had to adjust the connections to fit my meter. So they affected test,Second round was a little better, but over all not happy with item. It is a China product, so I believe the quality is poor. This type of temperature clamp has to be no more than one degree, at most difference. Thumbs down

Functions Okay. The wire is very stiff and gets more unmanageable the colder it gets.