Hioki DT4256 Digital Multimeter

The DT4256 is part of a professional line of multimeters designed to meet the needs of electricians, technicians, and others who require reliable, versatile electrical testing tools. It handles DC voltage up to 1000 V and AC voltage up to 1000 V with True RMS functionality, giving confidence in readings even with non-ideal waveforms. Direct current measurement up to 10 A is supported, so smaller current work doesn’t require external clamps. It also supports AC current through clamp sensors with appropriate accessories for larger current ranges.

One helpful feature is the low-pass filter (at 100 Hz or 500 Hz) to isolate the fundamental frequency, which is useful when measuring inverter outputs or other sources with harmonics. The device also has dual displays (main and sub), letting you view two parameters at once (e.g. voltage + frequency). Rugged design features include wide operating temperature range, drop resistance, safety category ratings (CAT IV 600 V and CAT III 1000 V), protective fuses for current inputs, and bright backlighting for visibility.

For data handling, it has internal memory (up to about 400 data points or so), and it supports optional USB communication so you can transfer, display, or save measurement data in real time or afterward. Physical build includes a holster, solid switches, and leads. Battery life is decent, particularly with the backlight off. Overall the DT4256 aims for a balance between functionality, durability, and safety.

Features

• True RMS Measurements — For accurate readings on AC voltage and current even when waveforms are non-sine and distorted.
• Direct 10 A Input — Allows measuring currents up to 10 A without needing external clamp for those ranges.
• Low-Pass Filter — Two selectable cutoff frequencies (100 Hz / 500 Hz) to remove high-frequency harmonics when measuring fundamental waveforms.
• Multiple Measurement Functions — Includes DC/AC voltage, DC/AC current, resistance, continuity, diode test, capacitance, frequency.
• Dual Display — Main and sub display so you can view, for example, measured value + frequency simultaneously.
• Safety & Ruggedness — CAT IV 600 V / CAT III 1000 V ratings, fused current inputs, drop-proof design, wide temperature operating range.
• USB Communication — Optional USB package allows downloading, real-time display, and saving of measurement data.
• Internal Memory — Stores measured values internally (≈ 400 points) for later transfer or review.
• Frequency Range — AC voltage and current measured over a frequency range of about 40 Hz to 1 kHz.
• User-friendly Features — Backlight, auto-power-save, MAX/MIN/Average functions, auto/hold/relative value display, good display refresh rate and bar graph for quick visual feedback.

Includes

• Test lead L9207-10* ×1
• Holster ×1
• Instruction manual ×1
• LR03 alkaline battery ×4
  * Replaced by the probe L9300 starting with batches manufactured in March, 2025.