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PET RO N A S

GA S

TRAINING MODULE

ELECTRICAL
(BASIC)

TITLE
:
MODULE NO :

TEST INSTRUMENTS
E03

Capability Improvement Dept.2004


For Internal Use Only

DUTY NO 15: TEST INSTRUMENTS


OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this module, the technician would be able to demonstrate
knowledge and understanding on the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.

Safety precautions in test & measurement


Basic construction and operation of Multimeter (Digital & Analog)
Functional selection, setting of Digital Multimeter
Use of digital multimeter and test procedures.
Theory of Insulation measurement
Basic construction and operation of Insulation resistance tester
Functional selection, setting of Insulation resistance tester
Use of digital Insulation resistance tester and test procedures.
Basic construction and operation of Clamp on Ammeter
Functional selection, setting & use of Clamp on Ammeter
Theory of Earth Resistance measurement
Function and operation of Earth Resistance tester
Preparation and set-up of Earth Resistance tester
Function and operation of Loop tester and RCD tester
Preparation and set-up of Loop tester and RCD tester

16. test procedure & circuitry

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TABLE OF CONTENT
1.0.0 Introduction.............................................................................. 5
2.0.0 Safety........................................................................................ 6
2.1.0 Causes of Electrocution..........................................................................8
2.2.0 Use of High voltage protection equipment ...........................................8
2.2.1 Clearances ..................................................................................................................9

2.3.0 Section 2 Safety of BS 6626: 1985 .......................................................10


2.3.1. Responsibility ..........................................................................................................10
2.3.2 Rules or procedure for safe systems at work ........................................................10
2.3.3 Isolation and access for maintenance ....................................................................11
2.3.4 Preparing for maintenance work .............................................................................12
2.3.5 Fire extinguishing equipment..................................................................................13
2.3.6 Testing.......................................................................................................................14
2.3.7 Disposal of scrap......................................................................................................14

3.0.0 Multimeter .............................................................................. 15


3.1.0 Analog Multimeter..................................................................................16
3.2.0 Digital Multimeter ...................................................................................17
3.2.1 Voltage Measurements.............................................................................................20
3.2.2 Current Measurements.............................................................................................21
3.2.3 Resistance Measurements.......................................................................................21

3.3.0 Digital vs. Analog Multimeters..............................................................22


3.4.0 Safety Precautions.................................................................................22

4.0.0 Insulation resistance tester (Megohmmeter) ...................... 23


4.1.0 Analog Megohmmeter ...........................................................................23
4.2.0 Digital Megohmmeter ............................................................................24
4.3.0 Insulation resistance test......................................................................26
4.3.1 Components of DC leakage current ........................................................................26
4.3.2 Determining The Polarization Index ........................................................................27
4.3.3 Correction for Winding Temperature ......................................................................28
4.3.4 Insulation Contamination.........................................................................................29

4.4.0 Insulation resistance test methods......................................................29


4.4.1 Spot testing...............................................................................................................29
4.4.2 Step voltage test .......................................................................................................30
4.4.3 Time resistance test .................................................................................................30

4.5.0 Safety Precautions.................................................................................30


4.6.0 Insulation resistance (IR) test on Cables ............................................31
4.7.0 Insulation resistance (IR) test on Transformer...................................32
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4.8.0 Insulation resistance (IR) test on Motor/Generator............................32

5.0.0 Clamp on meter ..................................................................... 34


5.1.0 Theory of operation of AC Clamp on meter ........................................35
5.2.0 Theory of operation of AC/DC Clamp on meter..................................36
5.3.0 Specifications of Digital Clamp on meters..........................................37
5.4.0 Advantages of Digital Clamp on meter................................................37
5.5.0 Advantages of Digital over Conventional Type ..................................37
5.6.0 Applications of Digital Clamp on meters.............................................38
5.7.0 Clamp on meter operations (Fluke model 321/322)............................38
5.8.0 Safety Precautions.................................................................................40

6.0.0 Earth tester, Loop tester & Residual Current Device (RCD)
tester................................................................................................ 42
6.1.0 Earth resistance .....................................................................................43
6.2.0 Principle of Earth resistance testing ...................................................44
6.3.0 Earth resistance test methods .............................................................46
6.4.0 Earth Loop resistance ...........................................................................47
6.5.0 Earth Loop resistance test....................................................................48
6.6.0 Digital Earth Loop resistance tester from Megger (L T5 and L T6) ..48
6.7.0 Applications & Use of Earth Loop resistance tester..........................49
6.8.0 Residual Current devices (RCDs) ........................................................50
6.8.0 Residual Current devices (RCDs) ........................................................51
6.9.0 Testing of RCDs .....................................................................................51
6.10.0 Digital RCD tester from Megger (CBT3 and CBT4)...........................52
6.11.0 Safety Precautions...............................................................................54

7.0.0 Attachments........................................................................... 55
7.1.1 Fluke multimeter manual.......................................................................55
7.12 Megger Manual BM80 .............................................................................55
7.13 Fluke Clamp on meter Instruction sheet ..............................................55
7.14 Megger Digital Earth Tester ...................................................................55
7.15 Megger Digital Loop Tester....................................................................55
7.16 Megger RCD Tester.................................................................................55

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1.0.0 Introduction
Testing is performed to verify the integrity of electrical systems. Most of these tests
are non-destructive in nature and can be used to provide a complete look at the status
and age of the equipment. In this module, we will concentrate on the following
electrical tests instruments:
Multimeter (Digital & Analog)
Insulation resistance tester
Clap on Ammeter
Earth resistance tester
Earth loop impedance & RCD tester
In this module included the some specific OEM instruction manuals for the above
mentioned test set. The module basically prepared to train the technicians to read and
interpret the OEM manuals of the test instrument, which is the required to perform the
some of the tasks prescribed in POSS under duty no. 15. In the process, it covers the
basic underpinning knowledge required to perform the required tasks. For gaining the
expertise in the activities, detail study of the Operation & Maintenance manual of
respective test instrument and hands on experience is necessary.
Note: Testing of electrical distribution equipment requires experience and an
understanding of the hazards involved. The test equipment used at your workplace
may be different or from different manufacturer than the one discussed in the
module. You are therefore advised to read and understand the manufacturer's
specifications/ guidelines and make yourself well conversant before attempting any
testing work or operating the test equipment.

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2.0.0 Safety
In the interest of safety, all test equipment should be inspected and tested before
being taken to the job site. There is no need to get to the job and find that the test
equipment does not work.
A thorough visual inspection (i.e., checking for broken meters or knobs, damaged
plugs, or frayed cords) is important.
Always perform an operational check. For example:
On an ohmmeter, short the probes and ensure that you can zero the meter.
A voltmeter can be checked against an AC wall receptacle or a battery.
If a meter has a calibration sticker, check to see if it has been recently calibrated.
For precise measurements, a recently calibrated meter is a more reliable instrument.
Every person who works with electrical equipment should be constantly alert to
the hazards to which personnel may be exposed, and should also be capable of rendering
first aid. The hazards are electric shock, burns, and related hazards.
Safety must be the primary responsibility of all personnel. The installation,
maintenance, and operation of electrical equipment enforce a strict safety code.
Carelessness on the part of the technician or operator can result in serious injury or death
due to electrical shock, falls, burns, flying objects, etc. When an accident has occurred,
investigation almost invariably shows that it could have been prevented by the exercise of
simple safety precautions and procedures. Each person concerned with electrical
equipment is responsible for reading and. becoming thoroughly familiar with the safety
practices and procedures contained in all safety codes and equipment technical manuals
before performing work on electrical equipment. It is your personal responsibility to
identify and eliminate unsafe conditions and unsafe acts which can cause accidents.
You must bear in mind that de-energizing main supply circuits by opening supply
switches will not necessarily de-energize circuits in a given piece of equipment. A source
of danger that has often been neglected or ignored, sometimes with tragic results, is the
input to electrical equipment from other sources, such as back-feeds. Moreover, the
rescue of a victim shocked by the power input from a back-feed is often hampered
because of the time required to determine the source of power and isolate it. Therefore,
turn off all power inputs before working on equipment, tag and lock out, then check with
an operating tester to be sure that the equipment is safe to work on.
Take the time to be safe when working on electrical circuits and equipment.
Carefully study the schematics and wiring diagrams of the entire system, noting what
circuits must be de-energized in addition to the main power supply. Remember, electrical
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equipment commonly has more than one source of power. Be certain that all power
sources are de-energized before servicing the equipment. Do not service any equipment
with the power on unless absolutely necessary. Remember that the 115V power supply
voltage is not a low, relatively harmless voltage but is the voltage that has caused more
deaths than any other medium.
Safety can never be stressed enough. There are times when your life literally
depends on it. The following is a listing of common safety precautions that must be
observed at all times:
Use only one hand when turning power switches on or off.
Keep the doors to switch and fuse boxes closed except when working inside or replacing
fuses.
Use a fuse puller to remove cartridge fuses after first making certain that the circuit is
dead.
Ensure that you are qualified and authorised to work on an electrical circuit (LV or HV).
Do not work with energized equipment by yourself; have another person (safety
observer) that is qualified in first aid for electrical shock present at all times.
The person stationed nearby should also know which circuits and switches control the
equipment, and should be given instructions to pull the switch immediately if
anything unforeseen happens.
Always be aware of the nearness of high-voltage lines or circuits. Use rubber gloves
where applicable and stand on approved rubber matting. Not all rubber mats are good
insulators.
Comply to PTW and inform those in charge of operations as to the circuit on which work
is being performed.
Keep clothing, hands, and feet dry. When it is necessary to work in wet or damp
locations, use a dry platform and place a rubber mat or other nonconductive material
on top of the wood. Use insulated tools and insulated flashlights of the moulded type
when required to work on exposed parts.
Do not work on energized circuits unless absolutely necessary.
All power supply switches or cut-out switches from which power could possibly be fed
must be secured in the OPEN (safety) position and perform LOTO.
Never short out, tamper with, or block open an interlock switch.
Keep clear of exposed equipment; when it is absolutely necessary to work on it, use only
one hand as much as possible.
Avoid reaching into enclosures except when absolutely necessary. When reaching into an
enclosure, use rubber blankets to prevent accidental contact with the enclosure.
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Do not use bare hands to remove hot vacuum tubes from their sockets. Wear protective
gloves or use a tube puller.
Use a shorting stick (discharge rod) to discharge all high-voltage capacitors.
Make certain that the equipment is properly grounded. Ground all isolated and discharged
circuits of the equipment under test to prevent accidental charging.
Turn off the power before connecting alligator clips to any circuit.
When measuring circuits over 440V, do not hold the insulated test probes with bare
hands.

2.1.0 Causes of Electrocution


Unsafe Acts:
a Accidentally slipping with wrenches, screwdrivers, etc., while working on or
near electrical equipment with live parts (over 50 volts)
a Switching off the wrong circuit and then failing to verify that the circuit is deenergized before beginning work.
a

Failing to implement lock-out/tag-out procedures or use adequate protective


equipment.

Use of noninsulated tools.

Wearing metal jewelry while working on live circuits.

Using instruments/meters/tools not designed for the system voltage.

Non-electrical personnel working too close to live equipment (e.g. power


lines), usually with cranes or lifting equipment or handling metallic
material.

Unsafe conditions:
a

Improper grounding, loose connections, defective parts, ground faults,


unguarded live parts or faulty insulation in equipment.

Inadequate maintenance.

Hazardous environments, e.g. corrosive or flammable atmosphere, wet or


damp locations.

Inadequate working clearance.

2.2.0 Use of High voltage protection equipment


Anyone working on or near energized circuitry must use special equipment to
provide protection from electrical shock. Protective equipment includes gloves, leather
sleeves, rubber blankets, and rubber mats. It should be noted that this electrical protective
equipment is in addition to the regular protective equipment normally required for
maintenance work. Regular protective equipment typically includes hard hats which are
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rated for electrical resistance, eye protection, safety shoes, and long sleeves.
Gloves that are approved for protection from electrical shock are made of rubber.
A separate leather cover protects the rubber from punctures or other damage. Gloves are
rated as providing protection from certain amounts of voltage. Whenever an individual is
going to be working around exposed conductors, the gloves chosen should be rated for at
least as much voltage as the conductors are carrying. Rubber sleeves are used with gloves
to provide additional protection. The combination of sleeves and gloves protects the
hands and arms from electrical shock.
Rubber blankets and floor mats have many uses. Blankets are used to cover
energized conductors while work is going on around them. They might be used to cover
the energized main busses in a breaker panel before you begin working on a deenergized
breaker. Rubber floor mats are used to insulate workers from the ground. If a worker is
standing on a rubber mat and contacts an energized conductor, the current cannot flow
through the body to the ground, so the worker will not get shocked.
2.2.1 Clearances

Adequate clearances are to be maintained between energized and exposed


conductors and personnel. Where DC voltages are involved, clearances specified shall be
used with specified voltages considered as DC line-to-ground values.
If adequate clearances cannot be maintained from exposed live parts of apparatus
in the normal course of free movement within the area during test, then access to that area
shall be restricted by fences and barricades. Signs clearly indicating the hazard shall be
posted in conspicuous locations. This requirement applies to equipment in service as well
as to equipment to which test voltages are applied.
Whenever there is any question of the adequacy of clearance between the specific
area in which work is to be done and exposed live parts of adjacent equipment, a field
inspection shall be made by management representatives of the group involved before
starting the job. The result of this inspection should be to outline the protection necessary
to complete the work safely, including watchers where needed.
An important piece of information is the minimum distance allowed when
working near energized electrical circuits, because large voltages can arc across an air
gap. Personnel must maintain a distance that is greater than that arc distance. This is
especially true when using a hot stick to open a disconnect.

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These distances are listed in Table 1.

Voltage Range

Minimum Working and

(Phase-to-Phase) Kilovolts

Clear Hot Stick Distance

2.1 to 15

2 ft. 0 in.

15.2 to 35

2 ft. 4 in.

35.1 to 46

2 ft. 6 in.

46.1 to 72.5

3 ft. 0 in.

72.6 to 121

3 ft 4 in.

138 to 145

3 ft. 6 in.

161 to 169

3 ft. 8 in.

230 to 242

5 ft. 0 in.

345 to 362

*7 ft. 0 in.

500 to 552

*11 ft. 0 in.

700 to 765

*15 ft. 0 in.

* For voltages above 345 kV, the minimum working and clear hot stick distances

may be reduced provided that such distances are not less than the shortest
distance between the energized part and a grounded surface.
Table 1. OSHA Working And Hot Stick Distances At Various Voltages

2.3.0 Section 2 Safety of BS 6626: 1985


2.3.1. Responsibility

Electrical equipment should be regarded as being capable of giving rise to danger,


not necessarily of an electrical nature, and it is essential that all persons responsible for
electrical work make themselves acquainted with the relevant statutory requirements. A
list of some relevant publications is included in the foreword, All persons concerned with
the maintenance of equipment should conduct themselves in accordance with the
provisions of the statutory requirements and take reasonable care for the health and safety
of all those carrying out the work, and others who may be affected by their acts or
omissions at work.
A notice giving instructions for the treatment of persons suffering from electric
shock should be affixed in a prominent position in the vicinity in which work on
electrica1 installations will be carried out. It is strongly recommended that all electrical
maintenance personnel be trained in the application of resuscitation and know how to
summon medical help.
2.3.2 Rules or procedure for safe systems at work

It is recommended that in all premises, the employer or occupier should formulate


and update, as needed during the life of the equipment, a set of safety rules or procedures,
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appropriate .to the type of electrical installation, covering the safe access for the purpose
of maintenance to, and the operation of, the equipment on his premises. (See typical
example in appendix D.) Where the employer or occupier is not competent to do this, the
formulation of a set of safety rules may be contracted out to a competent authority.
Where switching or maintenance work has to be done on equipment fed directly
from a source of supply not under the control of the employer or occupier or the persons
actually carrying out the work then special care is required.
It will. Be necessary for all parties to mutually agree procedures and methods of
work in order to ensure the safety of persons carrying out the work, and for these. agreed
procedures to be incorporated in the rules and procedures for the installation.
Care should also be taken to prevent equipment being worked on becoming
energized due to the automatic or inadvertent starting of standby or emergency
generators. In addition, the employer or occupier should ensure that precise instructions
exist, based on the manufacturer's handbook for the safe handling, maintenance and
testing of the equipment. The employer or occupier should also make .arrangements for
monitoring to ensure that the foregoing procedures are effectively performed.
Those concerned with the maintenance of equipment should familiarize
themselves with the plant it controls and report any changes which may affect the
equipment. During maintenance work all personnel should pay particular attention to
warning notices or instructions incorporated on the equipment or set up temporarily
during the maintenance procedures.
2.3.3 Isolation and access for maintenance

2.3.3.1 General
The policy to be followed in making equipment available for maintenance should
always be that it should be isolated and proved dead where possible and immediately
earthed.
2.3.3.2 Procedures
No electrical conductor should be regarded as being safe unless it has been
isolated and discharged to earth and, where necessary earthed at all points of supply.
Precautions should be taken to ensure that the isolated equipment cannot be reenergized from a high voltage or a lower voltage source of supply.
Voltage indicators should always be proved before and after use. It is good
practice to inspect earthing devices before every use. Earthing connections including
leads and associated terminations need to be of adequate capacity for the duty at the point
of application.

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Barriers preventing access to enclosures containing live conductors should


normally be kept locked.
Where one person isolates and another does the work, the person responsible for
isolating should demonstrate effectively to the other that the equipment is in fact dead
and safe and that there are adequate safeguards to prevent re energization.
Adequate quantities of suitable locks, cautionary notices and temporary barriers
should be available for use to facilitate safe working and to prevent conductors from
being accidentally electrically charged when persons are working thereon and also to
warn of the presence of any live conductors. Such notices should be clearly legible and
prominently displayed, made from durable; material and kept up-to date. Suitable
precautions should be taken to identify circuits and equipment at the front and back of
switchboards where such identification does not already exist. .
Any disconnectors used for isolation should be locked to prevent movement to the
ON position. Any shutters giving access to live conductors should also be padlocked in
the closed position.
Equipment enclosures frequently contain, circuits having sources of supply
different from that of the main circuit, such as interlocks, alarms, heating and lighting
circuits, etc., and these circuits are not always isolated when the main circuit is
disconnected. Conductors and terminals associated with these circuits should be shrouded
where necessary to prevent accidental contact and identified with warning notices.
Particular care should be taken to avoid danger from reverse energization of
voltage/control transformers or the open circuiting of current transformer secondaries.
Removal and retention of fuse links or bolted links should only be used as a
means of isolation when suitable precautions are taken to prevent duplicates being
inserted. Contactors should never be considered as a means of isolation.
Reliance should never be placed on control circuit isolation, switching or
electrical interlocks to prevent accidental or inadvertent re-energization of the main or
auxiliary circuits. Where the component to be maintained is completely withdrawn from
the equipment, and thus from all sources of electrical supply, that component may be
regarded as a safe piece of equipment and no longer subject to the safety rules referred to
in paragraph 1 of clause 4.
2.3.4 Preparing for maintenance work

Working space, entry ways and exit ways provided to apparatus and to equipment
which is to be maintained should be kept clean and free from obstruction. Spare parts,
tools, instruments insulating screens, insulated tools, portable earthing devices and gloves
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associated with the equipment or the work to be performed should be housed in proper
receptacles provided for the purpose, and kept in proper condition.
Adequate lighting either fixed portable, or a combination of both should be
provided as necessary to ensure safe access and working.
Portable electrical tools and inspection lamps should preferably be operated from
a system with a voltage no greater than 110 V with either the star point of a three phase
or the mid-point of a single-phase transformer low voltage winding earthed. If mains
voltage portable tools need to be used, they should be of all-insulated or double insulated
construction and the use of a residual current device is recommended. All portable
electrical equipment should be regularly inspected and tested.
NOTE. Further advice on the safe use of portable tools is contained in HMG
publication guidance note PM 32 available from HM Stationery Office.
The ingress of moisture, dirt, vermin etc. into electrical equipment can cause
malfunction and danger. Care should be taken to prevent such ingress whilst work is in
progress, and covers should be replaced as soon as access to the chamber is no longer
required. Before final closure of any compartment is effected, a careful inspection should
be carried out to make sure no foreign matter or loose material is present.
Before work is undertaken in any chamber containing high voltage conductors,
tests using suitable voltage indicators should be carried out. These should include tests
between .each phase and earth to ensure all conductors are dead. Voltage indicators
should always be proved before and after use.
When work is being carried out with adjacent pneumatically operated or air-blast
circuit breakers in service, due precautions need to be taken to protect personnel from the
effects of noise caused by these circuit breakers should they operate. Where circuit
breakers are fitted with silencers, no problems should, occur but if they are unsilenced
consideration should be given to the use of ear protectors.
2.3.5 Fire extinguishing equipment

All personnel carrying out maintenance on equipment where there is a fire risk or
using flammable materials in processes requiring flame or other sources of heat should
have fire fighting appliances available for ready use. These appliances may be installed
permanently by an occupier or employer for use in the premises or they may be
temporary appliances provided for the period of work. Employees should be trained in
the use of portable appliances and know how to summon further assistance.
If a fixed automatic fire extinguishing installation is installed, a prominent
warning notice should be displayed at the entry to the protected area. The notice should
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also include instructions for preventing automatic operation when persons are working
within the protected area. The prevention and restoration of automatic operation should
be subject to appropriate safety procedures, for example by including a reference on the
relevant permits to work. The type of fire extinguishers provided for use on or near
electrical equipment should be compatible with the equipment and safe to use. Further
advice on fire prevention and fire fighting may be obtained from the local Fire Prevention
Officer.
2.3.6 Testing

2.3.6.1 General
Care should be taken when applying test voltages to ensure that they are the
lowest value required for the purpose with the minimum current output. Where
equipment is capable of storing a charge this should be safely discharged after every test.
NOTE 1: Further advice on electrical testing is available: one publication is
Health and Safety Series Booklet No. HSG (13) 'Electrical testing' available from HM
Stationery Office.
NOTE 2: Electrical equipment may be damaged by the application of test voltages
and currents of incorrect value and polarity. Some electronic equipment is particularly
vulnerable (see clause 40).
2.3.6.2 Use of test instruments (oscilloscopes, etc.)
Instruments should be of a type suitable for the measurements that are to be made
so that a malfunction or the introduction of transients and/or reversed polarities into the
connected circuits is avoided. The manufacturer's instructions should be observed.
An earthed instrument lead may create danger if it is applied: to an active signal
circuit which is normally floating. It is recommended that the instrument casings are
earthed at all times but, where the nature of test precludes this, specific care should be
taken by the operator to secure his own safety and that of others by the adoption of a safe
system of work. It is recommended that suitably protected test leads be used at all times.
2.3.7 Disposal of scrap

Care is needed in the disposal of removed items or materials since some give rise to
health or environmental danger unless properly handled, e.g. polychlorinated biphenols
(PCBs) or asbestos. In case of doubt, reference should be made to the manufacturer's
instructions or the appropriate local authority

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3.0.0 Multimeter
A multimeter measures electrical properties such as AC or DC voltage, current,
and resistance. Rather than have separate meters, a multimeter combines a voltmeter, an
ammeter, and an ohmmeter. Electricians and the general public might use a multimeter
on batteries, components, switches, power sources, and motors to diagnose electrical
malfunctions and narrow down their cause.
It is a black box of electronic circuitry that allows to troubleshoot just about any
type of electrical wiring or device. Simply dial the proper function and scale, touch the
two test leads to the wiring or device in question and check the meter reading. Depending
on the setting, the multimeter will give indication to suggest a broken connection, no
power, poor connections, faulty parts and more.
The two main kinds of a multimeter are analog and digital. A digital multimeter
has an LCD screen that gives a straight forward decimal read out, while an analog display
moves a pointer through a scale of numbers and must be interpreted. Any multimeter will
work over a specific range for each measurement. Select one that is compatible with what
is required, from low-voltage power sources to high-voltage car batteries. Multimeters
are specified with a sensitivity range, so make sure to choose the appropriate one.
Multimeters are handheld devices. Analog multimeters are very cheap but
sometimes difficult to read accurately, especially on resistance scales. Digital output
devices are much easier to read but in general, cost more than analog meters. All
multimeters will have a switch that allows to select the type of test or measurement to be
performed. In addition, they always have two wires with metal tips called probes, one red
and one black.
As a voltmeter, a multimeter can measure the amount of AC or DC voltage
flowing through a circuit. Voltage is a difference in potential energy between the two
points. As an ohmmeter, a multimeter finds the resistance in a circuit, which is given in
ohms. The multimeter actually passes a small amount of electricity from its own battery
through the circuit to measure resistance by comparing the voltage sent out to what it
receives. When used as an ammeter, the multimeter measures current flowing through a
closed circuit by interrupting that circuit. The multimeter can only be connected in series,
which means that all the circuit's current will flow through the ammeter's sensors

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3.1.0 Analog Multimeter

The permanent magnet moving coil analogue multimeters are based on the
galvanometer invented by Arsene dArsonval. This device possesses a stationary
permanent magnet, a moving coil, a spring, and a pointer attached to the coil. Figure
below illustrates the way the equipment works. When a current flows through the coil,
there is an induced force on it due to the created electromagnetic field, and the coil
rotates around its central axis until the induced torque is equal and opposite to the spring
torque. The rotation torque, and consequently the angle the pointer rotates is proportional
to the current. The rotation angle is measured on a calibrated scale, and the amount of
current flowing through the meter can be measured. The dArsonval movement is used

basically to measure average or DC currents and voltages


By locating the range switch and the function switch in the proper position, the
desired variable may be measured in the selected scale.

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3.2.0 Digital Multimeter

Figure shows a block diagram of an electronic digital multimeter.


Note that the block diagram divides the instrument into three major sections: the
SIGNAL CONDITIONING section, the ANALOG-TO- DIGITAL CONVERTER
section, and the DISPLAY section.
The signal conditioning section provides a dc analog voltage, characteristic of the
applied input, to the analog-to-digital converter section. This task is accomplished by the
input voltage divider, current shunts, ac converter, active filter, and associated switching.
The analog-to-digital (a/d) converter section changes the dc output voltage from the
signal conditioning section to digital information. The a/d converter uses a voltage-tofrequency conversion technique. A dc voltage at the input of the a/d converter is changed
to a frequency by the analog integrated circuit (ic). This frequency is characteristic of the
magnitude and polarity of the dc input voltage. Counting of the output frequency from
the analog ic is accomplished by the digital ic. The resulting count is transferred in binary
format to the display section. (Binary number systems are covered in NEETS, Module
13, Introduction to Number Systems, Boolean Algebra, and Logic Circuits.) The display
section takes the digital (binary) information from the a/d converter section, decodes it,
and visually displays it. The decoded digital information is displayed on numerical LED
readouts

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3.2.1 Voltage Measurements

Plug the black test lead into the COM jack.

Plug the red test lead into the V jack.

Set the function/range switch to either DC volts in the upper left, or AC volts
in the upper right.

If you do not know the approximate voltage about to be measured, use the
largest voltage range available.

Connect the free ends of the red and black test leads ACROSS the device to
the measured. Voltage is always measured with the meter in PARALLEL with
the device.

If the LCD displays either "1." or "-1." with all other digits blank, the voltage
is beyond the selected range. Use the switch to select a larger range.

Once you know the approximate voltage across the device, then use the switch
to select the lowest voltage range that will still accommodate the voltage
across the device. For example:

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3.2.2 Current Measurements

Turn the power off to the device and discharge any capacitors.
Plug the black test lead into the COM jack.
Plug the red test lead into either the 200 mA jack for small current
measurements, or the 10 A jack for large current measurements.
If you do not know the approximate current about to be measured, use the 10 A
jack.
Set the function/range switch to either DC amperes in the lower right, or AC
amperes in the middle right.
Break open the circuit at the point where you want to measure the current by
removing one of the wires.
Connect the free end of the red test lead to one place at which the wire was
attached.
Connect the free end of the black test lead to the other place at which the wire
was attached.
Current is always measured with the meter in SERIES with the device.
Using the current meter incorrectly will blow the fuse or damage the meter
Reapply the power to the device.
If the LCD displays either "1." or "-1." with all other digits blank, the current is
beyond the selected range. Use the switch to select a larger range.
Once you know the approximate current through the device, then use the
switch to select the lowest current range that will still accommodate the current
through the device.
Turn the power off to the device before removing the meter from the circuit.
3.2.3 Resistance Measurements

Turn the power off to the device and discharge any capacitors!
Plug the black test lead into the COM jack.
Plug the red test lead into the V jack.
Set the function/range switch to ohms in the lower left.
If you do not know the approximate resistance about to be measured, use the
largest range available.
Connect the free ends of the red and black test leads ACROSS the device to the
measured. Resistance is always measured with the meter in PARALLEL with
the device.
If the LCD displays either "1." or "-1." with all other digits blank, the
resistance is beyond the selected range. Use the switch to select a larger range.
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Once you know the approximate resistance of the device, and then use the
switch to select the lowest range that will still accommodate the resistance of
the device.
Important note: The most common mistake when using a multimeter is not
switching the test leads when switching between current sensing and any other
type of sensing (voltage, resistance). It is critical that the test leads be in the
proper jacks for the measurement you are making.

3.3.0 Digital vs. Analog Multimeters


Digital multimeters have LCD readouts, do audible continuity testing. Some
digital multimeters also feature auto-ranging and overload protection and other
advantages analog multimeters lack.
Analog multimeters have multiple scales on the dial , a moving needle and many
manual settings on the function switch. It is a tricky spotting the correct scale to read on
the dial, and sometimes have to multiply the reading by 10 or 100 to get your final value

3.4.0 Safety Precautions


Be sure the test leads and rotary switch are in the correct position for the desired
measurement.
Never use the meter if the meter or the test leads look damaged.
Never measure resistance in a circuit when power is applied.
Never touch the probes to a voltage source when a test lead is plugged into the 10 A or
300 mA input jack.
To avoid damage or injury, never use the meter on circuits that exceed 4800 watts.
Never apply more than the rated voltage between any input jack and earth ground
Be careful when working with voltages above 60 V DC or 30 V AC rms. Such voltages
pose a shock hazard.
Keep your fingers behind the finger guards on the test probes when making
measurements.
To avoid false readings, which could lead to possible electric shock or personal injury,
replace the battery as soon as the battery indicator appears.

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4.0.0 Insulation resistance tester (Megohmmeter)


The Insulation resistance tester (IRT) also known as a megohmmeter, is a portable
instrument used to measure insulation resistance. It is a lightweight, simple and in
minutes can help to determine the damaged installation. Checking the integrity of
insulation is not only a good idea for a new installation, its a tremendous tool in ongoing
maintenance, allowing to spot a problem wiring/equipment, before it creates arcing and
damages the equipment or shuts everything down.
The principle of operation of IRTs is as basic as Ohms Law: V=IR or R=V/I. The
tester generates a known dc voltage (250 V, 500 V, 1k V or higher), chosen by the user,
and measures the leakage current from the conductor through the insulation. The
resistance is then calculated. The better the insulation, the lower the leakage current and
the higher the amount of resistance present.
For example, if 500 V is applied and 0.5 mA measured, then R=1 M. If only one
hundredth of that current, 5 A, is measured, then R=100 M
The newest generation of IRTs is microprocessor-based and battery-powered.
They are more precise than the older hand-cranked analog testers.

4.1.0 Analog Megohmmeter


It consists of a hand-driven DC generator and a direct reading ohm meter. A
simplified circuit diagram of this instrument is shown in Figure below.

The moving element of the ohm meter consists of two coils, A and B, which are
rigidly mounted to a pivoted central shaft and are free to rotate over a C-shaped core.
These coils are connected by means of flexible leads. The moving element may point in
any meter position when the generator is not in operation.
As current provided by the hand-driven generator flows through Coil B, the coil
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will tend to set itself at right angles to the field of the permanent magnet. With the test
terminals open, giving an infinite resistance, no current flows in Coil A. Thereby, Coil B
will govern the motion of the rotating element, causing it to move to the extreme counterclockwise position, which is marked as infinite resistance.
Coil A is wound in a manner to produce a clockwise torque on the moving
element. With the terminals marked "line" and "earth" shorted, giving a zero resistance,
the current flow through the Coil A is sufficient to produce enough torque to overcome
the torque of Coil B. The pointer then moves to the extreme clockwise position, which is
marked as zero resistance. Resistance (R1) will protect Coil A from excessive current
flow in this condition.
When an unknown resistance is connected across the test terminals, line and earth,
the opposing torques of Coils A and B balance each other so that the instrument pointer
comes to rest at some point on the scale. The scale is calibrated such that the pointer
directly indicates the value of resistance being measured.

4.2.0 Digital Megohmmeter


There are an extensive and a versatile range of hand-held insulation testers
designed to extend the capability of insulation testers beyond anything available on the
market today.
In addition to extremely high-sensitivity insulation resistance measurements (200
G), these instruments offer complete multimeter testing capability and the ability to
view the insulation measurement in terms of leakage current (A). The top-of-the- range
models also include data storage and download capability. The end user can now carry a
single instrument to the test site rather than multiple instruments.

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Some of the common features are:


Lightweight. Tough and robust
Shrouded safety terminals with right angled test lead connector.
Hands-free operation
Voltage ranges of 250, 500, and 1000 V.
Resistance measurement range of 200 G
Combined insulation & Continuity tester
Default Voltmeter
Battery condition test
Automatic discharge of capacitive circuits after test
Auto shut off
Some of the top models advance features are:
Auto ranging
Selectable and programmable test voltage range (40 to 5000V)
Automatic calculation of Polarisation Index(PI)
Direct measurement and display of Capacitance & Leakage current
Programmable test run time and PI ratio time
Automatic test inhibition (if live sample > 25V)
RS-232 interface for direct printing of results

128 kB memory for storing field test data


Software for data storage, real time display analysis and report generation

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4.3.0 Insulation resistance test


Insulation resistance tests give an indication of the condition of insulation,
particularly with regard to moisture and dirt. The actual value of the resistance varies
greatly in different types of machines, depending on the type, size, voltage rating, etc.
The principal worth of such measurements, therefore, is in the relative values of
insulation resistance of the same apparatus taken under similar conditions at various
times. Such tests usually reveal how well the machine has been maintained.
Measuring insulation resistance is rather straightforward. Identify any two points
between which there is insulation and make a connection with a megohmmeter. Take a
measurement; the measured value represents the equivalent resistance of all the insulation
that exists between the two points and any component resistance that might also be
connected between the two points.

Megohmmeters are available in several varieties. Some are powered by a handcranked generator, while others are battery powered. Some use power supply voltages as
low as 50V, but the most common is 50OV, with some going as high as 10,OOOV. The
power supply, in all cases, is DC.
4.3.1 Components of DC leakage current

When a megohm. test is made, three components of current flow. The insulation
between the two connection points can be thought of as a dielectric, thus forming a
capacitance. A phenomenon known as dielectric absorption occurs whereby the
dielectric soaks up current and then releases it when the potential is removed. This is in
addition to the current that charges and discharges the capacitance, and it occurs much
more slowly. It is dependent on the nature of the dielectric. Two types of items where this
is of concern are capacitors and motors. Such current is referred to as dielectric
absorption current.
The current required to charge whatever capacitance is present is known as
charging current Like the dielectric absorption current, it decays exponentially to zero,
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but much more quickly. It is this current which in most cases determines how long it
takes to make an accurate megohm measurement. When the reading appears to stabilize,
it means that the charging current has decayed to a point where it is negligible with
respect to the leakage current.
The current that flows through the insulation is the leakage current. The voltage
across the insulation divided by the leakage current through it equals the insulation
resistance. Thus, to accurately measure insulation resistance, we must wait until the
dielectric absorption current and the charging current have decayed to the point where
they are truly negligible with respect to the leakage current.

The total current that flows is the sum of the three components just mentioned. It
decays exponentially from an initial maximum and approaches a constant value which is
the leakage current alone. The megohm reading is dependent on the voltage across the
insulation and the total current. It increases exponentially from an initial
4.3.2 Determining The Polarization Index

Knowing the polarization index of a motor, generator or transformer can be useful


in appraising the fitness of the machine for service. The index is calculated from
measurements of the winding insulation resistance.
Before measuring the insulation resistance, remove all external connections to the
machine and completely discharge the windings to the grounded machine frame.
Proceed by applying either 50OVDC or 1,OOOVDC between the winding and
ground using a direct-indicating, power-driven megohmmeter. For machines rated 500V
and over, the higher value is used. The voltage is applied for 10 minutes and kept
constant for the duration of the test.
The polarization index is calculated as the ratio of the 10-minut value to the oneminute value of the insulation resistances measured consecutively:
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Polarization index = resistance after 10 minutes resistance after one minute


The recommended minimum value of polarization index for AC and DC motors and
generators is 2.0. Machines having windings with a lower index are less likely to be
suited for operation.

The polarization index is useful in evaluating windings for:


Buildup of dirt or moisture
Gradual deterioration of the insulation (by comparing results of tests made
earlier on the same machine)
Fitness for overpotential tests
Suitability for operation
4.3.3 Correction for Winding Temperature

One important point to remember is that the value of insulation resistance


decreases as the temperature of the insulation increases. This is just the opposite of the
effect for conductor resistance. In order to gather meaningful information that can be
used for comparison purposes, we should ideally carry out periodic tests with the winding
at the same temperature conditions. If this is not possible, it is necessary to measure the
actual temperature of the winding under test and then correct the resistance reading to a
o

standard temperature, usually 20 C.


If we measured the insulation resistance to be, say 100 MW at a temperature of
o

30 C, we should multiply the result by the correction factor of 1.98 shown on the chart
o

below. This implies that at a temperature of 20 C the insulation resistance would increase
to 198 MW. These correction factors will normally be provided by the equipment
manufacturer. The main point here is that all readings, past, present and future should be
compared on the same basis
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4.3.4 Insulation Contamination

In order to obtain reliable test figures, windings should be free of dirt and
moisture as both of these contaminants result in a lower value of resistance being
indicated. If a machine has recently been taken out of service, it is likely to be hot and
therefore free from moisture.
However, the windings may be quite dirty from dust and oil in the atmosphere.
Conversely, if the machine has been out of service for some time, the winding insulation
may well have absorbed a certain amount of moisture. Indeed, if the insulation resistance
is indicated as low, it may be necessary to dry out the windings. All of these items must
be taken into consideration when assessing the reliability of insulation resistance readings

4.4.0 Insulation resistance test methods


When testing the insulation resistance in electrical equipment, any of the following
methods can be employed.
Spot reading
Step voltage
Time resistance test
Testing insulation in electrical systems is a critical step improving safety and
longer system life.
4.4.1 Spot testing

This is a short time resistance test. The megohmmeter is connected directly across
the equipment being tested and a test voltage is applied for about 60 secs. In order to get
a stable insulation resistance reading in that time, the test is performed on low
capacitance equipment.
This is a simple and quick test to indicate the instantaneous condition of
insulation. Mostly used as part of the commissioning process for a new installation.
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4.4.2 Step voltage test

Various test voltage in steps of (in increasing order), usually for the same period
of time (60 Secs). The insulation values are recorded on the graph. The insulation is
exposed to increased electrical stress that can reveal information about flaws in the
insulation such as pinholes, physical damage or brittleness.
4.4.3 Time resistance test

This test is carried out to compare the absorption characteristic of contaminated


insulation with the absorption characteristic of good insulation. The test voltage is
applied for the 10 mins and after every 10 secs the data is recorded for first one minute
and then after every one minute. The interpretation of the slope of the plotted graph
determines the condition of the insulation.
The polarisation index is another test in this category for determining the quality
of insulation. This is discussed in earlier part of this chapter.

4.5.0 Safety Precautions


Be sure the test leads and rotary switch are in the correct position for the desired
measurement.
Never use the meter if the meter or the test leads look damaged.
Never measure insulation resistance in a energised circuit.
Make sure that the systems under test have been completely discharged to
ground.
Never touch the probes to a voltage source when a testing is in progress
Test voltage should not exceed the equipment manufacturers recommended
voltage for insulation testing.
Ensure that equipment under test is discharged to ground after the test, if the
equipment do not have auto discharge feature
Be careful when working with voltages above 60 V DC or 30 V AC rms. Such
voltages pose a shock hazard.
Keep your fingers behind the finger guards on the test probes when making
measurements.
To avoid false readings, which could lead to possible electric shock or personal
injury, replace the battery as soon as the battery indicator appears.

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4.6.0 Insulation resistance (IR) test on Cables


Prior to testing required permits must be secured. All safety precautions should be
observed while testing. Cable must be discharged and disconnected form the equipment
in the field.
IR should be measured as illustrated in the figure below:

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4.7.0 Insulation resistance (IR) test on Transformer


Prior to testing required permits must be secured. All safety precautions should be
observed while testing.

4.8.0 Insulation resistance (IR) test on Motor/Generator


Prior to testing required permits must be secured . All safety precautions should
be observed while testing
The easiest test that prevents the most failures is the insulation resistance
measurement, It applies DC voltage, usually 500 or 1000 volts, to the motor and
measures the resistance of the insulation between the windings and earth (frame).
Before testing the motor or Generator lift the rotor brushes (whereever
applicable), earth the stator terminals, frame and shaft. Discharge the field winding by
earthing. Then remove the field winding from earth and measure the field winding
insuation to earth.
A minimum resistance to earth at 40 degrees C ambient of 1 megohm per kV of
rating plus 1 megohm may be acceptable. Medium size motors in good condition will
generally have megohmmeter readings in excess of 50 megohms. Low readings may
indicate a worse condition of insulation caused by contamination from moisture, oil or
conductive dirt or deterioration from age or excessive heat.

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Measuring insulation resistance is rather straightforward. Identify any two points


between which there is insulation and make a connection with a the test instrument is
often referred to as a Megger, after the manufacturers trademark. Take a measurement;
the measured value represents the equivalent resistance of all the insulation that exists
between the two points and any component resistance that might also be connected
between the two points.Megger s are available in several varieties. Some are powered by
a hand-cranked generator, while others are battery powered. Most common is 500V
output, with some going as high as 10,000V. The power supply, in all cases, is DC.

TE ST
1kV
500V
250V

100V
50V
O FF
V

AVO

ZERO

XXXX
M EGGER

IR measurement on Cage type Induction motor

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5.0.0 Clamp on meter


A clamp meter (clamp-on ammeter) is a type of ammeter which measures
electrical current without the need to disconnect the wiring through which the current is
flowing.

Clamp meters are also known as tong testers or Amprobes (after Amprobe
Instrument Company, one of the first vendors of such devices).
The most common forms of clamp meter are:
A probe for use with a multimeter.
A self-contained unit.
A built-in part of a specialised multimeter used by electricians.

In order to use a clamp meter, the probe or clamp is opened to allow insertion of
the wiring, and then closed to allow the measurement. Only one conductor is normally
passed through the probe, if more than one conductor were to be passed through then the
measurement would be a vector sum of the currents flowing in the conductors and could
be very misleading depending on the phase relationship of the currents. In particular, if
the clamp were to be closed around a mains extension or similar cord, no current will be
measured at all as the current flowing in one direction will cancel that flowing in the
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other direction.
Only one (1) conductor can be measured at a time, and the cable can either be
bare or insulated. The current in the conductor to be measured is (carefully) segregated
from other current-carrying conductors, and shifted enough so that the jaws of the clampon ammeter can be opened, slipped around the cable, and then closed. As soon as the
jaws close, a clear and accurate reading is registered on the scale. The jaws are insulated,
and the Bakelite handle and shield protect the technician from shock.

5.1.0 Theory of operation of AC Clamp on meter


The meter is operated by the magnetic field set up by the current. Basic
construction of the meter is a clamp on current probes and the ammeter (Analog or
digital) connected to it.

The clamp on current probe works on the principle of current transformer. The
conductor is the primary coil of a current transformer
The clamp on probe are composed of permalloy split core with the winding coil
which connects to the meter (Analog or digital) circuit. First the conductor current
determines the strength of the magnetic field around the permalloy core. Then at the end
of the winding, the magnetic field induces secondary out-put which drives the current.
through the meter (Analog or digital) connected. The meter is calibrated to indicate the
current in the primary.
A clamp-on current probe, shown in the above diagram, converts the primary
current of the conductor to a current output whose value depends on number of turns of
secondary winding (N2). If N2 is 1000 turns, the output current is 1/1000 of the primary
current, which can be expressed as 1 Milliampere per Ampere. Such a clamp is referred
to as having a ratio of 1000:1. The output of this current clamp can be read by any AC
ammeter (Analog or digital) whose input impedance is compatible with the specifications
of the current clamp.

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5.2.0 Theory of operation of AC/DC Clamp on meter


More modern designs of clamp-on ammeters utilize a small magnetic field
detector device called a Hall-effect sensor to accurately determine field strength. The two
matched sensors provide an output signal which is independent of the location of the
current conductor in the clamp opening. The conductor does not have to be exactly at the
center of the opening. A battery-operated circuit is required to provide the excitation and
amplification of the signal generated by the HALL-EFFECT sensor

Hall effect principle : AC/DC current sensing is achieved by measuring the


strength of the magnetic field created by a current carrying conductor in a semiconductor
chip using Hall effect principle. When a thin semiconductor is placed at right angle to a
magnetic field (B), and a current (Id) is applied to it, a voltage (Vh) is developed across
the semiconductor. This voltage is known as the Hall voltage, named after the US
scientist Edwin Hall.

When the Hall device drive current is held constant, the current is directly
proportional to the current in a conductor. Thus, the hall output voltage (Vh) is
representative of that current.

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Some clamp-on meters contain electronic amplifier circuitry to generate a small


voltage proportional to the current in the wire between the jaws, that small voltage
connected to a voltmeter for convenient readout by a technician. Thus, a clamp-on unit
can be an accessory device to a voltmeter, for current measurement.

5.3.0 Specifications of Digital Clamp on meters


AC Current : It is the measuring value of the alternating current taken by
the load of a clamp on meter
AC Voltage : It is defined as the alternating voltage measured by the
clamp on meter.
DC Current : It is the measuring value of the direct current read by the
clamp on meter
DC Voltage : It is defined as the direct voltage measured by the clamp on
meter
Resistance : It is the resistance offered by the clamp on meter to the
current flow
Frequency range : It is the range of frequency at which the current or
voltage is measured.
Distortion factor : It is defined as a measure of non linear distortion.
Total harmonic distortion : It is defined as the ratio of the sum of the
powers of all harmonic frequencies above the fundamental frequency to
the power of the fundamental frequency. It is usually referred to as THD.
THDandis measured in dB
Display type : It is the type of electronic display where the measured
values are monitored and graphed.
Crest factor : It is the ratio of the peak amplitude value to its RMS value.
Clamp jaw size : It refers to the diameter value of the opening jaw.

5.4.0 Advantages of Digital Clamp on meter


Fast measurements
Precise measurement
Less meter loading

5.5.0 Advantages of Digital over Conventional Type


Digital clamp on meters are more advantageous than the conventional
clampmeters. Because in the conventional type, the current wave obtained is of sinusoidal
nature. The current value is measured generally in RMS units. If these factors are not

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taken into consideration, it is of less use with non sinusoidal load applications such as
fluorescent lamps, modern computers, electronic equipment, or high-intensity discharge
lamps.

5.6.0 Applications of Digital Clamp on meters


Motor drives
Electric vehicles
Electricity supply industry(ESI)
Automotive diagnostic plants
Electrochemical plants
Power supplies
Welding equipment

5.7.0 Clamp on meter operations (Fluke model 321/322)

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5.8.0 Safety Precautions


To avoid possible electric shock or personal injury, and to avoid possible damage
to the Meter or the equipment under test, adhere to the following practices:
Avoid working alone as far as possible, and render the assisstance.
Never use the Meter on a circuit with voltages higher than specified.
Never use the Meter on a circuit with frequency higher than specified, the
meter could be damaged.
Do not use the Meter or test leads if they look damaged.
Use extreme caution when working around bare conductors or bus bars.
Contact with the conductor could result in electric shock.
Read the manufacturers instructions and safety sheet before use and
follow all safety instructions.
Use the Meter only as specified in the instruction manual; otherwise, the
Meters safety features may be impaired.
Use caution when working with voltages above 60 V dc or 30 V ac. Such
voltages pose a shock hazard.

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Before using the Meter, inspect the case. Do not use the Meter if it is
damaged. Look for cracks or missing plastic. Pay particular attention to
the insulation around the connectors.
Verify the Meters operation by measuring a known current/voltage. Do
not use the Meter if it operates abnormally. Protection may be impaired.
When in doubt, have the Meter serviced.
Do not apply more than the rated current or voltage, as marked on the
Meter.
Use the proper terminals, function, and range for your measurements.
Do not operate the Meter with the case (or part of the case) removed.
When servicing the Meter, use only replacement parts recommended by
the manufacturer.

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6.0.0 Earth tester, Loop tester & Residual Current Device


(RCD) tester
A practical earth electrode that provides a low ground resistance is not always
easy to obtain. The metallic body in the earth is often referred to as an electrode even
though it may be a water-pipe system, buried strips or plates, or wires. Such
combinations of metallic bodies are called a grid. The earth resistance is the resistance to
current from the electrode into the surrounding earth.
To appreciate why earth resistance must be low, you need only use Ohms Law: E
= R x I where E is volts; R, the resistance in ohms; and I, the current in amperes. Assume
that you have a 4000-V supply (2300 V to ground) with a resistance of 13 (see Fig.
below). Now, assume that an exposed wire in this system touches a motor frame that is
connected to a grounding system which has a 10-ohm resistance to earth.

By Ohms Law, there will be a current of 100 A through the fault (from the motor
frame to the earth). If someone happen to touch the motor frame and are grounded solidly
to earth, could be subjected to 1000 V (10 x 100 A). This may be more than enough to
kill a person instantly. If, however, the earth resistance is less than 1 , the shock person
would get could be under 100 V (1 x 100) and probably survive that shock.
Earth resistivity has an important bearing on electrode resistance, as does the
depth, size and shape of the electrode. In this module, the principles and method of
testing and use of earth resistance tester are covered. This applies to lightning arrester
installations as well as to other systems that require low resistance ground connections.
Such tests are made in power-generating stations, electrical-distribution systems,
industrial plants, and telecommunication systems.
Also an Earth loop impedance testing is essential since if a live conductor is
accidentally connected to an earth conductor in a faulty appliance or circuit, the resulting
short-circuit current to earth can easily be high enough to cause electric shock or generate
enough heat to start a fire. Normally, the fuse will blow or another circuit protection
device will trip, but a situation may arise where the actual short-circuit current in a faulty
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installation is of insufficient level and the protection device would thus take too long to
activate. The delay can be disastrous for life and property. It is therefore necessary to
know if the impedance of the path that any fault current would take is low enough to
allow sufficient current to flow in the event of a fault and that any installed protective
device will operate within a safe time limit. The earth loop impedance of each individual
circuit a path from the point of use back to the incoming supply connection point. As
measurement of circuit loop impedance is made with the supply normally on, precautions
must be taken to avoid the possibility of electric shock and danger to personnel working
in the vicinity of the circuit under test.
In IEC 60364, fault loop testing falls under the category of Verifying protection
by automatic supply disconnection. This covers verification of the effectiveness of
protective measures (such as test on RCD), and the test methods applied to measure the
fault loop impedance.
Conventional techniques for measuring loop impedance can often trip RCDs,
preventing further measurement. Often the only way around this is to bridge the RCD
or replace the RCD with an equivalent rated MCB for the duration of the test both of
which are potentially dangerous and time consuming practices. To overcome this
manufacturers of earth loop tester have applied innovative technology to ensure that both
electromechanical and electronic type RCDs do not trip during earth loop impedance
measurements.
An advanced range of combined loop and RCD testers is available and it is
designed to fully test RCDs and measure loop impedance and prospective short circuit
current, (PSCC), on single and three phase systems rated up to 300V ac r.m.s. to earth.

6.1.0 Earth resistance


Resistance to current through an earth electrode actually has three components.
1. Resistance of the electrode itself and connections to it.
2. Contact resistance between the electrode and the soil adjacent to it.
3. Resistance of the surrounding earth.
Electrode Resistance: Rods, pipes, masses of metal, structures, and other devices
are commonly used for earth connections. These are usually of sufficient size or crosssection that their resistance is a negligible part of the total resistance.
Electrode-Earth Contact Resistance: This is much less than you might think. If
the electrode is free from paint or grease, and the earth is packed firmly, contact
resistance is negligible. Rust on an iron electrode has little or no effect; the iron oxide is
readily soaked with water and has less resistance than most soils. But if an iron pipe has
Electrical test instruments Module 03 (Basic)

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rusted through, the part below the break is not effective as a part of the earth electrode.
Resistance of Surrounding Earth: An electrode driven into earth of uniform
resistivity radiates current in all directions. Think of the electrode as being surrounded by
shells of earth, all of equal thickness. The earth shell nearest the electrode naturally has
the smallest surface area and so offers the greatest resistance. The next earth shell is
somewhat larger in area and offers less resistance. Finally, a distance from the electrode
will be reached where inclusion of additional earth shells does not add significantly to the
resistance of the earth surrounding the electrode. It is this critical volume of soil that
determines the effectiveness of the ground electrode and which therefore must be
effectively measured in order to make this determination. Ground testing is distinct when
compared to more familiar forms of electrical measurement, in that it is a volumetric

measurement and cannot be treated as a point property.


Generally, the resistance of the surrounding earth will be the largest of the three
components making up the resistance of a ground connection. The several factors that can
affect this value such as the soil material, the moisture content, and the temperature. It is
far from a constant, predictable value ranging generally from 500 to 50,000 ohm-cm3

6.2.0 Principle of Earth resistance testing


The resistance to earth of any system of electrodes theoretically can be calculated
from formulas based upon the general resistance formula:

Where is the resistivity of the earth in ohm-cm, L is the length of the conducting
path, and A is the cross-sectional area of the path. More complex formulas for the
calculation of the resistance to earth for any distance from various systems of electrodes
are drived. All such formulas can be simplified a little by basing them on the assumption
that the earths resistivity is uniform throughout the entire soil volume under
Electrical test instruments Module 03 (Basic)

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consideration.
Because the formulas are complicated, and earth resistivity is neither uniform or
constant, a simple and direct method of measuring earth resistance is needed. This is
where Earth Resistance Tester, a self-contained portable instrument is used. This test
instrument is reliable and easy to use. With it, one can check the resistance of the earth
electrode while it is being installed; and, by periodic tests, observe any changes with
time.
To understand the principle of earth testing, consider the schematic diagram in
Fig. below. As explained earlier with the earth shell diagram, with increased distance
from an electrode, the earth shells are of greater surface area and therefore of lower
resistance. Now, assume that there are three rods driven into the earth some distance apart
and a voltage applied, as shown in Fig. The current between rods 1 and 2 is measured by
an ammeter; the potential difference (voltage) between rods 1 and 3 is measured by a
voltmeter.

If rod 3 is located at various points between rods 1 and 2, preferably in a straight


line, a series of voltage readings are obtained. By Ohms Law (R = E/I) the earth
resistance at any point could be calculated. For example, if the measured voltage E
between rods 1 and 3 is 30 V and the measured current I is 2 A, the resistance of the earth
R at that point would be 15 .

Electrical test instruments Module 03 (Basic)

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The series of resistance values can be plotted against distance to obtain a curve as
shown in Fig. below. Note that as rod 3 is moved away from rod 1, the resistance values
increase, but the amount of increase gets less and less until a point is reached where the
rate of increase becomes so small that I can almost be considered constant (20 in Fig.).
The earth shells between the two rods (1 and 3) have so great a surface area that they add
little to the total resistance. Beyond this point, as rod 3 approaches the earth shells of rod
2, resistance gradually picks up. Near rod 2, the values rise sharply.
Now, lets say that rod 1 is the earth electrode under test. From a typical earthresistance curve, such as Fig. above, what is the resistance to earth of this rod? We call
rod 2 current-reference probe C and rod 3, potential reference probe P (simply for
convenience in identification). The correct resistance is usually obtained if P (rod 3) is
placed at a distance from the center of the earth electrode (rod 1) about 62 percent of the
distance between the earth electrode and C (rod 2). Finally, rod C should be far enough
away from the earth electrode system so that the 62 percent distance is out of the sphere
of influence of the earth electrode.
For the test, the electrode should be isolated from the electrical system that it is
protecting; otherwise, the whole system is tested which (depending on local practices)
may include the pole ground, system neutral, and transformer ground. This obscures the
specific effect of the local ground.

6.3.0 Earth resistance test methods


There are three basic test methods as noted below.
1. Fall-of-potential method, or three-terminal test.
2. Dead Earth method (two-point test).
3. Clamp-on test method.
In PGB-POD mostly the fall of potential is used.Therefore this method is
explained in the following para.
The earth tester generates an a.c. signal which is fed into the system under test.
The instrument then checks the status of the circuits for good connection and noise. If
either of these variables is out of specification then the operator is informed. Having
checked that the conditions for test are met, the instrument automatically steps through its
measurement. ranges to find the optimum signal to apply. Measuring the current flowing
and the voltage generated the instrument calculates and displays the system resistance in
the range of 0.001 to 20,000 ohms, depending on the instrument specification chosen.
With a four-terminal tester, P1 and C1 terminals on the instrument are jumpered
and connected to the earth electrode under test. With a three-terminal instrument, connect
Electrical test instruments Module 03 (Basic)

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X to the earth electrode. it may be better to use all four terminals by a lead from the P1
terminal to the test electrode (connecting it inside the lead from C1). This is a true four
wire test configuration which eliminates all lead resistance from the measurement.
The driven reference rod C should be placed as far from the earth electrode as
practical; this distance may be limited by the length of extension wire available, or the
geography of the surroundings. Leads should be separated and not run close and parallel
to each other, to eliminate mutual inductance.

Potential-reference rod P is then driven at mid point on a straight line between the
earth electrode (X) and C. The subsequent two readings are taken moving the rod P closer
to the earth electrode, say 1 meter and away from the earth electrode by same distance (1
meter). Resistance readings are logged for each of the points and average of the readings
are taken, if the three readings do not differ from each other (within 5%) by large margin.
Otherwise, the rod C has to be driven further away from earth electrode and the
procedure is to be repeated.

6.4.0 Earth Loop resistance


The main purpose of good earth connections and a low resistance earth path in a
wiring installation is to allow sufficient current to flow in the event of a fault to operate
circuit protective devices, i.e. fuses and circuit breakers. If the resistance of any part of an
earth loop is high, the protective circuit may be rendered useless because the current
which will flow in the event of a fault may be insufficient to operate the protection. In the
event of a fault under these conditions not only may the faulty circuit remain energised
but the fault current will find an alternative path where possible. This may result in
damage to electrical equipment or installations or pose severe, or even fatal, shock risk to
persons in contact with the faulty equipment, since the fault current will pass through
them.
An earth fault loop, also known as phase-earth loop or line-earth loop, consists of
the circuit protective conductor; the installation earthing terminal and earthing conductor;
Electrical test instruments Module 03 (Basic)

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the earth return path back to the supply transformer and its winding; the phase conductor
back to the point of the fault.

6.5.0 Earth Loop resistance test


An earth fault loop test on an installation is performed by switching a known low
value of resistance between the phase and earth conductors at the desired point test and
measuring the voltage drop across the resistance. In effect this is simulating a fault
between phase and earth and calculation made around the supply voltage and voltage
drop across the test resistor enable the earth fault loop impedance to be indicated.
The same tester may also be used for the determination of prospective earth fault
current, which is the maximum current able to flow in a phase-earth fault in an
installation, and they may also be used to indicate the prospective short circuit current
which is the maximum current able to flow in the event of a phase-neutral fault.
The earth loop testers available in the market, offer both traditional measuring
techniques and state of the art "non-RCD Tripping" technology.

6.6.0 Digital Earth Loop resistance tester from Megger (L T5 and L T6)
The MEGGER@ L T5 and L T6 Digital Loop Testers have been designed for
quickly, accurately and reliably testing newly established and existing wiring
installations. They are simple to use, both with the standard lead for socket tests and with
the optional safety leads for performing tests on lighting installations and testing earth

bonding.
The L T5 has two measuring ranges: 20 with a resolution of 0.01 and 200
with a resolution of 0,1 . The L T6 also has two ranges: 20 with a resolution of 0.01
and 2000 with a resolution of 1 .
Both instruments will operate on installations with a phase-to-neutral voltage 230

Electrical test instruments Module 03 (Basic)

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V a.c. 10% and automatically compensate for supply variations. The test current, up to
25 A, is dependent on the impedance of the phase-earth loop being measured and flows
for two half cycles of the supply voltage. The circuit is fuse protected and fitted with an
internal thermal switch to prevent excessive heating caused by tests repeated too
frequently.
Testing is very simple as there is no initial setting up to be done and no
pushbutton to operate. A test is automatically executed in about 4 seconds after the
selector switch is set to a measuring range and connection made to the circuit under test.
(Either step may be performed first.) Neons illuminate to show that there are no open
circuits in the installation wiring and that a correct phase conductor connection exists. If
the earth connection is not present, the test will not be performed.
Use of a large, 3 digit L.C.D. makes measurement readings easy with less
chance of ambiguity. It also results in a much more rugged and robust test instrument
that, because of its strong plastic case, will withstand the rough treatment expected of an
installation engineer's tool.
The lightweight, hand-held tester also incorporates a fold-away support
stand/suspension hook for use when the operator requires both hands for using the "flying
leads".

6.7.0 Applications & Use of Earth Loop resistance tester

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Electrical test instruments Module 03 (Basic)

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6.8.0 Residual Current devices (RCDs)


Increasingly in modern installations, earth leakage circuit breakers are used to
provide protection in additional to conventional fuses and circuit breakers. These devices
are referred to by a variety of different names including RCD (Residual Current Device),
RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker), ELCH (Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker) and
GFI (Ground Fault Interrupt), to name but a few.
The devices operate by sensing when the current in the phase and neutral
conductors within an installation are not equal and opposite. Any imbalance would imply
that an additional path existed for the flow of current, invariably through the earth due to
excessive leakage and/or a fault situation.

6.9.0 Testing of RCDs


RCDs can be tested to see if they are operational and/or they have been wired
correctly.
It is a good idea to check RCDs monthly. One way to test an RCD is to press the
button labelled "Test" or "T" on the RCD unit (which will simulate a ground fault by
bypassing some current) and see if the RCD reacts by correctly opening the circuit. If it
does not trip, the RCD should be replaced.
Unfortunately, the test button is a fairly crude test and it is quite possible (though
rare) for an RCD to trip on the pressing of the test button even when it would not pass a
proper test involving passing known leakage currents and measuring the resulting trip
time (and comparing those values to the requirements given in a standards document such
as BS 7671). For example, an incorrectly wired RCD may still trip when the test button is
Electrical test instruments Module 03 (Basic)

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pressed even though a real ground fault may not cause it to trip.
RCD testers are designed to simulate a range of fault currents, with restrictions on
the duration of the fault current, and to time the operation of the device. This will indicate
the ability of the RCD to interrupt a particular fault current within time certain limits to
ensure protection against fire, damage and electrocution.

6.10.0 Digital RCD tester from Megger (CBT3 and CBT4)


The CBT3 and CBT4 are hand-held instruments for testing residual current
protective devices (RCDs) in wiring installations. The instruments are connected through
a normal mains socket outlet or directly via the RCDs terminals. Neon lamp indicate if
there are no open circuits in the installation and if the phase connections are correct.
A rotary switch selects the RCD rating from one of six values available and a

membrane push-button is pressed to execute a test. A known fixed current, determined by


the type of test selected, flows to earth in the installation the RCD is protecting, for a
given length of time. The types of test available are:
(i) a 'no trip' test carried out at half the rating selected, the result of which should
be that the device under test does not trip.
(ii) a 'trip' test carried out at the rating selected, the result of which should be that
the device trips within the time specified for that particular design of breaker
(iii) a test carried out at 150 mA and designed for testing devices (up to 30 mA
rating) fitted to protect against direct contact with the installation. The result should be
that the device trips within 40 ms.
(iv) a test carried out at five times the rating selected, the result of which should
be that the device trips within 40 ms.
Electrical test instruments Module 03 (Basic)

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Membrane push-buttons are used to select the type of test. The 'ABC' key selects
type of breaker to be tested. The phase key selects the point on the a.c. waveform from
where the test will start, i.e. the positive or negative zero crossing point. The 'I' key, will
allow one of three current multipliers or a 150 mA specific test to be selected. The test
key will initiate a test.
The 4 digit LCD shows the time value that the RCD takes to trip. For a successful
'no trip' test the maximum time of test current flow is given. For unsuccessful tests on 'B'
and 'C' type devices the display shows the word 'FAIL' as the test result.
The instrument circuit is microprocessor controlled and will always assume the
default setting when switched on or when the rotary switch is moved out of the stand-by
position. The maximum current that can flow is 500 mA. The instrument has a thermal
cut out to prevent overheating caused by rapidly repeated tests at high current. Also, it is
hardware and software protected against hazardous live voltages. If in the event prior to a
test the earth neutral potential is greater than 50 V,' or a test current causes earth potential
to rise greater than 50 V above neutral, the instrument will then turn the test current off
within 40 ms and show >50 V on the display. The rotary switch has a 'Standby' position
which, when selected (with the instrument connected to the supply), renders the LCD
blank but the microprocessor in the reset state.

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6.11.0 Safety Precautions


There is an inherent safety problem in earth resistance testing that requires care
and planning by the user of the earth resistance test set.
The possibility exists that a fault in the power system will cause a high current to
flow into the ground system while the test is in progress. This may cause unexpected high
voltages to appear at the current and voltage probes and also at the terminals of the test
set.
This risk must be evaluated by the person responsible for the tests, taking into
account the fault current available and expected step-and-touch potentials. IEEE Standard
80 entitled IEEE Guide for Safety in AC Substation Grounding fully covers this
subject. It is recommended that the operator should wear rubber protective gloves while
handling connections and use a rubber safety mat while operating the earth resistance test
set.
Following safety precautions must be taken before and while performing the earth
loop impedance test or testing RCD.
Safety Warnings and Precautions recommended by manufacturer must be
read and understood before the instrument is used. They must be observed
during use.
Continuity of protective conductors and earthed equipotential bonding of
new or modified installations must be verified before carrying out RCD
tests, or earth fault loop impedance tests.
Do not leave the instrument connected to the mains supply when not in
use.
Circuit connections and exposed metalwork of an installation or
equipment under test must not be touched.
Ensure that hands remain behind guards of probes/clips when testing.
The instrument should not be used if any part of it is damaged.
Test leads, probes and crocodile clips must be in good order, clean and
with no broken or cracked insulation.
The battery cover must be in place whilst conducting tests.
Voltage indicator LEDs cannot reveal a N-PE supply reversal.
National Safety Authorities may recommend the use of fused test leads
when measuring voltage on high-energy systems.
When making a 2 wire measurement with the 3 wire lead set, for safety
reasons the black test lead should be connected together with the green
test.
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7.0.0 Attachments
7.1.1 Fluke multimeter manual
7.12 Megger Manual BM80
7.13 Fluke Clamp on meter Instruction sheet
7.14 Megger Digital Earth Tester
7.15 Megger Digital Loop Tester
7.16 Megger RCD Tester

Electrical test instruments Module 03 (Basic)

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80 Series III
Multimeters

Users Manual

October 1997 Rev.4, 6/02


1997-2002 Fluke Corporation, All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.
All product names are trademarks of their respective companies.

Lifetime Limited Warranty


Each Fluke 20, 70, 80, 170 and 180 Series DMM will be free from defects in material and workmanship for its lifetime. As used herein,
lifetime is defined as seven years after Fluke discontinues manufacturing the product, but the warranty period shall be at least ten years from
the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover fuses, disposable batteries, damage from neglect, misuse, contamination, alteration,
accident or abnormal conditions of operation or handling, including failures caused by use outside of the products specifications, or normal
wear and tear of mechanical components. This warranty covers the original purchaser only and is not transferable.
For ten years from the date of purchase, this warranty also covers the LCD. Thereafter, for the lifetime of the DMM, Fluke will replace the
LCD for a fee based on then current component acquisition costs.
To establish original ownership and prove date of purchase, please complete and return the registration card accompanying the product, or
register your product on http://www.fluke.com. Fluke will, at its option, repair at no charge, replace or refund the purchase price of a
defective product purchased through a Fluke authorized sales outlet and at the applicable international price. Fluke reserves the right to
charge for importation costs of repair/replacement parts if the product purchased in one country is sent for repair elsewhere.
If the product is defective, contact your nearest Fluke authorized service center to obtain return authorization information, then send the
product to that service center, with a description of the difficulty, postage and insurance prepaid (FOB Destination). Fluke assumes no risk
for damage in transit. Fluke will pay return transportation for product repaired or replaced in-warranty. Before making any non-warranty
repair, Fluke will estimate cost and obtain authorization, then invoice you for repair and return transportation.
THIS WARRANTY IS YOUR ONLY REMEDY. NO OTHER WARRANTIES, SUCH AS FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE
EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. FLUKE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES OR LOSSES, INCLUDING LOSS OF DATA, ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY. AUTHORIZED RESELLERS ARE
NOT AUTHORIZED TO EXTEND ANY DIFFERENT WARRANTY ON FLUKES BEHALF. Since some states do not allow the exclusion or
limitation of an implied warranty or of incidental or consequential damages, this limitation of liability may not apply to you. If any provision of
this warranty is held invalid or unenforceable by a court or other decision-maker of competent jurisdiction, such holding will not affect the
validity or enforceability of any other provision.

2/02

Fluke Corporation

Fluke Europe B.V.

P.O. Box 9090

P.O. Box 1186

Everett WA

5602 B.D. Eindhoven

98206-9090

The Netherlands

Table of Contents

Title
Introduction....................................................................................................................
Safety Information .........................................................................................................
Your Meters Features ...................................................................................................
Power-Up Options ....................................................................................................
Automatic Power-Off.................................................................................................
Input Alert Feature ................................................................................................
Making Measurements ..................................................................................................
Measuring AC and DC Voltage.................................................................................
Testing for Continuity................................................................................................
Measuring Resistance ..............................................................................................
Using Conductance for High Resistance or Leakage Tests .....................................
Measuring Capacitance ............................................................................................
Testing Diodes..........................................................................................................
Measuring AC or DC Current....................................................................................
Measuring Frequency...............................................................................................
Measuring Duty Cycle...............................................................................................
Determining Pulse Width ..........................................................................................

Page
1
1
4
11
11
12
12
12
14
16
18
18
21
22
25
27
28

80 Series III
Users Manual
Analog Bar Graph ..........................................................................................................
Model 87 Bar Graph..................................................................................................
Models 83 and 85 Bar Graph ....................................................................................
4-1/2 Digit Mode (Model 87) ..........................................................................................
MIN MAX Recording Mode ............................................................................................

Touch Hold Mode .......................................................................................................


Relative Mode ................................................................................................................
Zoom Mode (Models 83 and 85) ...............................................................................
Uses for the Zoom Mode (Models 83 and 85)...........................................................
Maintenance ..................................................................................................................
General Maintenance................................................................................................
Testing the Fuses......................................................................................................
Replacing the Battery................................................................................................
Replacing the Fuses .................................................................................................
Service and Parts...........................................................................................................
Specifications.................................................................................................................

ii

28
28
29
29
30
32
32
32
33
33
33
34
35
35
36
41

List of Tables
Table
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.

Title

Page

International Electrical Symbols .........................................................................................


Inputs .................................................................................................................................
Rotary Switch Positions .....................................................................................................
Pushbuttons .......................................................................................................................
Display Features ................................................................................................................
Estimating Capacitance Values Over 5 Microfarads ..........................................................
Functions and Trigger Levels for Frequency Measurements .............................................
MIN MAX Functions ...........................................................................................................
Replacement Parts.............................................................................................................
Accessories........................................................................................................................
Models 85 and 87 AC Voltage Function Specifications......................................................
Model 83 AC Voltage Function Specifications ...................................................................
DC Voltage, Resistance, and Conductance Function Specifications .................................
Current Function Specifications .........................................................................................
Capacitance and Diode Function Specifications................................................................
Frequency Counter Specifications .....................................................................................
Frequency Counter Sensitivity and Trigger Levels.............................................................
Electrical Characteristics of the Terminals .........................................................................
MIN MAX Recording Specifications ...................................................................................

2
4
5
6
9
20
26
31
38
40
42
43
44
45
47
47
48
49
50

iii

80 Series III
Users Manual

iv

List of Figures

Figure

Title

Page

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

Display Features (Model 87 Shown)..........................................................


Measuring AC and DC Voltage..................................................................
Testing for Continuity.................................................................................
Measuring Resistance ...............................................................................
Measuring Capacitance.............................................................................
Testing a Diode .........................................................................................
Measuring Current.....................................................................................
Components of Duty Cycle Measurements ...............................................
Testing the Current Fuses .........................................................................
Battery and Fuse Replacement .................................................................
Replaceable Parts .....................................................................................

8
13
15
17
19
21
23
27
34
37
39

80 Series III
Users Manual

vi

Introduction

Introduction
WWarning
Read "Safety Information" before you use
the meter.
Except where noted, the descriptions and instructions in
this manual apply to Series III Models 83, 85, 87, and
87/E multimeters. Model 87 is shown in all illustrations.

In this manual, a Warning identifies conditions and


actions that pose hazards to the user. A Caution
identifies conditions and actions that may damage the
meter or the equipment under test.
International symbols used on the meter and in this
manual are explained in Table 1.

WWarning

Safety Information

To avoid possible electric shock or personal


injury, follow these guidelines:

This meter complies with:

Do not use the meter if it is damaged.


Before you use the meter, inspect the
case. Look for cracks or missing plastic.
Pay particular attention to the insulation
surrounding the connectors.

Make sure the battery door is closed and


latched before you operate the meter.

Replace the battery as soon as the


battery indicator (M) appears.

EN61010.1:1993
ANSI/ISA S82.01-1994
CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 1010.1-92
1000 V Overvoltage Category III, Pollution Degree 2
600 V Overvoltage Category IV, Pollution Degree 2
UL3111-1

Use the meter only as specified in this manual, otherwise


the protection provided by the meter may be impaired.

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 1. International Electrical Symbols
AC (Alternating Current)

Earth ground

DC (Direct Current)

Fuse

AC or DC

Conforms to European Union directives

Refer to the manual for information


about this feature.

Conforms to relevant Canadian


Standards Association directives

Battery

Double insulated

Inspected and licensed by TV Product Services.

Safety Information

Remove test leads from the meter before


you open the battery door.

Inspect the test leads for damaged


insulation or exposed metal. Check the
test leads for continuity. Replace
damaged test leads before you use the
meter.

Caution
To avoid possible damage to the meter or to
the equipment under test, follow these
guidelines:

Do not use the meter if it operates


abnormally. Protection may be impaired.
When in doubt, have the meter serviced.

Disconnect circuit power and discharge


all high-voltage capacitors before testing
resistance, continuity, diodes, or
capacitance.

Use the proper terminals, function, and


range for your measurements.

Do not operate the meter around


explosive gas, vapor, or dust.

Before measuring current, check the


meters fuses. (See "Testing the Fuses".)

Use only a single 9 V battery, properly


installed in the meter case, to power the
meter.

When servicing the meter, use only


specified replacement parts.

80 Series III
Users Manual
To protect yourself, use the following guidelines:

Use caution when working with voltages above 30 V


ac rms, 42 V ac peak, or 60 V dc. Such voltages
pose a shock hazard.

Table 2. Inputs
Terminal

Description

Page

22

When using the probes, keep your fingers behind the


finger guards.

Input for 0 A to 10.00 A


current measurements

mA A

22

Connect the common test lead before you connect


the live test lead. When you disconnect test leads,
disconnect the live test lead first.

Input for 0 A to 400 mA


current measurements

COM

Return terminal for all


measurements

NA

Avoid working alone.

V eG

When measuring current, turn off circuit power


before connecting the meter in the circuit. Remember
to place the meter in series with the circuit.

Input for voltage,


continuity, resistance,
diode, capacitance,
frequency, and duty
cycle measurements

V: 12
e: 16
G: 21
E:18
Frequency: 25
Duty cycle: 27

Your Meters Features


Tables 2 through 5 briefly describe your meters features
and give page numbers where you can find more detailed
information about the features.

Your Meters Features


Table 3. Rotary Switch Positions
Switch Position

Function

Page

AC voltage measurement

12

DC voltage measurement

12

d
mV

400 mV dc voltage range

12

R Continuity test

14

e Resistance measurement

16

E Capacitance measurement

18

Diode test

21

mA
A

DC or AC current measurements from 0 mA to 10.00 A

22

DC or AC current measurements from 0 A to 4000 A

22

ReE

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 4. Pushbuttons
Button

Function

U ReE
(Blue
button)

Page

Selects capacitance.

18

mA/A, A

Switches between dc and ac current.

22

Power-up

Disables automatic power-off feature.

11

Starts recording of minimum and maximum values. Steps the display through
MIN, MAX, AVG (average), and present readings.

30

position

Power-up

Enables high-accuracy 1-second response time for MIN MAX recording.

30

M Any switch

K Any switch
position

Power-up

Switches between the ranges available for the selected function. To return to
autoranging, hold the button down for 1 second.
Manually selecting a range causes the meter to exit the Touch Hold, MIN
MAX, and REL (relative) modes.

See ranges in
specifications.

For servicing purposes only.

NA

Touch Hold captures the present reading on the display. When a new, stable
reading is detected, the meter beeps and displays the new reading.

32

MIN MAX
recording

Stops and starts recording without erasing recorded values.

30

Frequency
counter

Stops and starts the frequency counter.

25

I Any switch
position

Button Function

Your Meters Features


Table 4. Pushbuttons (cont)
Button

b Model 87:
yellow button

Function

Page

Any switch
position

Turns the backlight on and off.

NA

For Model 87, hold the yellow button down for one second to enter the
4-1/2 digit mode. To return to the 3-1/2 digit mode, hold the button down
only until all display segments turn on (about one second).

29

Continuity
ReE

Turns the continuity beeper on and off.

14

MIN MAX
recording

On Model 87, switches between 250 s and 100 ms or 1 s response


times.

30

b Models 83,
85: gray
button
T

Button Function

Power-up

NA
Disables the beeper for all functions.

C
(Relative
mode)

Any switch
position

Stores the present reading as a reference for subsequent readings. The


display is zeroed, and the stored reading is subtracted from all
subsequent readings.

32

Power-up

For Models 83 and 85, enables zoom mode for the bar graph.

32

Any switch
position

Starts the frequency counter.

25

Press again to enter duty cycle mode.

27

Provides >4000 M input impedance for the 400 mV dc range.

NA

Power-up

80 Series III
Users Manual

5
4
10
10
3
2

1011

1
12

13

iy1f.eps

Figure 1. Display Features (Model 87 Shown)

Your Meters Features


Table 5. Display Features
Number

Feature

B
C
D

Page

Polarity indicator for the analog bar graph.

28

Relative (REL) mode is active.

32

The continuity beeper is on.

14

Indicates negative readings. In relative mode, this sign indicates that the
present input is less than the stored reference.

32

The battery is low. WWarning: To avoid false readings, which could lead
to possible electric shock or personal injury, replace the battery as soon
as the battery indicator appears.

AUTO

100 ms
MAX MIN AVG

H
I

Indication

AC DC

35

The meter is in autorange mode and automatically selects the range with the
best resolution.

NA

Indicators for minimum-maximum recording mode.

30

Touch Hold is active.

32

Indicator for ac or dc voltage or current. AC voltage and current is displayed as


an rms (root mean square) value.

12, 22

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 5. Display Features (continued)
Number

Feature

A, A, mA
V, mV
F, nF
nS
%
e, Me, ke
Hz, kHz, MHz

10

Indication

Page

A: Amperes (amps). The unit of current.


A: Microamp. 1 x 10-6 or 0.000001 amperes.
mA: Milliamp. 1 x 10-3 or 0.001 amperes.

22

V: Volts. The unit of voltage.


mV: Millivolt. 1 x 10-3 or 0.001 volts.

12

F: Farad. The unit of capacitance.


F: Microfarad. 1 x 10-6 or 0.000001 farads.
nF: Nanofarad. 1 x 10-9 or 0.000000001 farads.

18

S: Siemen. The unit of conductance.


nS: Nanosiemen. 1 x 10-9 or 0.000000001 siemens.

18

Percent. Used for duty cycle measurements.

27

: Ohm. The unit of resistance.


M: Megohm. 1 x 106 or 1,000,000 ohms.
k: Kilohm. 1 x 103 or 1000 ohms.

16

Hz: Hertz. The unit of frequency.


kHz: Kilohertz. 1 x 103 or 1000 hertz.
MHz: Megahertz. 1 x 106 or 1,000,000 hertz.

25

Your Meters Features


Table 5. Display Features (continued)
Number

Feature

4000 mV

Analog bar graph

0L

Indication
Displays the currently selected range.

Provides an analog indication of the present inputs.


The input (or the relative value when in relative mode) is too large
for the selected range. For duty cycle measurements OL is
displayed when the input signal stays high or low.

Page
See specifications
for ranges for each
function.
28
Duty cycle: 27

Power-Up Options

Automatic Power-Off

Holding a button down while turning the meter on


activates a power-up option. Table 4 includes the powerup options available. These options are also listed on the
back of the meter.

The meter automatically turns off if you do not turn the


rotary switch or press a button for 30 minutes. To disable
automatic power-off, hold down the blue button while
turning the meter on. Automatic power-off is always
disabled in MIN MAX recording mode.

11

80 Series III
Users Manual

Input Alert Feature

Measuring AC and DC Voltage

If a test lead is plugged into the mA/A or A terminal, but


the rotary switch is not correctly set to the mA/A or A
position, the beeper warns you by making a chirping
sound. This warning is intended to stop you from
attempting to measure voltage, continuity, resistance,
capacitance, or diode values when the leads are plugged
into a current terminal. Placing the probes across (in
parallel with) a powered circuit when a lead is plugged into
a current terminal can damage the circuit you are testing
and blow the meters fuse. This can happen because the
resistance through the meters current terminals is very
low, so the meter acts like a short circuit.

Voltage is the difference in electrical potential between


two points. The polarity of ac (alternating current) voltage
varies over time, while the polarity of dc (direct current)
voltage is constant over time. The meter presents ac
voltage values as rms (root mean square) readings. The
rms value is the equivalent dc voltage that would produce
the same amount of heat in a resistance as the measured
sinewave voltage. Models 85 and 87 feature true rms
readings, which are accurate for other wave forms (with
no dc offset) such as square waves, triangle waves, and
staircase waves.

Making Measurements
The following sections describe how to take
measurements with your meter.

12

The meters voltage ranges are 400 mV, 4 V, 40 V, 400 V,


and 1000 V. To select the 400 mV dc range, turn the
rotary switch to mV.
To measure ac or dc voltage, set up and connect the
meter as shown in Figure 2.

Making Measurements
The following are some tips for measuring voltage:

AC Voltage

When you measure voltage, the meter acts


approximately like a 10 M (10,000,000 )
impedance in parallel with the circuit. This loading
effect can cause measurement errors in highimpedance circuits. In most cases, the error is
negligible (0.1% or less) if the circuit impedance is
10 k (10,000 ) or less.

87 III TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

MIN MAX

RANGE

HOLD

REL
41/2 DIGITS
1 Second

Switch Box

Hz

PEAK MIN MAX

mV
mA
A

OFF

mA A COM V

For better accuracy when measuring the dc offset of


an ac voltage, measure the ac voltage first. Note the
ac voltage range, then manually select a dc voltage
range equal to or higher than the ac range. This
procedure improves the accuracy of the dc
measurement by ensuring that the input protection
circuits are not activated.

400mA MAX
FUSED

10A MAX
FUSED

CAT II

1000V MAX

DC Voltage
87 III TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

MIN MAX

RANGE

HOLD

REL
41/2 DIGITS
1 Second

Hz

PEAK MIN MAX

mV

mA
A

OFF

mA A COM V
!

10A MAX
FUSED

400mA MAX
FUSED

CAT II

1000V MAX

iy2f.eps

Figure 2. Measuring AC and DC Voltage

13

80 Series III
Users Manual

Testing for Continuity


Caution
To avoid possible damage to the meter or to
the equipment under test, disconnect circuit
power and discharge all high-voltage
capacitors before testing for continuity.
Continuity is the presence of a complete path for current
flow. The continuity test features a beeper that sounds if a
circuit is complete. The beeper allows you to perform
quick continuity tests without having to watch the display.
To test for continuity, set up the meter as shown in
Figure 3.
Press Tto turn the continuity beeper on or off.

14

The continuity function detects intermittent opens and


shorts lasting as little as 1 millisecond (0.001 second).
These brief contacts cause the meter to emit a short beep.

Making Measurements

For in-circuit tests, turn circuit power off.

87 III TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

MIN MAX

RANGE

HOLD

REL

4 1/2 DIGITS
1 Seconds

Activates
continuity
beeper

87 III TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

MIN MAX

RANGE

4 1/2 DIGITS
1 Seconds

Hz

PEAK MIN MAX

mV

mV
mA
A

mA
A

OFF

OFF

mA A COM V
!

10A MAX
FUSED

HOLD

REL

Hz

PEAK MIN MAX

400mA MAX
FUSED

CAT II

10A MAX
FUSED

1000V MAX

400mA MAX
FUSED

CAT II

1000V MAX

ON
(closed)

OFF
(open)

iy4f.eps

Figure 3. Testing for Continuity

15

80 Series III
Users Manual

Measuring Resistance
Caution
To avoid possible damage to the meter or to
the equipment under test, disconnect circuit
power and discharge all high-voltage
capacitors before measuring resistance.
Resistance is an opposition to current flow. The unit of
resistance is the ohm (). The meter measures resistance
by sending a small current through the circuit. Because
this current flows through all possible paths between the
probes, the resistance reading represents the total
resistance of all paths between the probes.
The meters resistance ranges are 400 , 4 k, 40 k,
400 k, 4 M, and 40 M.
To measure resistance, set up the meter as shown in
Figure 4.

16

The following are some tips for measuring resistance:

Because the meters test current flows through all


possible paths between the probe tips, the measured
value of a resistor in a circuit is often different from
the resistors rated value.

The test leads can add 0.1 to 0.2 of error to


resistance measurements. To test the leads, touch
the probe tips together and read the resistance of the
leads. If necessary, you can use the relative (REL)
mode to automatically subtract this value.

The resistance function can produce enough voltage


to forward-bias silicon diode or transistor junctions,
causing them to conduct. To avoid this, do not use
the 40 M range for in-circuit resistance
measurements.

Making Measurements

In-Circuit Resistance Measurements

Isolating a Potentiometer

Circuit Power

OFF

3 2
Disconnect
2

1
87 III TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

3
MIN MAX

RANGE

HOLD

REL
4 1/2 DIGITS
1 Seconds

Isolating a Resistor

Hz

PEAK MIN MAX

mV
mA
A

OFF

mA A

COM

10A MAX
FUSED

400mA MAX
FUSED

CAT II

1000V MAX

Disconnect
iy6f.eps

Figure 4. Measuring Resistance

17

80 Series III
Users Manual

Using Conductance for High Resistance or


Leakage Tests

The following are some tips for measuring conductance:

High-resistance readings are susceptible to electrical


noise. To smooth out most noisy readings, enter the
MIN MAX recording mode; then scroll to the average
(AVG) reading.

There is normally a residual conductance reading


with the test leads open. To ensure accurate
readings, use the relative (REL) mode to subtract the
residual value.

Conductance, the inverse of resistance, is the ability of a


circuit to pass current. High values of conductance
correspond to low values of resistance.
The unit of conductance is the Siemen (S). The meters
40 nS range measures conductance in nanosiemens
(1 nS = 0.000000001 Siemens). Because such small
amounts of conductance correspond to extremely high
resistance, the nS range lets you determine the
resistance of components up to 100,000 M, or
100,000,000,000 (1/1 nS = 1,000 M).
To measure conductance, set up the meter as shown for
measuring resistance (Figure 4); then press Kuntil
the nS indicator appears on the display.

Measuring Capacitance
Caution
To avoid possible damage to the meter or to
the equipment under test, disconnect circuit
power and discharge all high-voltage
capacitors before measuring capacitance.
Use the dc voltage function to confirm that
the capacitor is discharged.
Capacitance is the ability of a component to store an
electrical charge. The unit of capacitance is the farad (F).
Most capacitors are in the nanofarad to microfarad range.

18

Making Measurements
The meter measures capacitance by charging the
capacitor with a known current for a known period of time,
measuring the resulting voltage, then calculating the
capacitance. The measurement takes about 1 second per
range. The capacitor charge can be up to 1.2 V.

87 III TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

nF
MIN MAX

RANGE

HOLD

REL

Select
Capacitance

Hz

4 1/2 DIGITS PEAK MIN MAX


1 Seconds

The meters capacitance ranges are 5 nF, 0.05 F,


0.5 F, and 5 F.

mV

OFF

To measure capacitance, set up the meter as shown in


Figure 5.

mA
A

mA A

COM

10A MAX
FUSED

400mA MAX
FUSED

CAT II

1000V MAX

The following are some tips for measuring capacitance:

To speed up measurements of similar values, press


Kto manually select the proper range.

To improve the accuracy of measurements less than


5 nF, use the relative (REL) mode to subtract the
residual capacitance of the meter and leads.

+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

+
iy10f.eps

Figure 5. Measuring Capacitance

19

80 Series III
Users Manual

To estimate capacitance values above 5 F, use the


current supplied by the meters resistance function,
as follows:
1.

Set up the meter to measure resistance.

2.

Press Kto select a range based on the


value of capacitance you expect to measure
(refer to Table 6.)

3.

Discharge the capacitor.

4.

Place the meters leads across the capacitor;


then time how long it takes for the display to
reach OL.

5.

20

Multiply the charge time from step 4 by the


appropriate value in the F/second of Charge
Time column in 6. The result is the estimated
capacitance value in microfarads (F).

Table 6. Estimating Capacitance Values Over


5 Microfarads

Expected Capacitance

Suggested
Range*

F/second
of Charge
Time

Up to 10 F

4 Me

0.3

11 F to 100 F

400 ke

101 F to 1000 F

40 ke

30

1001 F to 10,000 F

4 ke

300

10,000 F to 100,000 F

400 e

3000

*These ranges keep the full-charge time between 3.7 seconds


and 33.3 seconds for the expected capacitance values. If the
capacitor charges too quickly for you to time, select the next
higher resistance range.

Making Measurements

Testing Diodes
Forward Bias

Caution
To avoid possible damage to the meter or to
the equipment under test, disconnect circuit
power and discharge all high-voltage
capacitors before testing diodes.

87 III TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

MIN MAX

RANGE

HOLD

REL
4 1/2 DIGITS

Typical
Reading

Hz

PEAK MIN MAX

1 Seconds

mV
mA
A

OFF

Use the diode test to check diodes, transistors, silicon


controlled rectifiers (SCRs), and other semiconductor
devices. This function tests a semiconductor junction by
sending a current through the junction, then measuring
the junctions voltage drop. A good silicon junction drops
between 0.5 V and 0.8 V.
To test a diode out of a circuit, set up the meter as shown
in Figure 6. For forward-bias readings on any
semiconductor component, place the red test lead on the
components positive terminal and place the black lead
on the components negative terminal.

mA A

COM

400mA MAX
FUSED

10A MAX
FUSED

CAT II

1000V MAX

Reverse Bias
87 III TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

+
MIN MAX

RANGE

HOLD

REL
4 1/2 DIGITS

Hz

PEAK MIN MAX

1 Seconds

mV
mA
A

OFF

In a circuit, a good diode should still produce a forwardbias reading of 0.5 V to 0.8 V; however, the reverse-bias
reading can vary depending on the resistance of other
pathways between the probe tips.

mA A

COM

10A MAX
FUSED

400mA MAX
FUSED

CAT II

1000V MAX

iy9f.eps

Figure 6. Testing a Diode

21

80 Series III
Users Manual

Measuring AC or DC Current

WWarning
Never attempt an in-circuit current
measurement where the open-circuit
potential to earth is greater than 1000 V. You
may damage the meter or be injured if the
fuse blows during such a measurement.
Caution
To avoid possible damage to the meter or to
the equipment under test, check the meters
fuses before measuring current. Use the
proper terminals, function, and range for
your measurement. Never place the probes
across (in parallel with) any circuit or
component when the leads are plugged into
the current terminals.
Current is the flow of electrons through a conductor. To
measure current, you must break the circuit under test,
then place the meter in series with the circuit.

22

The meters current ranges are 400 A, 4000 A,


40 mA, 400 mA, 4000 mA, and 10 A. AC current is
displayed as an rms value.
To measure current, refer to Figure 7 and proceed as
follows:
1.

Turn off power to the circuit. Discharge all highvoltage capacitors.

2.

Insert the black lead into the COM terminal. For


currents between 4 mA and 400 mA, insert the red
lead into the mA/A terminal. For currents above
400 mA, insert the red lead into the A terminal.

Note
To avoid blowing the meters 400 mA fuse, use
the mA/A terminal only if you are sure the
current is less than 400 mA.

Making Measurements

Circuit Power:
OFF to connect meter.
ON for measurement.
OFF to disconnect meter.

Total current to circuit

4
87 III TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

AC DC

MIN MAX

RANGE

HOLD

REL
4 1/2 DIGITS
1 Seconds

Hz

PEAK MIN MAX

mV

mA
A
A

Current through one component

mA
A

OFF

mA A COM V
!

10A MAX
FUSED

400mA MAX
FUSED

CAT II

1000V MAX

5
iy7f.eps

Figure 7. Measuring Current

23

80 Series III
Users Manual
3.

If you are using the A terminal, set the rotary switch to


mA/A. If you are using the mA/A terminal, set the
rotary switch to A for currents below 4000 A
(4 mA), or mA/A for currents above 4000 A.

4.

To measure ac current, press the blue button.

5.

Break the circuit path to be tested. Touch the black


probe to the more negative side of the break; touch
the red probe to the more positive side of the break.
Reversing the leads will produce a negative reading,
but will not damage the meter.

6.

Turn on power to the circuit; then read the display. Be


sure to note the unit given at the right side of the
display (A, mA, or A).

7.

Turn off power to the circuit and discharge all highvoltage capacitors. Remove the meter and restore the
circuit to normal operation.

24

The following are some tips for measuring current:

If the current reading is 0 and you are sure the meter


is set up correctly, test the meters fuses as described
under "Testing the Fuses".

A current meter drops a small voltage across itself,


which might affect circuit operation. You can calculate
this burden voltage using the values listed in the
specifications in Table 14.

Making Measurements

Measuring Frequency

The following are some tips for measuring frequency:

Frequency is the number of cycles a signal completes


each second. The meter measures the frequency of a
voltage or current signal by counting the number of times
the signal crosses a threshold level each second.

If a reading shows as 0 Hz or is unstable, the input


signal may be below or near the trigger level. You can
usually correct these problems by selecting a lower
range, which increases the sensitivity of the meter. In
the L function, the lower ranges also have lower
trigger levels.

If a reading seems to be a multiple of what you


expect, the input signal may be distorted. Distortion
can cause multiple triggerings of the frequency
counter. Selecting a higher voltage range might solve
this problem by decreasing the sensitivity of the
meter. You can also try selecting a dc range, which
raises the trigger level. In general, the lowest
frequency displayed is the correct one.

Table 7 summarizes the trigger levels and applications for


measuring frequency using the various ranges of the
meters voltage and current functions.
To measure frequency, connect the meter to the signal
source; then press F. Pressing Tswitches the
trigger slope between + and -, as indicated by the symbol
at the left side of the display (refer to Figure 8 under
"Measuring Duty Cycle"). Pressing Istops and
starts the counter.
The meter autoranges to one of five frequency ranges:
199.99 Hz, 1999.9 Hz, 19.999 kHz, 199.99 kHz, and
greater than 200 kHz. For frequencies below 10 Hz, the
display is updated at the frequency of the input. Between
0.5 Hz and 0.3 Hz, the display may be unstable. Below
0.3 Hz, the display shows 0.000 Hz.

25

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 7. Functions and Trigger Levels for Frequency Measurements

Function

Approximate
Trigger Level

Typical Application

4 V, 40 V, 400 V,
1000 V

0V

Most signals.

400 mV

0V

High-frequency 5 V logic signals. (The dc-coupling of the L function can


attenuate high-frequency logic signals, reducing their amplitude enough
to interfere with triggering.)

400 mV

40 mV

Refer to the measurement tips given before this table.

4V

1.7 V

5 V logic signals (TTL).

40 V

4V

Automotive switching signals.

400 V

40 V

Refer to the measurement tips given before this table.

1000 V

400 V

ReEG
\

Frequency counter characteristics are not specified for these functions.


0A

AC current signals.

AF

400 A

Refer to the measurement tips given before this table.

40 mA

AF

26

Range

All ranges

4A

Making Measurements
frequency function, you can change the slope for the
meters counter by pressing T.

Measuring Duty Cycle


Duty cycle (or duty factor) is the percentage of time a
signal is above or below a trigger level during one cycle
(Figure 8). The duty cycle mode is optimized for
measuring the on or off time of logic and switching
signals. Systems such as electronic fuel injection systems
and switching power supplies are controlled by pulses of
varying width, which can be checked by measuring duty
cycle.

For 5 V logic signals, use the 4 V dc range. For 12 V


switching signals in automobiles, use the 40 V dc range.
For sine waves, use the lowest range that does not result
in multiple triggering. (Normally, a distortion-free signal
can be up to ten times the amplitude of the selected
voltage range.)
If a duty cycle reading is unstable, press MIN MAX; then
scroll to the AVG (average) display.

To measure duty cycle, set up the meter to measure


frequency; then press Hz a second time. As with the

+Slope
Trigger Point

-Slope
Trigger Point
30% Above
+Slope

70% Below
-Slope
100%
iy3f.eps

Figure 8. Components of Duty Cycle Measurements

27

80 Series III
Users Manual

Determining Pulse Width

Analog Bar Graph

For a periodic waveform (its pattern repeats at equal time


intervals), you can determine the amount of time that the
signal is high or low as follows:

The analog bar graph functions like the needle on an


analog meter, but without the overshoot. The bar graph is
updated 40 times per second. Because the graph
responds 10 times faster than the digital display, it is
useful for making peak and null adjustments and
observing rapidly changing inputs.

1.

Measure the signals frequency.

2.

Press Fa second time to measure the signals


duty cycle. Press T to select a measurement of
the signals positive or negative pulse. (Refer to
Figure 8.)

3.

Use the following formula to determine the pulse


width:
Pulse Width = % Duty Cycle 100
(in seconds)
Frequency

28

Model 87 Bar Graph


Model 87s bar graph consists of 32 segments. The
position of the pointer on the display represents the last
three digits of the digital display. For example, for inputs
of 500 , 1500 , and 2500 , the pointer is near 0.5 on
the scale. If the last three digits are 999, the pointer is at
the far right of the scale. As the digits increment past 000,
the pointer wraps back to the left side of the display. The
polarity indicator at the left of the graph indicates the
polarity of the input.

4-1/2 Digit Mode (Model 87)

Models 83 and 85 Bar Graph

4-1/2 Digit Mode (Model 87)

The bar graph on Models 83 and 85 consists of 43


segments. The number of lit segments is relative to the
full-scale value of the selected range. The polarity
indicator at the left of the graph indicates the polarity of
the input. For example, if the 40 V range is selected, the
"4" on the scale represents 40 V. An input of -30 V would
light the negative sign and the segments up to the "3" on
the scale.

On a Model 87 meter, pressing the yellow button for one


second causes the meter to enter the high-resolution,
4-1/2 digit mode. Readings are displayed at 10 times the
normal resolution with a maximum display of 19,999
counts. The display is updated once per second. The
4-1/2 digit mode works in all modes except capacitance
and the 250 s and 100 ms MIN MAX modes.

If the input equals or exceeds the 4096 counts on a


manually-selected range, all segments are lit and
appears to the right of the bar graph. The graph does not
operate with the capacitance or frequency counter
functions.

To return to the 3-1/2 digit mode, press the yellow button


only until all of the display segments turn on (about one
second).

The bar graph on Models 83 and 85 also has a zoom


function, as described under "Zoom Mode".

29

80 Series III
Users Manual

MIN MAX Recording Mode


The MIN MAX mode records minimum and maximum
input values. When the inputs go below the recorded
minimum value or above the recorded maximum value,
the meter beeps and records the new value. This mode
can be used to capture intermittent readings, record
maximum readings while you are away, or record
readings while you are operating the equipment under
test and cannot watch the meter. MIN MAX mode can
also calculate an average of all readings taken since the
MIN MAX mode was activated. To use MIN MAX mode,
refer to the functions in Table 8.
Response time is the length of time an input must stay at
a new value to be recorded. A shorter response time
captures shorter events, but with decreased accuracy.
Changing the response time erases all recorded
readings. Models 83 and 85 have 100 millisecond and
1 second response times; Model 87 has 1 second,
100 millisecond, and 250 s (peak) response times. The
250 s response time is indicated by "1 ms" on the
display.

30

The 100 millisecond response time is best for recording


power supply surges, inrush currents, and finding
intermittent failures. This response time follows the
update time of the analog display.
The high-accuracy 1 second response time has the full
accuracy of the meter and is best for recording power
supply drift, line voltage changes, or circuit performance
while line voltage, temperature, load, or some other
parameter is being changed.
The true average value (AVG) displayed in the 100 ms
and 1 s modes is the mathematical integral of all readings
taken since you started recording. The average reading is
useful for smoothing out unstable inputs, calculating
power consumption, or estimating the percent of time a
circuit is active.

MIN MAX Recording Mode


Table 8. MIN MAX Functions
Button

MIN MAX Function

Enter MIN MAX recording mode. The meter is locked in the range displayed before you
entered MIN MAX mode. (Select the desired measurement function and range before
entering MIN MAX.) The meter beeps each time a new minimum or maximum value is
recorded.

Scroll through minimum (MIN), maximum (MAX), and average (AVG) values.

(While in MIN MAX mode)

T
PEAK MIN MAX

Model 87 only: Select 100 ms or 250 s response time. (The 250 s response time is
indicated by "1 ms" on the display.) Stored values are erased. The present and AVG
(average) values are not available when 250 s is selected.

Stop recording without erasing stored values. Press again to resume recording.

Exit MIN MAX mode. Stored values are erased. The meter stays in the selected range.

(hold for 1 second)


Hold down M
while turning the meter on

Select 1 s high-accuracy response time. See text under "MIN MAX Recording Mode" for
more explanation. MIN MAX readings for the frequency counter are recorded only in the
high-accuracy mode.

31

80 Series III
Users Manual

Touch Hold Mode


WWarning
The Touch Hold mode will not capture
unstable or noisy readings. Do not use
Touch Hold mode to determine that circuits
are without power.
The Touch Hold mode captures the present reading on
the display. When a new, stable reading is detected, the
meter beeps and displays the new reading. To enter or
exit Touch Hold mode, press I.

Relative Mode
Selecting relative mode ( C) causes the meter to
zero the display and store the present reading as the
reference for subsequent measurements. The meter is
locked into the range selected when you pressed
C. Press Cagain to exit this mode.

32

In relative mode, the reading shown is always the


difference between the present reading and the stored
reference value. For example, if the stored reference
value is 15.00 V and the present reading is 14.10 V, the
display shows -0.90 V.
On Model 87, the relative mode does not change the
operation of the analog display.

Zoom Mode (Models 83 and 85)


Selecting relative mode on a Model 83 or 85 meter
causes the bar graph to enter Zoom mode. In zoom
mode, the center of the graph represents zero and the
sensitivity of the bar graph increases by a factor of 10.
Measured values more negative than the stored
reference light segments to the left of center; values more
positive light segments to the right of center.

Maintenance

Uses for the Zoom Mode (Models 83 and 85)

Maintenance

The relative mode, combined with the increased


sensitivity of the bar graphs zoom mode, helps you make
fast and accurate zero and peak adjustments.

Repairs or servicing not covered in this manual should be


performed only by qualified personnel as described in the
80 Series III Service Manual.

For zero adjustments, set the meter to the desired


function, short the test leads together, press C;
then connect the leads to the circuit under test. Adjust the
circuits variable component until the display reads zero.
Only the center segment on the Zoom bar graph is lit.

General Maintenance

For peak adjustments, set the meter to the desired


function, connect the leads to the circuit under test; then
press C. The display reads zero. As you adjust for
a positive or negative peak, the bar graph length
increases to the right or left of zero. If an overange
symbol lights
( ), press C twice to set a new
reference; then continue with your adjustment.

Periodically wipe the case with a damp cloth and mild


detergent. Do not use abrasives or solvents.
Dirt or moisture in the terminals can affect readings and
can falsely activate the Input Alert feature. Clean the
terminals as follows:
1.

Turn the meter off and remove all test leads.

2.

Shake out any dirt that may be in the terminals.

3.

Soak a new swab with a cleaning and oiling agent


(such as WD-40). Work the swab around in each
terminal. The oiling agent insulates the terminals
from moisture-related activation of the Input Alert
feature.

33

80 Series III
Users Manual

Testing the Fuses


Before measuring current, test the appropriate fuse as
shown in Figure 9. If the tests give readings other than
those shown, have the meter serviced.

Good F2 fuse: 00.0 to


00.5
Replace fuse: OL

87

TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

MIN MAX

RANGE

HOLD

REL

mA
A

WWarning
To avoid electrical shock or personal injury,
remove the test leads and any input signals
before replacing the battery or fuses. To
prevent damage or injury, install ONLY
specified replacement fuses with the
amperage, voltage, and speed ratings shown
in Table 9.

Hz

PEAK MIN MAX

mV

OFF

Touch top half


of input contacts

mA A

COM

400mA MAX
FUSED

10A MAX
FUSED

87

CAT II
CA
10
T
II
1000V MAX
00
V
M
AX

TRUE RMS MULTIMETER

MIN MAX

RANGE

HOLD

REL

Hz

PEAK MIN MAX

Good F1 fuse: 0.995 k to


1.005 k
Replace fuse: OL

mV
mA
A

OFF

mA A

COM

10A MAX
FUSED

400mA MAX
FUSED
!

CAT II
CA
10
T
II
1000V MAX
00
V
M
AX

iy5f.eps

Figure 9. Testing the Current Fuses

34

Maintenance

Replacing the Battery

Replacing the Fuses

Replace the battery with a 9 V battery (NEDA A1604,


6F22, or 006P).

Referring to Figure 10, examine or replace the meters


fuses as follows:

WWarning
To avoid false readings, which could lead to
possible electric shock or personal injury,
replace the battery as soon as the battery
indicator (B) appears.
Replace the battery as follows (refer to Figure 10):
1.
2.

3.

Turn the rotary switch to OFF and remove the test


leads from the terminals.
Remove the battery door by using a standard-blade
screwdriver to turn the battery door screws onequarter turn counterclockwise.
Replace the battery and the battery door. Secure the
door by turning the screws one-quarter turn
clockwise.

1.

Turn the rotary switch to OFF and remove the test


leads from the terminals.

2.

Remove the battery door by using a standard-blade


screwdriver to turn the battery door screws onequarter turn counterclockwise.

3.

Remove the three Phillips-head screws from the


case bottom and turn the case over.

4.

Gently lift the input terminal-end of the top case to


separate the two halves of the case.

5.

Remove the fuse by gently prying one end loose,


then sliding the fuse out of its bracket.

6.

Install ONLY specified replacement fuses with the


amperage, voltage, and speed ratings shown in
Table 9.

35

80 Series III
Users Manual
6.

Verify that the rotary switch and the circuit board


switch are in the OFF position.

7.

Replace the case top, ensuring that the gasket is


properly seated and case snaps together above the
LCD (item A).

8.

Reinstall the three screws and the battery door.


Secure the door by turning the screws one-quarter
turn clockwise.

Service and Parts


If the meter fails, check the battery and fuses. Review this
manual to verify proper use of the meter.
Replacement parts and accessories are shown in Tables
9 and 10 and Figure 11.
To contact Fluke, call one of the following telephone
numbers:
USA: 1-888-99-FLUKE (1-888-993-5853)
Canada: 1-800-36-FLUKE (1-800-363-5853)
Europe: +31 402-678-200
Japan: +81-3-3434-0181
Singapore: +65-738-5655
Anywhere in the world: +1-425-356-5500
Or, visit Flukes Web site at www.fluke.com.

36

Service and Parts

F1
F2

iy12f.eps

Figure 10. Battery and Fuse Replacement

37

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 9. Replacement Parts

Item

Description

BT1
Battery, 9 V
F1 W
Fuse, 0.440 A, 1000 V, FAST
F2 W
Fuse, 11 A, 1000 V, FAST
H1
Screw, Case
MP1
Foot, Non-Skid
MP2
O-Ring, Input Receptacle
TM1
CD-ROM (contains Users Manual)
TM2
Getting Started Manual
TM3
Quick Reference Guide, Fluke 80 Series III
TM4
Service Manual
WTo ensure safety, use exact replacement only.

38

Fluke Part
or Model
Number

Quantity

614487
943121
803293
832246
824466
831933
1611720
1611712
688168
688645

1
1
1
3
2
1
1
1
1
Optional

Service and Parts

TL75
Test Lead Set

MP85
T24 Test
Lead Set

S1
TP1, TP4 Probes

AC20 Alligator
Clip (Black)

87/E Test Lead Set

F2

AC70A
Alligator Clips

F1
MP2
TM1

C81Y

MP86
TM2

H1
BT1

MP1
MP92
TM3

H5, 6
iy11f.eps

Figure 11. Replaceable Parts

39

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 10. Accessories*

Item
TL20
AC70A
TL75
TL24
TP1
TP4
AC20
C81Y
C81G
C25

Description
Industrial Test Lead Set (Optional)
Alligator Clips for use with TL75 test lead set
Test Lead Set
Test Lead Set, Heat-Resistant Silicone
Test Probes, Flat Blade, Slim Reach
Test Probes, 4 mm diameter, Slim Reach
Safety Grip, Wide-Jaw Alligator Clips
Holster, Yellow
Holster, Gray (Optional)
Carrying Case, Soft (Optional)

* Fluke accessories are available from your authorized Fluke distributor.

40

Fluke Part
Number
TL20
AC70A
TL75
TL24
TP1
TP4
AC20
C81Y
C81G
C25

Quantity

1
1

Specifications

Specifications
Maximum Voltage between any Terminal and Earth Ground: 1000 V rms

WFuse Protection for mA or A inputs: 44/100 A, 1000 V FAST Fuse


WFuse Protection for A input: 11 A, 1000 V FAST Fuse
Display: Digital: 4000 counts updates 4/sec; (Model 87 also has 19,999 counts in 4-digit mode, updates 1/sec.). Analog: updates
40/sec. Frequency: 19,999 counts, updates 3/sec at >10 Hz. Model 87: 4 x 32 segments (equivalent to 128); Models 83, 85: 43 segments.
Temperature: Operating: -20C to +55C; Storage: -40C to +60C
Altitude: Operating: 2000 m; Storage: 10,000 m
Temperature Coefficient: 0.05 x (specified accuracy)/ C (<18C or >28C)
Electromagnetic Compatibility: In an RF field of 3 V/m total accuracy = specified accuracy except: Models 85,87: Total Accuracy =
Specified Accuracy + 0.4% of range above 800 MHz (ADC only). (mVAC and AAC unspecified). Model 83: Total Accuracy = Specified
Accuracy + 5% of range above 300 MHz (ADC only). (VDC unspecified).
Relative Humidity: 0% to 90% (0C to 35C); 0% to 70% (35C to 55C)
Battery Type: 9 V zinc, NEDA 1604 or 6F22 or 006P
Battery Life: 400 hrs typical with alkaline (with backlight off)
Shock Vibration: Per MIL-T-28800 for a Class 2 instrument
Size (HxWxL): 1.25 in x 3.41 in x 7.35 in (3.1 cm x 8.6 cm x 18.6 cm)
Size with Holster and Flex-Stand: 2.06 in x 3.86 in x 7.93 in (5.2 cm x 9.8 cm x 20.1 cm)
Weight: 12.5 oz (355 g)
Weight with Holster and Flex-Stand: 22.0 oz (624 g)
Safety: Complies with ANSI/ISA S82.01-1994, CSA 22.2 No. 1010.1:1992 to 1000 V Overvoltage Category III, IEC 664 to 600 V
Overvoltage Category IV. UL listed to UL3111-1. Licensed by TV to EN61010-1.

41

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 11. Models 85 and 87 AC Voltage Function Specifications
Function

K3

Range

400.0 mV
4.000 V
40.00 V
400.0 V
1000 V

Accuracy1

Resolution

0.1 mV
0.001 V
0.01 V
0.1 V
1V

50 Hz - 60 Hz
(0.7% + 4)
(0.7% + 2)
(0.7% + 2)
(0.7% + 2)
(0.7% + 2)

45 Hz - 1 kHz
(1.0% + 4)
(1.0% + 4)
(1.0% + 4)
(1.0% + 4)
(1.0% + 4)5

1 kHz - 5 kHz
(2.0% + 4)
(2.0% + 4)
(2.0% + 4)
(2.0% + 4)4
unspecified

5 kHz - 20 kHz2
(2.0% + 20)
(2.0% + 20)
(2.0% + 20)
unspecified
unspecified

1.

Accuracy is given as ([% of reading] + [number of least significant digits]) at 18C to 28C, with relative humidity up to 90%, for a
period of one year after calibration. For Model 87 in the 4 -digit mode, multiply the number of least significant digits (counts) by 10.
AC conversions are ac-coupled and valid from 5% to 100% of range. Models 85 and 87 are true rms responding. AC crest factor can
be up to 3 at full scale, 6 at half scale. For non-sinusoidal wave forms add -(2% Rdg + 2% full scale) typical, for a crest factor up to 3.

2.

Below 10% of range, add 6 counts.

3.

Models 85 and 87 are true rms responding meters. When the input leads are shorted together in the ac functions, the meters display
a reading (typically <25 counts) that is caused by internal amplifier noise. The accuracy on Models 85 and 87 is not significantly
affected by this internal offset when measuring inputs that are within 5% to 100% of the selected range. When the rms value of the
two values (5% of range and internal offset) is calculated, the effect is minimal as shown in the following example where 20.0 = 5% of
400 mV range, and 2.5 is the internal offset: RMS = SQRT[(20.0)2 + (2.5)2] = 20.16. If you use the REL function to zero the display
when using the ac functions, a constant error that is equal to the internal offset will result.

4.

Frequency range: 1 kHz to 2.5 kHz.

5.

Below 10% of range, add 16 counts.

42

Specifications
Table 12. Model 83 AC Voltage Function Specifications
Function

Range

400.0 mV
4.000 V
40.00 V
400.0 V
1000 V

Accuracy1

Resolution

0.1 mV
0.001 V
0.01 V
0.1 V
1V

50 Hz - 60 Hz
(0.5% + 4)
(0.5% + 2)
(0.5% + 2)
(0.5% + 2)
(0.5% + 2)

1.
2.

See the first sentence in Table 11 for a complete explanation of accuracy.


Below a reading of 200 counts, add 10 counts.

3.

Frequency range: 1 kHz to 2.5 kHz.

45 Hz - 1 kHz
(1.0% + 4)
(1.0% + 4)
(1.0% + 4)
(1.0% + 4)
(1.0% + 4)

1 kHz - 5 kHz
(2.0% + 4)
(2.0% + 4)
(2.0% + 4)
(2.0% + 4)3
unspecified

43

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 13. DC Voltage, Resistance, and Conductance Function Specifications
Accuracy1
Function

L
F

Range

Resolution

Model 83

Model 85

Model 87

4.000 V
40.00 V
400.0 V
1000 V

0.001 V
0.01 V
0.1 V
1V

(0.1% + 1)
(0.1% + 1)
(0.1% + 1)
(0.1% + 1)

(0.08% + 1)
(0.08% + 1)
(0.08% + 1)
(0.08% + 1)

(0.05% + 1)
(0.05% + 1)
(0.05% + 1)
(0.05% + 1)

400.0 mV

0.1 mV

(0.3% + 1)

(0.1% + 1)

(0.1% + 1)

400.0
4.000 k
40.00 k
400.0 k
4.000 M
40.00 M
40.00 nS

0.1
0.001 k
0.01 k
0.1 k
0.001 M
0.01 M
0.01 nS

(0.4% + 2)2
(0.4% + 1)
(0.4% + 1)
(0.7% + 1)
(0.7% + 1)
(1.0% + 3)
(1.0% + 10)

(0.2% + 2)2
(0.2% + 1)
(0.2% + 1)
(0.6% + 1)
(0.6% + 1)
(1.0% + 3)
(1.0% + 10)

(0.2% + 2)2
(0.2% + 1)
(0.2% + 1)
(0.6% + 1)
(0.6% + 1)
(1.0% + 3)
(1.0% + 10)

mV

nS
1.
2.

44

See the first sentence in Table 11 for a complete explanation of accuracy.


When using the REL function to compensate for offsets.

Specifications
Table 14. Current Function Specifications
Accuracy1
Function

mA
\
(45 Hz to 2 kHz)

Range
40.00 mA
400.0 mA
4000 mA
10.00 A5

Resolution
0.01 mA
0.1 mA
1 mA
0.01 A

Model 832

Model 853, 4

Model 873, 4

Burden Voltage
(typical)

(1.2% + 2)6
(1.2% + 2)6
(1.2% + 2)6
(1.2% + 2)6

(1.0% + 2)6
(1.0% + 2)6
(1.0% + 2)6
(1.0% + 2)6

(1.0% + 2)
(1.0% + 2)
(1.0% + 2)
(1.0% + 2)

1.8 mV/mA
1.8 mV/mA
0.03 V/A
0.03 V/A

(0.2% + 4)
(0.2% + 2)
(0.2% + 4)
(0.2% + 2)

(0.2% + 4)
(0.2% + 2)
(0.2% + 4)
(0.2% + 2)

1.8 mV/mA
1.8 mV/mA
0.03 V/A
0.03 V/A

mA
[

1.

(0.4% + 4)
0.01 mA
40.00 mA
(0.4% + 2)
0.1 mA
400.0 mA
(0.4% + 4)
1 mA
4000 mA
(0.4% + 2)
5
0.01 A
10.00 A
See the first sentence in Table 11 for a complete explanation of accuracy.

2.

AC conversion for Model 83 is ac coupled and calibrated to the rms value of a sinewave input.

3.

AC conversions for Models 85 and 87 are ac coupled, true rms responding, and valid from 5% to 100% of range.

4.

See note 3 in Table 11.

5.

W 10 A continuous; 20 A for 30 seconds maximum; >10 A: unspecified.

6.

Below a reading of 200 counts, add 10 counts.

45

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 14. Current Function Specifications (continued)
Accuracy1
Function

A B
(45 Hz to 2 kHz)

Range

Resolution

Model 832

Model 853, 4

Model 873, 4

Burden
Voltage
(typical)

400.0 A
4000 A

0.1 A
1 A

(1.2% + 2)5
(1.2% + 2)5

(1.0% + 2)5
(1.0% + 2)5

(1.0% + 2)
(1.0% + 2)

100 V/A
100 V/A

400.0 A
4000 A

0.1 A
1 A

(0.4% + 4)
(0.4% + 2)

(0.2% + 4)
(0.2% + 2)

(0.2% + 4)
(0.2% + 2)

100 V/A
100 V/A

AF

1.

See the first sentence in Table 11 for a complete explanation of accuracy.

2.

AC conversion for Model 83 is ac coupled and calibrated to the rms value of a sinewave input.

3.

AC conversions for Models 85 and 87 are ac coupled, true rms responding, and valid from 5% to 100% of range.

4.

See note 3 in Table 11.

5.

Below a reading of 200 counts, add 10 counts.

46

Specifications
Table 15. Capacitance and Diode Function Specifications
Function

G
1.

Range

Accuracy1

Resolution

5.00 nF
0.0500 F
0.500 F
5.00 F

0.01 nF
0.0001 F
0.001 F
0.01 F

(1% + 3)
(1% + 3)
(1% + 3)
(1.9% + 3)

3.000 V

0.001 V

(2% + 1)

With a film capacitor or better, using Relative mode to zero residual. See the first sentence in Table 11 for a complete explanation of
accuracy.

Table 16. Frequency Counter Specifications


Function
Frequency
(0.5 Hz to 200 kHz,
pulse width >2 s)

1.

Range

Resolution

199.99
1999.9
19.999 kHz
199.99 kHz
>200 kHz

0.01 Hz
0.1 Hz
0.001 kHz
0.01 kHz
0.1 kHz

Accuracy1
(0.005% + 1)
(0.005% + 1)
(0.005% + 1)
(0.005% + 1)
unspecified

See the first sentence in Table 11 for a complete explanation of accuracy.

47

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 17. Frequency Counter Sensitivity and Trigger Levels
Minimum Sensitivity (RMS Sinewave)
Input Range1
400 mV dc
400 mV dc
4V
40 V
400 V
1000 V

5 Hz - 20 kHz
70 mV (to 400 Hz)
150 mV
0.3 V
3V
30 V
300 V

0.5 Hz - 200 kHz

(DC Voltage Function)


40 mV

1.7 V
4V
40 V
400 V

70 mV (to 400 Hz)


150 mV
0.7 V
7 V (140 kHz)
70 V (14.0 kHz)
700 V (1.4 kHz)

Duty Cycle Range


0.0 to 99.9%

Approximate Trigger Level

Accuracy
Within (0.05% per kHz + 0.1%) of full scale for a 5 V logic family input on the 4 V dc range.
Within ((0.06 x Voltage Range/Input Voltage) x 100%) of full scale for sine wave inputs on ac voltage ranges.

1.

48

Maximum input for specified accuracy = 10X Range or 1000 V.

Specifications
Table 18. Electrical Characteristics of the Terminals

Overload
Protection1

Input
Impedance
(nominal)

Common Mode Rejection


Ratio
(1 k unbalance)

Normal Mode Rejection

1000 V rms

10 M<100 pF

>120 dB at dc, 50 Hz or 60 Hz

>60 dB at 50 Hz or 60 Hz

F
mV

1000 V rms

10 M<100 pF

>120 dB at dc, 50 Hz or 60 Hz

>60 dB at 50 Hz or 60 Hz

1000 V rms

10 M<100 pF
(ac-coupled)

>60 dB, dc to 60 Hz

Open Circuit

Full Scale Voltage

Function

Test Voltage

1000 V rms

<1.3 V dc

1000 V rms

<3.9 V dc

1.

Typical Short Circuit Current

To 4.0 M

40 M or nS

400

4k

40 k

400 k

4M

40 M

<450 mV dc

<1.3 V dc

200 A

80 A

12 A

1.4 A

0.2 A

0.2 A

3.000 V dc

0.6 mA typical

106 V Hz max

49

80 Series III
Users Manual
Table 19. MIN MAX Recording Specifications
Model

83

85, 87

50

Nominal Response

Accuracy

100 ms to 80%

Specified accuracy 12 counts for changes >200 ms in duration (40 counts in ac with beeper on)

1s

Same as specified accuracy for changes >2 seconds in duration (40 counts in ac with beeper on)

100 ms to 80%
(DC functions)

Specified accuracy 12 counts for changes >200 ms in duration

120 ms to 80%
(AC functions)

Specified accuracy 40 counts for changes >350 ms and inputs >25% of range

1s

Same as specified accuracy for changes >2 seconds in duration

250 s
(Model 87 only)

Specified accuracy 100 counts for changes >250 s in duration


( 250 digits typical for mV, 400 A dc, 40 mA dc, 4000 mA dc)

M
BM80/2 Series
Multi-Voltage Insulation and Continuity Tester

User Guide
Guide de lutilisateur
Gebrauchsanleitung
Gua del usuario

Contents
Safety Warnings

Notes

General Description

4-5

Operation
Testing is automatically inhibited if...

Insulation Testing Concepts


Specification

11
12-13
14-17

Typical Terminal Voltage Characteristics 18

Voltage testing on high energy systems 6

Accessories

19

Auto-shut Off

Repair and Warranty

20

Insulation Tests (M)

Polarization Index Testing

Mode demploi

22 - 43

Continuity Testing ()

Betriebsanleitung

44 - 65

Instrucionnes de Uso

66 - 87

Continuity Bleeper (

Zeroing of Test Lead Resistance

Resistance Tests (k)

Voltage Tests (V)

Live Circuit Warning

Battery Check (

Application Notes
Preventive Maintenance

10

Battery Replacement

10

Fuse Checking and Replacement

10

SAFETY WARNINGS
Safety Warnings and Precautions must be read and understood
before the instrument is used. They must be observed during use.
The circuit under test must be de-energized and isolated before
connections are made except for voltage measurement.
Circuit connections must not be touched during a test.
After insulation tests, capacitive circuits must be allowed to discharge
before disconnecting the test leads.
The Live Circuit Warning and Automatic Discharge are additional safety
features and should not be regarded as a substitute for normal safe
working practice.
Replacement fuses must be of the correct type and rating.
Test leads, including crocodile clips, must be in good order, clean and
have no broken or cracked insulation.
U.K. Safety Authorities recommend the use of fused test leads when
measuring voltage on high energy systems.
NOTE
THIS INSTRUMENT MUST ONLY BE USED BY SUITABLY TRAINED AND COMPETENT PERSONS.

Notes
Symbols used on the instrument:

BEFORE USING THE INSTRUMENT, follow


the separate instructions provided to fit either
the locking or non-locking test button. Megger
Limited recommend the fitting of the nonlocking test button. Hands free operation is
provided on all ranges except the insulation
ranges. If the locking button is fitted, extra care
must be taken.

Risk of electric shock.


Refer to User Guide.
Equipment protected throughout by
Double Insulation (Class II).
Equipment complies with current EU
Directives.
NOTE

Users of this equipment and or their employers are reminded that Health and Safety Legislation require them
to carry out valid risk assessments of all electrical work so as to identify potential sources of electrical danger
and risk of electrical injury such as from inadvertent short circuits. Where the assessments show that the risk
is significant then the use of fused test leads constructed in accordance with the HSE guidance note GS38
Electrical Test Equipment for use by Electricians should be used.Users of this equipment and or their
employers are reminded that Health and Safety Legislation require them to carry out valid risk assessments
of all electrical work so as to identify potential sources of electrical danger and risk of electrical injury such as
from inadvertent short circuits. Where the assessments show that the risk is significant then the use of fused
test leads constructed in accordance with the HSE guidance note GS38 Electrical Test Equipment for use by
Electricians should be used.
3

General Description
The BM80/2 Series instruments are battery
powered Insulation and Continuity testers, with a
measurement capability from 0,01 Continuity
to 200 G Insulation.
Offering multi-voltage facilities, the instruments
take full advantage of microprocessor
technology and feature a large liquid crystal
display combining digital and analogue
readings. The analogue display has the benefit
of indicating trends and fluctuations in
readings, while the digital readout gives direct
accurate results.
The BM80/2 Series instruments have the
unique option of either a locking or non-locking
button which is user selected. The chosen test
button is easily pushed into the instrument
casing without the use of a tool. The procedure
for inserting the test button is provided on the
separate instruction sheet included with the
test buttons.
A customized connector on the top of the
instrument enables the optional Megger SP1
Switched probe to be used for two handed
probe operation.

The TEST button is used to initiate the


insulation tests, for operating the null facility
and for adjusting the auto shut-off time. Grey
markings on the range label denotes when the
use of the TEST button is necessary. All other
tests (Voltage, Continuity and Resistance)
have the advantage of hands free operation
and are activated when the probes make
contact.
The 250 V, 500 V and 1000 V ranges can be
used to test electrical installations in
compliance with BS7671 (16th Edition IEE
Wiring Regulations) IEC364 and HD384, since
each range has a 1 mA minimum test current
at the minimum pass values of insulation
specified in these documents. The 100 V
range is ideal for testing telecommunications
equipment which would be damaged by higher
voltages. The 50 V range is useful for testing
sensitive equipment, such as electronic
components, and computer peripherals.
Available as an optional accessory, the
Megger DLB Downloading Base can be fitted
for realtime downloading of measured test
4

General Description
results to a Palmtop, Laptop or Personal
computer via an RS232 serial lead. The
optional miniature clip-on current transducer
MCC10 enables the instrument to measure
a.c. currents from 1 A to 10 A.
Instrument power is supplied by six 1,5 V
alkaline battery cells, which are constantly
monitored. When battery power is nearly
exhausted, the
symbol appears on the
display. Remaining battery life can be
monitored at any time using the battery check
switch position. This is beneficial before going
on-site, to ensure enough battery power for the
days work.
Designed to IEC1010-1 the BM80/2 Series
are protected against connection to a 440 V
Category III supply. The instruments have a
basic accuracy of 2% at 20 C.
The instruments are waterproof and dustproof
to IP54. This helps maintain accuracy and
ensures maximum reliability in harsh
environments.

Operation
The circuit under test must be completely de-energized
and isolated before test connections are made.

Testing is automatically inhibited if......

An external voltage >55 V is present when


switched to any Insulation position above
50 V.

An external voltage >25 V is present on all


other ranges (excluding Voltmeter
position).

The external voltage is indicated on the display


and the bleeper sounds intermittently.
Voltage Testing on High Energy Systems
Use extreme care when using or measuring
voltages above 30 V, particularly in high
energy systems. Fused test leads are available
as optional accessories. These are strongly
recommended for use when making voltage
tests. (GS38 H.S.E document).

Auto-shut Off
To conserve battery life, Auto-shut Off
(preceded by a series of bleeps) operates after
12 minutes of instrument inactivity in all
insulation test switch positions, and after 5
minutes of instrument inactivity in all other
switch positions. If desired, the 5 minute shutoff can be changed to 60 minutes (non
insulation test switch positions). To do this, first
perform a battery check, then press the TEST
button twice to show (60).
If an insulation test, or OFF is subsequently
selected, the shut-off time reverts to the default
times. It is therefore not possible to generate
dangerous voltages for more than 12 minutes,
even with a locking test button.
To restore operation after Auto-shut Off, select
OFF followed by the required switch position.
Note: Auto-shut Off has a small power
consumption and it is recommended that the
instrument is switched to OFF when not in use.
This is particularly important at the end of the
working day, since no battery power is used in
the OFF position.
6

Operation
Insulation Tests (M)
Insulation tests operate only when the TEST
button is pressed. (See the separate
instructions for fitting the TEST button). These
tests produce high voltages at the terminals
and are initiated when the TEST button is
pressed. When the TEST button is released,
the reading will be held for a few seconds, the
item under test will automatically be
discharged, and the capacitive charge decay
shown on the Live Circuit Warning voltmeter.
When the 1 kV range has been selected
(BM80/2 & BM82/2 only) and the TEST
button pressed, there will be a safety delay of
3 seconds and 1000 V will flash before the
test voltage is applied. This delay only occurs
as a warning the first time that the button is
pressed after the range has been selected.
The delay will not occur on subsequent tests.

3. Press the TEST button to activate the test


voltage.
4. Release the TEST button at the end of the
test. The reading will hold for a few
seconds.
5. Any capacitive circuits charged during a
test will automatically discharge. If
significant voltage remains the voltage
warning will occur.
6. Remove the test leads only when no
voltage is indicated.

test

Polarization Index Testing


Polarization Index (PI) is the term applied to
the Dielectric Absorption Ratio when
resistance values are measured after 1 minute
and again after 10 minutes. Polarization Index
is then the resistance value after 10 minutes
divided by the resistance value after 1 minute.
The test can be run at any voltage.

2. Connect the test leads, first to the


instrument, and then to the isolated
item under test.

More detailed information on PI Testing and


value assessment can be found in Megger
Limited publications listed in the Accessories
page.

1. Set the selector


voltage required.

switch

to

the

Continuity Testing ()
(BM80/2 & BM81/2 only)
The continuity tests are activated when the
probes make contact. The test operates
without the need to press the TEST button.
When the test leads are removed the reading
will hold for a few seconds and then reset.
This range is not suitable for diode testing
since the automatic contact detector will not be
activated when connected to a diode. The k
range can be used for diode testing.
1. Set the selector switch to .
2. Connect the test leads. The pointer will
appear when connection to <10 M is
made.
3. The test will activate automatically.
4. After the test probes are disconnected, the
reading will be held for a few seconds.
Continuity Bleeper (
)
(BM80/2 & BM81/2 only)
The continuity bleeper sounds continuously
when less than 5 is detected. Short bleeps
will sound for resistances lower than a few k

and above 5 . If contact to less than 5 is


maintained for five seconds, the bleeper stops,
and the display shows the measured
resistance.
1. Set the selector switch to

2. Connect the test leads.


Zeroing of Test Lead Resistance
(BM80/2 & BM81/2 only)
The resistance of the test leads can be nulled
on the continuity ranges. To zero the
resistance (up to 9,99 ), short the test leads
together, wait for a stable reading, and press
the TEST button. The symbol
will appear to
indicate the zero has been adjusted.
1. Select either Continuity range.
2. Short the test leads across a known good
conductor.
3. When the reading has stabilized, press the
TEST button. A short bleep will sound
and the zero offset symbol will appear.
4. To release the zero offset press the test
button again or switch the instrument off.
8

Operation
Resistance Tests (k)
This is a low voltage (5 V) low current (20 A)
test for sensitive electronic equipment. It
operates in the same way as the continuity
ranges. This range can be used for diode
testing.
1. Set the selector switch to k.
2. Connect the test leads.
3. The test will activate automatically.
Voltage Tests (V)
The measured a.c. or d.c. voltage is indicated
on the display. The analogue scale display can
be toggled between the default range of 0 to
500 V (1 V resolution) or the 1 to 50 V (0,1 V
resolution) range by pressing the TEST button.
When a.c. volts are detected the ----- symbol
will appear next to the 'V'. The presence of
negative d.c. is indicated by '-dc' on the
display, but no reading is given.
If the voltmeter operation is in question, test
the voltmeter on a known source.
1. Set the selector switch to V.
9

2. Connect the test leads.


3. After a short settle time,the reading will be
displayed automatically.
Live Circuit Warning
When more than 25 V is applied to the
terminals, the instrument defaults to a
voltmeter on all switch positions except OFF
and Battery Check. In addition, the audible
bleeper will sound on all switch positions
except OFF and V. All selected tests will be
inhibited except for Insulation tests of 100 V
and above, which will remain available until the
voltage exceeds 55 V.
Note: If the 500 mA fuse has ruptured, the
voltmeter will continue to operate for voltages
greater than 100 V at 50 Hz.

Battery Check
The instrument will automatically indicate a
battery low condition by the display of - .

secure the battery compartment cover.


Remove the cells if the instrument is not going
to be used for an extended period of time.

To monitor the battery power level, select the


Battery Check position. The instrument will then
measure the battery voltage under a simulated
load. This value will be displayed. The analogue
arc represents the remaining battery life. A full
arc is equivalent to about 9 V and when the arc
is at its minimum the battery voltage will be
about 6 V.

Fuse Checking and Replacement


To check the instrument fuse, switch to an
insulation range and press the TEST button.
The symbol
will appear if the fuse is
ruptured.

Battery Replacement
When the low battery symbol
appears,
the cells are nearly exhausted and should be
replaced as soon as possible. Use Alkaline
cells IEC LR6 (AA) only. To install or replace
the cells, disconnect the test leads, switch
the instrument to OFF and loosen the captive
screws on the base of the instrument, holding
the battery compartment cover in place.
Remove the cover and lift out the cells. Ensure
that the replacement cells are fitted with the
correct polarity in accordance with the label in
the battery compartment. Replace and re-

N.B. the voltmeter will continue to operate for


voltages greater than 100 V at 50 Hz.
To replace the fuse, disconnect the test
leads, switch the instrument OFF and loosen
the captive screws holding the battery
compartment cover in place. Use only a
500 mA (F) 440 V, 32 mm x 6 mm ceramic use
of high breaking capacity HBC 10 kA min.
Glass fuses MUST NOT be fitted. Remove the
cover and replace the fuse. Replace and resecure the battery compartment cover.

10

Application Notes
Preventive Maintenance
The proverb A stitch in time saves nine
inspired the title of an Megger Limited booklet
on insulation testing, as it neatly sums up the
benefits of preventative maintenance. The
savings come in financial terms from costly
repairs, lost production, lost profits and in
human terms, from lives saved in the event of
dangerous electrical faults.
Regular insulation testing of electrical
equipment can help to detect deteriorating
insulation. The effects which cause insulation
to deteriorate include mechanical damage,
vibration, excessive heat or cold, dirt, oil,
moisture and localized voltage stresses - all of
which can arise on most industrial or utility
equipment.
Insulation tests are sometimes used in
isolation as absolute measures of the quality
of the insulation. This is most appropriate
when equipment is being installed and
checked for compliance with a specified Pass
level. For operational equipment the key
factors are trends in the insulation readings.
11

It is therefore important that records of


insulation readings are kept, relating to each
piece of equipment or Asset in your testing
regime. Megger Limited supplies test record
cards to assist with such record keeping.
There are also a number of influences on the
insulation readings - temperature, humidity
and surface leakage for example and a range
of test techniques have been developed to
help with the interpretation of your insulation
tests.

Test Record Example

Insulation Testing Concepts


Insulation resistance can be considered by
applying Ohms Law. The measured
resistance is determined from the applied
voltage divided by the resultant current,
V
R=
I
There are two further important factors to be
considered. These are:
(i)
the nature of the current through
and/or over the insulation, and:
(ii)
the length of time for which the test
voltage is applied. These two factors
are linked.
The total current that flows is made up of three
separate currents:-

1) Capacitance charging current. This current


is initially high and drops as the insulation
becomes charged up to the applied
voltage.
2) Absorption current. This current is also
initially high but drops at a much slower
rate than the charging current.
3) Conduction or Leakage current.This is a
small steady current that can be subdivided into two:(a) A current flowing along conduction paths
through the insulation material.
(b) A current flowing along conduction
paths over the surface of the insulation
material.
As the total current depends upon the time for
which the voltage is applied, Ohms Law
theoretically applies at infinite time.
The charging current falls relatively rapidly as
the equipment under test becomes charged
up. The actual length of time depends upon
the size and capacitance of the item under
test.
Larger items with more capacitance will take
12

Application Notes
longer e.g. long supply cables. The absorption
current decreases relatively slowly compared
with the charging current. In essence it
depends upon the nature of the insulation
material.
The conduction or leakage current builds up
quickly to a steady value and then remains
constant for a particular applied voltage under
stable conditions. It is this current that is
affected by moisture, dirt etc. and the degree
to which it flows bears a direct relation to the
quality of the insulation, and consequently to
the value of the insulation resistance
measured. An increase in the leakage current
is a pointer to possible future problems.

13

Specification
All quoted accuracies are at +20 C.

Insulation
(BM80/2 & BM82/2 only)

Range
1000 V

Full Scale
200 G

Accuracy
2% 2 digits 0,2% per G

500 V

100 G

2% 2 digits 0,4% per G

250 V

50 G

2% 2 digits 0,8% per G

100 V

20 G

2% 2 digits 2,0% per G

50 V

10 G

2% 2 digits 4,0% per G

Notes:
All ranges measure from 0,00 M upwards.
0 - 10 G on analogue scale on all ranges.
Test voltage accuracy:

+15% maximum on open circuit

(250 V and 1000 V)

- 0% minimum on 1 mA load

(50 V and 100 V)

- 0% minimum on 250 k load

Short circuit current:

< 2 mA
14

Specification
Continuity (BM80/2 & BM81/2 only)
Measurement:
Accuracy:
Open circuit voltage:
Test current:
Zero offset at probe tips:
Lead resistance zeroing:
Bleeper:

0,01 to 99,9 (0 to 50 on analogue scale)


2% 2 digits
5V1V
205 mA 5 mA (0 - 10 )
0,10 typical
Up to 9,99
Operates at less than 5 (approx).

Resistance
Measurement:
Accuracy:
Open circuit voltage:
Short circuit current:

0,1 k to 100 k (0 to 10 M on analogue scale)


3% 2 digits
5 V 1 V
20 A 5 A

Voltage
Analogue Scale
0 to 500 V Range
0 to 50 V Range

Measurement
0 to 450 V d.c. or a.c. (50/60 Hz)
450 to 600 V d.c. or a.c. (50/60 Hz)
0 to 450 V 400 Hz a.c.
0 to 50,0 V d.c. or a.c. (50/60 Hz)

Accuracy(>1 V)
1% 1 digit
2% 1 digit
5% 2 digits
2% 2 digits

Default Voltmeter
Operates at >25 volts a.c. or d.c. on any range except OFF and Battery check. Reverse polarity
d.c. will cause '-dc' to appear in the display.
15

Safety Protection
The instruments meet the requirements for double insulation to IEC 1010-1 (1995), EN 61010-1
(1995) to Category III**, 300 Volts phase to earth (ground) and 440 Volts phase to phase, without
the need for separately fused test leads. If required, fused test leads are available as an optional
accessory.
E.M.C.
In accordance with IEC 61326 including amendment No.1
Interference
Error caused by 50/60 Hz hum:
Insulation ranges (100 k to )
Continuity range (0,2 to 50 )

<10% error with 100 A rms.


<3% error with 1 V rms.

Temperature effects
Temperature coefficient

<0,1% per C up to 1 G
<0,1% per C per G above 1 G

Environmental Conditions
Operating range
-20 to +40 C
Operating humidity
90% RH at 40 C max.
Storage temperature range
-25 to +65 C
Calibration Temperature
+20 C
Maximum altitude
2000 m
Dust and water protection
IP54
16

Specification
Fuse

Use only a 500 mA (F) 440 V 32 x 6 mm ceramic fuse of high


breaking capacity HBC 10 kA minimum. Glass fuses MUST
NOT be fitted

Power Supply

Six LR6 Alkaline Cells


Zinc carbon cells are not recommended

Dimensions

220 x 92 x 50 mm

Weight

625g

Cleaning

Wipe with a clean cloth dampened with soapy water or


Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA).

**Relates to transient overvoltage likely to be found in fixed installation wiring.

17

Typical Terminal Voltage Characteristics


(BM80/2
BM82/2 only)

&

18

Accessories
Supplied:

Part Number

Test lead set

6220-437

Test-&-carry case

6420-112

User Guide

6172-188

Optional:
Fused lead set, FPK8

6111-218

Zip-up carrying case

6420-132

Download Base DLB2

6420-602

Switch Test Probe SP1

6220-606

Miniature A.C. Current Transducer MCC10

6111-290

Test Record Cards (Pack of 20)

6111-216

Publications
A Stitch in Time

19

AVTM21-P8B

Repair and Warranty


The instrument circuit contains static sensitive
devices, and care must be taken in handling the
printed circuit board. If the protection of an
instrument has been impaired it should not be
used, and be sent for repair by suitably trained
and qualified personnel. The protection is likely to
be impaired if, for example, the instrument shows
visible damage, fails to perform the intended
measurements, has been subjected to prolonged
storage under unfavourable conditions, or has
been exposed to severe transport stresses.
New Instruments are Guaranteed for 1 Year
from the Date of Purchase by the User.
Note: Any unauthorized prior repair or adjustment
will automatically invalidate the Warranty.

Instrument Repair and Spare Parts


For service requirements for Megger Instruments
contact:-

Megger LImited
Archcliffe Road
Dover
Kent CT17 9EN
England

Tel: +44 (0) 1304 502243


Fax: +44 (0) 1304 207342
OR

Megger
Valley Forge Corporate Center
2621 Van Buren Avenue
Norristown, PA 19403
Tel: +1 (610) 676-8500
U.S.A.
Fax: +1 (610) 676-8625

or an approved repair company.

Approved Repair Companies


A number of independent instrument repair
companies have been approved for repair work on
most Megger instruments, using genuine Megger
spare parts. Consult the Appointed Distributor /
Agent regarding spare parts, repair facilities and
advice on the best course of action to take.
Returning an Instrument for Repair
If returning an instrument to the manufacturer for
repair, it should be sent freight pre-paid to the
appropriate address. A copy of the Invoice and of
the packing note should be sent simultaneously by
airmail to expedite clearance through Customs. A
repair estimate showing freight return and other
charges will be submitted to the sender, if
required, before work on the instrument
commences.
20

On/Off

Specifications

321 and 322


Clamp Meter

Fluke 321 0 - 400.0 A


Fluke 322 0 - 40.00 A, 40.0 - 400.0 A

V
ER

Instruction Card

Range
Accuracy

Warning
Read the 321, 322 Clamp Meter Safety Sheet
before using this meter.
Lisez la fiche de scurit 321, 322 Clamp Meter
Safety Sheet avant d'utiliser cet appareil.
Prima di usare questo strumento, leggere il
documento 321, 322 Clamp Meter Safety Sheet.
Vor der Verwendung des Megerts die
Sicherheitsinformationen zum 321, 322, Clamp
Meter lesen
Lea la hoja de instrucciones de seguridad "321, 322
Clamp Meter Safety Sheet" antes de utilizar este
medidor.
Leia "321, 322 Clamp Meter Safety Sheet" antesde
usar este medidor.
Lees het 321, 322 Clamp Meter Safety Sheet
voordat u deze meter gebruikt
Les 321, 322 Clamp Meter Safety Sheet fr
mleinstrumentet tas i bruk.
Man skal lse "321, 322 Clamp Meter Safety Sheet"
inden man tager instrumentet i brug.
Lue 321, 322 Clamp Meter Safety Sheet ennen
tmn laitteen kytt.
Ls skerhetsdatabladet "321, 322 Clamp Meter
Safety Sheet" innan du anvnder detta instrument.

MET

OFF

Range

0 - 400.0, 400 - 600 V

ER

Accuracy

50 - 400 Hz 1.2%

322

MET

0 - 400.0,
400 - 600 V

Range

OFF

Accuracy

HOLD
AM
L

322
C

Jaw Opening
IP Rating
Storage
Temperature

Altitude

5 counts

< 30
1 inch or 26 mm
40
3

2000 m

ER

ER

EMC - EN61326

CAT III 600V, pollution degree II:


CAT III equipment is designed to protect against transients in
equipment in fixed - equipment installations, such as distribution
panels, feeders and short branch circuits, and lighting systems
in large buildings.

MET
P

OFF

HOLD
AM
L

1.0%

Operating
Temperature

600V
400A

CAT

322

MET

OFF

321, 322 Clamp Meter

COM

600V MAX
CAT

< 18 C, > 28 C add 0.1 x (specified accuracy)/ C.

Safety Sheet
HOLD
AM

321, 322 Clamp Meter

322
C

321, 322 Clamp Meter Safety Sheet

PN 1615194 February 2002


2001, 2002 Fluke Corporation, All rights reserved. Printed in Taiwan.
www.fluke.com

5 counts

0 - 400.0

Continuity

Automatic Off

30 Min

1%

Range
Accuracy

600V MAX
CAT

COM

321, 322 Clamp Meter Safety

Safety Sheet

5 counts

HOLD
AM

Sheet 321, 322

Safety Sheet

Avg

321, 322 Clamp Meter

50 - 60 Hz
1.8% 5 counts
60 Hz - 400 Hz 3.0% 5 counts

AC Response

600V
400A

CAT

0 - 40.00 A
40.0 - 400.0 A

0 - 400.0 A

Currents Cancel
Les courants s'annulent, Le correnti si cancellano,
Strme abbrechen, Se cancelan las corrientes,
Cancelamento de correntes, Stromen compenseren
elkaar, Strmutjevning, Strmstyrkeannullering
Strmstyrker udbalancerer, Virta pois, Avbryt strm
,
,

Hold

Continuity

Cleaning

Battery Replacement

Wipe the case with a damp cloth and mild


detergent. Do not use abrasives or solvents.

Nettoyage : essuyer l'tui l'aide d'un chiffon humide


et d'un dtergent non-abrasif. Ne pas utiliser
d'abrasifs ou de solvents.

600V
400A

CAT

600V
400A

CAT

Pulizia : pulire l'involucro con un panno umido e un


detergente neutro. Non usare n abrasivi n solventi.

V
V

Limpieza: Limpie la caja con un pao hmedo y un


detergente suave. No utilice abrasivos ni solventes.

30

OFF

2
OFF

HOLD

HOLD

322

Auto

CLAMP METER

322

Amps
AC

Limpeza: Para limpar a parte externa, use um pano


mido com detergente neutro. No use produtos
abrasivos nem solventes.

CLAMP METER

AAA
600V MAX
CAT

COM

600V MAX
CAT

COM

Reinigen: Veeg de behuizing af met een vochtige


doek en niet-agressief detergens. Gebruik geen
schuurmiddelen of oplosmiddelen.

Rengjring: Trk av huset med en fuktig klut og


mildt vaskemiddel. Bruk ikke skuremidler eller
lsemidler.

V
V

OFF

HOLD

322

Rengring: Tr instrumenthuset af udenp med en


fugtig klud og mildt sbevand. Der m ikke benyttes
skure- og oplsningsmidler.

V,

HOLD

0 - 600 V dc 322
0 - 600 V ac
0 - 400.0

Puhdistaminen: Pyyhi kotelo kostealla kankaalla ja


miedolla pesuaineella. l kyt hankausaineita tai
liuottimia.

CLAMP METER

600V
400A

CAT

600V
400A

CAT

600V
400A

CAT

OFF

V
HOLD

322
CLAMP METER

OFF

A
HOLD
OFF

322
COM

600V MAX
CAT

CLAMP METER

Amps
AC

HOLD

322
CLAMP METER

COM

COM

600V MAX
CAT

Reinigung: Das Gehuse mit einem feuchten


Lappen und mildem Reinigungsmittel abwischen.
Keine Scheuer- oder Lsungsmittel verwenden.

600V MAX
CAT

Rengring: Torka av kpan med en fuktad trasa och


ett milt rengringsmedel. Anvnd inte ntande
rengringsmedel eller lsningsmedel.

M
DET5/4R & DET5/4D
Digital Earth Testers

USER GUIDE
GUIDE DE LUTILISATEUR
GEBRAUCHSANLEITUNG
GUA DEL USUARIO

SAFETY WARNINGS

Special precautions are necessary when live earths may be encountered, and isolation switches and fuses
are needed in this situation. See page 9.

The earth spikes, test leads and their terminations must not be touched while the instrument is switched On.

When working near high tension systems rubber gloves and shoes should be worn.

The DET5/4D must be disconnected from any external circuit while its battery cells are changed.

Replacement fuses must be of the correct type and rating

Before charging the DET5/4R battery ensure that the correct supply fuse is fitted and the voltage selector is
set correctly.

Warnings and precautions must be read and understood before the instrument is used. They must be
observed during use.

NOTE
THIS

INSTRUMENT MUST ONLY BE USED BY SUITABLY TRAINED AND COMPETENT PERSONS.

CONTENTS
Safety Warnings
Contents
Illustrations
General Description
Applications
Features and Controls
Live Earth Safety Precautions
OPERATION
General Testing Procedure
Display symbols
Setting-up the test spikes etc.
Basic test procedure
Battery charging (DET5/4R)
Fitting or replacing the battery cells
(DET 5/4D)
MEASURING TECHNIQUES
Testing earth electrodes
Fall-of-Potential method
The 61,8% Rule
The Slope method
Method using Dead earth
BS7671 (16th Edition IEE Wiring
Regulations) Requirements
Other methods
Determining Touch potential
Determining Step potential

2
3
4
5
7
8
9

10
10
12
13
14
14

15
16
18
21

Measuring soil resistivity Typical variations in soil resistivity


Line traverse
Calculation of Resistivity
Continuity Testing
Circuit Description
Specifications
Accessories
Chart for use with Slope method
Repair and Warranty

25
26
27
28
29
30
34
35
40

Guide de lutilisateur

42

Gebrauchsanleitung

52

Gua del usuario

62

Symbols used on the instrument


Caution: Refer to accompanying notes.

22
22
23
24

Equipment complies with EU Directives


3

Illustrations
Fig.1
Fig.2

DET5/4 Features and controls


A method of connection where fault
conditions may occur
Fig.3 Low battery voltage indication
Fig.4 High Current spike resistance warning
Fig.5 Excessive Noise warning
Fig.6 Reverse polarity indication
Fig.7 Fall-of-Potential method for measuring
resistance of an earth electrode
Fig.8 Fall-of-Potential method using single
lead to the earth electrode
Fig.9 Resistance areas associated with
electrode and Current spike
Fig.10 The 61,8% Rule method
Fig.11 Connection for Slope method

8
9
10
11
11
12
15
16
17
17

Fig.12 Resistance curve from Slope method


tests
Fig.13 Possible results from several Slope
method tests
Fig.14 Dead earth testing
Fig.15 Test spike positions for BS7671
(16th Edition IEE Wiring Regulations
Fig.16 Determining Touch potential
Fig.17 Determining Step potential
Fig.18 Soil resistivity measurement
Fig.19 Resistivity calculation Nomogram
Fig.20 Continuity testing
Fig.21 Block diagram of instrument circuit
Fig.22 Instrument Accessories

19
20
21
22
23
24
26
27
28
29
34

DET 5/4R Battery Charger Power cord


If the power cord plug is not suitable for your type of socket outlets, do not use an adaptor. You should use a
suitable alternative power cord, or if necessary change the plug by cutting the cord and fitting a suitable plug.
The colour code of the cord is:
Earth (Ground)
Yellow / Green
Neutral
Blue
Phase (Line)
Brown
If using a fused plug, a 3 Amp fuse to BS 1362 should be fitted.
Note: A plug severed from the power cord should be destroyed, as a plug with bare conductors is hazardous in
a live socket outlet.
4

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The DET5/4R and DET5/4D Megger Digital Earth
Testers are compact portable instruments designed to
measure earth electrode resistance and perform four
terminal continuity tests. They may also make earth
resistance tests which lead to the measurement of soil
resistivity. The DET5/4R has an internal rechargeable
battery, with an integral charger unit. The DET5/4D is
powered from six internal, replacement alkaline cells.
TEST METHOD
The instruments use the well known four-terminal
method of measurement in which the resistance of the
current circuit test leads does not affect the result.
In the DET5/4R and DET5/4D the resistance of the
Potential circuit test leads can also be ignored because
a buffer stage is incorporated to prevent the measuring
circuit from loading the earth resistance under test.
Operation of the instrument is extremely simple. Two
modes of operation are selected by means of two push
buttons; one for a three terminal test and one for a four
terminal test. All other functions of the instrument are
automatic.
A reversing d.c. test current, generated electronically
from a floating constant current source within the
instrument, is passed via the C1 and C2 terminals
through the earth being tested. The potential
developed across the earth is compared with the
current and, after filtering and phase sensitive

detection the resistance is given directly on the digital


display.
Test frequency is 128 Hz and in the interests of safety
the maximum test voltage is limited to 50 V (peak)
between C1 and C2 terminals. Short circuit current is a
maximum of 10 mA.
INSTRUMENT DESIGN
The instruments are very robust and have tough cases
moulded in ABS plastic. Test leads are not supplied
with an instrument but form part of an earth testing field
accessory kit which is available as an option. This kit
also includes test spikes (electrodes) for making
temporary earth spikes.
Mounted on the front panel are two push-button
switches for testing using either 3 or 4 terminal
measurement. The instruments 312 digit liquid crystal
display shows the test result, warns of problems with
the test conditions and also indicates low battery
voltage. LEDs show high current circuit resistance, a
high Potential circuit resistance, (both usually caused
by a high test spike resistance) and a Noisy earth
environment. As these factors can influence the
measurement being made, noise and current circuit
resistance are continuously monitored during a test,
while a check of the Potential circuit resistance is made
at the start of each test. The display shows all
measurements directly in ohms or kilohms with the
5

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
decimal point automatically positioned. It also gives an
over-range indication if the resistance under test
exceeds 20 k.
This instruments has been designed to comply with the
performance specifications of BS7430 (formerly CP
1013 from BSI), BS7671 (IEE Wiring Regulations) IEC
364, NFC 15-100 French Specification and VDE 0413
Part 7 (1982) German specification.
The terminal C1 (E) is for the Current connection to
the earth electrode to be tested.
The terminal P1 (ES) is for the Potential connection
to the earth electrode to be tested.
The terminal P2 (S) is for the connection to the
remote Potential test spike.
The terminal C2 (H) is for the connection to the
remote Current test spike.

APPLICATIONS
The installation of satisfactory earthing systems is an
essential part of electricity supply, wiring safety and
installation economics. It is also of great importance in
many communications systems.
The primary application of the DET5/4R and
DET5/4D is in the testing of earth electrodes, whether
these take the form of a single electrode, multiple
electrodes, mesh systems, earth plates or earth strips.
All earthing arrangements should be tested
immediately after installation and at periodic intervals
thereafter.
CHOICE OF ELECTRODE SITE
For an earth electrode system to perform satisfactorily
it must always have a low total resistance to earth. This
value will be influenced by the specific resistance of
the surrounding soil. This in turn depends on the
nature of the soil and its moisture content. Before
sinking an electrode or electrode system it is often
helpful to survey the surrounding area before choosing
the final position for the electrode. It is possible with
these instruments to obtain the resistivity of the soil
over an area and at different levels beneath the surface
of the ground. These resistivity surveys may show
whether any advantage is to be gained by driving
electrodes to a greater depth, rather than increasing
the cost by having to add further electrodes and
associated cables, in order to obtain a specified total
earth system resistance.

EARTHING SYSTEMS MAINTENANCE


After installation, checks may be made on an earthing
system to see if there is any significant change in the
resistance over a period of time or under different soil
moisture conditions, (e.g. brought about by changing
weather conditions or different seasons of the year).
Such checks will indicate if the earth electrode
resistance to earth has been exceeded by changing
soil conditions or ageing of the system.
OTHER APPLICATIONS
For archeological and geological purposes, an
investigation of soil structure and building remains can
be carried out at varying measured depths, by the
resistivity survey technique.
In all cases the accuracy of the instrument readings
may be taken to be higher than the changes caused by
natural variables in soil characteristics.
A further application is in continuity testing, for example
checking the resistance of conductors used in an
earthing circuit.
Resistances between 0,01 and 19,99 k can be
measured with a basic accuracy of 2% of reading
3 digits. Individual test spike resistances of up to 4 k
for the Current loop or 75 k for the Potential circuit
can be tolerated on the lowest range, and on the higher
ranges greater Current loop values can exist.
7

FEATURES AND CONTROLS


To electrode under test
(3 terminal test)

To electrode under test


(4 terminal test)

To Potential test spike

To Current test spike

Battery compartment
(and charger socket
cover DET5/4R)
C1

P1

P2

C2

ES

MEGGER DET5/4D

312 digit L.C.D.

EARTH
TESTER

Low Battery indicator point


and k range indicator points
Low Battery and
Range indicator

3 POLE

4 POLE

4 terminal push button


MEASURE RE

Condition
Warning l.e.d.s

Condition
Warning
Alert

3 terminal push button

Figure 1. DET5/4 Features


8

Live Earth Safety Precautions


It is preferable that the earth electrode to be tested is
first isolated from the circuit it is protecting, so that
only the earth is measured and not the complete
system. When this is done, the circuits and equipment
must be de-energised. If however Fuses
this is not possible,
the earth electrode should be duplicated so that when
it is disconnected for test purposes, the other one
provides the necessary circuit protection. The
following
safety precautions are essential when
Fault
working
near high tension systems
where any
Isolation
current
unintentional Live' earths may beswitches
encountered
between the site earth and remote earths Remote
established
testcarries
spikes
for test purposes. A 'Live' earth is one that
Voltage
rise of or could do so under
current from the mains
supply,
earthing system
fault conditions.
P1

C1

P2

ES

C2

MEGGER DET5/4D

3 POLE

EARTH
TESTER

4 POLE

,,,,,,,,
,,,,,,
,,,,,,,
MEASURE RE

under fault

1.

True earth

Earth
All persons conditions
involved must be trained and
resistance
competent in isolation and safety procedures for

the system to be worked on. They must be


clearly instructed not to touch the earth
electrode; test spikes; test leads, or their
terminations if any 'Live' earths may be
encountered. It is recommended that they wear
appropriate rubber gloves, rubber soled shoes,
and stand on a rubber mat.
2.

The 'P' and 'C' terminals should be connected


through a double pole isolation switch, the rating
of which will cope with the maximum fault
9

OPERATION
voltage and current. The isolation switch must
be open whilst any personal contact is made
with the remote test spikes, or the connecting
leads, e.g. when changing their position.

GENERAL TESTING PROCEDURE


Firmly connect the instrument terminals to the
respective earth electrode and test spikes. See Basic
Test Procedure.
1.

Press and hold the appropriate push button for


approximately 2 seconds. This starts the test
sequence including display test; circuit condition
and 'Noise' monitoring. DET5/4 remains on for 30
seconds, or until a push button is pressed to turn Off.

2.

Check the circuit condition warning LEDs. If any


adverse conditions are indicated, the cause should
be rectified (to prevent a false reading), before the

Fig.2 A method of disconnection where fault


conditions may occur.

test continues. Note:- If the Current spike


resistance is too high for the required
measurement range, the DET5/4 will autorange
to a range which can tolerate a higher Current
spike resistance. This results in a loss of
resolution.

Note: If a fault occurs while a test is being made the


instrument may be damaged. Incorporating fuses at the
isolation switch, rated at 100 mA, and able to cope with
the maximum fault voltage will provide some protection
for the instrument.
3.
10

If conditions for the test are satisfactory, the display

will stabilise, and the reading given may be


accepted.
4.

It is advisable that the battery of the DET5/4R is


fully charged before embarking on a test
sequence. It can be extremely inconvenient if the
battery becomes too low while a field test is in
progress. Similarly, with the DET5/4D new
batteries should always be available.
DISPLAY SYMBOLS
The 312 digit display shows the reading directly in or
k adjacent to the range indicator, with the decimal
point automatically positioned. If the resistance under

replaced (DET5/4D) before further testing.


Fig. 3 Low battery voltage indication
CIRCUIT CONDITION WARNING INDICATORS
Warning LEDs to the left of the display will indicate any
excessive resistance in the Current circuit or Potential
circuit, and any excessive electrical Noise in the
circuit. The illumination of any of these LEDs will
always be accompanied by a warning alert indicator at
the top left of the display screen.
High Current Spike Resistance (Rc)
During a test, if the resistance of the Current circuit is
too high for accurate measurement, the Rc LED
automatically illuminates, accompanied by the warning
alert indicator on the display. This may be caused by an
open circuit, poor test lead connections, or excessive
resistance of the soil near the electrode under test
and/or the remote Current spike. Whatever causes the
condition warning to appear should be cleared before a

test exceeds 19,99k, an over-range symbol appears


(1 as left hand digit).
Low battery voltage
If the battery voltage is too low the segment of the display
alongside the battery symbol will flash. In this case the
batteries hold only enough charge for one or two more
measurements and must be recharged (DET5/4R) or

test can be regarded as valid. Moistening the soil


5 Excessive
Noisethe
Warning
around theFig.
Current
spike; re-siting
spike in a new
position or using more than one spike may solve the
11

OPERATION
problem.
Fig. 4 High Current spike resistance warning
High Potential Spike Resistance (Rp)
If the resistance of the Potential circuit is too high for an
accurate measurement, the Rp LED automatically
illuminates, accompanied by the warning alert indicator
on the display. This may be caused by an open circuit,
poor test lead connections, or excessive resistance of
the soil near the electrode under test and / or the
remote Potential spike. Whatever causes the condition
warning to appear should be cleared before a test can
be regarded as valid. Moistening the soil around the
Potential spike; re-siting the spike in a new position or
using more than one spike may solve the problem.
Note that Potential spike resistance is only checked on
commencement of a test, and is not a continuous
process. To re-check Potential spike resistance, press
the appropriate push button to re-set the instrument
and commence a new test.
Excessive Noise Interference (NOISE /BRUIT)
During a test, if the interference voltage in the earth
being measured is beyond the level that can be
rejected by the Instrument, the 'NOISE' LED will
illuminate, accompanied by the warning alert indicator
on the display.
12

Valid measurements cannot be made in this condition,


and the solution may be to wait until the interference
has subsided. Alternatively, choose a new position for
the two remote test spikes, by re-siting them at right
angles to their first position; still in a straight line, and
try again.
REVERSE POLARITY
When the Potential leads are reversed with respect to
the Current leads, the display flashes between the test
bars and a reading. To take a valid reading, ensure that
the P1 electrode is closer to C1 than the P2
electrode.

Fig. 6 Reverse Polarity Indication

SETTING UP THE TEST SPIKES ETC.


For earth electrode testing and for earth resistivity
surveying, the instruments test leads are connected to
spikes inserted in the ground. The way the connections
are made depends on the type of test being undertaken
and the details are given in the next section,
Measuring Techniques.
Test spikes and long test leads are necessary for all
types of earth testing and the optional earth testing field
accessory kits contain the basic equipment.

BASIC TEST PROCEDURE


Four Terminal Measurement
After the test spikes have been set up and connected
to the instrument for the type of test to be carried out
(refer to Measuring Techniques) proceed as
follows:1) Press and hold the 4 pole push button. After a
short pause, this will begin the test sequence and
include spike resistance and Noise verification.
2) Check that the display shows no adverse test
conditions, i.e. the Rp; Rc and Noise LEDs
with their alert warning indicator are not showing.
Also check that the low battery voltage warning is
not flashing.
3) After a few seconds the display will stabilise. If the
conditions for a test are satisfactory the reading
given on the display may be accepted as the earth
resistance. If any of the condition warning
indicators illuminate, the cause of the adverse
condition must be removed before the reading can
be accepted. The instrument autoranges on both
the earth resistance and Current loop resistance. If
the Current spike resistance is too high for the
required measurement range, the instrument will
autorange up to a lower current range which can
tolerate a higher Current spike resistance. This
results in a loss of resolution.
4) The push-button may be released at any time after
13

OPERATION
the instrument has commenced its test sequence.
Once the button has been released, the test will
continue for approximately 30 seconds.
To switch the instrument Off before the test period
has elapsed, press and immediately release
either of the two push buttons. If the button is held,
the instrument will reset itself, and begin another
test sequence starting at point 1.
Three Terminal Measurement
The basic test procedure is the same as for the four
terminal measurement except that the 3 pole push
button is used to operate the instrument. Only one
connection is then required from the C1 terminal to the
electrode under test. For greatest accuracy this
connection should be made with a short, low resistance
lead since this lead resistance is included in the
measured value.

14

BATTERY CHARGING (DET5/4R)


It is advisable that the battery of the DET5/4R is fully
charged before embarking on a test sequence. It is
beneficial to the battery to keep it fully charged.
The battery should be charged as soon as the low
battery indicator appears on the display. If the display
remains blank when the instrument is operated, it is
likely that the battery is completely exhausted. Do not
allow the battery to become completely exhausted as
this could damage it.
Caution:- Before commencing battery charging ensure
that:
A correctly rated fuse is fitted and that the voltage
selector is set to the correct value for the supply to be
used. For a 240 V a.c. supply the fuse should be 100
mA and for a 120 V a.c. supply the fuse should be 200
mA. (Type and sizes of the fuses are given in the
Specification). The mains supply fuse is located in the
holder which is part of the mains socket. This is
reached by undoing the two screws located on the
underside of the instrument which hold in place the
protective panel covering the mains socket. The supply
voltage selection is by reversing the position of the fuse
holder in the mains socket.

MEASURING TECHNIQUES Testing Earth Electrodes


FALL-OF-POTENTIAL METHOD
This is the basic method for measuring the resistance
of earth electrode systems. However, it may only be
practical on small, single earth electrodes because of
limitation on the size of area available to perform the
tests.
Insert the Current test spike into the ground some 30 to
50 metres away from the earth electrode to be tested.
Firmly connect this spike to the instrument terminal 'C2'.
Insert the Potential test spike into the ground midway
between the Current test spike and the earth electrode.
Firmly connect this spike to the instrument terminal
'P2'.
Note:- It is important that the Current spike, the
Potential spike and the earth electrode are all in a
straight line. Also when running the test leads out to
each remote spike, it is preferable not to lay the wires
close to each other in order to minimise the effect of
mutual inductance.
Firmly connect the 'C1' and the 'P1' instrument
terminals to the earth electrode. The diagram of Fig. 7
shows the connections.
Operate the instrument as explained in the 'Basic Test
Procedure', and note the resistance obtained.

15m to 25m

Electrode
under test

15m to 25m

3m
3m
Potential
spike
P1

C1

P2

ES

Current
spike

C2

MEGGER DET5/4D

EARTH
TESTER

3 POLE

4 POLE

MEASURE RE

Fig.7 Fall-of-Potential method.


Move the potential spike 3 metres further away from the
earth electrode and make a second resistance
measurement. Then move the potential spike 3 metres
nearer the electrode (than the original position) and
make a third resistance measurement. If the three
resistance readings agree with each other, within the
required accuracy, then their average may be taken as
the resistance to earth of the electrode. If the readings
disagree beyond the required accuracy then an
alternative method should be used e.g. the 61,8% Rule
or the Slope Method etc.

15

MEASURING TECHNIQUES Testing Earth Electrodes


Fall-of-Potential Method with Short 'E' Lead
Another way of making connections to the earth
electrode is to connect to the earth electrode using only
one test lead (as shown in Fig. 8). The 3 pole push
button should be used to operate the instrument and
the single connection made to the C1 terminal. This
should ONLY be done if the test lead can be kept short
because its resistance will be included in the
measurement.
Note:- Earth electrode test lead resistance can be
determined separately. First remove it from the
electrode and connect to the 'C2' and 'P2' terminals.
Press the 3 pole push button. The lead resistance can
then be deducted from the earth resistance
measurements. This procedure is not, of course,
necessary if the 'C1' and 'P1' terminals are connected
by separate test leads.

16

15m to 25m

Electrode
under test

15m to 25m

3m
3m
Potential
spike
P1

C1

P2

ES

Current
spike

C2

MEGGER DET5/4D

EARTH
TESTER

3 POLE

4 POLE

MEASURE RE

Fig. 8 Fall-of-Potential method using a single lead


to the earth electrode.
THE 61,8% RULE
To obtain an accurate reading using the Fall-ofPotential method the current spike must be correctly
sited in relation to the earth electrode. Since both
possess resistance areas, the Current spike must be
sufficiently remote to prevent these areas overlapping.
Furthermore, the Potential spike must be between
these areas, see the diagram of Fig.9. If these
requirements are not met, the Fall-of-Potential method
may give unsatisfactory results.

,,
,,,,
,,,,,,
Electrode
Under Test

Auxiliary
Potential
Electrode P

Auxiliary
Current
Electrode

several rods. The diagram of Fig. 10 shows the


connections for the 61,8% Rule.

38,2% of EC

61,8% of EC

Resistance Areas
(Not Overlapping)

Fig 9. Resistance areas associated with an earth


electrode and current spike.

Electrode
under test

Potential
spike
P1

C1

ES

P2

C2

MEGGER DET5/4D

Current
spike

EARTH
TESTER

3 POLE

Theoretically, both the Current and Potential spikes


should be at an infinite distance from the earth
electrode. However, by graphical considerations and
by actual test it can be demonstrated that:The true resistance of the earth electrode is equal to
the measured value of resistance when the Potential
spike is positioned 61,8% of the distance between the
earth electrode and the Current spike, away from the
earth electrode.
This is the 61,8% Rule and strictly applies only when
the earth electrode and Current and Potential spikes lie
in a straight line, when the soil is homogeneous and
when the earth electrode has a small resistance area
that can be approximated by a hemisphere. Bearing
these limitations in mind this method can be used, with
care, on small earth electrode systems consisting of a
single rod or plate etc. and on medium systems with

4 POLE

MEASURE RE

Fig.10 The 61,8% Rule method.


For most purposes the Current spike should be 30
metres to 50 metres from the centre of the earth
electrode under test. The Potential spike should be
inserted in the ground 61,8% of this distance, between
and in a straight line with, the Current spike and the
earth electrode. The distance is measured from the
earth electrode. If the earth electrode system is of
medium size containing several rods, then these
distances must be increased. The following table gives
a range of distances that agree with the rule. In the first
column Maximum dimension is the maximum
distance across the earth electrode system to be
measured.
17

MEASURING TECHNIQUES Testing Earth Electrodes


Maximum Distance to Potential Distance to Current
dimension spike in metres from spike in metres from
centre of earth
centre of earth
in metres
system
system
5
62
100
10
93
150
20
124
200
For greater accuracy an average reading can be
calculated by moving the current spike, say 10 metres,
towards and then away from its first position and
making further resistance measurements. (Remember
that the Potential spike must also be moved in
accordance with the 61,8% Rule). The average of the
three readings can then be calculated.
THE SLOPE METHOD
This method is more applicable to larger earth
electrode systems or where the position of the centre of
the earthing system is not known or inaccessible (e.g.
if the system is beneath the floor of a building). The
Slope method can also be used if the area available for
siting the earth electrodes is restricted. It can be tried if
the previous methods prove unsatisfactory and
generally yields results of greater accuracy than those
methods.
The equipment is set up as shown in Fig. 11. The
remote Current spike is placed 50 metres or more from
the earth electrode system to be measured and
18

connected to the instrument's 'C2' terminal. The


Potential spike is inserted at a number of positions
consecutively, between the earth system and the
Current spike, and connected to the 'P2' terminal. The
test spikes and the earth system should all be in a
straight line.
The instrument's 'C1' and 'P1' terminals are connected
separately to some point on the earth electrode
system.
P1

C1

P2

ES

C2

MEGGER DET5/4D

EARTH
TESTER

3 POLE

4 POLE

MEASURE RE

P2
P1

C2
Electrode
under test
EC

Fig. 11 Connections for the Slope method

The earth resistance is measured at each separate


position of the Potential spike and the resistance curve
is plotted from the results. At least six readings are
needed. The diagram of Fig. 12 shows an example.
Drawing the curve will show up any incorrect points
which may be either rechecked or ignored.

Calculate the slope coefficient , where


=

(R3-R2)
(R2-R1)

which is a measure of the change of slope of the earth


resistance curve.
From the table on page 35 obtain the value of Pt / Ec
for this value of .
Pt is the distance to the Potential electrode at the
position where the true resistance would be
measured.
Multiply the value of Pt / Ec by Ec to obtain the
distance Pt.

Fig. 12 Resistance curve from Slope method tests.


Suppose the distance from the earth electrode system
to the current spike is EC. From the curve equivalent
resistance readings to Potential positions 0,2EC,
0,4EC and 0,6 EC can be found. These are called R1,
R2 and R3 respectively.

From the curve read off the value of resistance that


corresponds to this value of Pt. The value obtained is
the earth electrode system's resistance.
Note:- (i) If the value of obtained is not covered in
the table then the current spike will have to be moved
further away from the earthing system.
(ii) If it is necessary, further sets of test results
can be obtained with different values of EC, or different
directions of the line of EC. From the results obtained
of the resistance for various values of the distance EC
19

MEASURING TECHNIQUES Testing Earth Electrodes


another curve can be plotted, as shown in Fig. 13 for
example.

Fig.13 Possible results from several Slope method


tests.
This shows how the resistance is decreasing as the
distance chosen for EC is increased.
The curve indicates that the distances chosen for EC in
tests (1) and (2) were not large enough, and that those
chosen in tests (3) and (4) were preferable because
they would give the more correct value of the earth
resistance.
(iii) It is unreasonable to expect a total accuracy of
more than 5%. This will usually be adequate, bearing in
mind that this sort of variation occurs with varying soil
moisture conditions or non-homogeneous soils.
20

METHOD USING A DEAD EARTH


The techniques using test spikes explained earlier are
the preferred methods of earth testing. In congested
areas it may not be possible to find suitable sites for the
test spikes, nor sufficient space to run the test leads. In
such cases a low resistance conductive water main
may be available. This is referred to as a dead earth.
Great care must be taken before deciding to adopt this
method and its use is not to be encouraged. Before
employing this method, the user must be quite sure that
no part of the dead earth installation contains plastic
or other non-metallic materials.
Using a shorting bar supplied, short together
terminals P2 and C2.
2) Firmly connect a test lead to C1and the other test
lead to P2 and C2.
3) Firmly connect the free ends of the test leads
together as shown in Fig. 14.
4) Press the 3 pole test push, and take a reading in
the normal way.
This test will give the combined resistance to earth of
the two earths in series. If that of the dead earth is
negligible then the reading may be taken as that of the
electrode under test .
The resistance of the two test leads can be found by
firmly joining their free ends together, pressing the 3 pole
test push and taking the reading in the usual way. Test
lead resistance can then be subtracted from the
original reading, to obtain the combined resistance of

the earth electrode and the dead earth.

1)

Fig. 14 Dead earth testing

21

MEASURING TECHNIQUES Testing Earth Electrodes


BS7671 (16TH EDITION WIRING REGULATIONS)
REQUIREMENTS
Regulation 713-11 of BS7671 specifies that the
resistance of earth electrodes must be measured. The
accompanying Guidance Notes describe a method of
test that is very similar to the Fall-of-Potential method.
If the maximum deviation from the average of the three
readings is better than 5% then the average can be
taken as the earth electrode resistance. If the deviation
exceeds 5% then the current spike should be moved
further away from the electrodes and the tests
repeated.

6m 6m

Fig.15 Test spike positions for BS7671 testing

22

Other Methods
There are other methods of earth electrode testing
among which are the Four Potential, Intersecting Curves
and Star Delta methods. Megger Limited have produced
a book entitled A Simple Guide to Earth Testing (Part
Number 6171-230) which explains all these test
methods and gives other helpful information about
earth testing. It is available from the instrument
manufacturer or one of their approved distributors.

,,
,,,,
,,,

DETERMINING TOUCH POTENTIAL


Touch potential is the potential difference a person
would experience across his body if he were, for
example, standing on the ground outside the earthed
perimeter fence of a substation and touching the fence
at the time a fault occurred.

Earthed Perimeter Fence

SUBSTATION

1m

C1

P2

C2

Potential
spike

ES

MEASURE RE

P1

3 POLE

MEGGER DET5/4D

4 POLE

EARTH
TESTER

The maximum value of the current that would flow in


the earth when a fault to earth occurred at the
substation must be known. The maximum fault current
has to be calculated from the parameters associated
with the substation ratings involved. From Ohm's Law
(V = I x R), the Touch potential can be calculated.

,,,,
,
Earth

Firmly connect the instrument as follows:1) Terminal 'C1' to the substation earth.
2) Terminal 'C2' to the Current spike inserted in the
ground some distance away.
3) Terminal 'P1' to the structure being tested e.g. the
perimeter fence.
4) Terminal 'P2' to the Potential spike inserted in the
ground 1 metre away from the perimeter fence
adjacent to the point where a person might stand.
5) Press the 4 pole test push, and take a reading in
the normal way. This is the effective resistance
between the point of test on the fence and the
Potential spike as seen by the test current.

Current
spike

Fig. 16 Determining 'Touch' potential.

23

,,
,,,
,
,,,

MEASURING TECHNIQUES Testing Earth Electrodes


DETERMINING STEP POTENTIAL
Step potential is the potential difference a person
would experience between his feet as he walked
across the ground in which a fault current was flowing.

Earthed Perimeter Fence

Firmly connect the instrument as follows :-

,,,,
,
A

C2

4 POLE

EARTH
TESTER

24

P2

Record the resistance indicated. This is the effective


resistance across the positions A and B, as seen by
the test current.
The maximum value of the current that would flow in
the earth when a fault to earth occurred at the
substation must again be known. From Ohm's Law the
Step potential can be calculated.

1m

Press the 4 pole test push, and take a reading in


the normal way.

ES

MEASURE RE

4)

P1

Firmly connect the 'P1' and 'P2' terminals to test


spikes inserted in the ground 1 metre apart, (or the
length of a step) at positions A and B respectively.
A is nearest to the substation earth.

3)

Earth

C1

Terminal 'C2' to the Current spike inserted in the


ground some distance away.

3 POLE

2)

MEGGER DET5/4D

Terminal 'C1' to the substation earth.

1)

SUBSTATION

Current
spike

Fig.17 Determining Step potential

MEASURING TECHNIQUES Measuring Soil Resistivity


TYPICAL VARIATIONS IN SOIL RESISTIVITY
The resistance to earth of an earth electrode is
influenced by the resistivity of the surrounding soil. The
resistivity depends upon the nature of the soil and its
moisture content and can vary enormously as seen in
the table below:Material
Ashes
Coke
Peat
Garden earth - 50% moisture
Garden earth - 20% moisture
Clay soil - 40% moisture
Clay soil - 20% moisture
London clay
Very dry clay
Sand - 90% moisture
Sand - normal moisture
Chalk
Consolidated
Sedimentary rocks

Specific
resistance
in -cms
350
20 - 800
4500 - 20000
1400
4800
770
3300
400 - 2000
5000 - 15000
13000
300000 - 800000
5000 - 15000
1000 - 50000

Information
source
Higgs

first laid down and thereafter at periodic intervals.


Before sinking an electrode into the ground for a new
installation it is often advantageous to make a
preliminary survey of the soil resistivity of the
surrounding site. This will enable decisions to be made
on the best position for the electrode(s) and to decide
whether any advantage can be gained by driving rods
to a greater depth. Such a survey may produce
considerable savings in electrode and installation costs
incurred trying to achieve a required resistance.

Ruppel
Ruppel
Ruppel

Ruppel

Broughton
Edge & Laby

Because it is impossible to forecast the resistivity of the


soil with any degree of accuracy it is important to
measure the resistance of an earth electrode when it is
25

MEASURING TECHNIQUES Measuring Soil Resistivity


LINE TRAVERSE
The most common method of measuring soil resistivity
is often referred to as the line traverse. Four test spikes
are inserted into the ground in a straight line at equal
distances 'a' and to a depth of not more than 1/20 of 'a'.
The instrument is connected to the test spikes as
shown in Fig.18.

a
C1

P1

P2
P1

C1

P2

ES

C2

20

C2

MEGGER DET5/4D

EARTH
TESTER

3 POLE

4 POLE

MEASURE RE

Fig. 18 Soil resistivity measurement.


The instrument is operated and the measurement
made in the normal way. The resistivity may be
calculated from the formula given opposite or from the
nomogram shown in Fig.19. This is the average soil
resistivity to a depth 'a'.
The four test spikes are then re-positioned for further
tests along a different line. If both the spacing 'a' and
the depth a/20 are maintained, a directly comparable
reading will be obtained each time, and thus regions of
26

lowest resistivity can be located over a given area (at


the constant depth 'a').
Re-spacing the test spikes at separations 'b', 'c', 'd', etc
will yield results from which a profile of the resistivity at
new depths b, c, d,etc.can be obtained.
If the same line for the test spikes is maintained, but the
separation of them is progressively widened, resistivity
values at various depths can be obtained. By this
means depth surveys may be made.
More details can be found in the Megger Limited
publication A Simple Guide to Earth Testing (Part
Number 6171-230).

CALCULATION OF RESISTIVITY
Assuming that the tests were carried out in
homogeneous soil the resistivity is given by the
formula:r = 2aR
where R is the resistance measured in ohms, a is the
test spike spacing in metres and r is the resistivity in
ohm-metres.
For non-homogeneous soils the formula will give an
apparent resistivity which is very approximately the
average value to a depth equal to the test spike
spacing 'a'.
Fig. 19 Resistivity calculation Nomogram

27

MEASURING TECHNIQUES Continuity Testing


The DET 5/4 will measure metallic resistances of low
inductance or capacitance. To test the continuity of
conduit or other earth conductors the instrument can
be connected as a 4 pole tester, or connected as
shown in Fig. 20. Ensure that the circuit is deenergised, before connecting the instrument for
measurement.

P1

C1

P2

ES

C2

MEGGER DET5/4D

EARTH
TESTER

Note:- Due to the inherent high accuracy of the


instrument and the low continuity resistance to be
measured, contact resistance between the test lead
clips and the conduit becomes a factor in the measured
value. Contact resistance should therefore be kept as
low as possible.
1)

Using a shorting bar supplied, short together


terminals P2 and C2.
2) Firmly connect a test lead to C1,and the other
test lead to P2 and C2.
3) Firmly connect the free ends of the test leads
across the isolated circuit under test.
4) Press the 3 pole test push, and take a reading in
the normal way.
The resistance of the two test leads can be found by
firmly joining their free ends together, pressing the
3 pole test push and taking the reading in the usual
way. Test lead resistance can then be subtracted from
the original reading, to give a true value of continuity
resistance.
28

3 POLE

4 POLE

MEASURE RE

Fig. 20 Continuity testing.

CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION
The instrument uses the four terminal method of
measurement. A reversing d.c. test current is injected
into the earth through terminals C1 and C2. The
potential developed across the earth is monitored with
P1 and P2. A three pole test is achieved by shorting
terminals C1 and P1 together through an internal
relay.
At the beginning of a test, the control logic initiates a
Potential spike resistance check, monitoring the input
over-range detector for the result. The instrument
autoranges by the control logic monitoring the output of
the over-range detector and switching the current
source to a lower current output. The instrument also
autoranges if the high current loop resistance detector
senses too much current loop resistance for the preset
range.
The instrument measuring circuitry is connected to
terminals P1 and P2. The voltage limiter and input
buffer prevent damage to the instrument and loading of
the resistance under test. Synchronous filtering and
detection are used to recover the test signal from noisy
environments followed by filtering and conversion to a
reading by the digital panel meter.
The test signal frequency is produced by dividing the
frequency of a crystal oscillator. This is then passed
through logic circuitry to produce the waveforms for
synchronous filtering and detection.

High Current
loop resistance
detector

C2
C1

Switcheable
current
source

Control logic

Frequency
divider and
waveform
generator

Crystal
oscillator

3 pole test

P1

P2

Over-range
detector

0V
Input buffer
and voltage
limiter

Filtering
and
detection

Digital
panel
meter

Input overload
comparator

Potential spike
resistance test

Fig. 21 Block diagram of instrument circuit


29

SPECIFICATION
Earth Resistance Ranges:

Accuracy (23C 2C):

0,01 to 19,99
0,1 to 199,9
1 to 1,999 k
10 to 19,99 k
7.5% 3 digits (10% at >0.5 ohms and 0.05 ohm at <0.5 ohms for
KEMA K85B requirements.

Total service error:

7.5% 3 digits (10% at >0.5 ohms and 0.05 ohm at <0.5 ohms for
KEMA K85B requirements.

Compliance with Standards:

BS 7430 (1992)
VDE 0413 Part 7 (1982)

Test Frequency:

128 Hz 0,5 Hz

Test Current:

20 range
10 mA a.c. r.m.s.
200 range
1 mA a.c. r.m.s.
2 k and 20 k ranges
100 A a.c. r.m.s
Test current (= short circuit current) is constant throughout a range.

Interference:

Interference voltages of 40 V pk to pk at 50 Hz, 60 Hz, 200 Hz or 1623 Hz


in the Potential circuit will have a max. effect of typically 1% on the
reading obtained for the 20 to 2 k ranges. If the Noise indicator is not
showing, the maximum error due to noise voltage on these ranges will
not exceed 2%. In the 20 k range this is reduced to 32 V pk to pk.

Max. Current Loop Resistance:

The loop resistance that will introduce an additional 1% error is:


20 range
4 k
200 range
40 k
2 k and 20 k ranges
400 k

30

BS7671 (1992)
IEC364

NFC 15 -100

These are loop resistances, therefore the resistance under test


must be subtracted from these figures. If the Rc indicator is not
showing, the maximum error will not exceed 2%.
Max. Potential Spike Resistance:

An additional error (typically 1%) will be introduced by a Potential


spike resistance of 75 k. If the Rp indicator is not showing, the
maximum error will not exceed 2%.

Max. Output Voltage:

50 V

Display:

312 digit l.c.d. maximum reading 1999

Instrument Protection:

IP54

Temperature Effect:

<0,1%/C over the temperature range - 15C to +55C

Temperature Range: operating:


storage:
Humidity:
operating:
storage:

-20C to +45C (0C to +55C for the DET5/4D)


-40C to +70C (for the DET5/4D, without batteries)
90% RH max. at 45C
70% RH max. at 55C

Flash Test:

2,3 kV a.c.

Voltage Withstand:

In the event of a system fault the instrument will withstand 240 V


a.c. applied between any two terminals.

31

SPECIFICATION
Power Supply:

DET5/4R:

DET5/4D:

Fuses:

DET5/4D:

DET5/4R:

Internal rechargeable sealed lead acid cells


12 V, 0,8 Ah capacity. Battery voltage range over which basic
accuracy is maintained, 10,0 V to 13,5 V.
Battery life; 600 x 15 s tests
Battery charging time, 10 hours max. (from completely exhausted).
Charging supply required, (user selectable) 200 V to 255 V a.c. or
100 V to 130 V a.c. 50 Hz/60 Hz.
6 x 1,5 V alkaline battery cells IEC LR6 type. Battery voltage range
over which basic accuracy is maintained, 6 V to 10 V.
Battery life; 600 x 15 s tests.
Internal 100 mA ceramic HBC 20 mm x 5 mm IEC 127/1
(for current source protection)
Internal 100 mA ceramic HBC 20 mm x 5 mm IEC 127/1
(for Potential circuit protection)
Internal 100 mA ceramic HBC 20 mm x 5 mm IEC 127/1
(for current source protection)
Internal 100 mA ceramic HBC 20 mm x 5 mm IEC 127/1
(for Potential circuit protection)
100 mA ceramic HBC 20 mm x 5 mm IEC 127/1 for 240 V a.c.supply,
or 200 mA ceramic HBC 20 mm x 5 mm IEC127/1 for 120 V a.c
supply (for circuit protection during battery charging).
Mains power cord fused plug: 3 Amp fuse to BS 1362

Safety:

The instrument meets the requirements for safety to IEC 1010-1


1995), EN61010-1 (1995).

E.M.C:

In accordance with IEC 61326 including amendment No.1

32

Dimensions:
240 mm x 160 mm x 70 mm (9,4 in x 6,3 in x 2,75 in
approx.)

Indicated Resistance v Limiting Value


Applies to all ranges (x10, x100, & x1000)

Weight:
DET5/4R:1,27 kg (2,8 lb approx.)
DET5/4D:0,82 kg (1.5 lb approx.)

0.14

The VDE 0413 part 7 specification stipulates that


these instructions should contain a diagram showing
the maximum value which the instrument must
indicate in certain conditions. An earth test being
performed on any electrode system would normally be
carried out to a particular specification. Therefore,
even at the instruments worst accuracy, the reading is
never above the limiting value required by the
particular specification in question.

Limiting value of earth system ()

0.12
Cleaning:
Wipe the disconnected instrument with a clean cloth
dampened with soapy water or Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)
.

0.1
0.08
0.06
0.04
0.02
0

The curve opposite shows the maximum value which


shall be indicated by the instrument (at its maximum
error) to ensure that the limiting value of the earth
resistance given in the relevant earth electrode test
specification is met.

0.02 0.04

0.06 0.08

0.1

Earth tester reading ()

33

ACCESSORIES
SUPPLIED
User Guide
Shorting bars (x2)
Power cord (for battery
charging DET5/4R)
OPTIONAL
Instrument carrying harness
Carrying Case
Publications
Getting Down to Earth

34

Part Number
6172-132
5131-365

6220 - 537
6431 - 585
AVTM25-TA

Four Terminal Earth Testing kit


Carrying bag containing:Club hammer, 4 x spikes,
3m (x2) cable and 30m,
50m of cable on winders.

6310 - 755

Four Terminal Compact Earth


Testing kit
Compact carrying bag containing:4 x push in spikes, 3m, 15m, 30,
and 50m of cable on cable tidy.

6210 - 161

Three Terminal Compact Earth


Testing Kit
Compact carrying bag containing:3 x push spikes, 3m, 15m and 30m
of cable on a cable tidy.

6210 - 160

U.S. OPTIONS
Standard Accessory kit
Canvas case containing:2 x 20 in rods, leads
(25,50 &100 ft)

Cat. Number
250579

Deluxe Accessory kit


Padded case to hold instrument,
2 x 20 in rods, leads
(25,50 &100 ft)

250581

Soil Resistivity kit


Padded case to hold instrument,
4 x 20 in rods and test leads
(4 x 50ft )

250586

Chart for use with the Slope Method


Values of Pt / EC for Values of
When the fuse and voltage selector are correctly set, plug the mains supply lead into a suitable socket outlet and
switch on. An LED will illuminate alongside the mains supply inlet marked CHARGE to show that the instrument
is connected to a mains supply. Leave the battery to charge for approximately 10 hours. When completed, replace
the protective cover for the mains supply to ensure instrument protection.
FITTING OR REPLACING BATTERY CELLS (DET5/4D)
Caution:- Use only battery cells of the correct type (Alkaline IEC LR6).
Caution:- Before fitting or replacing battery cells ensure that all test terminal connections are disconnected.
Unscrew the cover for the battery compartment by removing the screws in the base of the instrument. Remove
the old cells and fit the new cells as indicated on the battery compartment moulding. Replace the cover and tighten
the securing screws.
To avoid damage by leaking electrolyte, do not leave batteries fitted in an instrument which will remain unused for
extended periods of time.

35

Chart for use with the Slope Method (continued)

0.40
0.41
0.42
0.43
0.44
0.45
0.46
0.47
0.48
0.49
0.50
0.51
0.52
0.53
0.54
0.55
0.56
0.57
0.58
0.59
0.60
0.61
0.62
0.63

36

0.6432
0.6418
0.6404
0.639
0.6375
0.6361
0.6346
0.6332
0.6317
0.6303
0.6288
0.6273
0.6258
0.6243
0.6228
0.6213
0.6198
0.6182
0.6167
0.6151
0.6136
0.612
0.6104
0.6088

0.6431
0.6417
0.6403
0.6388
0.6374
0.6359
0.6345
0.633
0.6316
0.6301
0.6286
0.6271
0.6257
0.6242
0.6226
0.6211
0.6196
0.6181
0.6165
0.615
0.6134
0.6118
0.6103
0.6087

0.6429
0.6415
0.6401
0.6387
0.6372
0.6358
0.6344
0.6329
0.6314
0.63
0.6285
0.627
0.6255
0.624
0.6225
0.621
0.6194
0.6179
0.6164
0.6148
0.6133
0.6117
0.6101
0.6085

0.6428
0.6414
0.64
0.6385
0.6371
0.6357
0.6342
0.6328
0.6313
0.6298
0.6283
0.6268
0.6254
0.6239
0.6223
0.6208
0.6193
0.6178
0.6162
0.6147
0.6131
0.6115
0.6099
0.6084

0.6427
0.6412
0.6398
0.6384
0.637
0.6355
0.6341
0.6326
0.6311
0.6297
0.6282
0.6267
0.6252
0.6237
0.6222
0.6207
0.6191
0.6176
0.6161
0.6145
0.6129
0.6114
0.6098
0.6082

0.6425
0.6411
0.6397
0.6383
0.6368
0.6354
0.6339
0.6325
0.631
0.6295
0.628
0.6266
0.6251
0.6235
0.622
0.6205
0.619
0.6174
0.6159
0.6143
0.6128
0.6112
0.6096
0.608

0.6424
0.641
0.6395
0.6381
0.6367
0.6352
0.6338
0.6323
0.6308
0.6294
0.6279
0.6264
0.6249
0.6234
0.6219
0.6204
0.6188
0.6173
0.6157
0.6142
0.6126
0.6111
0.6095
0.6079

0.6422
0.6408
0.6394
0.638
0.6365
0.6351
0.6336
0.6322
0.6307
0.6292
0.6277
0.6263
0.6248
0.6232
0.6217
0.6202
0.6187
0.6171
0.6156
0.614
0.6125
0.6109
0.6093
0.6077

0.6421
0.6407
0.6393
0.6378
0.6364
0.6349
0.6335
0.632
0.6306
0.6291
0.6276
0.6261
0.6246
0.6231
0.6216
0.6201
0.6185
0.617
0.6154
0.6139
0.6123
0.6107
0.6092
0.6076

0.642
0.6405
0.6391
0.6377
0.6362
0.6348
0.6333
0.6319
0.6304
0.6289
0.6274
0.626
0.6245
0.6229
0.6214
0.6199
0.6184
0.6168
0.6153
0.6137
0.6122
0.6106
0.609
0.6074

0.64
0.65
0.66
0.67
0.68
0.69
0.70
0.71
0.72
0.73
0.74
0.75
0.76
0.77
0.78
0.79
0.80
0.81
0.82
0.83
0.84
0.85
0.86
0.87
0.88
0.89

0.6072
0.6056
0.604
0.6024
0.6008
0.5991
0.5975
0.5958
0.5941
0.5924
0.5907
0.589
0.5873
0.5856
0.5838
0.5821
0.5803
0.5785
0.5767
0.5749
0.5731
0.5712
0.5694
0.5675
0.5656
0.5637

0.6071
0.6055
0.6039
0.6022
0.6006
0.599
0.5973
0.5956
0.594
0.5923
0.5906
0.5889
0.5871
0.5854
0.5836
0.5819
0.5801
0.5783
0.5765
0.5747
0.5729
0.571
0.5692
0.5673
0.5654
0.5635

0.6069
0.6053
0.6037
0.6021
0.6004
0.5988
0.5971
0.5955
0.5938
0.5921
0.5904
0.5887
0.587
0.5852
0.5835
0.5817
0.5799
0.5781
0.5763
0.5745
0.5727
0.5708
0.569
0.5671
0.5652
0.5633

0.6068
0.6052
0.6035
0.6019
0.6003
0.5986
0.597
0.5953
0.5936
0.5919
0.5902
0.5885
0.5868
0.585
0.5833
0.5815
0.5797
0.578
0.5762
0.5743
0.5725
0.5707
0.5688
0.5669
0.565
0.5631

0.6066
0.605
0.6034
0.6017
0.6001
0.5985
0.5968
0.5951
0.5934
0.5918
0.5901
0.5883
0.5866
0.5849
0.5831
0.5813
0.5796
0.5778
0.576
0.5742
0.5723
0.5705
0.5686
0.5667
0.5648
0.5629

0.6064
0.6048
0.6032
0.6016
0.5999
0.5983
0.5966
0.595
0.5933
0.5916
0.5899
0.5882
0.5864
0.5847
0.5829
0.5812
0.5794
0.5776
0.5758
0.574
0.5721
0.5703
0.5684
0.5665
0.5646
0.5627

0.6063
0.6047
0.6031
0.6014
0.5998
0.5981
0.5965
0.5948
0.5931
0.5914
0.5897
0.588
0.5863
0.5845
0.5828
0.581
0.5792
0.5774
0.5756
0.5738
0.572
0.5701
0.5682
0.5664
0.5645
0.5625

0.6061
0.6045
0.6029
0.6013
0.5996
0.598
0.5963
0.5946
0.5929
0.5912
0.5895
0.5878
0.5861
0.5843
0.5826
0.5808
0.579
0.5772
0.5754
0.5736
0.5718
0.5699
0.568
0.5662
0.5643
0.5624

0.606
0.6043
0.6027
0.6011
0.5994
0.5978
0.5961
0.5945
0.5928
0.5911
0.5894
0.5876
0.5859
0.5842
0.5824
0.5806
0.5789
0.5771
0.5752
0.5734
0.5716
0.5697
0.5679
0.566
0.5641
0.5622

0.6058
0.6042
0.6026
0.6009
0.5993
0.5976
0.596
0.5943
0.5926
0.5909
0.5892
0.5875
0.5857
0.584
0.5822
0.5805
0.5787
0.5769
0.5751
0.5732
0.5714
0.5695
0.5677
0.5658
0.5639
0.562
37

Chart for use with the Slope Method (continued)

0.90
0.91
0.92
0.93
0.94
0.95
0.96
0.97
0.98
0.99
1.00
1.01
1.02
1.03
1.04
1.05
1.06
1.07
1.08
1.09
1.10
1.11
1.12
1.13
1.14
1.15

0.5618
0.5598
0.5579
0.5559
0.5539
0.5519
0.5499
0.5479
0.5458
0.5437
0.5416
0.5395
0.5373
0.5352
0.533
0.5307
0.5285
0.5262
0.5239
0.5216
0.5193
0.5169
0.5145
0.5121
0.5096
0.5071

0.5616
0.5596
0.5577
0.5557
0.5537
0.5517
0.5497
0.5476
0.5456
0.5435
0.5414
0.5393
0.5371
0.5349
0.5327
0.5305
0.5283
0.526
0.5237
0.5214
0.519
0.5167
0.5143
0.5118
0.5094
0.5069

0.5614
0.5595
0.5575
0.5555
0.5535
0.5515
0.5495
0.5474
0.5454
0.5433
0.5412
0.539
0.5369
0.5347
0.5325
0.5303
0.5281
0.5258
0.5235
0.5212
0.5188
0.5164
0.514
0.5116
0.5091
0.5066

0.5612
0.5593
0.5573
0.5553
0.5533
0.5513
0.5493
0.5472
0.5452
0.5431
0.541
0.5388
0.5367
0.5345
0.5323
0.5301
0.5278
0.5256
0.5233
0.5209
0.5186
0.5162
0.5138
0.5113
0.5089
0.5064

0.561
0.5591
0.5571
0.5551
0.5531
0.5511
0.5491
0.547
0.545
0.5429
0.5408
0.5386
0.5365
0.5343
0.5321
0.5298
0.5276
0.5253
0.523
0.5207
0.5183
0.5159
0.5135
0.5111
0.5086
0.5061

0.5608
0.5589
0.5569
0.5549
0.5529
0.5509
0.5489
0.5468
0.5447
0.5427
0.5405
0.5384
0.5362
0.5341
0.5319
0.5296
0.5274
0.5251
0.5228
0.5205
0.5181
0.5157
0.5133
0.5108
0.5084
0.5059

0.5606
0.5587
0.5567
0.5547
0.5527
0.5507
0.5487
0.5466
0.5445
0.5424
0.5403
0.5382
0.536
0.5338
0.5316
0.5294
0.5271
0.5249
0.5226
0.5202
0.5179
0.5155
0.513
0.5106
0.5081
0.5056

0.5604
0.5585
0.5565
0.5545
0.5525
0.5505
0.5485
0.5464
0.5443
0.5422
0.5401
0.538
0.5358
0.5336
0.5314
0.5292
0.5269
0.5246
0.5223
0.52
0.5176
0.5152
0.5128
0.5103
0.5079
0.5053

0.5602
0.5583
0.5563
0.5543
0.5523
0.5503
0.5483
0.5462
0.5441
0.542
0.5399
0.5378
0.5356
0.5334
0.5312
0.529
0.5267
0.5244
0.5221
0.5197
0.5174
0.515
0.5126
0.5101
0.5076
0.5051

0.56
0.5581
0.5561
0.5541
0.5521
0.5501
0.5481
0.546
0.5439
0.5418
0.5397
0.5375
0.5354
0.5332
0.531
0.5287
0.5265
0.5242
0.5219
0.5195
0.5171
0.5147
0.5123
0.5099
0.5074
0.5048

38

1.16
1.17
1.18
1.19
1.20
1.21
1.22
1.23
1.24
1.25
1.26
1.27
1.28
1.29
1.30
1.31
1.32
1.33
1.34
1.35
1.36
1.37
1.38
1.39
1.40
1.41

0.5046
0.502
0.4994
0.4968
0.4941
0.4914
0.4887
0.4859
0.4831
0.4802
0.4773
0.4744
0.4714
0.4683
0.4652
0.462
0.4588
0.4556
0.4522
0.4489
0.4454
0.4419
0.4383
0.4347
0.4309
0.4271

0.5043
0.5018
0.4992
0.4965
0.4939
0.4912
0.4884
0.4856
0.4828
0.4799
0.477
0.4741
0.4711
0.468
0.4649
0.4617
0.4585
0.4552
0.4519
0.4485
0.4451
0.4415
0.4379
0.4343
0.4306
0.4267

0.5041
0.5015
0.4989
0.4963
0.4936
0.4909
0.4881
0.4854
0.4825
0.4796
0.4767
0.4738
0.4707
0.4677
0.4646
0.4614
0.4582
0.4549
0.4516
0.4482
0.4447
0.4412
0.4376
0.4339
0.4302
0.4264

0.5038
0.5013
0.4987
0.496
0.4933
0.4906
0.4879
0.4851
0.4822
0.4794
0.4764
0.4735
0.4704
0.4674
0.4643
0.4611
0.4579
0.4546
0.4512
0.4478
0.4444
0.4408
0.4372
0.4335
0.4298
0.426

0.5036
0.501
0.4984
0.4957
0.4931
0.4903
0.4876
0.4848
0.4819
0.4791
0.4761
0.4732
0.4701
0.4671
0.4639
0.4608
0.4575
0.4542
0.4509
0.4475
0.444
0.4405
0.4369
0.4332
0.4294
0.4256

0.5033
0.5007
0.4981
0.4955
0.4928
0.4901
0.4873
0.4845
0.4817
0.4788
0.4758
0.4729
0.4698
0.4668
0.4636
0.4604
0.4572
0.4539
0.4506
0.4471
0.4437
0.4401
0.4365
0.4328
0.429
0.4252

0.5031
0.5005
0.4979
0.4952
0.4925
0.4898
0.487
0.4842
0.4814
0.4785
0.4755
0.4726
0.4695
0.4664
0.4633
0.4601
0.4569
0.4536
0.4502
0.4468
0.4433
0.4398
0.4361
0.4324
0.4287
0.4248

0.5028
0.5002
0.4976
0.4949
0.4923
0.4895
0.4868
0.4839
0.4811
0.4782
0.4752
0.4723
0.4692
0.4661
0.463
0.4598
0.4566
0.4532
0.4499
0.4464
0.443
0.4394
0.4358
0.4321
0.4283
0.4244

0.5025
0.5
0.4973
0.4947
0.492
0.4892
0.4865
0.4837
0.4808
0.4779
0.475
0.472
0.4689
0.4658
0.4627
0.4595
0.4562
0.4529
0.4495
0.4461
0.4426
0.439
0.4354
0.4317
0.4279
0.424

0.5023
0.4997
0.4971
0.4944
0.4917
0.489
0.4862
0.4834
0.4805
0.4776
0.4747
0.4717
0.4686
0.4655
0.4624
0.4592
0.4559
0.4526
0.4492
0.4458
0.4422
0.4387
0.435
0.4313
0.4275
0.4236
39

REPAIR AND WARRANTY


The instrument circuit contains static sensitive devices,
and care must be taken in handling the printed circuit
board. If the protection of an instrument has been
impaired it should not be used, and be sent for repair by
suitably trained and qualified personnel. The protection is
likely to be impaired if, for example, the instrument shows
visible damage, fails to perform the intended
measurements, has been subjected to prolonged storage
under unfavourable conditions, or has been exposed to
severe transport stresses.
New Instruments are Guaranteed for 3 Years from the
Date of Purchase by the User.
Note: Any unauthorized prior repair or adjustment will
automatically invalidate the Warranty.
Instrument Repair and Spare Parts
For service requirements for Megger Instruments contact
Megger Limited
Archcliffe Road
Dover
Kent CT17 9EN
England

Tel: +44 (0)1304 502100


Fax: +44 (0)1304 207342
or

40

Megger
Valley Forge Corporate Center
2621 Van Buren Avenue
Norristown, PA 19403
Tel: +1 (610) 676-8500
U.S.A.
Fax: +1 (215) 676-8610
or an approved repair company.
Approved Repair Companies
A number of independent instrument repair
companies have been approved for repair work on most
Megger instruments, using genuine Megger spare parts.
Consult the Appointed Distributor/Agent regarding spare
parts, repair facilities and advice on the best course of
action to take.
Returning an Instrument for Repair
If returning an instrument to the manufacturer for repair, it
should be sent, freight pre-paid, to the appropriate
address. A copy of the Invoice and of the packing note
should be sent simultaneously by airmail to expedite
clearance through Customs. A repair estimate showing
freight return and other charges will be submitted to the
sender, if required, before work on the instrument
commences.

Digital Loop Tester


M LT7
User Guide
Guide de lutilisateur
Gebrauchsanleitung
Gua del usuario
SAFETY WARNINGS
Safety warnings and precautions must be read
and understood before the instrument is used.
They must be observed during use.
Continuity of protective conductors and earthed
equipotential bonding of new or modified
installations must be verified before carrying out
an earth fault loop impedance test.
Exposed metalwork of an installation or
equipment under test must not be touched.
LT7 must not be connected across two phases
of a 3 phase supply.
The LCD neon voltage indicators cannot reveal a
Neutral - Earth reversal.
Loop impedance <0,01 must be investigated.
Test leads, probes and crocodile clips must be in
good order; clean, and with no broken or cracked
insulation. Avoid drawing excessive arcs on high
current tests.
The mains power cord forms part of the
measuring circuit of the instrument. This test lead
must not be modified or changed in any way, or
be used in any other electrical instrument or
appliance.
The instrument must not be used if any part is
damaged.
Use of the instrument in any unspecified manner
may impair the protection provided.
NOTE
THE INSTRUMENT MUST ONLY BE USED BY SUITABLY TRAINED AND
COMPETENT PERSONS.

Symbols used on the instrument


Caution: refer to accompanying notes.
Equipment protected throughout by Double Insulation
(Class II)
Equipment complies with relevant EU Directives

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The Megger LT7 Digital loop tester is a compact portable instrument
designed to measure earth loop impedance and prospective short circuit
current. A special range is provided to carry out loop measurement on
installations protected by Residual Current Devices 30mA without causing
the breaker to trip out. The resolution in this range (1) is more than
adequate for this purpose. Should greater resolution be required (0.01)
the conventional 23A range can be used.

Features
Thermal
Protection
Indicator

Digital LCD

Low Battery
Indicator

Phase/Earth
Voltage
Indicator

Excessive
Noise
Indicator

Vk
kA

L-PE

L-PE

Neutral/Earth
Voltage
Indicator

N-PE

N-PE

RETEST
Prospective
Short Circuit
Current
Measurement

Retest
Push button
PSCC

4 Position
Rotary
Switch

23A
20

23A

High Current
(23A) Loop
Measurement

200 /2k

AUTO
15mA

Low current
(15mA) Loop
Measurement

Battery
Compartment
Cover

MEGGER LT7
DIGITAL LOOP TESTER

Battery Replacement:
For safety reasons, the battery compartment must not be opened if the test
lead(s) are connected. Undo the two screws in the instrument base to
access the battery compartment, and replace the battery cells. The
instrument will beep. Ensure that correct polarity is observed and that the
cover is correctly replaced.

OPERATION
Measurements - General
Live - Earth loop impedance measurement can be made via installation
sockets using the plug terminated test lead, or at any other convenient
point on the installation using the optional dual lead test set. The optional
dual lead test can also be used to carry out Live - Neutral loop impedance
measurement.
Refer to Safety Warnings before using the instrument
Switching On and testing
Turning the rotary switch will activate the instrument. Alternatively, pressing
the Retest button will re-activate the instrument after Auto shut off. The
activated instrument will momentarily display all screen segments, followed
by the software version number. When connected to mains voltage of the
correct polarity the L - PE neon indicator activates and supply voltage
is displayed. If out of voltage range, VOL flashes alternately with the actual
measured voltage.The word null is then displayed as an 11 second self
calibration check (Auto range only) is completed. The instrument then
proceeds to automatically take a measurement. Two pin plug terminated
test leads should be reversed if only the N - PE voltage indicator is
activated. Repeat measurements can be made either by disconnecting
and then reconnecting the instrument (e.g. when using test probes) or by
pressing the Retest button. When operational, the LT7 will carry out a self
calibration every 5 minutes.
Circuit condition Indication
L - PE
Normal
Phase & Neutral Reversed
or No Earth connection
Excessive V. between
Neutral & Earth
No Supply

Instrument Faulty

N - PE

DISPLAY
Loop Resistance
or Supply Voltage

>50 V
>50 V

--Loop Resistance
or Supply Voltage

Testing is inhibited if:


1)
Phase and Neutral supply connections are reversed. (N - PE neon activated).
2)
Neutral - Earth voltage >50 V when performing a 3 wire test (L-PE
and N - PE neons activated).
3)
Electrical noise exceeds rejection level on low current range.
(
displayed).
4)
Voltage is out of range. Flashing VOL and actual Voltage
displayed.
5)
Supply frequency out of limits (flashing HZ displayed).
6)
Thermal protection device operates on high current range ( and
displayed).
Low Current (Auto) measurement (0,1 or 1 resolution)
This mode measures Live to Earth loop impedance via installation
sockets. Live to Earth or Live to Neutral loop impedance can also be
measured using the optional dual lead test set. The measurement
sequence takes 11 seconds. Residual Current Devices (R.C.D.s) 30mA
will not trip.
LT7 is supplied as standard with a display resolution of 0,1 . In areas of
exceptional electrical noise, and where improved repeatability may be
desired, it is possible to change the display resolution to 1 in the
following manner:1)
Turn rotary switch to the OFF position.
2)
Press and hold the Retest push button whilst turning the rotary
selector switch to any other position.
3)
Still holding the Retest button, the display will cycle between 1 and
0,1 resolution.
4)
Release the Retest button when the desired resolution is displayed.
To operate LT7:1)
Turn rotary switch to Auto.
2)
Connect LT7 by mains cord, or using the dual test lead firmly
connect red test probe to Live and the black test probe to Neutral
or to Protective Earth (ground). Mains (line) voltage is displayed.
3)
Test progress is indicated by a sequential display of vertical bars.

4)

Loop impedance value is displayed directly in . (>2 k displayed if


resistance exceeds 2 k).

High Current (20) measurement (0,01 resolution)


This mode measures Live to Earth loop impedance via installation sockets or the
Live to Earth or the Live to Neutral loop impedance using the optional dual lead test
set. Note: This mode may cause RCDs to trip. The measurement sequence takes
5 seconds.
1)
Turn rotary switch to 20.
2)
Connect LT7 by mains cord, or using the dual test lead firmly connect
red test probe to Live and the black test probe to Neutral or to
Protective Earth (ground). Mains (line) voltage is displayed.
3)
Test progress is indicated by a sequential display of vertical bars.
4)
Loop impedance value is displayed directly in . Note: Any measurement
<0,01 will cause the display to flash, and should be investigated. (>20
displayed if resistance exceeds 20).
High Current (PSCC) measurement
In this mode, LT7 displays the Prospective Short Circuit Current (calculated at the
nominal supply voltage of 230V divided by loop impedance). This mode can be used
for Live to Earth connection via unprotected installation sockets, or for Live to Earth,
or Live to Neutral connection on unprotected circuits using the optional lead set. This
mode may cause RCDs to trip. The measurement sequence takes 5 seconds.
1)
Turn rotary switch to PSCC.
2)
Plug in the LT7, or firmly connect red test probe to Live and black
test probe to Protective Earth (ground) or to Neutral. Mains (line)
voltage is displayed.
3)
Test progress is indicated by a sequential display of vertical bars.
4)
PSCC value displayed directly in kA. (>20kA displayed if value
exceeds 19,9kA).
Earth Bond Testing
By using the earth bond test lead available as an optional extra, the LT7
can measure the quality of Equipotential bonding within an installation.
1)
Turn rotary switch to Auto or 20.
Firmly connect the flying lead probe to the metalwork to be tested
2)
and plug the LT7 into a convenient installation socket.
3)
Reading displayed will consist of socket supply (live conductor)
impedance plus the impedance of the equipotential earth bonding.

SPECIFICATION
Ranges:
20 (23A nominal)

0,01 - 19,9 2% 3 digits (230 V supply)


5% 6 digits (110 V supply)

200/2k (15mA nominal) 1 -1,99k


When set to 0,1 resolution

2% 1 digit (230 V supply)


5% 2 digits (110 V supply)
2% 3 digits (230 V supply)
(3 digits at 1s typical)

PSCC (23A nominal)

0,01 - 0,99 kA
1,0 - 19,9 kA
Note: Calibration includes the test leads and plug. To maintain accuracy,
these must not be changed. See note overleaf.
Nominal System Voltage: 110 V / 230 V at 50 Hz
Voltage Accuracy:

2% 2 digits (when L-PE neon indicates).

Power supply:

Auto shut off:

4 x 1,5 V Alkaline cells IEC LR6 type


or
4 x 1,2 V NiCd or NiMH rechargeable cells
After 5 minutes of instrument inactivity

Battery life:

Typically 1200, one minute tests

Low Battery Indicator:

The
symbol will appear when Alkaline
battery cells are almost exhausted.
Note: Battery cells should not be left in an instrument which may remain
unused for extended periods of time.

Display:
Temperature Range:
Operating:
Storage:

3 digit L.C.D.
-5C to 40C (0 - 90% RH non Condensing)
-25C to 65C (0 - 95% RH non Condensing at
40C)

Thermal Protection:

Thermal cut-out will prevent overheating caused


by repetitive testing on high current range.

Safety: Meets the requirements for double insulation to IEC 1010-1(1995)


EN61010 (1995) at 230 V installation Category III*, without the need for
separately fused test leads. If required, fused test leads are available as an
optional accessory. *Relates to transient overvoltage likely to be found in
fixed installation wiring.
Fuses:

- Internal 10A (F) 440 V 10kA ceramic HBC


- Mains power cord fused plug (when applicable):
10 Amp fuse to BS1362

E.M.C:

In accordance with IEC 61326 including amendment No.1

Note:

Overvoltage spikes may cause a reset to the original


power On state before reverting to normal operation.

Environmental Protection:
Dimensions:

220 mm x 92 mm x 55 mm

Weight:
Cleaning:

IP54

1200g (including leads, case & battery cells)


Wipe disconnected instrument with a clean cloth
dampened with soapy water or Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA).

ACCESSORIES
Supplied

Part number

User Guide

6172-087

Power cord test lead with 3 pin plug to BS1363/A


or
Power cord test lead with CEE 7/7 plug

6231-601
6231-593

Dual test lead with probe

6231-591

Test-&-carry case

6420-092

Optional
Test Lead Set red/balck

6220-437

Crocodile clip, black, for use with dual test lead

6280-284

Earth bond test lead with probe and 3 pin plug


to BS1363/A

6231-586

Fused probe and clip set (2 probes and 3 clips)


1000 V max.10A fuse

6180-405

Power cord
The power cord supplied with your LT7 forms part of the measuring circuit of
the instrument. The overall length of this lead must not be altered.
If the power cord plug is not suitable for your type of socket outlets, do not use
an adaptor. You may change the plug once only by cutting the cord as close
as possible and fitting a suitable plug.
The colour code of the cord is:
Earth (Ground)

Yellow / Green

Neutral

Blue

Phase (Line)

Brown

If using a fused plug, a 10 Amp fuse to BS 1362 should be fitted.


Note: A plug severed from the power cord should be destroyed, as a plug
with bare conductors is hazardous in a live socket outlet.

M
RCDT300 Series
Residual Current Device testers

USER MANUAL

SAFETY WARNINGS

Safety Warnings and Precautions must be read and understood before the instrument is used. They must be observed during use.

Continuity of protective conductors and earthed equipotential bonding of new or modified installations must be verified before carrying out RCD tests.

Do not leave the instrument connected to the mains supply when not in use.

Circuit connections and exposed metalwork of an installation or equipment under test must not be touched.

Ensure that hands remain behind guards of probes/clips when testing.

Do not move the rotary selector knob position while a test is in progress.

The instrument should not be used if any part of it is damaged.

Test leads, probes and crocodile clips must be in good order, clean and with no broken or cracked insulation.

The battery cover must be in place whilst conducting tests.

Voltage indicator LEDs cannot reveal a N-PE supply reversal.

NOTE
THE INSTRUMENT MUST ONLY BE USED BY SUITABLY TRAINED AND COMPETENT PERSONS.
Users of this equipment and/or their employers are reminded that Health and Safety Legislation requires them to carry out valid risk assessments of all
electrical work so as to identify potential sources of electrical danger and risk of electrical injury such as inadvertent short circuits.
Some national safety authorities recommend fused leads for voltage measurement on high energy systems. If RCD or Loop tests are made it may cause the
fuse to rupture, and so they must be used with caution on voltage testing.
2

CONTENTS
Safety warnings:
Introduction
General description
Case contents
LCD display
Top panel
Lid open/closure
Preparations for use
Batteries
Preliminary test lead check
General operating instructions
Display warning symbols
Setup procedure
Reverse polarity detection
Touch voltage
Test leads
Test lead connection.
LED indicators
Residual current device [RCD] testing
RCD type selection
1/2I RCD non-tripping measurement
1xI & 5xI RCD trip time measurement
0 or 180 testing
RampTest
[RCDT320 and RCDT330 only]
DC sensitive RCD test
Programmable RCDs (RCDT330 only)
Auto RCD test (RCD320 and RCDT330 only)
Voltage measurement
Touch voltage
Frequency Hz (RCDT320 and RCDT330 only)
Replacing batteries and fuses

2
4
4
5
6
6
7
8
8
8
8
9
9
9
9
10
10
11
11
12
12
12
13
13
13
13
13
15
15
17
17

Low battery warning symbol


To replace batteries
Fuse blown indication
Preventive maintenance
Specification
Basic and service errors
Accessories and equipment
Repair and Warranty

17
17
18
19
19
21
21
22

Symbols used on the instrument are:

G
t
c

Caution: refer to accompanying notes


Equipment protected throughout by Double
Insulation (Class II)
Equipment complies with current EU directives.

N1311

Equipment complies with C tick requirements

INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Megger RCD Tester.
For your own safety and to get the maximum benefit from your
instrument, please ensure that you read and understand the following
safety warnings and instructions before attempting to use the instruments.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The RCDT300 Series test instruments have
the following features:
Feature
3 Phase safe

RCDT310 RCDT320 RCDT330

Auto power down

Fuse blown indication

L-N-E polarity indicators

Voltmeter

This user manual describes the operation and functions of the following
RCDT300 series of RCD testers:

Display backlight

RCDT310

Battery status indication

RCDT320
RCDT330

Frequency measurement
Reverse polarity operation
(can be disabled)

1/2I, I, 5I RCD trip time test

Auto sequence test


Max touch voltage selectable (25/50 V)

RCD trip current test (RAMP)

0/180 polarity selection

Selective breakers

CASE CONTENTS
Feature
DC breakers (1/2 I, I, 5I)

RCDT310 RCDT320 RCDT330

Programmable breakers
30, 100, 300, 500 mA RCDs

10 mA/1000 mA RCD
Plug ended test lead

2 wire test lead probe/croc clip ended

Calibration certificate

IEC61010-1 300V CATIII

EN61557

Results storage

Downloading

USB

Please complete the warranty card and return it to Megger Limited as soon
as possible to help us reduce any delays in supporting you should the
need arise.
Carton contents RCDT310, RCDT320 and RCDT330:
1

RCDT300 series RCD tester

2 wire test lead with prods with clips (RCDT320, RCDT330 only)

AA (LR6) batteries (fitted in instrument)

Warranty card

Calibration certificate

CD containing user manual

Safety instructions

USB download lead (RCDDT330 only)

Download manager CD (RCDT330 only)

Printed quick start guide

Mains plug test lead

LCD DISPLAY

FRONT PANEL

Connection Panel
RCDT300 Series test lead connections
6

STORE:.................... Store initiates the storing of a test result.


LAST/NEXT:............ Selects the type of location; ie Job,
distribution board, circuit, phase etc.
ESC:......................... Aborts a save at any time.
OK:.......................... Final operation to save the result.

Selects the job, db, circuit number; ie


01,02,03 etc

Additional RCDT330 Controls


Lid open/closure
1. Open lid by lifting up front panel tab (1).
2. Fold-away underneath instrument (2 & 3) and push into retaining slot
(4).

Memory control keys:

Batteries
The Megger RCDT300 series instruments are supplied with batteries
7

PREPARATIONS FOR USE (ALL INSTRUMENTS)

GENERAL OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

fitted. When batteries become exhausted, refer to page 17, battery


replacement.

The following condition may cause the instrument to inhibit testing:

Warning: Do not switch the instrument on with the battery cover


removed.
Preliminary test lead check
Functional verification
Before each use of the instrument, visually inspect the test leads, prods
and crocodile clips to confirm that their condition is good, with no
damaged or broken insulation.

Out of range supply voltage


If an out of range voltage or frequency exists on the circuit under test,
or on a very noisy mains supply, testing will be automatically inhibited.
The RCD tests requires a minimum supply voltage to operate.
If the warning <***V is displayed, the supply voltage is below that
required to perform an RCD test.
*** = supply voltage indication.
Overheating
Repetitive RCD Ramp testing and some high current RCD trip testing
generates heat within the instrument. If this heat becomes excessive
the instrument will warn the operator by displaying the hot symbol,
and prevent further testing until the instrument has had a chance to
cool down.
Fuse Blown
A fuse blown will prevent the instrument from making further tests.
The fuse indicator will be displayed.
Default voltmeter
The default voltmeter automatically operates in all test modes, indicating
connection to a live system.
Auto power-down
To extend battery life the instrument will automatically switch off six
minutes after the last operation.

Test inhibit
8

It can be switched off manually by selecting [OFF] with the rotary switch,
or switched back on again by pressing the [TEST] button.

Backlight operation (RCDT320 and RCDT330 only)


The RCDT320 and RCDT330 LCD display may be backlit. The backlight
function can be selected at any time while the instrument is switched on by
pressing the BACKLIGHT J button.
The backlight function will switch off automatically 15 seconds after the
instrument has finished testing.
Display warning symbols

G Refer to user manual.

Any time the warning triangle is displayed the operator should refer to the
user manual for further information.
Battery condition indication. Refer to page 17.

Fuse blown indicator, appears when an instrument fuse has failed.


Refer to page 16.

>280V Indicates a supply voltage in excess of the allowed is present.


<50 V* Supply voltage too low/missing

Note: Line reversal and RCD touch voltage configuration features are only
available on the instruments as per the relevant tables in the specification
section of this document.
Reverse polarity detection / Touch voltage setting
To select Polarity reversal acceptance or rejection:
1. With the instrument switched OFF, hold down the [TEST] button and
turn the range knob to any ON position.
2. Keep the button held down until the instrument displays the SET
warning.
3. Now release the [TEST] button.
4. Press the [TEST] button again to view the current setting for
line/neutral swapping.
5. The display shows L+L (instrument will perform tests with L & N
swapped) or L+N (instrument will not perform tests with L & N
swapped).
NOTE: LEDs will illuminate to indicate:L-PE ON = No reverse polarity
L-PE & N-PE ON = Reverse polarity allowed.
6. Press the [0/180] button to change the setting.

hot Indicates the instrument needs to cool down before it can continue
RCD testing
* May vary depending on RCD test and instrument type.

Setup procedure

7. Press the [TEST] button to go to the next item in the setup menu.
RCD touch voltage selection
To set the touch voltage inhibit limit:
1. With the instrument switched OFF, hold down the [TEST] button and
turn the range knob to any ON position.
2. Keep the button held down until the instrument displays the SET
warning.
3. Now release the [TEST] button.

4. Press the [TEST] button twice to view the current settings for the touch
voltage.

The supplied test leads should be connected to the appropriate sockets on


the rear of the instrument marked L0 and L1, or to the 3 way test socket.

The display shows the fault voltage limit, 25 V or 50 V.

Standard test probes and crocodile clips are supplied for connection to the
circuit under test with the RCDT320 only.

If the fault-voltage display is active, a bar-graph display will also appear.


5. Press the [0/180] button to change the limit setting from 25V to 50V
and back.

7. Press the [TEST] button to exit from the set-up menu.

Application
This instrument may be connected live to earth or between live conductors
of systems that have a rated voltage of 300 V a.c. rms to earth and an
installation (overvoltage) Category III or lower.

Test leads
All test leads form part of the measuring circuit of the instrument and must
not be modified or changed in any way, or be used with any other electrical
instrument or appliance.

This means that the instrument may be connected to any fixed wiring of a
building installation, but not to primary supply circuits such as overhead
cables. To maintain user safety and ensure accurate measurements, only use
the test leads supplied by Megger.

6. Press the [TYPE] button to turn bar-graph display ON or OFF.

The colour code of the cord is:


Earth (Ground)

Yellow/Green

Neutral

Blue

Phase (Line)

Brown

NOTE: A plug severed from the power cord must be destroyed, as a plug
with bare conductors is hazardous in a live socket outlet.

Test lead connection


10

LED indicators

RESIDUAL CURRENT DEVICE [RCD] TESTING


Three RED led indicators show circuit connection status when correctly
connected to a live circuit. These are for indication purposes only and
should not be relied upon as a indication of the presence of a hazardous
voltage.

The plug ended test lead or two wire lead should be used for these
measurements. A constant current source is connected across the supply
and the time taken for the supply to trip is measured by the instrument in
milliseconds (ms).

When connected to the circuit to be tested the three status LEDs will
show the following supply connection information:

The RCDT310, RCDT320 and RCDT330 - can perform the following


RCD tests:

LED
Normal
Indicator Supply

Type

The RCD type is selectable from, AC, AC Selective, DC and


DC Selective.

1/2I

Non-tripping test at half the rated RCD trip current for 2


seconds, during which the RCD should not trip.

Tripping test at the rated RCD trip current started on zero


crossing of the positive half cycle. The trip time will be
displayed

5I

Tripping test at 5 x the rated RCD trip current. The trip time
will be displayed in milliseconds.

Reversed
(L-N) supply

Notes
=ON

= OFF

L - PE

Voltage between L- PE
greater than 25 V

L-N

Voltage between L-N


greater than 25 V

N - PE

Voltage between N-PE


greater than 25 V

Warning: Voltage indicator LEDs cannot reveal a N-PE supply reversal


Polarity Indication
If connected to a single phase power supply by a plug or by the 3-wire
lead set, three LEDs marked L-PE, N-PE and L-N respectively will indicate
supply polarity

0 or 180 Some RCDs are sensitive to the polarity of the supply, i.e
whether the test current is applied on the instantaneous
rising or falling part of the supply cycle. Tests should
therefore be performed at 0 and 180 and the maximum
time recorded.
Additionally the RCDT320 and RCDT330 can perform the
following tests:
AUTO

Automatically steps through each RCD test (including 0 or


180) whilst the operator stands by the RCD to reset it.

RampTest Used to check the trip current of an RCD.


Method of measurement

Additionally the RCDT330 can perform the following tests:11

Programmable RCDs
Programmable RCDs can be tested from 10 mA to 1000 mA,
RCD type selection
To select the RCD type to be tested:
1. Set the top RCD selection knob (top knob) to the desired RCD current
range.
2. Set the RCD test knob (lower knob) to 1/2I, I or 5I as required.
3. Press the [TYPE] button to select the type of RCD under test:
Options are:

6. Press the [TEST] button. The instrument should display >1999ms and
the RCD should NOT trip.
7. Refer to the application note on Touch Voltage at the end of this
section.
NOTE: If the RCD should trip while performing a 1/2I test the error
message trP will be displayed instead of the time display.

1xI RCD trip time measurement


To test the [1xI] trip time of the installed RCD:

AC Standard (displays AC) (Default)

1. Repeat the previous test for 1/2I, but with the bottom range knob set to
I. The RCD trip indicator will display an open symbol
.

AC Selective (displays AC.S)

2. The instrument should display the RCD trip time in milliseconds.

DC Sensitive (displays dc)

If the display shows >300 ms the RCD has failed to trip in the appropriate
time. Check your test lead connections to the RCD and repeat the test.

DC Selective (displays dc.S)

If the RCD still fails to trip, suspect a faulty RCD.


1/2I RCD (Non-tripping) measurement
To test the tripping time of the installed RCD under test:
Range selection:
1. Connect the mains plug test lead or 2-wire Red/Green test lead to the
instrument.
2. Plug in the mains plug test lead to the wall outlet, or the 2 wire test lead
across the RCD (refer to connection drawing, go to page 10).
3. Set the top RCD selection knob to the correct range for the RCD under
test.
4. Set the bottom range knob to [1/2I]. The RCD trip indicator will display
a closed symbol
.
5. Ensure the display shows the mains voltage.
12

Note: See also 0/180 testing below.


The RCD test may abort with >25 V or >50 V depending on touch
voltage setting message if the loop resistance is so high that the test
cannot proceed.
5xI RCD trip time measurement
1. Repeat the previous test for 1/2I, but with the bottom range knob set to
5xI. The RCD trip indicator should display an open symbol
.
2. The instrument should display the RCD trip time in milliseconds.
If the display shows >40 ms the RCD has failed to trip in the appropriate
time. Check your test lead connections to the RCD and repeat the test.

If the RCD still fails to trip, suspect a faulty RCD.

used is 2 x the rated operating current of the RCD.

NOTE: The current limit for the 5I test is 100 mA, as the test current
available is limited to 1 Amp.

As with the normal RCDs, these should be tested at 0 and 180, or in the
case of DC sensitive RCDs, positive and negative.

0 or 180 testing
Both the [1 x I] and [5 x I] tests should be performed for 0 and 180.

Programmable RCD measurements

Repeat the 1 x I and 5 x I tests as above but with the instrument set to 180.
0 or 180 is selected by pressing the [0/180] and the greatest trip time for
each test recorded.
RampTest
(RCDT320 only) not programmable RCD
The RCD trip current is measured by applying a test current of half the
rated trip current and increasing this every 200 ms. When the RCD trips,
the current flowing is recorded and displayed in mA.

To test a programmable RCD:


1. Select PROG on the top range knob.
2. Select 1/2I, I, 5I or AUTO. (Ramp test is not available in PROG
mode)
3. Use the arrow keys to select the RCD trip current (range available
from 10 mA to 1000 mA) and press OK.
4. Press TEST to start the RCD test.

1. Select the appropriate RCD rated current on the top range knob.

AUTO RCD test

2. Select the RAMP

3. Press the [TEST] test button

AUTO test will run the 1/2I, I & 5I plus 0 and 180 tests automatically. The
operator can stand by the RCD to reset it when it trips on the I & 5I tests.

4. The RCD should trip and the trip current will be is displayed.

1. Connect to the circuit as per the 1/2I test above.

5. If the RCD fails to trip, >***mA is displayed where *** mA indicates the
maximum RCD tripping current allowed and will vary depending on
range selected.

2. Select the RCD current rating on the top range knob.

test on the lower range knob.

3. Select the AUTO function on the lower range knob.


4. Press the TEST button to start the test. The lock L symbol will flash
to indicate a AUTO test sequence is running.

DC Sensitive RCD test [RCD ]


D.C. sensitive RCDs are tested as per standard RCDs. The RMS current

5. The display will show t1 to t5 in the display to indicate which test


the instrument is running.

13

6. Reset the RCD each time it trips.

Measurement results can be affected by the following:

7. On completion of testing, results can recalled by pressing the


0/180 button.

1. Significant operating errors can occur if loads, particularly rotating


machinery and capacitive loads are left connected during tests.

To indicate each test, segments of the bar graph are displayed as below:

2 A poor connection to the circuit under test.

none

= 1/2I test

= 1xI test

IIIII

= 5 I test

Example shows 5I on 0

Possible sources of error


14

NOTE: Measured voltage should not exceed 300 V phase to earth.

VOLTAGE MEASUREMENT

TEST RESULT STORAGE (RCDT320 ONLY)


How results are stored:

To measure the voltage of the electrical supply:

Results storage has the following structure:

1. Set the instrument to the [V] range.


2. Connect the GREEN OR (L0) lead to the protective Earth (PE) and the
RED or (L1) lead to the phase to be measured. (Alternatively connect
the mains plug test lead to a suitable mains outlet).
3. The instrument will display the Phase to Earth voltage.

000,

255

= Job number

b01,b02

= Distribution board No.

c01, c02

= Circuit number

L-E

= Circuit type (L-E only)

P1 to P3

= Phase

Touch Voltage
On all Megger RCDT300 series testers, the touch voltage is calculated at
the start of an RCD test to ensure it will remain below the safe 25 V or 50 V
limit as required by the application.
On the RCDT300 series instruments the touch voltage limit can be
switched from 50 V to 25 V as the application demands.
Should the touch voltage calculation identify a higher touch voltage than
that permitted, the RCD tester will stop the test, thus preventing the
presence of an unsafe voltage on the earth during the test, should the test
have taken place.
For those customers that require the touch voltage to be displayed, this
can be displayed by activating the analogue arc display, as described in the
instrument set-up procedure.
Once activated the touch voltage will be displayed on an RCD test, even if
the voltage is below the permitted limits.

Job number (
000,
001) acts as work folders. Sets of results
can be saved to a particular job number and easily separated when
downloaded.
b01, b02 Distribution board number:
c01, c02 Circuit reference
Results can be assigned a specific distribution board number and circuit
reference number.
L-E

Test type: defines the circuit type (only L-E available on


RCDT).

P1,P2,P3 Phase number: Each test can be stored under a particular


phase, P1, P2 or P3.
Unique test number: Each test result is assigned a unique test number,
from 0 to 1999 logged automatically. This cannot be changed by the user.
To store a result:
1. Select an RCD test mode and make a measurement as described
earlier.
15

At the completion of the test press STORE.


2. Select Job reference number (
keys then press NEXT.

000,

3. Press OK and the test result will be displayed.


001 etc) using

(Hold the key down to scroll quickly through the numbers)


3. Select distribution board number (b01,02 etc) using keys then
press NEXT
4. Select circuit number (c01,02 etc) using keys then press NEXT
5. Circuit type is fixed at L-E, press NEXT
6. Select the Phase using keys then press NEXT. The screen will
display a unique test number, which is attached to that particular test.
7. Press OK to save the result or ESC to abort.

Press the LAST or NEXT to scroll through all test parameters if applicable.
NOTE: Only the last test result can be recalled to the display.
Downloading results to a PC
1. Connect the tester to teh PC using the USB test lead.
2. Set the tester range knob to [Snd].
3. Run Megger PowerSuite Professional or Megger Download Manager on
the PC.
4. Select Download from tester.
5. The test data will automatically download its contents to the PC.
A bar graph shows the status of the download.

Storing a subsequent result:


To save the next test under the same location job number, distribution
board etc:

Deleting test results


To delete the latest test result;

1. Make another measurement as described earlier and press STORE.

1. Set the range knob to [dEL]. The display will flash "dEL" followed by
the test number to be deleted.

2. The last Job number will be displayed. Press OK.


3. The unique test number will be displayed. Press OK and the result is
stored.
NOTE: To change any setting before saving a result, scroll down through
the result using the NEXT/LAST keys. Change the reference number using
the keys and press OK twice to store result.
To recall the last test result:
1. Set the range knob to RCL
2. The last unique test number is displayed
16

2. Press the OK button. The last test result will be will be deleted.
WARNING: This operation is not reversible.
To delete all test data:
1. Set the range knob to [dEL]. The display will flash "dEL".
2. Press the NEXT or LAST key. The display will flash "ALL".
3. Press the OK button. All the test results will be deleted.
A bar graph shows the progress of the deletion.
WARNING: This operation is not reversible. All data will be deleted.

FREQUENCY HZ (RCDT320 ONLY)

REPLACING BATTERIES AND FUSES

To measure the frequency of the electrical supply:

Batteries
Battery type:

1. Set the instrument to the [Hz] range.


2. Connect the GREEN or (L0) lead to the protective earth (PE) and the
RED or (L1) lead to the phase to be measured.
3. The instrument will display the frequency in Hz.

8 x LR6 (AA), 1.5 V Alkaline, or 8 x 1.2V NiCAD, or


8 x 1.2V NiMH

Low battery warning symbol


The battery condition is continuously displayed by the symbol
When the batteries are exhausted, symbol will show
and testing is inhibited.

If symbol appears as less than fully charged with new batteries, check for
correct polarity.
NOTE: Fully charged NiMH or NiCAD rechargeable batteries show a lower
charge than Alkaline batteries, and may not give much warning before
becoming exhausted.
To replace batteries
Warning: Do not switch the instrument on with the battery cover
removed.
1. Switch off the instrument and disconnect (the instrument) from any
electrical circuits.
2. The rear cover must not be opened if the test leads are connected.
3. To remove the rear cover release the screw at the bottom of the
cover and lift the cover upwards.
4. Refit new batteries observing the correct polarity as marked on the
battery compartment.
5. Replace the cover.
NOTE: Battery cells should not be left in an instrument, which may remain
unused for extended periods.

17

Auto power-down
To extend battery life the instrument will automatically switch off 6
minutes after the last operation.
The instrument can be switch off manually be selecting [OFF] on the
rotary switch, or switched back on by pressing the [TEST] button.

Fuse Blown indication

The fuse blown symbol


indicates that an internal fuse has failed. This
instrument is fitted with a factory fitted fuse and should only be replaced
by an authorised Megger repairer.
Contact your Megger distributor
or call Megger Limited on 01304 502 102.
Messages for information and warnings
RCD test types
AC
AC.S
DC
DC.S

AC type
AC selective RCD
DC type RCD
DC selective RCD

Warnings
trp
hot
chk
noS
>50V
>25V
<***V
18

Unexpected disconnection
Overheated instrument
Check test lead connections
Noise
Touch voltage exceeded (for 50V settings)
Touch voltage exceeded (for 25V setting)
Insufficient supply voltage for test

Other messages
L+L
L+N
SEt
OFF

Will test with L/N swapped


Will NOT test with L/N swapped
Setup menu
Instrumnet is about to switch off

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
Clean only with a damp cloth. Do not use any alcohol based cleaning fluids
as they may leave a residue.

SPECIFICATION
RCD Test Ranges (to EN61557-6)
Supply
RCDT310
100 V to 280 V (45Hz to 65Hz)
RCDT320/330

50 V to 280 V (45Hz to 65Hz)

Ranges
RCDT310

30 mA, 100 mA, 300 mA, 500 mA

RCDT320/330

10 mA, 30 mA, 100 mA, 300 mA, 500 mA, 1000 mA

Test current accuracy:


No trip test:
Trip test:
Trip time:

(1/2I) 8% to 2%
(I, 5I) +2% to +8%
1% 1ms

Ramp test
Test current range:
1/2 RCD rated current to a nominal 110% Rated current
Step duration:
200 ms
Programmable RCD
RCDT330 only
10 mA to 1000 mA
Voltage measurement (All Models)
Range ac:
0 V - 500 V 25Hz to 450Hz
Accuracy:
2% 2 digits
Frequency measurement
(RCDT320 and RCDT330 only)
Range:
Accuracy:

25Hz to 450Hz
25.0Hz to 199.9Hz 0.1Hz
200Hz to 450Hz 1Hz
19

Fault (touch) voltage (25 V or 50 V)


Displayed range: 0 V to 50 V (displayed on the analogue bar graph)
Error:

+5%/+15% 0.5 V

Temperature and humidity


Operating range: -5C to +40C
Operating humidity: 93% R.H. at +40C max.
Storage range:

-25C to +70C

Maximum altitude: 2000m


Environmental protection: Weather proof to IP54
Safety
Meets the requirements of EN61010-1 Cat III 300 V phase to earth.
IEC61557
Complies with the following parts of EN61557, Electrical safety in low
voltage systems up to 1000 V a.c. and 1500 V d.c. - Equipment for testing,
measuring or monitoring of protective measures:
Part1 - General Requirements
Part4 - Residual current devices
Power supply
Batteries:

8 x 1,5 V cells IEC LR6 type (AA alkaline).

Rechargeable:

8 x 1.2 V NiCd or NiMH cells may be used.

Battery condition is constantly shown on the display as a four-section bar


graph.
Battery Life:

20

2000 consecutive tests

Weight
All units 980gms
Dimensions
All units 203 x 148 x 78 mm
E.M.C
In accordance with IEC61326 including amendment No.1

BASIC AND SERVICE ERRORS

ACCESSORIES

Basic and service errors Loop test ranges


Basic and service errors for RCD test ranges ranges.

Item
2 wire test lead set and crocodile clips

The basic error is the maximum inaccuracy of the instrument under ideal
conditions, whereas the service error is the maximum inaccuracy taking into
effect of battery voltage, temperature, interference, and system voltage and
frequency, where applicable.

Mains plug test lead (BS 1363)

6220-740

Mains plug test lead CEE 7/7

6220-741

Mains plug test lead (AS/NZS 3112)

6220-790

USB download lead

25970-041

Download Manager CD

6111-442

Order Code
6220-784

Megger Certification Software


Powersuite Pro-Lite 16th

21

REPAIR AND WARRANTY


The instrument contains static sensitive devices, and care must be taken in
handling the printed circuit board. If an instruments protection has been
impaired it should not be used, but sent for repair by suitably trained and
qualified personnel. The protection is likely to be impaired if for example; it
shows visible damage; fails to perform the intended measurements; has
been subjected to prolonged storage under unfavourable conditions, or has
been subjected to severe transport stresses.

NEW INSTRUMENTS ARE GUARANTEED FOR 3 YEARS FROM THE


DATE OF PURCHASE BY THE USER.

Note: Any unauthorized prior repair or adjustment will automatically


invalidate the Warranty.

Returning and Instrument for Repair


If it necessary to return an instrument for repair, a Returns Authorisation
Number must first be obtained by contacting one of the addresses shown.
You will be asked to provide key information, such as the instrument serial
number and fault reported when the number is issued. This will enable the
Service Department to prepare in advance for the receipt of your
instrument, and to provide the best possible service to you.
The Returns Authorisation Number should be clearly marked on the outside
of the product packaging, and on any related correspondence. The
instrument should be sent, freight paid to the appropriate address. If
appropriate a copy of the original purchase invoice and of the packing note,
should be sent simultaneously by airmail to expedite clearance through
customs.

INSTRUMENT REPAIR AND SPARE PARTS


For service requirements for Megger Instruments contact:

For instruments requiring repair outside the warranty period a repair


estimate will be submitted to the sender, if required, before work on the
instrument commences.

Megger Limited
Archcliffe Road
Dover
Kent CT17 9EN
England.

Approved Repair Companies


A number of independent instrument repair companies have been
authorised for repair work on most Megger instruments, using genuine
Megger spare parts. A list of approved companies is available from the UK
address shown on this page. Spare parts are also available.

or

Megger
Valley Forge Corporate Centre
2621 Van Buren Avenue
Norristown PA 19403
U.S.A.

Tel: +44 (0) 1304 502 243

Tel: +1 610 676 8579

Fax: +44 (0) 1304 207 342

Fax: +1 610 676 8625

or an approved repair company.

22

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