Compliance West MegaPulse Capacitor A PF Series User manual

MegaPulse
IMPULSE TESTER
Capacitor series A PF
Instruction Manual

Dear Customer:
Congratulations! Compliance West USA is proud to present you
with your MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF Impulse Tester.
Your instrument features a groundbreaking logic-controlled
circuit design and ergonomic front panel and represents the
latest in high voltage impulse testing.
To fully appreciate all the features of your new instrument, we
suggest that you take a few moments to review this manual.
Compliance West USA stands by your instrument with a full one-
year warranty. If the need arises, please don't hesitate to call on
us.
Thank you for your trust and confidence.
Rev 1.0, December 2014

Table of Contents
Section 1.....................................................................................................................................................2
An Introduction to Impulse Testing with the MegaPulse PF series tester...................................................2
Safety Precautions ........................................................................................................................2
Test Personnel................................................................................................................2
Testing Area...................................................................................................................2
Safety Techniques ..........................................................................................................3
Using the MegaPulse PF Impulse Tester......................................................................................4
Section 2.....................................................................................................................................................5
Getting Started............................................................................................................................................5
Unpacking and Inspection ............................................................................................................5
Packaging.......................................................................................................................5
Product Package for Capacitor series A PF ...................................................................5
Returning the Instrument................................................................................................5
AC Line Voltage Requirements....................................................................................................6
Fuse Replacement.........................................................................................................................6
Section 3.....................................................................................................................................................7
Megapulse Capacitor series A PF Specifications .........................................................................7
Front and Rear Panel Features......................................................................................................8
Figure 1. Controls, Indicators, Connectors – MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF
Front Panel.....................................................................................................................8
Table 1. Controls, Indicators, Connectors – MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF
Front Panel.....................................................................................................................10
Figure 2. Controls, Indicators, Connectors – MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF
Rear Panel......................................................................................................................11
Section 4.....................................................................................................................................................12
Initial Checkout Procedure .........................................................................................................................12
Section 5.....................................................................................................................................................13
Technical Assistance ..................................................................................................................................13
Section 6.....................................................................................................................................................14
Maintenance and Calibration......................................................................................................................14
Introduction..................................................................................................................................14
Service Information......................................................................................................................14
General Maintenance....................................................................................................................14
Cleaning .........................................................................................................................14
Calibration Information................................................................................................................15
Voltage Stop Disable / Keyboard Enable by Keyboard. ..............................................................15

1

2
Section 1
An Introduction to Impulse Testing with the MegaPulse PF series tester
The impulse test is designed to simulate impulse surges which occur in everyday life due to nearby
lightning strikes, switching transients, and other high-frequency faults on the power distribution network.
Impulse testing is the fundamental method for empirical verification of the adequacy of insulation. Other
methods of ensuring adequate insulation (AC or DC Dielectric Withstand testing, measurement of over-
surface creep age, through-air clearance, or distance-through-insulation) are all extrapolated from the
results of impulse testing. The impulse test is performed to ensure that the insulation in question will be
able to function properly when subjected to similar impulse surges in the field.
Safety Precautions
The impulse withstand test can generate voltages in excess of 8000V peak at potentially lethal current
levels. Currents of as little as 5mA at 120 volts can cause death; the MegaPulse can deliver currents of
more than 296 Amps peak for very short time duration. The potential for serious injury or death exists
and personnel should be aware when they conduct this test.
Test Personnel
Personnel require special training to conduct the impulse test. They should understand electrical
fundamentals clearly, and be aware that high voltage is adept and creative at completing a path to ground.
Instructions should include a warning against any metal jewelry. Operators should not allow others in
the testing area, especially when tests are being conducted. Organization is to be stressed. The operator
should keep the area free of unused leads and equipment.
Testing Area
The area used for conducting the impulse test should be as remote as possible from normal production
line activities. Only personnel actually conducting the test should be allowed in the area, and it should be
taped or roped off to preclude casual entry by other employees. In addition, the area should be marked
"WARNING - HIGH VOLTAGE TESTING" or the equivalent to warn others of the nature of the testing
taking place.
The bench being used should be non-conductive, and any exposed metal parts should be tied together and
grounded. If a conductive surface must be used, it should be grounded. Because of sparking during an
impulse test failure, it is not safe to conduct impulse testing in combustible atmospheres.
It is imperative that a good ground be provided to the MegaPulse tester. Before connecting the
equipment, ensure that the building wiring provides a low-resistance ground. If the MegaPulse tester is
used on a high-resistance grounding circuit, dangerous high voltages may be present to the operator. In
addition, the power to the Testing Area should be provided with an easily reached shutoff switch which
can be actuated by personnel outside the Area if needed.

3
Safety Techniques
The high voltage circuit of the MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF can be shut off at any time by turning
OFF the rear power switch. Always press TRIGGER to discharge the tester before turning OFF.
The MegaPulse tester is provided with a digital VOLTAGE ADJUST knob on the front panel. This
voltage setting should always confirm by pressing the VOLTAGE ADJUST knob before start any testing.
The MegaPulse tester is provided with a CHARGE switch that is in the unarmed "Standby" setting when
the tester is first turned ON. When the yellow CHARGE button is lit, the tester will not provide high
voltage until the CHARGE Button and the TRIGGER Button have been pressed in order. To prevent
inadvertent operation, the operator should be instructed not to press the CHARGE Button until the test is
ready.
The MegaPulse tester has been designed for one-touch operation with the right hand. If possible, it
should be set up to the left and in front of the equipment under test. The equipment under test should be
connected to the MegaPulse tester and then left alone by the operator. After the operator is clear of the
Tester and the equipment under test, the operator should turn the rear-panel power switch to ON, confirm
or adjust the Voltage Set Point, then press the CHARGE Button and wait until the front meter reaches
the voltage selected, then press the TRIGGER Button, with his right hand. This will allow the greatest
separation between the operator and the test being conducted.
The MegaPulse PF tester is designed to bleed the high voltage away after the test has concluded. In order
to ensure that any voltage present in the equipment being tested has been completely bled away, the
operator should not unplug the equipment under test from the MegaPulse until the front panel meter
reads a safe level (40 volts or less is generally considered a safe level). Pressing the TRIGGER button
before disconnecting main power (or turning the equipment off) will ensure that the internal capacitors
are discharged as much as possible.

4
Using the MegaPulse PF Impulse Tester
The impulse test involves high voltage and caution should be exercised when using the tester. The
RETURN lead is referenced to building ground when properly connected. However, both the OUTPUT
and RETURN leads must always be treated as Hazardous whenever the power switch of the MegaPulse
is in the ON position.
The MegaPulse impulse tester generates the impulse waveform only; it does not determine Passing or
Failing results. It is the operator’s responsibility to monitor the output waveform and determine Passing
or Failing results. In monitoring the impulse waveform, consider the following points: The Impulse
waveform is high voltage and high frequency (short duration). Always ensure that the measuring
instrument (usually an oscilloscope with a high-voltage probe) is rated for the voltage involved, and that
the frequency response of the instrument and probe are capable of measuring the output waveform of the
MegaPulse Impulse Tester. A measuring instrument or probe with a low frequency response will result
in erroneous readings that could be mis-read.
Note that the voltage meter may indicate that some residual voltage is present on the main storage
capacitor, even when the tester is first turned ON. This is due to inherent charging of the internal
capacitors.
Note that the peak amplitude of the measured output waveform is proportional to the voltage that is read
on the front panel of the MegaPulse, but it will always be somewhat lower. This is because the meter on
the MegaPulse is measuring the voltage on the main impulse storage capacitor. This voltage will
intentionally dissipate to some extent before reaching the output leads. Therefore, it is important to
measure the peak amplitude of the output waveform, and adjust the output of the MegaPulse accordingly.

5
Section 2
Getting Started
This section contains information for the unpacking, inspection, preparation for use and storage of your
Compliance West product.
Unpacking and Inspection
Packaging
Your Tester is shipped in a special protective container that should prevent damage to the instrument
during shipping. Check the shipping order against the contents of the container and report any damage or
short shipment to Compliance West USA. Please save the shipping carton and packing material for the
carriers inspection. Our customer support department will assist you in the repair or replacement of your
instrument. Please do not return your product without first notifying us and receiving and RMA (return
material authorization) number. To receive and RMA number, please contact our customer support
department at (1-800-748-6224)
Product Package for Capacitor series A PF
The container includes the following:
Description Part Number Qty
Capacitor series A PF
Tester
Megapulse Tester 00-MPCAP A PF 1
User Manual 1
High Voltage Test Lead, Red 00-HVL7R (3 feet) 1
High Voltage Test Lead, Black 00-HVL7B (3 feet) 1
18 AWG AC Power Cord 70-101 1
TestMinder
(Optional)
User Manual 1
Software CD Megapulse TestMinder USB V1.3 or newer 1
RS232 cable 60-134 1
USBD box 00-USBDBOX 1
USB cable 60-221 1
Returning the Instrument
When is necessary to return the instrument for servicing or calibration, repackage the instrument in its
original container, please include all accessories and test leads. Indicate the nature of the problem or type
of service needed. Also, please mark the container as “FRAGILE” to insure proper handling.
If you do not have the original packaging materials, please follow these guidelines:
•Wrap the instrument in a bubble pack or similar foam including all the included cables.
•Use a strong double-wall container that is made for shipping instrumentation.
•Use a layer of shock absorbing material 70 to 100mm (3 to 4 inch) thick around all sides
of the instrument. Protect the control panel with cardboard.
•Seal the container securely.
•Mark the container as “FRAGILE” to insure proper handling.
•Please contact Compliance West USA (1-800-748-6224) to inform about the service for
your instrument.

6
AC Line Voltage Requirements
AC line voltage requirements for your Tester are noted on the rear panel of the instrument. Do not
connect the instrument to a different voltage source. The cord packaged with your MegaPulse Tester is
for use in the United States. If another power cord must be used, the cord must be rated for the maximum
current noted on the rear panel. It must also meet the requirements of IEC 227 or IEC 245, and mains
cords that are certified or approved by any recognized national test house are regarded as meeting this
requirement.
Fuse Replacement
There is a user-replaceable fuse (F1) located on the rear panel of the instrument. It is located behind a
door in the Power Inlet-Power Switch-Fuse Holder device. The fuse rating is noted on the rear panel. Do
not attempt to replace it with a fuse of any other rating.
Use the following procedure to replace the fuse F1:
1. Turn the power switch to the OFF position.
2. Unplug the instrument from the source of supply.
3. Remove the power inlet cord from the instrument.
4. Using a small screwdriver, pry open the fuse holder door.
5. Replace the fuse with a new one of the correct rating.
6. Replace the fuse holder door and power inlet cord.

7
Section 3
Specifications and Controls
Megapulse Capacitor series A PF Specifications
ELECTRICAL
Charge Voltage: 400 - 8000V tolerance ±3% F.S.
Main Capacitance: 0.25uF ±10%
Pulse duration: 46uS (0 + 50%)
Rise Time: 1.2uS (0 + 50%)
Voltage Control: Digital Set point adjusted by frontal VOLTAGE knob or by PC
(optional)
Polarity Control: Positive only
Voltage Display: 4 Digit LED Display
Voltage Meter resolution: 5V
Duty Cycle: 1 pulse every 10 seconds
Line Voltage: 120VAC, 50/60Hz * (optional different line voltages available
100V, 220V, 230V and 240V)
ENVIROMENTAL
Operating Temperature: 15-40 ºC
Relative Humidity Range: 0-90% non-condensing
GENERAL
Dimensions: 17” wide x 17” high x 17” in deep
Weight: 68 lbs approx.

8
Front and Rear Panel Features
Before using your Tester, take a few minutes to become familiar with the use of its controls, indicators and connectors. The front panel features of
the MegaPulse are shown in Figure 1 and described in Table 1. The rear panel features of the MegaPulse are shown in Figure 2 and described in
Table 2.
Figure 1. Controls, Indicators, Connectors – MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF Front Panel

9
ITEM NAME FUNCTION
1 VOLTAGE Adjust Knob
Adjust the voltage set point in the tester.
Press it once to adjust the most significant digits and twice for the less significant digits, then turn Clockwise to increase the
output voltage before the CHARGE button has been pressed.
2 POLARITY switch Polarity is Fixed at positive. Having this button pressed while turning the tester On, the meter will display software version.
3 NOR REV indicator
Indicates the state of the Output Polarity switch.
NOR indicates Normal (Positive) position.
REV indicates Reverse (Negative) position.
4 CHARGE switch
Starts the charge process of the tester capacitor.
The CHARGE indicator will turn off after the CHARGE switch is pressed, and the TRIGGER indicator will turn on.
The charge process will stop after 2 minutes if the TRIGGER button is not pressed.
5 CHARGE indicator
This Yellow indicator is lit to show that pressing the CHARGE switch is the next logical step in a test sequence.
CHARGE indicator is lit when the tester is turn ON an after pressing TRIGGER button.
CHARGE indicator will go out after pressing CHARGE button.
CHARGE and TRIGGER Indicators will be blinking if the Interlock Switch is open. (Only testers with Interlock Switch
Option)
6 TRIGGER switch Triggers the output impulse waveform.
The impulse waveform will appear across the output leads.
7 TRIGGER indicator
This Red indicator is lit to show that the tester can be trigger.
TRIGGER indicator is lit for 2 minutes after the CHARGE button is pressed.
TRIGGER indicator will go out after pressing TRIGGER button.
TRIGGER and CHARGE Indicators will be blinking if the Interlock Switch is open (Only testers with Interlock Switch
Option)
TRIGGER indicator will blink at when the Voltage. This effect will remain on until the TRIGGER switch is pressed.
(Only testers with PC Interface option)
8 VOLTAGE meter
Displays the output voltage set point.
The voltage reading will increase from zero to the voltage set point when the CHARGE button is pressed. Note that the
Voltage meter may indicate that some residual voltage is present on the main storage capacitor, even when the tester is first
turned ON. This is due to inherent charging of the internal capacitors. Pressing the TRIGGER switch will discharge the
capacitors. Note that the peak amplitude of the measured output waveform is proportional to the voltage that is read of the
front panel of the MegaPulse, but it will always be somewhat lower. This is because the meter on the MegaPulse is
measuring the voltage on the main impulse storage capacitor. This voltage will intentionally dissipate to some extent before
reaching the output leads.
The meter will start to flash at 1600V to indicate that voltage is in the maximum limits.
If unit includes PC Interface and the Keyboard is locked, the display will show OFF when a button is pressed.

10
ITEM NAME FUNCTION
9 OUTPUT jack The impulse waveform appears on the OUTPUT jack, referenced to the RETURN jack.
10
RETURN jack
This is the return for the impulse waveform. This jack is referenced to the chassis of the MegaPulse, and is referenced to
earth ground as long as the MegaPulse is properly grounded. Even though this jack is referenced to ground, it should be
treated as hazardous whenever the MegaPulse is turned ON.
11 Capacitance Load selector Allows user to select the range value of capacitor Cx.
Table 1. Controls, Indicators, Connectors – MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF Front Panel

11
Figure 2. Controls, Indicators, Connectors – MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF Rear Panel
ITEM NO. NAME FUNCTION
1 Appliance Inlet / Fuse holder /
Power Switch
Use supplied cordset to connect the MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF tester to an appropriate source of supply.
Fuse holder provides access for Fuse replacement, and the Power Switch is used to turn the tester ON and OFF.
2 Fuse replacement warning /
Rating of power supply Specifies replacement fuse and required supply voltage.
3 RS-232 Interface (Optional) Allow the communication between the tester and computer interface; a RS-232 to USB is available.
4 Interlock Switch
Emergency Stop
Close: Enables the tester buttons for operation.
Open: Stops any process in the tester and disables the buttons. The TRIGGER and CHARGE Indicators will
be blinking
5 Product Information Product model and serial number
Table 2. Control, Indicators, Connectors – MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF Rear Panel

12
Section 4
Initial Checkout Procedure
The following procedure will verify that the MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF tester is working
correctly. We recommend that this procedure be conducted periodically to ensure proper
operation of the tester. The following items are needed to conduct this procedure: A measuring
instrument to monitor the output waveform. Always ensure that the measuring instrument
(usually an oscilloscope with a high-voltage probe) is rated for the voltage involved, and that the
frequency response of the instrument and probe are capable of measuring the output waveform of
the MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF tester. A measuring instrument or probe with a low
frequency response will result in erroneous readings that could be mis-read.
CAUTION
High voltage generated by the MegaPulse tester is exposed during this test. A risk of
shock exists. Exercise care when using the MegaPulse tester.
1. Connect the tester to a proper source of supply using the included 18 AWG power supply
cord. Make sure that the front panel VOLTAGE adjust knob is turned fully
counterclockwise.
2. Plug the Output and Return test leads into the jacks on the front panel.
3. Select the desired capacitance load on the front panel.
3. Connect the ends of the test leads to a capacitor load of the range selected on the front panel
knob, plug your high voltage oscilloscope probe to the output leads as well. Note that the
RETURN lead is referenced to the chassis ground of the tester.
4. Turn the Tester on.
5. Note that the Voltage meter may indicate that some residual voltage is present on the main
storage capacitor, even when the tester is first turned ON. This is due to inherent charging
of the internal capacitors. Pressing the TRIGGER switch will discharge the capacitors (be
sure not to touch the output and return leads when pressing the trigger switch).
6. Push the yellow CHARGE button. Verify the red TRIGGER indicator is now lit.
7. Adjust the VOLTAGE knob so that the front panel LED display is reading a voltage that is
suitable for the measuring instrument that is being used. Push the red TRIGGER button,
and view the resulting impulse waveform on the measuring instrument.
8. Note that the peak amplitude of the measured output waveform is proportional to the
voltage that is read of the front panel of the MegaPulse, but it will always be somewhat
lower. This is because the meter on the MegaPulse is measuring the voltage on the main
impulse storage capacitor. This voltage will intentionally dissipate to some extent before
reaching the output leads.
9. Adjust the VOLTAGE knob fully counterclockwise, to the minimum position. Turn the
rear-panel power switch OFF.

13
Section 5
Technical Assistance
Technical Assistance from Compliance West USA is available:
Phone: [phone]
Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Pacific Time.
Also available on our web site at: www.compwest.com
Contact:
Compliance West USA
650 Gateway Center Way, Suite D
San Diego, CA., 92102
United States of America.
Phone: [phone]
FAX: [phone]

14
Section 6
Maintenance and Calibration
WARNING
MAINTENANCE AND CALIBRATION INSTRUCTIONS ARE FOR QUALIFIED
PERSONNEL ONLY. TO AVOID ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT PERFORM ANY
SERVICING OTHER THAN THE CONTAINED IN THE OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS.
Introduction
This section of the manual contains maintenance information for the MegaPulse Capacitor series
A PF impulse tester. A 1-year calibration cycle is recommended to maintain the specifications of
the factory. The test equipment required for the performance test is a digital oscilloscope, high
voltage oscilloscope probe, digital meter and a high voltage probe.
Service Information
The MegaPulse tester is warranted to the original purchaser for a period of 1 year. This warranty
does not cover problems due to misuse or neglect. Malfunctions which occur within the limits of
the warranty will be corrected at no charge. Mail the instrument post paid to the manufacturer.
Dated proof of purchase is required for all in-warranty repairs. The manufacturer is also
available for calibration and / or repair of instruments that are beyond their warranty period.
Contact the manufacturer for a cost quotation. Ship the instrument and your remittance
according to the instructions given by the manufacturer.
General Maintenance
To avoid contaminating the PWB with oil from your fingers, handle it by the edges or wear
gloves. If the PWB becomes contaminated, refer to the cleaning procedures given later in this
section.
WARNING
Dangerous voltages exist when energized. Exercise extreme care when working on an
energized circuit.
Cleaning
Clean the front panel and case with a mild solution of detergent and a damp sponge. Clean dust
from the PWB with clean, dry, low pressure (<20 psi)
CAUTION
Do not use aromatic hydrocarbons or chlorinated solvents for cleaning. These solutions
will react with the plastic materials used in the instrument.

15
Calibration Information
The Calibration Procedure should be performed annually and any time the instrument has been
repaired. The calibration procedure should be performed at an ambient temperature of 23°C
±5°C (73.4°F ±9°F). The procedure consists on internal components tolerance verification and
calibrating the meter reading to agree with the capacitor bank. The Calibration procedure must be
performed by qualified personnel, for more information contact Compliance West USA.
Voltage Stop Disable / Keyboard Enable by Keyboard.
If the MegaPulse Capacitor series A PF tester includes TestMinder option and has the Voltage
Stop by the PC command activated, it is possible to disable it using the next keyboard sequence:
Note: Disabling Voltage Stop enables the keyboard.
Turn OFF the MegaPulse P tester.
Hold in the TRIGGER and NOR-REV buttons.
Turn ON the MegaPulse P tester.
Wait until the display shows rESE.
Release the TRIGGER and NOR-REV buttons.