EA Technology CableData CDC3 User manual

CableData®Collector
Operating Manual
Model No: CDC3
Document Version: V01.01.00
Date: 8 July 2021

3660-MANUL-V01.01.00-CDC3 Operating Manual
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical,
photocopied, recorded or otherwise, or stored in any retrieval system of any nature without the written permission of the copyright holder.
© EA Technology Ltd July 2021
EA Technology Limited, Capenhurst Technology Park, Capenhurst, Chester, CH1 6ES;
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
http://www.eatechnology.com
Registered in England number 2566313
Version History
Date
Version
Author(s)
Notes
10/06/2021
01.00.00
Sam Russell
Initial Release
08/07/2021
01.01.00
Sam Russell
Added link to Declarations of Conformity.

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Safety Precautions and procedures
•The CableData®Collector (CDC) range is for use only with specified equipment and cables supplied by
EA Technology Ltd. Misuse of the equipment can result in injury or death.
•Ensure relevant safety notes and manuals from any auxiliary equipment and sensors such as that
from the HFCT are read in conjunction with this manual.
•The CDC can be used without de-energizing the local equipment, it must be considered under the
relevant risk assessment.
•The CDC is designed for use at ground potential only.
•When testing electrical plant ensure metalwork is earthed before observing measurements.
•Local safety procedures and guidelines (including the use of personal protective equipment) must be
followed during the installation and use.
•Maintain safety clearances between structures at high voltage and the instrument, its probes, and the
operator always.
•Do not make measurements with electrical storms in the vicinity.
•Do not make measurements immediately following the energization of a circuit.
•Do not disturb the plant during measurements either mechanically (e.g., shaking or striking it),
electrically (e.g., increasing the voltage) or physically (e.g., applying heat).
•Do not operate the CDC or any accessories in an explosive environment.
•Before installation and use, always check the condition of the connecting cables.
•If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, any protection provided by
the equipment may be impaired.
•Modification of switchgear is outside the scope of this document. Adhere to all regulatory and
manufacturer standards when considering modifications. Ensure that any such modifications do not
reduce structural integrity or arc flash withstand of the switchgear.
•Do not use the SD card slot or the Ethernet port, these ports are currently not supported.
•For application information email [email protected]om.

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Contents
1. Non-Intrusive Detection of Partial Discharge Activity .........................................................................................1
2. CableData®Collector (CDC) Hardware...................................................................................................................2
2.1 Kit Contents...................................................................................................................................................2
2.2 General ...........................................................................................................................................................2
2.3 Status LED Definition...................................................................................................................................3
2.4 Phase Reference...........................................................................................................................................3
2.5 Transformer Reference...............................................................................................................................3
2.6 HFCT Reference ...........................................................................................................................................4
2.7 Taking PD Measurements using a HFCT ................................................................................................4
2.8 Calibration......................................................................................................................................................4
3. CDC Software Installation & Setup..........................................................................................................................6
3.1 Software Installation....................................................................................................................................6
3.2 Connecting the CDC.....................................................................................................................................8
3.3 Settings Setup...............................................................................................................................................9
4. Using the CDC Software......................................................................................................................................... 10
4.1 Software Initialisation............................................................................................................................... 10
4.2 Main Screen................................................................................................................................................ 11
4.3 Main Screen Data Entry Requirements................................................................................................. 12
4.4 Data Capture .............................................................................................................................................. 19
4.5 Capture Data & Reports ........................................................................................................................... 23
4.6 Restoring Software Default Options...................................................................................................... 25
4.7 Uninstalling the CDC Data Acquisition Software ................................................................................ 26
4.8 Updating Software .................................................................................................................................... 26
5. Specification............................................................................................................................................................. 27
6. Declaration of Conformity...................................................................................................................................... 28
7. Maintenance............................................................................................................................................................. 29
8. Sales and Service .................................................................................................................................................... 30

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1. Non-Intrusive Detection of Partial Discharge Activity
Partial discharges are electric discharges that do not completely bridge the electrodes. The magnitude of such
discharges is usually small; however, they do cause progressive deterioration of insulation that may lead to
eventual failure(s).
Non-intrusive partial discharge detection provides a means for identifying these potential sources of insulation
failure that result not only in loss of supply to customers but can also endanger staff.
A partial discharge emits energy in the following ways:
Electromagnetic:
•Radio
•Light
•Heat
Acoustic:
•Audio
•Ultrasonic
Gases:
•Ozone
•Nitrous Oxides
When the partial discharge event occurs in a cable, there will be a resulting voltage pulse coupled to the
earth sheath of the cable. These pulses will propagate away from the PD side in both directions. Once the
pulse reaches a change in impedance, this will cause a partial reflection. This results in the pulses travelling
back down the cable several times (dependent upon cable length) as they decay away.
Measurement is taken using the High-Frequency Current Transformer (HFCT) at one end of the cable. This will
reveal a pattern of pulses, where the first pulse is the direct pulse from the PD event. The second pulse is the
reflected pulse from the far end. If the PD site is at the far end of the cable, then the direct pulse and the
reflection will be very close to each other, or perhaps superimposed on each other. Conversely, if the PD site is
at the near end of the cable, the direct pulse will be received first, and then there will be a longer gap as the
pulse travelling away will have to travel nearly twice the length of the cable until it is detected.

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2. CableData®Collector (CDC) Hardware
2.1 Kit Contents
1 x CDC Main Unit
3 x HFCTs
4 x 5m BNC Leads
1 x USB Data & Power Cable
1 x Phase Reference Transformer (CDC2-PRT)
1 x Carry Case
1 x Software USB drive
Operating Manuals
2.2 General
The front panel offers 4x BNC connectors. 3x BNC connectors (1,2,3) are for use with the supplied HFCTs for
data acquisition. The fourth connector (~) is the Auxiliary input, where the phase reference transformer is
connected. Only the supplied phase reference transformer specifically designed for the CDC should be used
on this input. Each channel can be identified from the top enclosure label.
Figure 1 CDC Top View
The rear of the CDC contains the following connectors:
SD card slot:
Currently unsupported/functional.
Do not insert an SD card into this slot.
Three status LEDs
Further information on the LEDs in section 2.3.
Mini USB Connector
Used for instrument power and communication. The CDC is supplied with a
split USB Cable allowing more power to be drawn from additional USB source
if required.
Ethernet Socket
Currently unsupported/functional.
Do not insert network cables into this socket.

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Figure 2 CDC Rear View
2.3 Status LED Definition
The outermost two status LEDs indicate the status of the firmware. When the CDC is powered up but not
collecting data, they should remain solid green. When collecting data, the left (outermost) LED should briefly
flash whilst collecting event data. The centre LED will flicker when collecting waveform data. As the waveform
collection is a slower process, this will flash for a longer period.
The innermost LED is the phase reference indicator. When a phase reference is present, the LED should remain
solid green. In the event the phase reference is lost, the LED will turn orange.
In the event any of the Status LEDs turn red, try power cycling the CDC to see if this alleviates the problem. If
the red status light remains illuminated, this may indicate a possible hardware issue. If this occurs, then please
contact EA Technology Product Support Team for further instructions.
2.4 Phase Reference
A phase reference is required by the CDC to improve the data analysis allowing classification of events based
on phase position. There are two supported methods for this.
1) Recommended Method: Connecting a phase reference transformer to the Auxiliary channel.
2) Using a HFCT connected one of the CPD measurement channels (1,2 or 3).
2.5 Transformer Reference
The preferred (supplied) phase reference transformer provides more accurate results compared to the
HFCT’s. Because of this, it should be used wherever possible. Using the Transformer as a reference; plug the
BNC connector from the end of the transformer cable to the Aux input (~).
Where the supplied cable is too short, a longer BNC cable from the phase reference transformer to the
instrument can be supplied by EA or a mains extensions lead can be used.
The phase reference transformer input is in the form of an IEC320-C7 power cable, which can be replaced for
an off the shelf version with a localised plug. If this is not possible, the transformer will work with basic travel
adapters.
The more complex travel adapters that also convert the voltage may not work and should be avoided. The
transformer is designed to work with an input voltage between 100V →240Vac.

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2.6 HFCT Reference
The CDC will attempt to obtain a phase reference from flowing current through the HFCTs sheath. This 50Hz
or 60Hz current is due to the cable capacitance, or in some circumstances may be down to induction from the
phase conductors.
A current of approx. 10A is required to give a reliable reference - if lower, the reference may become intermittent
and/or unreliable. The phase reference LED may also occasionally change between green and orange. In this
event it is recommended to replace with the phase reference transformer.
If the instrument is being used in Single Phase (1P) mode it will only attempt to detect the phase reference on
channel 1, however, if being used in three-phase (3P) mode all three input channels (1,2,3) will be attempted.
This information is logged in the capture reports which can be viewed at the end of the data capture process.
2.7 Taking PD Measurements using a HFCT
Using the CDC with a HFCT for detection of Partial Discharge (PD) on single or three-phase cables can be done
non-intrusively using multiple configurations. The configuration of the test setup is highly dependent on the
accessibility and layout of the location of the test. For more information on configuring a test using HFCT
consult the HFCT manual and if further assistance is required contact EA technology.
Figure 3 Image of a HFCT1-F50
2.8 Calibration
It is recommended that the CDC is calibrated annually. Information on the calibration date and due date can
be found by navigating to “About” in the CableData®Collector software (shown in figure 4).
Figure 4 About button in CDC Software

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Clicking the About button will display the instrument information window shown in Figure 5. Calibration Due
Date will give information of the remaining time until the recommended calibration date expires.
Figure 5 About Window
If the CDC calibration has expired, a warning will be displayed during start up (shown in Figure 6). Clicking OK
will allow the software to continue collecting data (not recommended).
Figure 6 Warning about calibration expiry

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3. CDC Software Installation & Setup
3.1 Software Installation
The CDC software requires Microsoft’s .Net 3.5 framework to be installed, a separate installer is included with
the setup files. If you are unsure, whether you have this installed then it is advisable to run and install this before
starting with the installation of the CDC.
To start the installation, locate the install files supplied. Run the .exe file to start the installation process.
Windows administrator privileges are required to install the CDC software.
Running CableDataCollector_Setup.exe file requires confirmation for installation progress (Figure Figure 7). To
start the installation, click Yes and this will start the preparation process for the required virtual COM port
drivers, which are necessary to communicate with the CDC.
Figure 7 Install Confirmation
Upon preparation completion, the installer will wait to start, Figure 8. Click Next to start driver install.
Figure 8 Virtual COM Port Driver start of installation
Upon completion, Windows Device Driver Installation Wizard will run. Click Next to install the driver.
Figure 9 Windows device driver installation wizard

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Once completed a confirmation screen will show, Figure 10. Click Finish.
Figure 10 Completed device driver installation
The next set-up screen (Figure 11) installs the CDC Software. Click Next to progress.
Figure 11 CDC Setup Wizard
The license agreement (Figure 12) is displayed which should be read & understood. Failure to agree to the
license agreement renders Desktop collector software installation not possible. Click the I Agree button
(To agree), followed by Next.
Figure 12 License Agreement

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Select the Installation folder (Figure 13) allows you to select the installation location. It is
recommended to be left at default. You can select whether the software is installed for all users, or
just the current user (logged in).
Figure 13 Selecting Installation Directory
Once installation has completed the following message (Figure 14), click Close to exit.
Figure 14 CDC Wizard Completion Screen
3.2 Connecting the CDC
Before the application can be run for the first time, it is important to make sure that the correct drivers are
installed. To do this, connect the CDC to the PC via USB cable.
The device will automatically power on upon connection. If the CDC has not been connected before, Windows
should take a few moments whilst the drivers are installed. Windows will show a notification upon the
success of the driver installation.
Upon success, the software can be started.
Start > All Programs > EA Technology > CableDataCollector

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3.3 Settings Setup
The first time opening the software shows a populated configuration settings screen. Figure 15.
Figure 15 CableData®Collector Software Setup Screen
The Default Engineer Name is the name that will automatically populate the Engineer Name field on the main
screen. This can be changed during testing if the operator changes.
The Root Folder is the folder where collected data files will be saved. For this installation, the folder has been
set to “C:\Users\<user>\Documents\”.
Note: When setting a root folder, it is recommended to choose a folder in the My Documents folder (Windows)
for the logged-on user.
Two filter files are automatically copied across during installation: Filter 1 (500kHz High Pass) & Filter 2.
(1.8MHz High Pass). The filters in general should not need to be changed. If changes are required, this can be
completed as follows:
1) Copy the COE files to the local hard drive.
2) Click the “…” button for Filter 1 (shown in Figure 14), navigate to where you have copied the file.
3) Select the file and repeat process for the second COE file (Filter 2).
If updating selected filters, always set so that the more restrictive filter is set to Filter 2.
For the supplied filters, the High Pass 500kHz filter will block frequencies (DC) up to 500kHz. The High Pass
1.8MHz will block frequencies (DC) up to 1.8MHz. As the High Pass 500kHz filter will let through a wider range
of frequencies, this should be set to Filter 1, with the High Pass 1.8MHz set to Filter 2.
The Cable Length Unit has two options in the drop-down list: Metres and Feet. Select the unit that you wish
to use when entering cable lengths.
The Witness/Facility Field Label reflects a field on the main screen. This can be set to Witness if there will be a
witness observing any work, witness’s name can then be entered. Set Facility Name if it is desired to record the
facility name separately.
System Frequency is the operating frequency of the measured cable: 50Hz or 60Hz. This value is used by the
CDC to detect the correct phase reference. Set the correct location frequency here.
Note: If you wish to change any of the settings in the future, click Settings from the main screen.
When all the settings have been entered, click the OK button to save the settings and close the window.
The main interface should now be loaded.

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4. Using the CDC Software
Connect the CDC to a PC using the supplied USB cable.
Run software located in Start > Programs > EA Technology > CDC
4.1 Software Initialisation
When the main interface has started, the software will attempt to find the attached CDC. During this
process, a message (Figure 16) will appear. The window will close once the CDC has been detected.
Figure 16 Looking for instrument at software start-up
This should take no more than 5 seconds. If problems detecting the CDC occur, a warning message will appear
(Figure 17). This error should only occur if the CDC is not connected correctly, check USB cable is securely
connected, and click Yes.
On some laptops, not all USB ports will function correctly, try connecting CDC to a different USB port if the error
persists. If the error message persists and the cable and laptop have been ruled out as the source of the
problem, contact EA Technology for further assistance.
Figure 17 CableData®Collector Software Start-up
If during loading procedures, it has not been possible to read asset data, a warning will be displayed ( Figure
18). If a warning is displayed, try unplugging the CDC and closing the software, re-connect the CDC and start
the software again. If the warning message persists, please contact product support.
It is still possible to capture data without the asset data, however this is not advised as the results of the
analysis may have reduced accuracy.
Figure 18 Error whilst reading asset data

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4.2 Main Screen
Correct software initialisation & device discovery produces the main screen (Figure 19).
Figure 19 CableData®Collector Software Main Screen

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4.3 Main Screen Data Entry Requirements
4.3.1 Main Screen Overview
Some of the input fields are required and must be completed before data collection can begin. The
required fields are as follows:
•Job Number
•Licence Area
•Feeder Number
•Engineer Name
•Substation ID
•Feeder Number
•Substation ID
•Cable Type
•RFCT Type
•Voltage
•Switch Position
•Phase
Attempting to start recording data without completing the required fields will prompt 0.
Figure 20 Error message when starting a capture with incomplete information

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Required fields that are incomplete when attempting to start a capture will be highlighted in red. An example
of this is shown in Figure 21.
Figure 21 CableData®Collector Software with incomplete data
The first set of fields are free text and can have any values entered. These are Job Number,Customer,
Location,Engineer Name and Facility Name.
The second set of fields relate to the circuit that is currently under test. Substation ID and Circuit ID are free
text and must be populated.

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4.3.2 Cable Type
The Cable Type must now be set. There is a drop-down list for this field. There are several of the most
common cable types listed by default. Figure 22 shows the drop-down list with the default options.
Figure 22 Cable Type Dro p-down
If the cable under test does not have a type listed in the available options, then a new option can be added. To
do this, select the Other… option. A window will open with a field to enter the new Cable Type. Only the first 7 to
8 characters will be visible in the Cable Type drop-down list. The window is shown in Figure 23. Enter the Cable
Type and click Add. This will add the newly entered cable type to the list of available options and will save it so
that it can be selected again in the future.
Figure 23 Adding new cable type
The newly entered option will be automatically selected for the data capture and will be available for
selection in any future assessments, as shown in Figure 24.
Figure 24 Cable type selected
For cables where there is a join part of the way down the cable, Mixture must be selected, and a comment
must be added in the Notes field. If data capture is attempted with the Mixture Cable Type selected, and no
text in the Notes field, the error message in Figure 25 will be displayed.
Figure 25 Error when selecting mixture for cable type without entering any notes

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4.3.3 Cable Length & Sample Rate
The next field is for Cable Length. The units for this were set during the first run of the software. The Cable
Length field is not required, however if cable mapping is performed then an accurate cable length is of
great help.
Figure 26 shows the cable length and sample rate fields. When the cable length is blank, it is not possible to
alter the sample rate, and the sample rate will always be set to 40MHz.
Figure 26 Cable length and sample rate fields
The software attempts to select the best Sample Rate for the entered cable length. The sample rate is the
sampling interval used to capture the measured waveform. A higher sampling rate provides a better resolution
of the waveform being captured; however, this limits the maximum length of the cable that can be tested.
A lower sampling rate allows longer cables to be tested; however, the high-frequency resolution will be
reduced. If the cable length is an estimate, and the length is thought to be near to a length limit for the
sampling rate, it is recommended to choose a slower sampling rate to ensure that mapping is possible.
The theoretical maximum cable lengths for each sample rate are shown in Table 1.
Sample Rate
Maximum Cable Length (m)
Maximum Cable Length (Feet)
160MHz
2,800
9,186
80MHz
5,600
18,372
40MHz
11,200
36,745
Table 1 Theoretical Maximum cable lengths for each sample rate
Caution: If the cable being tested is longer than allowed by the selected sampling rate, then cable mapping will
not be possible from the data set. The maximum cable length is 11,200m. If this is exceeded, then the warning
message shown in Figure 27 will be displayed.
Figure 27 Warning when entering a cable length of over 11,200m

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4.3.4 Voltage
The next field, visible in Figure 28, is the Voltage of the cable under test. Several common voltages for the
UK distribution network are available by default.
Figure 28 Voltage drop-down selection
If the cable under test operates at an unlisted voltage, it is possible to add further options. To do this, select the
Other… option at the bottom of the list. The window, shown in Figure 29 will then be displayed, which will allow
you to enter a new voltage. Only the numeric value of the voltage needs adding, as the software automatically
adds the CDC. With the new value entered, click Add.
Figure 29 Voltage Entry
4.3.5 Switch Position
The Switch Position option is to enter the status of any switch that may be present on the cable at the point of
measurement. If there is no switch present, then Absent should be selected. The Open option would be for
cases when the switch is open, and the cable is energised but with no load. The Closed option is for when the
switch is closed, and the cable is energised and carrying a load. It is only possible to perform testing on
energised cables. The options are shown in Figure 30.
Figure 30 Switch position selection