Gossen MetraWatt METRACLIP EARTH PE User manual

Operating Instructions
METRACLIP EARTH PE
Earthing Clamp Meter 3-447-105-03
1/7.21

METRACLIP EARTH PE Gossen Metrawatt GmbH
Table of Contents
1 Safety Instructions....................................................................................................................... 1
2 Applications ................................................................................................................................. 2
2.1 Intended Use / Use for Intended Purpose................................................................................................................ 2
2.2 Use for Other than Intended Purpose ...................................................................................................................... 2
2.3 Liability and Guarantee............................................................................................................................................ 2
2.4 Opening the Instrument / Repairs............................................................................................................................ 2
3 Documentation ............................................................................................................................ 2
4 Getting Started ............................................................................................................................ 3
5 The Instrument............................................................................................................................. 3
5.1 Scope of Delivery .................................................................................................................................................... 3
5.2 Instrument Overview ............................................................................................................................................... 3
5.3 Relevant Standards................................................................................................................................................. 5
5.4 Technical Data ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
5.5 Characteristic Values............................................................................................................................................... 6
6 Initial Startup................................................................................................................................ 8
6.1 Establishing Power Supply (batteries / rechargeable batteries) ................................................................................ 8
6.2 Switching the Instrument On and Off....................................................................................................................... 9
6.3 Setting Date and Time............................................................................................................................................. 9
7 Instrument Settings ................................................................................................................... 10
7.1 Alarms ................................................................................................................................................................. 10
7.2 Acoustic Signals.................................................................................................................................................... 11
7.3 Automatic Freezing of the Measured Value (PRE-HOLD function).......................................................................... 11
7.4 Clearing Memory................................................................................................................................................... 11
7.5 Automatic Standby Mode...................................................................................................................................... 12
7.6 Setting Date and Time........................................................................................................................................... 12
7.7 Querying Instrument Information ........................................................................................................................... 13
8 Operation ................................................................................................................................... 14
8.1 General Information on Measurements .................................................................................................................. 14
8.2 Freezing the Measured Value (HOLD) .................................................................................................................... 14
8.3 Saving Measured Values ....................................................................................................................................... 15
8.4 Impedance and Leakage Current Measurements (+ A) ...................................................................................... 15
8.5 Current Measurement (A) ...................................................................................................................................... 16
8.6 Viewing Measured Values (measured value memory)............................................................................................. 16
8.7 Readjustment........................................................................................................................................................ 16
9 Troubleshooting......................................................................................................................... 19
10Maintenance .............................................................................................................................. 20
11Service and Support.................................................................................................................. 20
11.1Product Support ................................................................................................................................................... 20
11.2Repair and Replacement Parts Service
Calibration Center * and Rental Instrument Service................................................................................................ 20
12CE Declaration ........................................................................................................................... 21
13Returns and Environmentally Sound Disposal......................................................................... 21

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Gossen Metrawatt GmbH METRACLIP EARTH PE
1 Safety Instructions
• Observe this documentation, in particular all included safety information, in order to protect yourself and others from
injury, and to prevent damage to the instrument.
• Carefully and completely read and adhere to these operating instructions.
The respective document can be found at http://www.gossenmetrawatt.com. Retain the document for future reference.
• Observe and comply with all safety regulations which are applicable for your work environment.
• Wear suitable and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) whenever working with the instrument.
• Use only the specified accessories (included in the scope of delivery or listed as options) with the instrument.
• Use the instrument in undamaged condition only.
Inspect the instrument before use. Pay particular attention to damage and interrupted insulation.
• If the instrument doesn’t function flawlessly, permanently remove it from operation and secure it against inadvertent use.
• If the instrument is damaged during use, for example if it’s dropped, remove it from operation permanently and secure it
against inadvertent use.
• Do not use the instrument after extraordinary stressing due to transport.
• The instrument must not be exposed to direct sunlight.
• Only use the instrument within the limits of the specified technical data and conditions (ambient conditions, IP protection
code, measuring category etc.).
• The instrument may only be used for the tests/measurements described in the documentation for the instrument.
• Live conductors must be at least 10 cm away from the instrument during impedance and leakage current measure-
ments.
• Magnets must be at least 10 cm away from the instrument when performing measurements.
• Maintain a signal frequency of 47 to 800 Hz during current measurements. The clamp meter heats up dangerously at
over 20 A and 800 Hz.
• The clamp meter may only be gripped up to the finger guard.
• Keep the opening gap and the measuring head’s iron core impeccably clean. Even the slightest contamination can
cause the clamp meter to malfunction.
• Do not use the instrument if the battery compartment cover has been removed.
Touch contact with dangerous voltage is otherwise possible.
• Always create a backup copy of your measurement data.

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METRACLIP EARTH PE Gossen Metrawatt GmbH
2 Applications
Please read this important information!
2.1 Intended Use / Use for Intended Purpose
The METRACLIP EARTH PE is an earthing clamp meter.
It’s used to measure loop impedance in parallel connected earthing systems. It measures impedance (0.01 to 1200 ) with
a fixed test signal frequency of 2083 Hz, as well as leakage current. And thus it can be used to check all types of earth
loops.
Furthermore, the METRACLIP EARTH PE can be used as a normal current clamp transformer in order to measure current
(0.5 mA to 20 A), e.g. for leakage current measurements.
The measured value memory function makes it possible to store measurements and display them later.
The clamp meter can be balanced with the help of the readjustment function without sending it to the manufacturer.
Safety of the operator, as well as that of the instrument, is only assured when it’s used for its intended purpose.
2.2 Use for Other than Intended Purpose
Using the instrument for any purposes other than those described in these instrument operating instructions is contrary to
use for intended purpose.
2.3 Liability and Guarantee
Gossen Metrawatt GmbH assumes no liability for property damage, personal injury or consequential damage resulting from
improper or incorrect use of the product, in particular due to failure to observe the product documentation. Furthermore, all
guarantee claims are rendered null and void in such cases.
Nor does Gossen Metrawatt GmbH accept any liability for data loss.
2.4 Opening the Instrument / Repairs
The instrument may only be opened by authorized, trained personnel in order to ensure flawless, safe operation and to
assure that the guarantee isn’t rendered null and void. Even original replacement parts may only be installed by authorized,
trained personnel.
Unauthorized modification of the instrument is prohibited.
If it can be ascertained that the instrument has been opened by unauthorized personnel, no guarantee claims can be hon-
ored by the manufacturer with regard to personal safety, measuring accuracy, compliance with applicable safety measures
or any consequential damages.
3 Documentation
The following identifiers are used in this documentation:
Identifier Meaning
Attention!
!
Warning
Safety information that must be complied with
Note!
Important
Important information which must be taken into consideration and complied with
Prerequisite A condition etc. which must be fulfilled before a given action can be taken
1. Procedural step Steps of a procedure which must be completed in the specified order
Result Result of a procedural step
• Enumeration
– Enumeration
Bullet lists
Bild 1: Caption Description of the content of a figure
Table 1: Description of the content of a table
Footnote Comment

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Gossen Metrawatt GmbH METRACLIP EARTH PE
4 Getting Started
1. Read and adhere to the product documentation. In particular observe all safety information in this documentation, on
the instrument and on the packaging.
“Safety Instructions” 1
“Applications” 2
“Documentation” 2
2. Familiarize yourself with the instrument “The Instrument” 3.
3. Start up the instrument “Initial Startup” 8.
4. Enter basic settings to the instrument “Instrument Settings” 10.
5. Perform measurements, save and view measured values “Operation” 14.
5 The Instrument
5.1 Scope of Delivery
Please check for completeness.
5.2 Instrument Overview
5.2.1 Controls
Bild 2: Instrument Overview
Rotary Selector Switch
1 METRACLIP EARTH PE (M312P) (earth clamp meter with carrying strap)
4 1.5 volt batteries
1 Carrying case (lockable, with 2 keys)
1 Test certificate for the instrument (in English only)
1 Calibration loop (including test certificate in English)
1 Operating instructions (this document)
Position Function
SET-UP Setup menu “Instrument Settings” 10
MR
Access measured value memory (memory recall)  “Viewing Measured Values (measured value memory)”  16
ACurrent measurement “Operation” 14
A + Impedance and leakage current measurement “Operation” 14
Opening Gap
Jaw Release Trigger
Finger Guard
Rotary Selector Switch
Measuring Head
(internal iron core)
Eyelet for Carrying Strap
Function Keys
Display

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METRACLIP EARTH PE Gossen Metrawatt GmbH
Function Keys
5.2.2 Display
5.2.3 Symbols on the Instrument and the Included Accessories
Key Function
Switch display illumination on and off
MEM Store measured value
HOLD Freezes the measured value and releases it again
Navigate within the device configuration and during memory readout, change selected value
Rotary switch in + Aor Aposition: Press and hold to switch buzzer on and off.
Rotary switch in SET-UP position: Navigation in menus and confirmation of changes.
Rotary switch in MR position: Switch between measurement and date/time display.
Warning concerning a point of danger
(attention, observe documentation!)
Attachment or removal permitted on bare conductors with dangerous voltage.
Type A current probe per IEC 61010 2 032
Double insulation (protection category II)
Batteries
European conformity marking
The tester may not be disposed of with household trash “Returns and Environmentally Sound Disposal” 21.
A lifecycle analysis of the product according to ISO 14040 reveals that the product can be classified as recyclable.
Impedance Measurement
Display
Current Measurement
Display
Alarm Display (10)
Charge Level
Memory Display (11)
Date Display (9)
Acoustic Signals Display
(11)
HOLD Function On/Off (11)
Measuring Head Open
(no measurements possible) (19)
Standby Display (12)
Interference (19)
!
+–

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Gossen Metrawatt GmbH METRACLIP EARTH PE
5.3 Relevant Standards
The tester has been manufactured and tested in accordance with the following safety regulations:
5.4 Technical Data
EN 61010-1 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use –
General requirements
EN 61010-2-032
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use – Part 2-032:
Particular requirements for hand-held and hand-manipulated current sensors for electrical test and
measurement
EN 60529 Test instruments and test procedures
Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP code)
EN 61326-1 Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use – EMC requirements –
Part 1: General requirements
EN 61326-2-2 Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use – EMC requirements –
Part 2-2: Particular requirements – Test configurations, operational conditions and performance
criteria for portable test, measuring and monitoring equipment used in low-voltage distribution sys-
tems
Power Supply
Supply: Four 1.5 V alkaline batteries, type LR6 or AA,
alternative: four rechargeable NiMH batteries
Supply voltage: 5.8 … 6.2 V
Battery service life:
Approx. 20 hours, i.e. 2400 measurements lasting 30 seconds each
Automatic shutdown: On/off
Ambient
Conditions
Operating temperature: -20 ... +55 °C
Storage temperature: −30 … +70 °C (without batteries)
Relative atmospheric humidity: Max. 75%, no condensation allowed
Elevation: Max. 2000 m
Electrical
Safety
Measuring category: 100 V CAT IV, 150 V CAT III
Pollution degree: 2
Protection category: II (per EN 61140)
Electromagnetic
Compatibility (EMC)
Electrical field strength: < 1 V/m
Magnetic field strength: < 40 A/m
Interference emission: EN 61326-1
Interference immunity: EN 61326-1
Mechanical
Design
Operating position: Horizontal clamp
Conductor position in measur-
ing head:
Centered
Protection: Housing: IP40
per EN 60529
(protection against ingress of solid foreign objects: 1.0 mm
dia., protection against ingress of water: not protected)
Housing (W × H × D): Approx. 300 × 106 × 56 mm
Clamp
(enclosing diameter):
Square: 30 × 40 mm
Rectangular: 20 × 55 mm
Round: 32 mm
Weight: Approx. 1.2 kg (including batteries)
Display: OLED with152 segments (active area: 48 × 39 mm)
Signals Alarms: For Z and I (optical, optionally acoustic)
Acoustic signals: Keys, alarms
Internal Memory 300 measured values with timestamp
Freeze function (manual or automatic HOLD)

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METRACLIP EARTH PE Gossen Metrawatt GmbH
5.5 Characteristic Values
5.5.1 Measurements in General
5.5.2 Impedance and Leakage Current Measurement
Reference Range
Reference conditions: 20 … 26 °C, at 40 … 60% relative humidity (no condensation)
Intrinsic uncertainty is expressed as a percentage of the reading (R) and in display data points / resolution (r): (x% R + y r).
It indicates deviation under reference conditions (see above).
Fluctuations within the Operating Range
Z = impedance I = current δ = intrinsic uncertainty (see above) R = resolution (see above)
Distortion factor < 0.5%
Frequency 50 Hz, sinusoidal signal
Current during impedance
measurement:
0mA
Series inductance with resistor: 0H
Measuring Ranges 0.010 …
0.099 
0.10 …
0.99 
1 …
49.9 
50 …
149 
150 …
245 
250 …
440 
450 …
640 
650 …
1200 
Resolution (R) 1 m10 m100 m1 5 m10 10 50 
Intrinsic Uncertainty
(δ)
± (1.5% R
+ 0.01 )
± (1.5% R
+ 2 r)
± (1.5% R
+ 2 r)
± (2.5% R
+ 2 r)
± (5% R +
2 r)
± (10% R
+ 2 r)
± (15% R
+ 2 r)
± (20% R
+ 2 r)
Open-Circuit Voltage ≤ 4.5 mV at 2083 Hz
Influencing Quantity Operating Range Influence
Typical Maximum
Temperature -20 to + 55 °C 0.5 δ / 10 °C ± R 1.5 δ / 10 °C + R
Relative humidity 10 to 75% relative humidity 1 δ ± R 2 δ ± R
Supply voltage 4 to 6.5 V 0.05 δ ± R 0.1 δ ± R
Conductor position From edge to middle Z < 450 
0.2 δ ± R
Z ≥ 450 
0.5 δ ± R
Z < 450 
0.4 δ ± R
Z ≥ 450 
1 δ ± R
Clamp setting ± 180° Z < 450 
0.25 δ ± R
Z ≥ 450 
0.5 δ ± R
Z < 450 
0.5 δ ± R
Z ≥ 450 
1 δ ± R
Distance to magnets Steel sheet metal, 1 mm at opening
gap 0.1 δ ± R 0.5 δ ± R
Magnetic field strength
50/60 Hz 30 A/m 0.05 δ ± R 0.1 δ ± R
Neighboring conductor I < 40 A Z < 250 
0.25 δ ± R
Z ≥ 250
0.4 δ ± R
Z < 250 Ω
0.5 δ ± R
Z ≥ 250 
0.8 δ ± R
Leakage current in the
loop,
50 to 60 Hz,
I < 10 A,
Z × I < 75 V
Z < 100 
Z x I < 20 V 0.5 δ ± R 1 δ ± R
20 V ≤ Z × I < 40 1 δ ± R 3 δ ± R
40 V ≤ Z × I 2 δ ± R 4 δ ± R
Z ≥ 100 0.5 δ ± R 1 δ ± R
Loop inductance 0 to 500 μH The instrument displays Z at measuring frequency
(2083 Hz)

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Gossen Metrawatt GmbH METRACLIP EARTH PE
5.5.3 Current Measurement
Reference Range
Reference conditions: 20 … 26 °C, at 40 … 60% relative humidity (no condensation)
Intrinsic uncertainty is expressed as a percentage of the reading (R) and in display data points / resolution (r): (x% R + y r).
It indicates deviation under reference conditions (see above).
Fluctuations within the Operating Range
Z = impedance I = current δ = intrinsic uncertainty (see above) R = resolution (see above)
Signal Frequency 47 … 800 Hz
Measuring
Ranges 0.5 to 9.995 mA 10.00 to 99.90 mA 100.0 to 299.0 mA 0.300 to 2.990 A 3.00 to 20.00 A
Resolution (R) 50 μA 100 μA 1 mA 10 mA 100 mA
Intrinsic
Uncertainty (δ)± (2% R + 200 μA) ± (2% R + r) ± (2% R + r) ± (2% R + r) ± (2% R + r)
Influencing Quantity Operating Range Influence
Typical Maximum
Temperature – 20 to + 55 °C 0.5 δ / 10 °C ± R 1.5 δ / 10 °C + R
Relative humidity 10 to 75% relative humidity 0.5 δ ± R 1 δ ± R
Supply voltage 4 to 6.5V 0.05 δ ± R 0.1 δ ± R
Conductor position From edge to middle 0.05 δ ± R 0.2 δ ± R
Clamp setting ± 180° 0.1 δ ± R 0.25 δ ± R
Distance to magnets Steel sheet metal, 1 mm at opening gap 0.1 δ ± R 0.2 δ ± R
Magnetic field strength
50/60 Hz
10 A/m 0.75 mA 1.5 mA
30 A/m 2 mA 4.5 mA
100 A/m 8 mA 15 mA
Leakage current offset
IEC 61557-13
5% at 50 Hz and 0°
6% at 250 Hz and 180°
5% at 350 Hz and 0°
0.05 δ ± R 0.1 δ ± R
Neighboring conductor I < 40 A > 70 dB > 66 dB
Leakage current frequency 47 to 800 Hz 1
(for the entire current measuring range) 0.5 δ ± R 1 δ ± R

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METRACLIP EARTH PE Gossen Metrawatt GmbH
6 Initial Startup
6.1 Establishing Power Supply (batteries / rechargeable batteries)
The instrument is powered by four 1.5 V type LR06 or AA alkaline batteries. Four NiMH rechargeable batteries can be used
as an alternative.
Attention!
!
Leaky batteries may damage the instrument. Check the batteries at short, regular intervals and after long periods of
storage.
Inserting or Replacing Batteries / Rechargeable Batteries
4 batteries are included with the instrument, which can be used when starting up it up for the first time. The batteries will
need to be replaced at some point during use of the instrument (“Charge Level Indicator” 8). They can be replaced with
either normal or rechargeable batteries. You’ll have to provide the necessary replacement batteries yourself.
Required tools: Phillips screwdriver.
Attention!
!
Use only the included batteries or batteries specified in the technical data (5).
Attention!
!
Insert either 4 batteries or 4 rechargeable batteries. Do not mix batteries and rechargeable batteries!
Note!
Date and time are retained in memory for a few minutes, providing you with enough time to change the batteries.
The instrument prompts you to set date and time (9) during initial startup and after lengthy periods of time.
Charge Level Indicator
The instrument is not connected to any other device (e.g. device
under test).
The instrument is switched off “Switching the Instrument On
and Off” 9.
Suitable batteries or rechargeable batteries are available.
1. Place the instrument face down on a stable surface.
2. Loosen the 2 captive screws for the battery compartment
(the screws remain in the battery compartment cover).
3. Remove the battery compartment cover.
4. Optional: Remove previously inserted batteries.
5. Insert new batteries into the battery compartment, making sure
that the plus and minus poles match up with the provided polar-
ity symbols.
6. Replace the battery compartment cover. Make sure that it closes
properly.
7. Retighten the 2 captive screws
The batteries have now been inserted. The instrument can be
switched on 9.
Note!
Observe disposal instructions for batteries and rechargeable
batteries 21.
The battery symbol is not displayed. The batteries are sufficiently charged.
blinks at the display. The batteries are weak and will need to be replaced soon.
appears continuously at the display. All batteries are fully depleted and must be replaced immediately.
Screws
Battery Compartment

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Gossen Metrawatt GmbH METRACLIP EARTH PE
6.2 Switching the Instrument On and Off
Turn the rotary switch to any position other than OFF in order to switch the instrument on.
Attention!
!
The instrument performs automatic calibration when started up. The measuring head must be closed and empty for
this reason (no conductors may be enclosed).
Turn the rotary switch to the OFF position in order to switch the instrument off.
6.3 Setting Date and Time
When using the METRACLIP EARTH PE for the first time, you’ll be prompted to set the date and time after switching the
instrument on (9).
1. Set the year with the keys.
2. Confirm with the key.
The month blinks.
3. Set the month with the keys.
4. Confirm with the key.
The day blinks.
5. Set the day with the keys.
6. Confirm with the key.
Time blinks.
7. Select the display format for time, i.e. 24 or 12-hour clock (a.m. / p.m.), with the
keys.
8. Confirm with the key.
The hours display blinks.
9. Set the hour with the keys.
10.Confirm with the key.
The minutes display blinks.
11.Set the minute with the keys.
12.Confirm with the key.
Date and time have now been set. The instrument is ready for operation.

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METRACLIP EARTH PE Gossen Metrawatt GmbH
7 Instrument Settings
7.1 Alarms
Alarms for Impedance and Leakage Current Measurements
Alarm for Current Measurement
You can set an alarm for the impedance and/or the current measurement. As
soon as the specified threshold is exceeded, the alarm indicator blinks at the dis-
play and shows the corresponding value (for impedance and A for current).
If acoustic signals have been activated (11), a continuous acoustic signal is
also generated so that you know whether or not the measurement is correct with-
out having to look at the display.
Note!
If alarms have been set for both the impedance and the current measure-
ment, and if both values are exceeded, the alarm for current measurement
takes precedence.
Press and hold the key in order to deactivate the alarm.
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the ALentry.
3. Confirm with the key.
The AL. menu is displayed.
4. De/activate the AL. function with the help of the keys:
– = alarm for impedance < 10 
– = alarm for impedance > 10 
– = alarm is deactivated
5. Confirm with the key.
The setting is saved.
6. After the alarm has been activated: Select a different alarm threshold if necessary (1 to 199 ) with the help of the
keys.
(Press and hold the keys to scroll through the values faster.)
You’ll also be prompted to set the value if the alarm is deactivated. Skip this step by confirming with the key.
7. Confirm with the key.
The setting is saved.
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the ALA entry.
3. Confirm with the key.
The ALA. menu is displayed.
4. De/activate the ALA. function with the help of the keys:
– = alarm for current > 30 mA
– = alarm is deactivated
5. Confirm with the key.
The setting is saved.
6. After the alarm has been activated: Select a different alarm threshold if necessary (1 mA to 20 A) with the help of the
keys.
(Press and hold the keys to scroll through the values faster.)
You’ll also be prompted to set the value if the alarm is deactivated. Skip this step by confirming with the key.
7. Confirm with the key.
The setting is saved.

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Gossen Metrawatt GmbH METRACLIP EARTH PE
7.2 Acoustic Signals
The instrument can bet set to generate a beep when keys are pressed and to emit a continuous acoustic signal in the event
of an alarm (10).
In order to deactivate or reactivate beeping during measurements (“Operation” 14), press and hold the key.
7.3 Automatic Freezing of the Measured Value (PRE-HOLD function)
Either manual or automatic triggering can be selected for the HOLD function, i.e. “freezing” the displayed measured value:
• Manual: Press the HOLD key in order to freeze the displayed measured value 14.
• Automatic (PRE-HOLD): When the measuring head is opened, the displayed, stabilized measured value is automatically
frozen. This is convenient if you don’t have a free hand to press the HOLD key when performing a measurement.
7.4 Clearing Memory
The METRACLIP EARTH PE can store 300 measured values with timestamp. These are stored internally as measurement
numbers 0 to 299. If 300 values have been stored, i.e. when measurement number 299 is reached, FULL and the memory
number are displayed alternately.
Attention!
!
Overwriting of measured values!
If internal memory is full and you save another value anyway, the first measured value is overwritten (first in, first out).
If this is continued, measurement number 0 is overwritten with measurement number 300 and so forth. This can be contin-
ued up to number 9999. At this point, further recording becomes impossible and memory must be cleared in order to once
again save measured values.
Attention!
!
Data loss!
Back up your data before clearing memory
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the Snd entry.
3. Confirm with the key.
The SND menu is displayed.
4. De/activate the Snd function with the help of the keys:
– is displayed = acoustic signals are activated
– isnot
displayed = silent operation
5. Confirm with the key.
The setting is saved.
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the PRE-HOLD entry.
3. Confirm with the key.
The PRE-HOLD menu is displayed.
4. De/activate the HOLD function with the help of the keys:
– is displayed = PRE-HOLD is activated
– isnot
displayed = PRE-HOLD is deactivated
5. Confirm with the key.
The setting is saved.

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METRACLIP EARTH PE Gossen Metrawatt GmbH
7.5 Automatic Standby Mode
The instrument can be automatically switched to standby after 5 minutes of inactivity in order to extend battery life (8).
Press any key or turn the rotary switch in order to exit the standby mode.
Note!
If the instrument has been in standby mode for more than 15 minutes, it performs automatic calibration when it’s
woken up (as is also the case when it’s switched on 9).
7.6 Setting Date and Time
Date and time are normally set during initial startup (8). However, these settings can be changed at any time.
Setting the Date
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the CLR entry.
3. Confirm with the key.
The CLR menu is displayed.
4. Simultaneously press and hold the and keys.
Instrument memory is fully cleared.
Note!
The instrument emits 5 beeps before memory is cleared. Press
the key in order to abort clearing.
Memory has now been cleared.
(If you want to make sure that memory has been cleared, turn the
rotary switch to MR (memory recall), after which the empty measured
value memory is displayed.)
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the StOP entry.
3. Confirm with the key.
The StOP menu is displayed.
4. De/activate the StOP function with the help of the keys:
– is displayed = automatic shutdown is activated
– is not displayed = continuous operation
5. Confirm with the key.
The setting is saved.
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the dAtE entry.
3. Confirm with the key.
The dAtE menu is displayed. The month blinks.
4. Set the digits which indicate the date with the keys.
5. Confirm with the key.
The day blinks.
6. : Set the digits which indicate the date with the keys.
7. Confirm with the key.
The setting is saved.

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Gossen Metrawatt GmbH METRACLIP EARTH PE
Setting Time
7.7 Querying Instrument Information
You can view the instrument’s current firmware version and its serial number. Both are important for service and support
requests (20).
Viewing the Firmware Version
Viewing the Serial Number
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the HOUR entry.
3. Confirm with the key.
The HOUR menu is displayed.
4. Select the display format for time, i.e. 24 or 12-hour clock
(a.m. / p.m.), with the keys.
5. Confirm with the key.
The hours display blinks.
6. Set the hour with the keys.
7. Confirm with the key.
The minutes display blinks.
8. Set the minute with the keys.
9. Confirm with the key.
The setting is saved.
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the VER entry.
3. Confirm with the key.
The VER menu is displayed.
4. Confirm with the key.
The firmware version is displayed.
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the VER entry.
3. Confirm with the key.
The VER menu is displayed.
4. Confirm with the key.
The firmware version is displayed.
5. Press the key.
The serial number is displayed.

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METRACLIP EARTH PE Gossen Metrawatt GmbH
8Operation
This section first describes the basics of working with measured values, followed by details covering all aspects of the vari-
ous measurements:
• General Information on Measurements 14
• Freezing the Measured Value (HOLD) 14
• Saving Measured Values 15.
• Impedance and Leakage Current Measurements (+ A) 15
• Current Measurement (A) 16
• Readjustment 16
• Viewing Measured Values (measured value memory) 16
8.1 General Information on Measurements
The device under test (conductor) must be enclosed during any given measurement. Measurement is then started auto-
matically. The measuring head has to be opened and closed again in order to start another measurement.
In order to enclose the device under test, open the measuring head by pressing the jaw release trigger. The measuring
head closes again when the trigger is released.
Attention!
!
The measuring head must be fully closed. Otherwise, measurement cannot be performed.
The following DUTs can be measured with the instrument:
Enclosing Capacity: Round 32 mm, Square 30 × 40 mm, Rectangular 20 × 55 mm
Attention!
!
Interference
Magnets must be at least 10 cm from the instrument when performing measurements.
In order to hold the instrument securely and comfortably in your hand during measurement, the strap can be used to
secure it around your wrist.
Display illumination can be switched on if necessary, in order to make it easier to read the display. Press the key to this
end.
8.2 Freezing the Measured Value (HOLD)
A measured value can be “frozen” during a measurement with the help of the Hold function.
1. Press the HOLD function key.
The measured value is frozen. appears at the display.
2. Press the HOLD function key again to release the measured value.
Note!
If the automatic HOLD function has been activated (11), the measured value is automatically frozen if the clamp is
opened during a measurement.

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Gossen Metrawatt GmbH METRACLIP EARTH PE
8.3 Saving Measured Values
Measured values can be saved. Stored data includes:
• Measured value
•Timestamp
• Memory location number
• Any alarms and whether or not one was triggered (10)
• Any auxiliary displays (HOLD for freezing 14, for standby mode 12)
• Any errors (NOISE, OR, LOOP 19)
The METRACLIP EARTH PE can store 300 measured values. These are stored internally as measurement numbers 0 to 299.
If 300 values have been stored, i.e. when measurement number 299 is reached, FULL and the memory number are displayed
alternately.
Attention!
!
Overwriting of measured values!
If internal memory is full and you save another value anyway, the first measured value is overwritten (first in, first out).
If this is continued, measurement number 0 is overwritten with measurement number 300 and so forth. This can be contin-
ued up to number 9999. At this point, further recording becomes impossible and memory must be cleared in order to once
again save measured values “Clearing Memory” 11.
8.4 Impedance and Leakage Current Measurements (+ A)
The instrument measures impedance () with a fixed test-signal frequency of 2083 Hz, as well as leakage current.
Attention!
!
Interference
Live conductors must be at least 10 cm away from the instrument.
Note!
An intermittent beep is generated during impedance measurement (beep ... beep ...). This acoustic signal cannot be
deactivated because it’s the audible frequency of the test signal in the measuring head. The acoustic signal fluctuates
along with the frequency and the amplitude of the measured current.
1. Open the measuring head by pressing the jaw release trigger.
2. Enclose the device under test.
1. Wait until the displayed measured value has settled in.
2. Press the MEM function key.
The measured value is stored along with the timestamp. The number of the
memory location is displayed next to MEM.
Measured earth resistance Rxis connected in
parallel to the other via ground ZEand earth
conductor ZS. Impedance measured by the
clamp meter is slightly greater than Rx
(ZLoop ≈ RX).
For initial measurement and for the sake of
increased accuracy, earthing should first be
measured with auxiliary earth electrodes. Further
testing can then be conducted with the
METRACLIP EARTH PE.
If testing is conducted at regular intervals, any
sudden change to the measured value indicates
a defect.

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METRACLIP EARTH PE Gossen Metrawatt GmbH
3. Turn the rotary switch to +A.
4. Measurement is started automatically.
5. Wait until the measured value has settled in.
6. Store (15) or freeze (14) the measured value.
7. Remove the instrument from the device under test.
The measurement has been completed.
8.5 Current Measurement (A)
When measuring current, the instrument serves as a normal current clamp transformer.
Attention!
!
Dangerous Overheating
Maintain a signal frequency of 47 to 800 Hz. The clamp meter heats up dangerously at over 20 A and 800 Hz.
8.6 Viewing Measured Values (measured value memory)
8.7 Readjustment
The calibration loop included with the instrument can be used to check impedance adjustment ().
If necessary, you can readjust the instrument yourself for all measurements, so that the clamp meter can be balanced with-
out sending it to the manufacturer. Readjustment can also be undone and the instrument can be reset to its default set-
tings.
If readjustment is not successful, the instrument will have to be returned to the manufacturer (  “Service and Support”  20).
Note!
Access to the readjustment menu is made intentionally difficult in order to prevent inadvertent maladjustment of the
clamp meter.
8.7.1 Balancing Adjustment with the Calibration Loop
In order to check impedance adjustment (), perform impedance and leakage current measurements (+ A) using the cal-
ibration loop instead of a conductor. Enclose a measuring point on the calibration loop with the measuring head to this end.
Then compare the measured value with the value printed on the calibration loop. Repeat this test with all measuring points
on the calibration loop.
• Value (nearly) identical: the instrument is calibrated correctly.
• Value deviates significantly: perform readjustment (17). Check calibration again and if the results are still not satisfac-
tory, contact our service and support department 20.
1. Open the measuring head by pressing the jaw release trigger.
2. Enclose the device under test.
3. Turn the rotary switch to A.
4. Measurement is started automatically.
5. Wait until the measured value has settled in.
6. Store (15) or freeze (14) the measured value.
7. Remove the instrument from the device under test.
The measurement has been completed.
1. Turn the rotary switch to MR (memory recall).
The most recently stored measurement is displayed.
2. Optional: Use the keys to scroll to additional measured values.
3. Optional: Press the key in order to view a measurement’s timestamp.
The measured value and its time stamp are displayed.

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Gossen Metrawatt GmbH METRACLIP EARTH PE
8.7.2 Readjusting Impedance and Leakage Current Measurements
8.7.3 Readjusting the Current Measurement
A stabilized, adjustable current source is required which generates alternating current within a range of 0.1 to 10 A.
Readjustment of the current measurement consists of several sub-adjustments, which are evaluated individually. If FAIL is
displayed as your result, you’ll have to eliminate the cause of error (e.g. set the current source correctly) and start adjust-
ment once again from the beginning.
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the CAL entry.
3. Simultaneously press and hold the keys.
The readjustment menu appears.
4. Use the keys to scroll to the CAL R entry.
5. Press and hold the key for at least 3 seconds.
The readjustment menu for impedance and leakage current measurement
appears. NO LOOP and PRESS RT are displayed alternately.
6. Make sure that a conductor is not enclosed by the clamp (NO LOOP) and that
the measuring head is closed.
7. Press the key.
The clamp meter is adjusted with its own resistance of 10 . This takes a
while. After adjustment has been completed, the results appear:
PASS (adjustment successful) or FAIL (adjustment failed).
8. PASS: If adjustment has been successful, press the key.
FAIL: Repeat the adjustment procedure from the beginning.
Adjustment of impedance and leakage current measurement is finished.
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the CAL entry.
3. Simultaneously press and hold the keys.
The readjustment menu appears.
4. Use the keys to scroll to the CAL I entry.
5. Press and hold the key for at least 3 seconds.
The readjustment menu for the current measurement appears.
100mA SET and PRESS RT are displayed alternately.
6. Set the current source so that 100 mA flow through the cable.
7. Enclose the cable with the measuring head.
8. Press the key.
The instrument executes the first step for readjustment of the current mea-
surement. This takes a while. After adjustment has been completed, the
results appear:
PASS (adjustment successful) or FAIL (adjustment failed).
9. PASS: If adjustment has been successful, press the key.
10.Remove the measuring head from the cable.
5.00mA SET and PRESS RT are displayed alternately.
11.Set the current source so that 5 A flow through the cable.
12.Enclose the cable with the measuring head.
13.Press the key.
The instrument executes the second step for readjustment of the current mea-
surement. This takes a while. After adjustment has been completed, the
results appear: PASS (adjustment successful) or FAIL (adjustment failed).
14.PASS: If adjustment has been successful, press the key.
15.Remove the measuring head from the cable.
15.00mA SET and PRESS RT are displayed alternately.
16.Set the current source so that 15 A flow through the cable.
17.Enclose the cable with the measuring head.
18.Press the key.
The instrument executes the third step for readjustment of the current mea-
surement. This takes a while. After adjustment has been completed, the
results appear: PASS (adjustment successful) or FAIL (adjustment failed).
19.PASS: If adjustment has been successful, press the key.
Adjustment of impedance and leakage current measurement is finished.

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METRACLIP EARTH PE Gossen Metrawatt GmbH
8.7.4 Resetting Adjustments
The instrument’s adjustment settings can be reset to their default values. The selected device configuration and stored
measurements are retained.
1. Turn the rotary switch to SET-UP.
2. Use the keys to scroll to the CAL entry.
3. Simultaneously press and hold the keys.
The readjustment menu appears.
4. Use the keys to scroll to the dFLt entry.
5. Press and hold the key for at least 3 seconds.
The dFLt menu is displayed. PRESS RT is displayed.
6. Confirm with the key.
The instrument is reset. After resetting has been completed, the results appear:
PASS (reset successful) or FAIL (reset failed).
7. PASS: If resetting has been successful, press the key.
FAIL: Repeat the reset procedure from the beginning.
The instrument’s adjustment settings are reset to their default values.