Gossen MetraWatt PROFITEST 2 DIN VDE 0100 User manual

PROFITEST2
Tester DIN VDE 0100 3-349-491-03
8/12.14
Operating Instructions

2GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
1
2
3
4
22
21
56789101112 1314
16
17181920
15
35

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 3
17
18 2
3
4
34 33
29 30 31 32
9
24
23
25
26
27
28
1 LC Display Field
2I
N/ i Key
3StartKey
4MenuKey
5 PE Lamp
6 NETZ/MAINS Lamp
7U
L/RL Lamp
8 FI/RCD Lamp
9 Function Selector Switch
10 Shoulder Strap
11 Test Plug Holder
12 Measuring Adapter (2-pole)
13 Plug Insert
(country specific)
14 Test Plug
(with retainer ring)
15 Alligator Clip
(plug-on)
16 Test Probes
17 Start Key 
18 Key I
19 Contact Surfaces
20 Probe Connector Socket
21 Strap Eyelets
22 Swivel Hinge
23 Replacement Fuses
24 Fuses
25 Fold-Out Stand
26 Serial Plate
27 Battery Holder
28 Battery Compartment Lid
29 Measurement Value 1,
Abbreviated
30 Abbreviation for Selected
Sub-Function
31 Three Place Numeric Display: Measure-
ment Value 1 with Unit of Measure
32 Three Place Numeric Display: Measure-
ment Value 2 with Unit of Measure
33 Abbreviation for Selected Sub-Function,
Messages and Help
34 Measurement Value 2, Abbreviated
35 Charging Socket / Current Transformer
Connector Jack

4GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
Contents Page Contents Page
1 Applications ..................................................................................6
2 Safety Features and Precautions ..................................................7
3 Initial Start-Up ..............................................................................8
3.1 Installing or Replacing Batteries .......................................................8
3.2 Selecting a Language, Basic Function and Sub-Function Settings ......8
3.3 Battery Test ....................................................................................9
3.4 Recharging the rechargeable Batteries ...........................................10
4 Abbreviated Instructions for Quick Initial Start-Up .....................12
5 General Instructions ...................................................................14
5.1 Connecting the Instrument .............................................................14
5.2 Automatic Settings, Monitoring and Shut-Off ..................................14
5.3 Measurement Value Display ...........................................................15
5.4 Testing Earthing Contact Sockets for Correct Connection .................15
5.5 Help Function ...............................................................................16
6 Measuring Alternating Voltage and Frequency ...........................16
6.1 Voltage between L and N (UL-N) .....................................................16
6.2 Voltage between L and PE, N and PE, as well as L and N ................17
6.3 Voltage between the Probe and PE (US-PE) ......................................18
6.4 Measuring Current with a Clip-On Current Transformer ...................18
7 Testing RCDs ..............................................................................20
7.1 Measuring Contact Voltage (with reference to nominal residual current)
with 1/3 Nominal Residual Current and Tripping Test with Nominal Re-
sidual Current ...............................................................................20
7.2 Special Testing for Systems and RCCBs .........................................23
7.2.1 Testing for Systems and RCCBs with Rising Residual Current ..........23
7.2.2 Testing of RCCBs which are Suited for
Pulsating DC Residual Current .......................................................24
7.3 Testing for Special RCDs ...............................................................25
7.3.1 Systems with Selective RCDs .........................................................25
7.3.2 Type G RCCBs ..............................................................................27
7.4 Testing with Adjustable Residual Current ........................................28
7.5 Testing RCDs in IT Systems ...........................................................28
7.6 Testing Residual Current Circuit Breakers in TN-S Systems .............30
8
Testing of Breaking Requirements for Overcurrent Protective Devices,
Measurement of Loop Impedance and Determination of Short-
Circuit Current (functions ZLoop and IK) ......................................31
8.1 Measurement with Positive or Negative Half-Waves ........................32
8.2 Evaluation of Measurement Values .................................................33
8.3 Loop Impedance Measurement
– Measurement via and without tripping the RCCB .........................33
8.4 Testing Meter Start-Up with the Adapter .........................................34
9 Measuring Supply Impedance (function ZI) ................................35
9.1 Testing Meter Start-Up with Earthing Contact Adapter .....................36
10 Earthing Resistance Measurement (function RE) .......................37
10.1 Measuring with Probe ...................................................................38
10.2 Measuring without Probe ...............................................................38
10.3 Evaluation of Measurement Values .................................................39
11 Measuring Insulation Resistance
(Function RISO) ............................................................................40
11.1 Insulation Measurement with Rising Test Voltage ............................41
11.2 Evaluation of Measurement Values .................................................42
11.3 Setting the Limit Value ..................................................................42

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 5
Contents Page Contents Page
12 Measuring Low-Value Resistance of up to 100 
(protective conductor and bonding conductor) .......................... 42
12.1 Measuring Low-Value Resistance (function RLO) ............................. 42
12.2 Compensation for Extension Cables of up to 10 
(function RLO) ............................................................................ 44
12.3 Calculation of Cable Lengths for Common
Copper Conductors ....................................................................... 45
12.4 Setting the Limit Value .................................................................. 45
13 Phase Sequence Testing ............................................................ 46
14 Operating and Display Elements ................................................ 47
15 Characteristic Values ................................................................ 52
15.1 Lamp Functions ............................................................................ 56
16 Maintenance .............................................................................. 57
16.1 Self-Test ...................................................................................... 57
16.2 Battery and Rechargeable Battery Operation, and Charging ............. 59
16.3 Fuses .......................................................................................... 60
16.4 Housing ....................................................................................... 60
16.5 Device Return and Environmentally Compatible Disposal ................. 60
17 Appendix .................................................................................... 61
17.1 Table 1 ........................................................................................ 61
17.2 Table 2 ........................................................................................ 61
17.3 Table 3 ....................................................................................... 62
17.4 Table 4 ....................................................................................... 62
17.5 Table 5 ........................................................................................ 63
17.6 List of Abbreviations and their Meanings ........................................ 64
18 Repair and Replacement Parts Service
Calibration Center and Rental Instrument Service .......................... 65
19 Recalibration .............................................................................. 65
20 Product Support ......................................................................... 66

6GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
1 Applications
The PROFITEST 2 test instrument allows for quick and effective
testing of protective measures in accordance with DIN VDE 0100
part 610:2004, ÖVE-EN 1 (Austria), NIV/NIN SEV 1000 (Switzer-
land), as well as regulations specific to additional countries.
The device is equipped with a microprocessor and complies with
IEC 61557/EN 61557/VDE 0413 regulations:
Part 1: General requirements
Part 2: Insulation resistance testers
Part 3: Loop resistance testers
Part 4: Instruments for the measurement of resistance at earth-
ing conductors, protective conductors and bonding con-
ductors
Part 5: Earthing resistance testers
Part 6: Instruments for the testing of proper functioning of resid-
ual current devices (RCDs) and the effectiveness of pro-
tective measures in TT and TN systems
Part 7: Phase sequence testers
Part 10: Electrical safety in low-voltage systems
It is especially suited for:
•Systemsset-up
• Initial start-up
• Periodic testing
• Troubleshooting for electrical systems
All measurement values required for approval reports (e.g. ZVEH)
can be acquired with the instrument.
The applications range of the PROFITEST 2 covers all alternating
and three-phase current systems with nominal voltages of 230 V
(240 V if “English/UK-parameter” has been selected in setup) /
400 V (300 V / 500 V) and nominal frequencies of 162/3/ 50 /
60 / 200 / 400 Hz.
The following measurements and tests can be performed with the
PROFITEST 2:
• Voltage / frequency / phase sequence
• Loop impedance / line impedance
• RCD protection
• Earthing resistance
• Insulation resistance
• Low-value resistance (potential equalization)
• Leakage currents with clip-on current transformer
• Meter start-up
•Cablelength
Meaning of Symbols on the Instrument
Warning concerning a point of danger
(Attention, observe documentation!)
Safety class II device
9 V DC charging socket
for battery charger
This device and the inserted (rechargeable) batteries
may not be disposed of with the trash.e trash.
Further information regarding the WEEE mark can be
accessed on the Internet at www.gossen-
metrawatt.com by entering the search term ’WEEE’.
EC label of conformity
!
–
+

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 7
2 Safety Features and Precautions
This instrument fulfills the requirements of the applicable Euro-
pean and national EC guidelines. We confirm this with the CE
marking. The relevant declaration of conformity can be obtained
from GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH.
The PROFITEST 2 electronic measuring and test instrument is man-
ufactured and tested in accordance with safety regulations
IEC 61010-1/EN 61010-1/VDE 0411-1.
When used for its intended purpose, safety of the operator, as
well as that of the instrument, is assured.
Read the operating instructions thoroughly and carefully before placing
your instrument into service, and follow all instructions contained
therein. Make sure that the operating instructions are available to all
users of the instrument.
Tests may only be performed under the supervision of a qualified electri-
cian. The user must be instructed by a qualified electrician concerning
performance and evaluation of the test.
Note

Manufacturers and importers of electrical medical devices must
provide documentation for the performance of maintenance by
trained personnel.
Grip and hold the test plug and test probes securely when they
have been inserted, for example, into a socket. Danger of injury
exists if tugging at the coil cord occurs, which may cause the test
plug or test probes to snap back.
The measuring and test instrument may not be placed into service:
• if the battery compartment lid has been removed
• if external damage is apparent
• if connector cable or measuring adapters are damaged
• if the instrument no longer functions flawlessly
• after a long period of storage under unfavorable conditions
(e.g. moisture, dust, extreme temperatures).
Exclusion of Liability
When testing systems with RCCBs, the latter may switch off. This
may occur even though the test does not normally provide for it.
Leakage currents may be present which, in combination with the
test current of the test instrument, exceed the shutdown thresh-
old value of the RCCB. PCs which are operated in proximity to
such RCCB systems may switch off as a consequence. This may
result in inadvertent loss of data. Before conducting the test, pre-
cautions should therefore be taken to ensure that all data and
programs are adequately saved and the computer should be
switched off, if necessary. The manufacturer of the test instru-
ment assumes no liability for any direct or indirect damage to
equipment, computers, peripheral equipment or data bases when
performing the tests.
Opening of Equipment / Repair
The equipment may be opened only by authorized service per-
sonnel to ensure the safe and correct operation of the equipment
and to keep the warranty valid.
Even original spare parts may be installed only by authorized ser-
vice personnel.
In case the equipment was opened by unauthorized personnel,
no warranty regarding personal safety, measurement accuracy,
conformity with applicable safety measures or any consequential
damage is granted by the manufacturer.

8GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
3 Initial Start-Up
3.1 Installing or Replacing Batteries
Attention!
Before opening the battery compartment, disconnect the
instrument from the measuring circuit (mains) at all poles!
Six commercially available 1.5 V mignon cells in accordance with
IEC LR 6 are required for operation of the PROFITEST 2.
Only alkaline manganese cells may be used which comply with
IEC LR 6. The use of zinc-carbon batteries is to be avoided due
their short service life.
Note

Rechargeable NiCd or NiMH cells may also be used. See
also chapter 16.2 on page 59 concerning charging and
the battery charger.
Always replace batteries in complete sets.
Dispose of batteries in an environmentally sound fashion.
ÐLoosen the slotted screw at the Battery Compartment Lid (28)
and remove the lid.
ÐPull the Battery Holder (27) out with the strap and insert six
1.5 V mignon cells with plus and minus poles in accordance
with the symbols on the holder.
ÐInsert the Battery Holder (27) with batteries into the battery
compartment (strap must be positioned beneath the holder).
The holder can only be inserted in its proper position.
ÐReplace the lid and retighten the screw.
Attention!
The instrument may only be placed into service if the
battery compartment lid is securely fastened!
3.2 Selecting a Language, Basic Function and Sub-Function
Settings
MENU
START
MENU
Any of the available lan-
guages can be selected by
pressing the Menu Key (4).
If the “English/UK-parameter” has been selected, the following
differences apply to the other menu items:
• Nominal voltage of 240 V instead of 230 V
• RCD trip test includes 2 sec. at 50% (nominal fault)
current before RCD is tripped
• No autom. change Phase to Neutral for socket outlets wired incorrectly
START
MENU
!
!
UL-N

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 9
By pressing the Menu Key (4), you can determine whether the
basic instrument functions are made available when the instru-
ment is switched on, or if the last selected sub-function is made
available for immediate measurement.
Note

The basic functions are selected automatically if the Func-
tion Selector Switch (9) has been activated. If the device is
in self-test mode, self-testing must first be completed!
Display Illumination
Display illumination can be deactivated by pressing the Menu Key
(4) in order to extend the service life of the batteries.
START
MENU
On-Time
The period of time after which the test instrument is automatically
shut off can be selected here with the Menu Key (4).
START
MENU
The selected on-time has as substantial influence on battery service life.
3.3 Battery Test
MENU
START
Note

Batteries or rechargeable batteries are tested under load
conditions. When the Start Key (3 or 17) is activated,
the NETZ/MAINS, UL/RLand FI/RCD lamps light up
briefly for this reason.
UL-N

10 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
If battery voltage has fallen
below the allowable lower
limit, the symbol to the
right appears:
The instrument does not
function if the batteries
have been depleted exces-
sively, and no display
appears.
3.4 Recharging the rechargeable Batteries
Attention!
!
Use only the NA101 (article no. Z501M) battery charger
with reliable electrical insolation for the recharging of bat-
teries.
Before connecting the charger to the charging socket
make certain that:
– Rechargeable batteries have been installed
(not standard batteries)
– The instrument has been disconnected from the
measuring circuit at all poles
Connect the NA101 battery charger to the charging socket at the
side of the housing bottom with the 3.5 mm jack plug.
Charging is started with the same procedure as used for the bat-
tery test. The instrument detects the presence of the charger and
initiates the charging process.
Depleted batteries (display < 6 V) require approximately 4 hours
for complete charging. The test instrument cannot be switched
on if the batteries are severely depleted. In such a case, leave the
instrument switched on with battery charger connected for about
30 minutes, and then proceed as described above.

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 11
This page was intentionally left free.

12 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
4 Abbreviated Instructions for Quick Initial Start-Up
The performance of measurements and testing with the
PROFITEST 2 is quick and easy.
The integrated on-line help and the abbreviated instructions are
sufficient for most measurements. Nevertheless, you should read
and observe the instructions which follow these abbreviated
instructions as well.
Terminology
Basic Function The basic functions are selected with the Func-
tion Selector Switch (9). The basic function is
the first entry in the menu window and is auto-
matically selected when the function selector
switch is activated.
Sub-Function Functions which are subordinate to the basic
function in the menu window. Sub-functions
are selected with the yellow Menu Key (4), and
are subsequently highlighted with the arrow.
Measurements can be performed as follows for all measuring
functions:
òSelect the basic function with the Function Selector Switch (9)
ÐTurn the Function Selector Switch (9) to the desired basic func-
tion.
ùConnect the test instrument
ÐConnect the Test Plug (14) with attached Plug Insert (13) to the
mains outlet, or connect the instrument directly in a 2-pole
mannerwith the plug-on Measuring Adapter (2-pole) (12).
After a basic function or a sub-function has been selected as
described below, the corresponding circuit diagram can be que-
ried at the LC Display Field (1) by pressing the IN/ i key
(2 or 18).
äSelecting a basic function or a sub-function with the Menu Key (4)
When the Menu Key (4) is first activated, the instrument is
switched on. The basic function and its corresponding
sub-functions are displayed in the menu:
UL-N
UL-PE
IN10 mA
IN30 mA

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 13
ÐRepeatedly press the Menu Key (4) until the arrow points to the
desired function.
On-line help can be queried for any selected function with the
IN/ i keys (2 or 18).
The selection of a function is not necessary if basic functions and
sub-functions have been pre-configured as described.
ëStart measurement with the Start Key (3 or 17) and
read measurement results
ÐPress the INkey (2 or 18) during the on-time period (before
the instrument has shut itself off automatically) in order to per-
form the tripping test for RCCBs.
IN100 mA
IN300 mA
IN500 mA
ZLoop
ZI
RE
RISO
RLO

14 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
5 General Instructions
5.1 Connecting the Instrument
For systems with earthing contact sockets, connect the instru-
ment with the Test Plug (14), on which the Plug Insert (13) is
attached, to the mains. Voltage between phase conductor L and
the PE protective conductor may not exceed 253 V!
Poling at the socket need not be taken into consideration. The
instrument detects the positions of phase conductor L and neu-
tral conductor N, and automatically reverses poles if necessary.
This does not apply to the following measurements:
– Voltage measurement in selector switch position UL-PE
– Insulation resistance measurement
– Low-value resistance measurement
– Phase sequence testing
– Selection of “English/UK-parameter” in setup. In this case no
automatic pole reversal occurs.
The positions of phase conductor L and neutral conductor N are
identified at the Plug Insert (13).
If measurement is to be performed at three-phase outlets, at dis-
tribution cabinets or at permanent connections, the Measuring
Adapter (2-pole) (12) must be fastened to the Test Plug (14) (see
also chapter 15.1). Connection is established with the test
probes: one at PE or N and the other at L.
The 2-pole measuring adapter must be expanded to 3 poles with
the included measurement cable for the performance of phase
sequence testing. Measurements with the Measuring Adapter (2-
pole) (12) are not possible with the Function Selector Switch (9) in
the UL-N or ZIpositions. These measurements can be performed
in selector switch positions UL-PE and ZLoop.
Contact voltage (during RCCB testing) and earthing resistance
can be, probe voltage and RCCB performance in IT systems must
be measured with a probe. The probe is connected to the Probe
Connector Socket (20) with a 4 mm contact protected plug.
5.2 Automatic Settings, Monitoring and Shut-Off
The PROFITEST 2 automatically sets all operating conditions which
it is able to determine itself. It tests line voltage and frequency. If
these lie within their valid nominal ranges, they appear at the LC
Display Field (1). If they are not within nominal ranges, prevailing
voltage (U) and frequency (f) are displayed instead of UNand fN.
Line voltage fluctuations have no effect on measurement results.
Contact voltage which is induced by test current is monitored for
each measuring sequence. If contact voltage exceeds the limit
value of > 25 V or > 50 V, measurement is immediately inter-
rupted. The UL(7) lamp lights up red.
If battery voltage falls below the allowable limit value the instrument
cannot be switched on, or it is immediately switched off.
The measurement is interrupted automatically, or the measuring
sequence is blocked (except for voltage measuring ranges and
phase sequence testing) in the event of:
• non-allowable line voltages (< 60 V, > 253 V / > 330 V /
> 440 V or > 550 V) for measurements which require line volt-
age
• interference voltage during insulation resistance or low resis-
tance measurements
• overheating at the instrument.
As a rule, excessive temperatures only occur after approxi-
mately 500 measurement sequences at intervals of 5 s, when
the Function Selector Switch (9) is set to the ZLoop or ZIposi-
tion.
If an attempt is made to start a measuring sequence, an ap-
propriate message appears at the LC Display Field (1).

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 15
The instrument only switches itself off automatically after comple-
tion of an automatic measuring sequence, and after the predeter-
mined on-time has expired (see chapter 3.2). On-time is reset to
its original value as defined in the setup menu, as soon as any key
or the Function Selector Switch (9) is activated.
The instrument remains on for approximately 75 s in addition to
the preset on-time for measurements with rising residual current
in systems with selective RCDs.
The instrument always shuts itself off automatically!
5.3 Measurement Value Display
The following appear at the LC Display Field (1):
• Measurement values with abbreviations and units of measure
• Selected function
• Nominal voltage
• Nominal frequency
• Error messages
Measurement values for automatic measuring sequences are
stored and displayed as digital values until the next measurement
sequence is started, or until automatic shut-off occurs.
If the measuring range upper limit is exceeded, the upper limit
value is displayed and is preceded by the “>” symbol (greater
than), which indicates measurement value overrun.
5.4 Testing Earthing Contact Sockets for Correct Connection
The testing of earthing contact sockets for correct connection
prior to protective measures testing is simplified by means of the
instrument’s error detection system. The instrument indicates
improper connection as follows:
•Non-allowable line voltage (< 60 V or > 253 V):
The NETZ/MAINS Lamp (6) blinks red and the measuring se-
quence is blocked.
•Protective conductor not connected or potential to earth 100 V at f >
45 Hz: The PE Lamp (5) lights up red when contact is made
with the Contact Surfaces (19).
The measurement is not blocked when the lamp is lit. It does
not light up, i.e. is not functional, when the instrument is
switched on and the Function Selector Switch (9) is in the UL-N
or the ZI position (see Lamp Functions on page 56).
Note

If the instrument is off and the selector switch is in the
UL-N or the ZIposition, the red PE lamp may light up if
contact is made with the Contact Surfaces (19), and if the
terminal designated N at the plug insert is connected to
the phase conductor at the socket.
•Neutral conductor N not connected:
The NETZ/MAINS Lamp (6) blinks green
(see Lamp Functions on page 56).
•One of the two protective contacts is not connected:
Testing for this condition is performed automatically for the FI,
ZI, ZLoop and REfunctions. Poor contact resistance at one of
the contacts leads to one of the following displays depending
upon poling of the plug:
– A value of only approximately half the anticipated line voltage
is displayed.
– A “STOP-sign” with the following warning appears: “Earthing
resistance to high or defective fuse”.
Attention!
!
Reversal of N and PE in a system without RCCBs cannot
be detected and is not indicated by the instrument. If an
RCCB is present in the system, it is tripped during ZI
measurement if N and PE have been reversed.

16 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
5.5 Help Function
The appropriate circuit diagrams and on-line help can be queried
at the LC Display Field (1) for each of the basic functions and sub-
functions, after these have been selected in the corresponding menu.
Press the IN/ i key (2 or 17) once to display the circuit
diagram. Press the same key again to alternate between
the circuit diagram and on-line help.
Press the Menu Key (4) to exit the help function.
6 Measuring Alternating Voltage and Frequency
6.1 Voltage between L and N (UL-N)
Set-Up
MENU
START
Note

Measurements cannot be made with the Measuring
Adapter (2-pole) (12) in the UL-N function!
IN
MENU
UL-N

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 17
6.2 Voltage between L and PE, N and PE, as well as L and N
Set-Up
MENU
START
IN
The display is switched to the other two voltages measured at the
socket by pressing the IN/ i key. The previous display can only
be recalled by pressing the START key.
UL-PE

18 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
6.3 Voltage between the Probe and PE (US-PE)
Set-Up
MENU
START
6.4 Measuring Current with a Clip-On Current Transformer
Bias, leakage and circulating current to 1 A, as well as leakage
current to 150 A can be measured with the help of the
0100S Clip, special clip-on current transformer, which is con-
nected at the charging socket.
Attention!
!
High-Voltage Danger!
Use only the above mentioned clip-on current transformer.
Other current clips may not be terminated with an output
load at the secondary side. Dangerously high voltage may
endanger the user and the device in such cases.
The maximum allowable operating voltage is equal to the nominal
voltage of the current transformer. Take additional display error
into consideration when reading the measurement value.
Attention!
!
Do not, under any circumstances, connect any accesso-
ries to the charging socket which have not been recom-
mended and approved by GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH!
The instrument and the user may otherwise be endan-
gered and may suffer damage or injury.
All other instrument test functions are blocked if the clip-on cur-
rent transformer or the battery charger is connected. If you never-
theless attempt to activate another function, the following mes-
sage appears: “remove adapter”. No testing is performed. After
the clip-on current transformer or the battery charger has been
removed, this message disappears automatically for functions
involving long-term measurements (e.g. voltage measurement).
For other functions it disappears as soon as a new measurement
is started, or when a new function is selected.
UL-PE

GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH 19
If no clip-on current transformer has been connected for the ILor IAMP
function, the following message appears: “use current clip”.
Set-Up
MENU
START
The switch position at the
respective clip-on cur-
rent transformer must be
matched to the ranges of
the selected measuring
parameter, ILor IAMP.!
* Connection via CLIP-ON adapter cable (Z501G);
ranges b and c not possible in this case.
UL-PE
Measuring Range Tester CLIP0100S Z3512A *
IL5 mA ... 1.0 A 1 mA... 15 A d: 1 mA ... 1 A
IAMP. 10 ... 150 A 1 A ... 150 A a: 1 ... 1000 A
ILIAMP.
CLIP0100s

20 GMC-I Messtechnik GmbH
7 Testing RCDs
The testing of residual current devices (RCDs) includes:
• Visual inspection
•Testing
•Measurement
The PROFITEST 2 is used for testing and measurement. Measure-
ments can be performed with or without a probe. However, a
probe is always required for measurements in IT systems.
Measurements with probe require that the probe and reference
earth are of like potential. This means that the probe must be
positioned outside of the resistance area of the earth electrode
(RE) at the RCD.
The distance between the earth electrode and the probe should
be at least 20 m.
The probe is connected with a 4 mm contact protected plug.
In most cases this measurement is performed without probe.
Attention!
!
The probe is part of the measuring circuit and may carry
a current of up to 3.5 mA in accordance with VDE 0413.
Testing for the absence of voltage at the probe can be performed
with the UPROBE function. See also chapter 6.3 on page 18.
7.1 Measuring Contact Voltage (with reference to nominal
residual current) with 1/3 Nominal Residual Current and
Tripping Test with Nominal Residual Current
Set-Up
Measuring Method
The following must be substantiated per DIN VDE 0100 part 600:
2008:
– Contact voltage occurring at nominal residual current may not
exceed the maximum allowable value for the system.
– Tripping of the RCCB must occur within 400 ms
(1000 ms for selective RCDs) at nominal residual current.
1) Measurement of Contact Voltage
The instrument uses a measuring current of only 1/3 nominal
residual current for the determination of contact voltage UIN
which occurs at nominal residual current. This prevents tripping of
the RCCB.
This measuring method is especially advantageous, because
contact voltage can be measured quickly and easily at any electri-
cal outlet without tripping the RCCB.
The usual, complex measuring method involving testing for the
proper functioning of the RCD at a given point, and subsequent
substantiation that all other systems components requiring pro-
tection are reliably connected at low resistance values to the
selected measuring point via the PE conductor, is made unneces-
sary.