MARTINDALE ET4000 User manual

MARTINDALE
ET4000, ET4500
Multifunction Installation Testers
Instruction manual

Martindale ET4000 / ET4500 Table of contents
2
ALWAYS READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE PROCEEDING
Thank you for buying one of our products. For safety and a full understanding of its
benefits please read this manual before use. Technical support is available from 01923
441717 and [email protected].
Table of contents
1Safety information ..................................................................................................5
1.2 Precautions .......................................................................................................6
2Introduction.............................................................................................................8
2.1 Inspection ..........................................................................................................8
2.2 Description ........................................................................................................8
2.3 Accessories .......................................................................................................8
2.3.1 Supplied with the ET4000 ..........................................................................8
2.3.2 Supplied with the ET4500 ..........................................................................9
2.3.3 Optional accessories ..................................................................................9
3Instrument description.........................................................................................10
3.1 Front panel ......................................................................................................10
3.2 Connector panel ..............................................................................................11
3.3 Instrument rear ................................................................................................12
3.4 Carrying the instrument ...................................................................................13
3.4.1 Attaching the carrying strap......................................................................14
4Instrument operation............................................................................................15
4.1 Batteries and charging.....................................................................................15
4.2 Display and audible indication .........................................................................16
4.2.1 Terminal voltage monitor..........................................................................16
4.2.2 Battery indication......................................................................................16
4.2.3 Messages.................................................................................................16
4.2.4 Results .....................................................................................................17
4.2.5 Audible warnings ......................................................................................17
4.2.6 Help screens ............................................................................................18
4.2.7 Backlight and contrast adjustments..........................................................18
4.3 Function selection ...........................................................................................19
4.4 Settings ...........................................................................................................20
4.4.1 Memory (ET 4500 only)............................................................................20
4.4.2 Date and time...........................................................................................20
4.4.3 RCD testing..............................................................................................21
4.4.4 Z factor .....................................................................................................22
4.4.5 Initial settings ...........................................................................................23
4.5 Use of test leads and probes...........................................................................25
4.5.1 TL36 test leads.........................................................................................25
4.5.2 TL207 test lead ........................................................................................25
4.5.3 TL180 test probe ......................................................................................26
5Measurements ......................................................................................................27
5.1 Voltage, frequency and phase sequence ........................................................27

Martindale ET4000 / ET4500 Table of contents
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5.2 Insulation resistance........................................................................................29
5.3 Resistance of earth connection and equipotential bonding .............................31
5.3.1 Continuous resistance measurement .......................................................33
5.3.2 R LOWΩ, 200 mA resistance measurement ............................................34
5.3.3 Continuous low current resistance measurement ....................................35
5.3.4 Nulling of test lead resistance ..................................................................37
5.4 Testing RCDs ..................................................................................................38
5.4.1 Contact voltage (RCD Uc)........................................................................39
5.4.2 Trip-out time (RCDt) .................................................................................40
5.4.3 Trip-out current (RCD I)............................................................................40
5.4.4 RCD Autotest ...........................................................................................42
5.5 Fault loop impedance and prospective fault current ........................................44
5.6 Line impedance and prospective short-circuit current / Voltage drop ..............47
5.6.1 Line impedance and prospective short circuit current ..............................48
5.6.2 Voltage drop.............................................................................................49
5.7 Earth resistance (ET4500 only) .......................................................................52
5.7.1 Standard earth resistance measurement .................................................53
5.8 PE test touch terminal .....................................................................................55
6Data handling (ET4500 only)................................................................................57
6.1 Memory organization.......................................................................................57
6.2 Data structure..................................................................................................57
6.3 Saving test results ...........................................................................................59
6.4 Recalling test results .......................................................................................60
6.5 Clearing stored data ........................................................................................61
6.5.1 Completely clearing all memory content...................................................61
6.5.2 Clearing measurement(s) in selected locations........................................61
6.5.3 Clearing individual measurements ...........................................................62
6.5.4 Renaming installation structure elements (upload from PC) ....................63
6.6 Communication ...............................................................................................64
6.6.1 USB and RS232 communication..............................................................64
7Upgrading the instrument firmware....................................................................65
8Maintenance..........................................................................................................66
8.1 Battery replacement ........................................................................................66
8.2 Fuse replacement............................................................................................66
8.3 Test lead replacement.....................................................................................67
8.4 Cleaning ..........................................................................................................67
8.5 Periodic calibration ..........................................................................................67
8.6 Service ............................................................................................................67
9Technical specifications ......................................................................................68
9.1 Insulation resistance........................................................................................68
9.2 Continuity ........................................................................................................69
9.2.1 Resistance R LOW, R2, R1+R2 ...............................................................69
9.2.2 Resistance CONTINUITY.........................................................................69
9.2.3 RING Continuity .......................................................................................69
9.3 RCD testing .....................................................................................................70
9.3.1 General data ............................................................................................70
9.3.2 Contact voltage RCD Uc ..........................................................................70

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9.3.3 Trip-out time .............................................................................................71
9.3.4 Trip-out current.........................................................................................71
9.4 Fault loop impedance and prospective fault current ........................................72
9.4.1 No disconnecting device or FUSE selected .............................................72
9.4.2 RCD selected ...........................................................................................72
9.5 Line impedance and prospective short-circuit current / Voltage drop ..............73
9.6 Resistance to earth (ET4500 only) ..................................................................74
9.6.1 Standard earth resistance measurement – 3-wire measurement.............74
9.7 Voltage, frequency, and phase rotation...........................................................75
9.7.1 Phase rotation ..........................................................................................75
9.7.2 Voltage .....................................................................................................75
9.7.3 Frequency ................................................................................................75
9.7.4 Online terminal voltage monitor................................................................75
9.8 General specifications .....................................................................................76
10 Warranty and limitation of liability ..................................................................79
Appendix A – Impedance tables.................................................................................80
A.1 Impedance tables - for fuses, circuit-breakers and RCBO’s ................................80
Fuses to BS 88-2 – fuse systems E & G Fuses to BS 88-3 – fuse system C............80
Type B circuit-breakers to BS EN 60898 and RCBO’s to BS EN 61009-1 ....................81
Appendix B – Measurement categories.....................................................................82

Martindale ET4000 / ET4500 Safety information
5
1 Safety information
REMEMBER: SAFETY IS NO ACCIDENT
These instructions contain both information and warnings that are necessary for the
safe operation and maintenance of this product. It is recommended that you read the
instructions carefully and ensure that the contents are fully understood. Failure to
understand and to comply with the warnings and instructions can result in serious injury,
damage or even death.
Particular attention should be paid to the Warnings, Precautions and Technical
Specifications.
Please keep these instructions for future reference. Updated instructions and product
information are available at: www.martindale-electric.co.uk
1.1 Meaning of symbols and markings
Caution - risk of danger and refer to instructions
Caution - risk of electric shock
Equipment protected by double or reinforced insulation (Class II)
Do not use in distribution systems with voltages higher than
550V.
CAT II (Measurement Category II) is applicable to test and measuring equipment
connected directly to utilization points (socket outlets and similar points) of the
low-voltage MAINS installation.
CAT III (Measurement Category III) is applicable to test and measuring equipment
connected to the distribution part of the building’s low-voltage MAINS
installation.
CAT IV (Measurement Category IV) is applicable to test and measuring equipment
connected at the source of the building’s low-voltage MAINS installation.
For further information on measurement categories refer to appendix B or visit
www.martindale-electric.co.uk/measurement_categories.php
Equipment complies with relevant EU Directives
End of life disposal of this equipment should be in accordance with
relevant EU Directives.

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1.2 Precautions
This product has been designed with your safety in mind, but please pay
attention to the following warnings and cautions before use.
Warnings
In order to avoid the danger of electrical shock, it is important that proper
safety measures are taken when working with voltages exceeding 30V AC
rms, 42V AC peak or 60V DC.
Where applicable other safety measures such as the use of protective
gloves, goggles etc. should be employed.
The instrument must only be used by a skilled and competent person who
is familiar with the relevant regulations, the safety risks involved and the
consequent normal safe working practices.
If the test equipment is used in a manner not specified in this user manual,
the protection provided by the equipment could be impaired.
Before each use the instrument and any associated test leads and
accessories should be examined for damage, cracks, cuts or scratches. DO
NOT USE if damaged in any way.
Make sure the instrument and any associated test leads are dry, clean and
free from dust, grease and moisture while in use to avoid the danger from
electric shock due to surface leakage.
Do not use the instrument in AC supply systems with voltages higher than
550 Va.c.
If the removable probe tip caps are not fitted to the probes of the test leads
or the TL180 test probe, their measurement category becomes CAT II
1000V, and they must not be used on CAT III or CAT IV installations to
avoid the risk of shorting high energy circuits and arc flash.
When this unit is used in combination with test leads, the measurement
category of the combination is the lower measurement category of either
this unit or the test leads used. Likewise if test lead accessories such as
crocodile clips are also used, the measurement category will be the lowest
measurement category in that combination.
Do not use if the battery compartment cover is not fitted.
When using test leads / crocodile clips, always keep your fingers behind
the finger guard on the test lead probe or crocodile clip.
Test leads and any test lead accessories must be properly seated and
firmly connected before use.

Martindale ET4000 / ET4500 Safety information
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Cautions
Avoid severe mechanical shock or vibration and extreme temperature.
When using test leads avoid excessive stresses to the cable entry points at
the probe and 4mm plug connector.
To avoid possible corrosion from leaking batteries, remove the batteries if
discharged, or when the unit is not in use for an extended period.
The ET4500 comes supplied with rechargeable Ni-MH batteries. The
batteries should only be replaced with the same type as defined on the
battery compartment label or as described in this manual.
The ET4000 comes supplied with alkaline batteries. If rechargeable Ni-MH
batteries are to be fitted, only fit the same type as defined on the battery
compartment label or as described in this manual.
Do not connect the charging adapter to the instrument if alkaline batteries
are fitted, as they may explode.

Martindale ET4000 / ET4500 Introduction
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2 Introduction
2.1 Inspection
Examine the shipping carton for any sign of damage. Inspect the unit and any
accessories for damage. If there is any damage then consult your distributor
immediately.
2.2 Description
The Martindale ET4000 and ET4500 are professional multifunction hand-held test
instruments designed to perform the measurements required for testing of low voltage
a.c. electrical installations.
The following measurements and tests can be performed:
Voltage and frequency
Phase sequence
Continuity tests
Insulation resistance tests
RCD testing
Fault loop / RCD non trip impedance measurements
Line impedance and voltage drop
Earth resistance tests (ET4500 only)
The graphic display with backlight provides a clear view of results, indications,
measurement parameters and messages. Two LED PASS/FAIL indicators are placed at
the sides of the LCD.
2.3 Accessories
2.3.1 Supplied with the ET4000
Soft carrying bag
Soft carrying neck belt
Set of carrying straps
TL180 - test probe
TL207 - 13A plug to 3x4mm connector mains
TL36 - test lead set
RS232 - PS/2 cable (only used for firmware upgrade)
6 x 1.5V AA alkaline batteries
CD containing full instruction manual and ET-link PC software
(ET-link PC software is only useable with the ET4500)
Short instruction manual
Verification certificate

Martindale ET4000 / ET4500 Introduction
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2.3.2 Supplied with the ET4500
Soft carrying bag
Soft carrying neck belt
Set of carrying straps
TL180 - test probe
TL206 - 13A plug to 3x4mm connector mains
TL36 - test lead set
RS232 - PS/2 cable
USB cable
6 x 1.2V AA rechargeable Ni-MH batteries
PSUPD230 - Battery charging adaptor
CD containing full instruction manual and ET-link PC software
Short instruction manual
Verification certificate
2.3.3 Optional accessories
TL75 - Earth test lead set with two earth spikes
TL78 - 50m earth wire test lead
TL54 - Fused test lead set
CB12 - Calibration checkbox
SB13 - Safebreak socket test adaptor

Martindale ET4000 / ET4500 Instrument description
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3 Instrument description
3.1 Front panel
Figure 3.1: Front panel
Legend:
1 LCD 128 x 64 dot matrix display with backlight.
2 UP Modifies selected parameter.
3 DOWN
4 TEST TEST Starts measurements.
Also acts as the PE touching electrode.
5 ESC Goes one level back.
6 TAB Selects the parameters in selected function.
7 Backlight,
Contrast Changes backlight level and contrast.
8 ON / OFF
Switches the instrument power on or off.
The instrument automatically turns off 15 minutes after the
last key press.
9 HELP / NULL
Accesses help menus.
Nulls test leads in Continuity functions.
Starts ZREF measurement in Voltage drop sub-function.
10 Function
selector switch Selects test / measurement function and settings.
11 MEM Stores to / recalls from instrument memory (ET4500 only).
No function (ET4000).
12 Green LED's
Red LED's
Indicates test PASSES.
Indicates test FAILS.
The PASS / FAIL indication is only enabled when a limit is
set.

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3.2 Connector panel
Figure 3.2: Connector panel
1
Test terminals
L / L1 (H) terminal
2 N / L2 (E) terminal
3 PE / L3 (S) terminal
4 TL180 probe
inputs
Test inputs from TL180 test probe
5 Charger socket
6 PS/2 connector Communication with PC serial port (For firmware upgrade
only on ET4000).
7 USB connector Communication with PC USB (1.1) port (ET4500 only).
8 Protective cover Restricts access to the charger and comms ports when
testing
Warnings!
Maximum allowed voltage between any test terminal and ground is 600 V.
Maximum allowed voltage between test terminals on test connector is 550 V.
Maximum short-term voltage of external charging adapter is 14 V.

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3.3 Instrument rear
12
3
Figure 3.3: Back panel
Legend:
1 Battery / fuse compartment cover
2 Back panel information label
3 Fixing screws for battery / fuse compartment cover
Figure 3.4: Battery and fuse compartment
Legend:
1 Fuse F1 M 315 mA / 250 V
2 Fuses F2 and F3 F 4 A / 500 V (breaking capacity 50 kA)
3 Serial number label
4 Batteries Size AA, alkaline / rechargeable NiMH

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Figure 3.5: Bottom
Legend:
1 Bottom information label
2 Carrying strap loops
3 Side handles
3.4 Carrying the instrument
With the carrying strap supplied, various possibilities for carrying the instrument are
available. Operators can choose the appropriate one. See the following examples:
The instrument hangs around the
operators neck – quick placing
and removal.

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The instrument can be used even when inside the
soft carrying bag – test cables are connected to the
instrument through the front opening.
3.4.1 Attaching the carrying strap
You can choose between two methods:
Figure 3.6: First method
Figure 3.7: Alternative method
Please perform a periodical check of the attachment.

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4 Instrument operation
4.1 Batteries and charging
The instrument uses six AA size alkaline or rechargeable Ni-MH batteries. The nominal
operating time specified is for batteries with a nominal capacity of 2100 mAh. The
battery condition is always displayed in the lower right corner of the display. If the
batteries are too weak the instrument indicates this as shown in Figure 4.1. This
indication appears for a few seconds and then the instrument turns itself off.
Figure 4.1: Discharged battery indication
The batteries are charged whenever the battery charging adapter is connected to the
instrument. The charging adapter socket polarity is shown in Figure 4.2. Internal
circuitry controls the charging and assures maximum battery lifetime.
+
-
Figure 4.2: Power supply socket polarity
Symbols:
Indication of battery charging
Figure 4.3: Charging indication
Warnings related to safety:
When connected to an installation, the instrument's battery compartment can
contain hazardous voltages! When replacing batteries or before opening the
battery compartment cover, always disconnect any test leads or measuring
accessories and turn off the instrument.
Ensure that the batteries are inserted correctly, otherwise the instrument will not
operate and the batteries could become discharged.
Do not recharge alkaline battery cells.
Use only the PSUPD230 battery charging adapter supplied with the instrument.
Notes:
The charger in the instrument is a pack cell charger. This means that the battery
cells are connected in series during charging. The batteries have to be similar
(same charge condition, same type and age).
If the instrument is not to be used for a long period of time, remove all batteries
from the battery compartment.

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Alkaline or rechargeable Ni-MH batteries (size AA) can be used in the ET4000
and ET4500. Martindale recommends only using rechargeable batteries with a
capacity of 2100mAh or above.
Unpredictable chemical processes can occur during the charging of batteries that
have been left unused for a long period (more than 6 months). In this case it is
recommended to repeat the charge / discharge cycle at least 2-4 times.
If no improvement is achieved after several charge / discharge cycles, then each
battery should be checked by comparing battery voltages. It is very likely that not
all of the batteries have deteriorated. One bad battery can cause poor
performance of the entire battery pack.
The effects described above should not be confused with the normal decrease of
battery capacity over time. Batteries also loses some capacity when repeatedly
charged / discharged.
4.2 Display and audible indication
4.2.1 Terminal voltage monitor
The terminal voltage monitor constantly displays the voltages between the test terminals
and shows which test terminals are active for the measurement function selected (see
examples below).
Online voltages are displayed together with test terminal indication. All
three test terminals are used for the selected measurement.
Online voltages are displayed together with test terminal indication. L
and N test terminals are used for the selected measurement.
L and PE are active test terminals; N terminal should also be connected
for correct input voltage condition.
Polarity of test voltage applied to the output terminals, L and N.
4.2.2 Battery indication
The battery indication indicates the charge condition of the batteries and the connection
of an external charger.
Battery capacity indication.
Low batteries.
Batteries are too weak to guarantee correct results. Replace or
recharge the batteries.
Charging in progress (if charging adapter is connected).
4.2.3 Messages
In the message field warnings and messages are displayed.

Martindale ET4000 / ET4500 Instrument description
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Measurement is in progress, refer to any displayed warnings.
Conditions on the input terminals allow starting the measurement;
consider other displayed warnings and messages.
Test button is inhibited. Conditions on the input terminals are not
correct. Refer to displayed warnings and messages.
RCD tripped-out during the measurement (in RCD functions).
Instrument has overheated. The measurement is unavailable until the
temperature decreases below the allowed limit.
Result(s) can be stored. (ET4500 only)
High electrical noise was detected during measurement. Results may
be impaired.
L and N are reversed.
Warning! High voltage is applied to the test terminals.
Warning! Dangerous voltage on the PE test terminal! Stop the activity
immediately and eliminate the fault / connection problem before
proceeding with any further activity. Such maintenance should only be
carried out by a competent electrician who is familiar with the relevant
regulations, the safety risks involved and the consequent normal safe
working practices.
Test lead resistance for Continuity measurements has not been nulled.
Test lead resistance is compensated for in Continuity measurements.
High resistance to earth of test probes. Results may be impaired.
Measured signal is out of range (clipped). Results are impaired.
Fuse F1 is broken.
4.2.4 Results
Measurement result is inside pre-set limits (PASS).
Measurement result is outside pre-set limits (FAIL).
Measurement is aborted. Refer to displayed warnings and messages.
4.2.5 Audible warnings
Continuous sound Warning! Dangerous voltage on the PE terminal is detected.

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4.2.6 Help screens
HELP Opens help screen.
Help menus are available in all functions. The Help menu contains schematic diagrams
illustrating how to correctly connect the instrument to an electrical installation. After
selecting the measurement you want to perform, press the HELP key in order to view
the associated Help menu.
Keys in help menu:
UP / DOWN Selects next / previous help screen.
ESC / HELP /
Function selector switch Exits help menu.
Figure 4.4: Examples of help screens
4.2.7 Backlight and contrast adjustments
The BACKLIGHT key is used to adjust the backlight and contrast.
Click Toggles backlight intensity level.
Keep pressed for 1 s Locks high intensity backlight level until power is turned off or the
key is pressed again.
Keep pressed for 2 s Bargraph for LCD contrast adjustment is displayed.
Figure 4.5: Contrast adjustment menu
Keys for contrast adjustment:
DOWN Reduces contrast.
UP Increases contrast.
TEST Saves contrast setting.
ESC Exits without changes.

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4.3 Function selection
For selecting test/measurement function and entering the settings menu use the
FUNCTION SELECTOR SWITCH.
Function selector switch and keys:
Function selector
switch
Selects test / measurement function, enters settings menu and
selects auto-test mode.
UP / DOWN Selects sub-function in selected measurement function.
TAB Selects the test parameter to be set or modified.
TEST Runs selected test / measurement function.
MEM Stores measured results / recalls stored results. (ET4500 only)
ESC Exits back to main menu.
Keys in test parameter field:
UP / DOWN Changes the selected parameter.
TAB Selects the next measuring parameter.
Function selector
switch
Toggles between the main functions.
MEM Stores measured results / recalls stored results. ( ET4500 only)
General rule regarding enabling parameters for evaluation of measurement / test result:
Parameter
OFF No limit values, indication: _ _ _.
ON Value(s) – results will be marked as PASS or FAIL in
accordance with selected limit.
See chapter 5

Martindale ET4000 / ET4500 Instrument operation
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Measurements for more information about the operation of the instrument test functions.