Megger Fault Sniffer 2 User manual

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Fault Sniffer 2
Cable fault detection device
OPERATING MANUAL
Issue: F (01/2023) - EN
Article number: 87150

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Consultation with Megger
The present system manual has been designed as an operating guide and for
reference. It is meant to answer your questions and solve your problems in as
fast and easy a way as possible. Please start with referring to this manual should
any trouble occur.
In doing so, make use of the table of contents and read the relevant paragraph
with great attention. Furthermore, check all terminals and connections of the in-
struments involved.
Should any question remain unanswered or should you need the help of an au-
thorized service station, please contact:
Megger Limited
Megger Germany GmbH (Baunach)
Archcliffe Road
Kent CT17 9EN
T: [phone]
F: [phone]
E: [e-mail]
Dr.-Herbert-Iann-Str. 6
D - 96148 Baunach
T: +49 / 9544 / 68 – 0
F: +49 / 9544 / 22 73
E: [e-mail]
Megger Germany GmbH (Radeburg)
Megger USA
Röderaue 41
D - 01471 Radeburg / Dresden
T: [phone] – 0
F: [phone]
E: [e-mail]
Valley Forge Corporate Centre
2621 Van Buren Avenue
Norristown, PA 19403 USA
T: [phone]
F: [phone]
Megger
All rights reserved. No part of this handbook may be copied by photographic or other means unless Megger have before-
hand declared their consent in writing. The content of this handbook is subject to change without notice. Megger cannot
be made liable for technical or printing errors or shortcomings of this handbook. Megger also disclaims all responsibility
for damage resulting directly or indirectly from the delivery, supply, or use of this matter.

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Terms of Warranty
Megger accept responsibility for a claim under warranty brought forward by a
customer for a product sold by Megger under the terms stated below.
Megger warrant that at the time of delivery Megger products are free from man-
ufacturing or material defects which might considerably reduce their value or us-
ability. This warranty does not apply to faults in the software supplied. During the
period of warranty, Megger agree to repair faulty parts or replace them with new
parts or parts as new (with the same usability and life as new parts) according to
their choice.
This warranty does not cover wear parts, lamps, fuses, batteries and accumula-
tors.
Megger reject all further claims under warranty, in particular those from conse-
quential damage. Each component and product replaced in accordance with this
warranty becomes the property of Megger.
All warranty claims versus Megger are hereby limited to a period of 12 months
from the date of delivery. Each component supplied by Megger within the context
of warranty will also be covered by this warranty for the remaining period of time
but for 90 days at least.
Each measure to remedy a claim under warranty shall exclusively be carried out
by Megger or an authorized service station.
This warranty does not apply to any fault or damage caused by exposing a prod-
uct to conditions not in accordance with this specification, by storing, transporting,
or using it improperly, or having it serviced or installed by a workshop not author-
ized by Megger. All responsibility is disclaimed for damage due to wear, will of
God, or connection to foreign components.
For damage resulting from a violation of their duty to repair or re-supply items,
Megger can be made liable only in case of severe negligence or intention. Any
liability for slight negligence is disclaimed.
Since some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of an implied warranty
or of consequential damage, the limitations of liability described above perhaps
may not apply to you.

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Contents
Consultation with Megger....................................................................... 3
Terms of Warranty ................................................................................... 4
Contents ................................................................................................... 5
1. Safety instructions............................................................................. 7
1.1 Safety precautions.......................................................................................7
1.2 Identification of safety instructions...............................................................7
1.3 Working with Megger products....................................................................7
1.4Operating personnel....................................................................................8
1.5 Repair and maintenance .............................................................................8
1.6 Unpacking ...................................................................................................8
2. Areas of application/intended use ................................................... 9
3. Device illustration/controls............................................................. 10
3.1 Display ......................................................................................................11
3.2 Buttons on the device................................................................................11
3.3 Acoustic alarm...........................................................................................12
3.4 Optical alarm .............................................................................................12
3.5 Bluetooth (integrated)................................................................................12
3.6 Gas inlet with connection nipple for probes...............................................12
3.7 Charging socket ........................................................................................12
3.8 Nameplate.................................................................................................13
4. Storage, transport, packaging ........................................................ 13
5. Power supply (charging) ................................................................. 13
6. Operation/handling .......................................................................... 14
6.1 Switching the device on and off.................................................................14
6.2 Wait for the sensor running-in phase during tests .....................................14
6.3 Selecting the 'Info' menu and checking the values....................................15
6.4 Confirming the service date.......................................................................15
6.5 Viewing the data memory..........................................................................15
7. Changing the filter ........................................................................... 16
7.1 Replacing filters at the gas inlet.................................................................16
7.2 Replacing filters in the water blocker.........................................................18
8. Cable fault detection........................................................................ 19
8.1 Connecting a suitable probe......................................................................19
8.2 Examples for the use of the probes...........................................................20
8.3 Display of gas concentrations....................................................................22
8.4 Resetting the maximum value ...................................................................23
8.5 Alarms .......................................................................................................23

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8.6 Performing tests ........................................................................................24
9. Calibration/adjustment .................................................................... 25
9.1 Test gases that may be used ....................................................................25
9.2 Performing the calibration..........................................................................26
9.3 Performing the adjustment ........................................................................27
10. Settings ........................................................................................... 28
10.1 Opening and changing device settings....................................................28
10.2 Entering the password.............................................................................28
10.3 General (overview) menu item.................................................................28
10.3.1 Changing the language of the device ...................................................29
10.3.2 Setting the time for the auto power down of the device ........................29
10.3.3 Setting the time for the lighting .............................................................29
10.3.4 Immediate start on and off ....................................................................29
10.4 Service date.............................................................................................29
10.4.1 Service date of the device (overview) ...................................................29
10.4.2 Displaying the service date when the device starts ..............................29
10.4.3 Setting the time for the device to be locked if the service is due...........29
10.5 Cable fault detection................................................................................30
10.5.1 Cable fault detection (overview)............................................................30
10.5.2 Showing and hiding the menu item in the main menu ..........................30
10.5.3 Switching 'Save measurements' on and off ..........................................30
10.6 Changing the date/time ...........................................................................30
11. Technical data ................................................................................ 31
12. Optional accessories / spare parts .............................................. 32
13. Error messages/troubleshooting ................................................. 33

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1. Safety instructions
1.1 Safety precautions
This manual contains basic information about commissioning and operating the
Fault Sniffer 2. Therefore, it must be ensured that this manual is accessible to
authorised and trained operating personnel at all times. The operating personnel
must read the manual carefully. In no case shall the manufacturer be liable for
any damage to persons or materials caused by failure to observe the safety in-
structions contained in this manual.
The country-specific standards and regulations must be observed!
1.2 Identification of safety instructions
Important instructions concerning personal and occupational health and safety
and technical safety are identified in the text as follows:
Warnings! These symbols warn you of possible health hazards
caused by improper operation. For example: 'Only switch on the
device outside!', 'Only carry out the sensor running-in phase in
the fresh air!', 'Check zero point and set correctly.'
Caution: Important information and useful tips for operating the system.
Failure to observe may result in unusable measurement results.
Notes contain useful additional information and application tips for the
safe use of the device and for your own health.
Do not use excessive force or tools when connecting the cables and
adapters!
1.3 Working with Megger products
The generally valid electrical regulations of the country in which the device is
installed and operated, as well as the existing national regulations for accident
prevention and any internal regulations (work, operating and safety regulations)
of the operator must be observed.
Original accessories are used for system safety and functional reliability. The use
of other parts is not permitted and leads to the loss of warranty.

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1.4 Operating personnel
Work on this system and its peripherals may only be carried out by trained or
instructed personnel. Other persons must be kept away.
Operating personnel should be fully trained in the field of cable detection and
equipped with approved cable detection devices.
Operating personnel should also be provided with suitable protective clothing and
must wear it (including safety goggles, protective gloves and safety footwear).
1.5 Repair and maintenance
Maintenance and repair work may only be carried out by Megger or an authorised
partner. It is recommended to have the device and accessories checked once a
year in a Megger service station.
The device should be serviced once a year. Please notify your sales part-
ner, so that the service is carried out. In addition, the filter should be re-
placed at regular intervals, see Chapter: 7 Changing the filter
1.6 Unpacking
After receiving the system, please check that the contents of the delivery match
the delivery list. If any parts are missing, please inform your supplier.
If the device or accessories show any signs of damage, please inform your sup-
plier and the carrier immediately. Please provide detailed information about the
type of damage. Please keep the damaged packaging in order to be able to en-
force your claims even better at a later point.

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2. Areas of application/intended use
Warning of possible health hazard! Only use the device if you
have inspected the surroundings/location by means of an on-site
safety inspection and assessment before starting the work.
The Fault Sniffer 2 measuring device is used to locate cable faults in underground
low-voltage networks while above ground, without removing the corresponding
power line from the mains power supply. The dual sensor installed in the device
reacts to the appropriate gases.
When and for what may the device be used?
The use is limited to the detection of cable faults and cannot be used to assess
hazards.
The device is not approved for use in zones with a risk of explosion.
The device must not be used for explosive mixtures.
How should the device be stored in case of prolonged non-use?
If the Fault Sniffer 2 is not used for an extended period of time, the battery should
be stored at between -20°C and +50°C for 30 days and at between -20°C and
+30°C for one year.
If the device has not been used for a long period of time, it should be prepared
before the next use:
1. Switch on the device.
2. Select the Cable fault detection menu item.
3. Let the device run in the fresh air for about 1 hour.
4. Then perform a calibration and, if necessary, an adjustment (see Chapter 9).

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3. Device illustration/controls
No. Description
1 Display
2 Optical alarm
3 OK/ENTER and ON/OFF
4 Gas inlet with connection nipple for probes
Installed behind: Filters, integrated pump and sensors
5 Tenax nipple for attaching a carrying strap (on both sides)
6 Acoustic alarm
7 Function keys F1 and F2
8 Charging socket (not shown here)
9 BACK/ESC (Escape) key
10 Charging socket
11 Nameplate on the back

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3.1 Display
The display is a graphics-capable LCD display and allows measured values and
text information to be displayed clearly. Clean the display regularly.
No. Description of the display
1 Display symbols in the top line of the display for active and inactive functions
as well as the permanent display of the charge level
Battery charge level
Measurement data is saved
Bluetooth connection
active
Alarm switched off
2 Displays the selected menu item
3 Display area for menu, measured values and graphical displays
4 Number for the currently measured ppm value
5 Operating option of function keys F1/F2
3.2 Buttons on the device
Confirm: Press OK/ENTER to confirm the selection of a menu item.
ON/OFF: Press ON/OFF to turn the device on and off.
Back: Press BACK/ESC once or more to return to the previous menu or
to the main menu.
Cancellation of a test phase/test: Press BACK/ESC to confirm the can-
cellation of a currently running phase of a test that has been started or
the complete cancellation of a test.
The function keys F1 and F2 have a function adapted to the respective
menu item. These functions are described in the bottom line of the dis-
play. The text on the left applies for F1 and the text on the right applies
for F2. If no text or symbol is displayed, the corresponding key has no
function.

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3.3 Acoustic alarm
The acoustic alarm is the buzzer below the F2 function key. This sounds for im-
portant events or error messages.
3.4 Optical alarm
An optical alarm is indicated by several bright alarm LEDs above the display. The
LEDs flash at the same frequency as the acoustic signal sounds.
3.5 Bluetooth (integrated)
The integrated Bluetooth module is used for standard data transfer and for up-
dating the device firmware.
3.6 Gas inlet with connection nipple for probes
Various probes can be connected via the plug-in nipple on the gas inlet. In order
to protect the sensors from contamination and the penetration of moisture, a hy-
drophobic filter and dust filter are located at the gas inlet. Additional protection
against moisture is provided by a water blocker, which can also be connected if
necessary.
3.7 Charging socket
On the left side of the housing is the charging socket to which the power supply
unit or the vehicle charging cable can be connected. In addition, the device can
be charged in the supplied case. The charging connections for this are located
on the outside and inside of the case.

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3.8 Nameplate
The nameplate with the device name, article number (PN) and serial number (SN)
is on the back of the device.
4. Storage, transport, packaging
After unpacking, during transport and before and after storage, check the device
for visible damage. If there is any damage, please contact your sales partner.
5. Power supply (charging)
To be able to use the device at any time, check the
charge level of the Li-ion battery. You can keep the
device plugged into the charging current at all times
without the risk of overcharging.
The rechargeable Li-ion battery should not be deep
discharged, in order to prevent damage. The device consumes a small amount
of power even when it is switched off. Charge the battery of the device regularly
when not in use.
Connect to charging socket and charge
The charging socket is on the left side of the device.
Connect a suitable charger (230 V AC or 12 V DC).
The charging time for a discharged device is approxi-
mately 6 hours.
You can view the current battery capacity from the 'In-
fo' menu.
Indicators on the power supply unit and measur-
ing device.
•Power supply unit / LED lights up green: Bat-
tery is being charged (shown on measuring de-
vice display)
•Vehicle charger and display are off: Battery is full, trickle charging when
12 V power supply is connected

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6. Operation/handling
6.1 Switching the device on and off
Switching on the device
1. Press ON/OFF (OK/ENTER) for at least 2 sec-
onds.
2. Wait for the system and pump test.
3. Confirm the service date with CONTINUE (if
displayed).
Result: The device displays the main menu.
Switching off the device
The device can only be switched off from
the main menu.
1. Press BACK/ESC until the main menu is dis-
played.
2. Press ON/OFF (OK) for at least 5 seconds. The
key must not be released until after the last
message 'Off in 1' appears.
Result: The device is switched off.
6.2 Wait for the sensor running-in phase during tests
For all tests, a sensor running-in phase first takes
place. Wait for the sensor running-in phase to fin-
ish, as no measured value can be measured dur-
ing this time (approx. 1 minute).
Only switch on the device outside. Wait for
the sensor running-in phase in the fresh
air.
If fresh air is present, you can switch on
the device, for example, when you arrive
at work or when you arrive in the car. This
means that the device is ready for use.

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6.3 Selecting the 'Info' menu and checking the values
The 'Info' menu displays the serial number (SN),
software version, free memory, date, time, and bat-
tery charge level.
6.4 Confirming the service date
The service date is displayed when the device is
started to inform the user. If the service is due, a
message is displayed. This must be confirmed with
'Continue'.
Confirm the service message and contact
your sales partner so that the service is
carried out.
Note: You can set how and when the service date
is displayed in the device settings.
6.5 Viewing the data memory
The data memory lists all the tests that have been
carried out in order. You can review tests, send, print or delete them.
This menu item allows you to delete the entire data memory.
Structure of the display in the data memory
Overview for the abbreviations for the entry: Type of test
Abbre-
viation
Description
CF Cable fault detection
CA Calibration/Adjustment
#9
CF
06/06/2020
09:23:05
Number Type of Date of Start time of
of test test test test

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7. Changing the filter
Filters are designed to protect the measuring device from serious dam-
age. Moist or dirty filters reduce the flow rate and extend the response
time of the measuring device. The proper function of the device can only
be guaranteed when the filters are dry and clean.
Hydrophobic filters retain moisture and block the intake path when water
is drawn in. Theoretically, these filters can be removed and dried after
they have become damp. However, in most real-life cases, it is not clean
water that is drawn in, meaning that the filters often become dirty and
should be replaced.
Dust filters must be replaced if they become damp and before they be-
come clogged with dirt. This means that they may need to be replaced
several times a day on days when conditions are dry and dusty. There-
fore, the filters must be checked depending on the application situation.
A fixed-rota basis (e.g. once a day) is not always optimal or sufficient.
Suitable replacement filters for the filter housing at the gas inlet and water blocker
can be ordered as accessories (see page 32).
7.1 Replacing filters at the gas inlet
The measuring device contains hydrophobic filters (mem-
branes) for protection against water ingress and a dust filter.
These filters are housed in a filter housing and are located
behind the gas inlet screw on the right-hand side of the de-
vice. You can change the complete filter housing including
all filters or just the dust filter.
Do not use any objects or use any force or tools when opening and clos-
ing the housing, to avoid damage to the thread.
Use tweezers to change the filter! Make sure that you do not touch the
hydrophobic filter (membrane)!

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Filter assembly:
No. Description
①Dust filter
②Hydrophobic membrane 1 (do not touch!)
③Filter housing
④Hydrophobic membrane 2 (do not touch!)
Replacing the dust filter
The dust filter should be changed much more frequently than the entire
filter housing (depending on the conditions of use, in a ratio of 10:1).
Preliminary work
•Clean the device and gas inlet (so that it is free from dust and moisture)
•Make sure that tweezers are at hand
Replacing
1. Loosen the gas inlet screw by turning it
anti-clockwise.
2. Remove the dust filter from the filter
housing. Make sure that you do not
touch the hydrophobic filters (mem-
branes)!
3. Insert the new dust filter into the filter
housing.
4. Reinstall the filter housing in the correct
position.
5. Place the gas inlet screw on the thread
on the device housing and tighten the
gas inlet screw clockwise by hand.

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Replacing the complete filter housing
The hydrophobic filter/hydrophobic membrane must not be touched with
bare fingers, as this will damage it!
Preliminary work
•Clean the device and screw cap (so that it is free from dust and moisture)
•Make sure that tweezers are at hand
Replacing
1. Loosen the gas inlet screw by turning it
anti-clockwise.
2. Remove the filter housing.
3. Replace the filter housing.
4. Reinstall the filter housing in the correct
position.
5. Place the gas inlet screw on the thread
on the device housing and tighten the
gas inlet screw clockwise by hand.
7.2 Replacing filters in the water blocker
There is also a hydro filter and dust filter in the water blocker, which must be
replaced as required and depending on how frequently the water blocker is used.
Replacing
1. Unscrew the necessary side of the water blocker.
2. Remove the old filter.
3. Insert the new filter.
4. Screw the side of the water blocker back on.
Water filter
Dust filter

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8. Cable fault detection
With cable fault detection, you can detect the smallest gas concentrations of burnt
insulation material above or in the ground. Probes are connected to the device
for detection. The gases are directed to the sensors via the integrated pump in
the device. In addition, a vacuum probe system can be connected to direct the
gases to the sensors.
The sensors used to detect gas concentrations require a running-in period of ap-
proximately 1 minute. The running-in phase must be carried out outside. A suita-
ble probe should only be connected after the running-in phase has been com-
pleted.
8.1 Connecting a suitable probe
Depending on the conditions at the application site, different probes can be con-
nected to the device.
It is always recommended to
attach an additional water
blocker when connecting a
drill hole probe.
Drill hole probe
When connecting a bell
probe, an additional
water blocker should
only be attached if the
ground is moist at the
application site.
Bell probe

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In addition to the two probes supplied,
gases can also be directed to the sen-
sors via the optional VSS 15 vacuum
probe system.
Detailed information on the use of the
vacuum probe system can be found in
the relevant operating instructions.
8.2 Examples for the use of the probes
The figures illustrate the differences in measurement results due to the use of the
probes under different conditions.
No
.
Name of the probe: Operating principle, examples of measurements
1 Bell probe: Above-ground collection by suction
2 VSS15 mobile vacuum probe system:
Above-ground collection by suction
3 Drill hole probe: Collection by suction in the ground
4 Drill hole probe: Collection by suction in the ground
Localisation in problematic soil conditions