METREL SmarTEC User manual

Insulation / Continuity
MI 3121
Instruction manual
Version 1.2, Code no. 20 751 246

2
Distributor:
Manufacturer:
METREL d.d.
Ljubljanska cesta 77
1354 Horjul
Slovenia
web site: http://www.metrel.si
e-mail: [email protected]
Mark on your equipment certifies that this equipment meets the requirements of the EU
(European Union) concerning safety and electromagnetic compatibility regulations
© 2008 METREL
The trade names Metrel, Smartec, Eurotest, Autosequence are trademarks registered or pending in Europe
and other countries.
No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means
without permission in writing from METREL.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Table of contents
3
1Preface.........................................................................................................................5
2Safety and operational considerations.....................................................................6
2.1 Warnings and notes...............................................................................................6
2.2 Battery and charging .............................................................................................8
2.2.1 New battery cells or cells unused for a longer period.....................................9
2.3 Standards applied................................................................................................10
3Instrument description.............................................................................................11
3.1 Front panel ..........................................................................................................11
3.2 Connector panel..................................................................................................12
3.3 Back panel...........................................................................................................13
3.4 Display organization............................................................................................14
3.4.1 Function field................................................................................................14
3.4.2 Result fields..................................................................................................14
3.4.3 Message field...............................................................................................15
3.4.4 Auxiliary monitor...........................................................................................15
3.4.5 Battery indication..........................................................................................15
3.4.6 Other messages...........................................................................................15
3.4.7 Backlight.......................................................................................................16
3.5 Instrument set and accessories...........................................................................16
3.5.1 Standard set.................................................................................................16
3.5.2 Optional accessories....................................................................................16
4Instrument operation................................................................................................17
4.1 Function selection................................................................................................17
4.2 Settings ...............................................................................................................18
4.2.1 Initial settings................................................................................................18
4.2.2 Date and time...............................................................................................19
4.2.3 Commander..................................................................................................20
5Measurements ..........................................................................................................21
5.1 Insulation resistance............................................................................................21
5.2 Resistance of earth connection and equipotential bonding .................................23
5.2.1 RLOW, 200 mA resistance measurement....................................................23
5.2.2 Continuous 7 mA resistance measurement CONT.......................................24
5.2.3 Compensation of test leads resistance.........................................................26
5.3 Voltage and frequency.........................................................................................27
6Data handling............................................................................................................29
6.1 Memory organization...........................................................................................29
6.2 Data structure......................................................................................................29
6.3 Storing test results...............................................................................................30
6.4 Recalling test results ...........................................................................................30
6.5 Clear / recall options............................................................................................31
6.5.1 Clearing complete memory content..............................................................31
6.5.2 Clearing individual results at selected location.............................................32
6.6 Communication....................................................................................................33
7Maintenance..............................................................................................................34
7.1 Fuse replacement................................................................................................34
7.2 Cleaning ..............................................................................................................34
7.3 Periodic calibration..............................................................................................34
7.4 Service ................................................................................................................34

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Table of contents
4
8Technical specifications..........................................................................................35
8.1 Insulation resistance............................................................................................35
8.2 Continuity ............................................................................................................36
8.2.1 Resistance RLOW........................................................................................36
8.2.2 Resistance CONT ........................................................................................36
8.3 Voltage, frequency...............................................................................................36
8.3.1 Voltage.........................................................................................................36
8.3.2 Frequency ....................................................................................................36
8.4 General data........................................................................................................37
AAppendix A - Accessories for specific measurements.........................................38

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Preface
5
1 Preface
Congratulations on your purchase of the instrument and its accessories from METREL.
The instrument was designed on basis of rich experience, acquired through many years of
dealing with insulation and resistance test equipment.
The multifunctional hand-held insulation tester Smartec Insulation / Continuity is intended
in general for the following tests and measurements:
True r.m.s. voltage and frequency,
Insulation resistance,
Resistance to earth connection and equipotential bonding plus continuous
resistance measurement.
The custom designed display with backlight offers easy reading of results, indications, and
measurement parameters. The operation of the unit is clear and simple – the operator
does not need any special training (except reading this instruction manual) to operate the
instrument.
In order for operator to be familiar enough with performing measurements in general and
in typical applications it is advisable to read Metrel handbook Guide for testing and
verification of low voltage installations.
The instrument is equipped with all the necessary accessory for comfortable testing.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Warnings and notes
6
2 Safety and operational considerations
2.1 Warnings and notes
In order to reach high level of operator’s safety while carrying out various tests and
measurements using Smartec Insulation / Continuity test equipment, as well as to keep the
equipment undamaged, it is necessary to consider the following general warnings:
Warning on the instrument means »Read the Instruction manual with
special care to safety operation«. The symbol requires an action!
If the test equipment is used in a manner that is not specified in this user
manual, the protection provided by the equipment might be impaired!
Read this user manual carefully, otherwise use of the instrument may be
dangerous for the operator, for the instrument or for the equipment under
test!
Do not use the instrument and accessories if any damage is noticed!
In case a fuse has blown follow the instructions in this manual to replace it!
Consider all generally known precautions in order to avoid risk of electric
shock while dealing with hazardous voltages!
Service intervention or adjustment and calibration procedure is allowed to be
carried out only by a competent authorized person!
Use only standard or optional test accessories supplied by your distributor!
Consider that older and some of new optional test accessories compatible
with this instrument meet overvoltage category CAT III / 300 V! It means that
maximum allowed voltage between test terminals and ground is 300 V!
Instrument contains rechargeable NiCd or NiMh battery cells. The cells
should only be replaced with the same type as defined on the battery
placement label or in this manual. Do not use standard alkaline battery cells
while power supply adapter is connected, otherwise they may explode!
Hazardous voltages exist inside the instrument. Disconnect all test leads,
remove the power supply cable and switch off the instrument before
removing battery compartment cover.
All normal safety precautions have to be taken in order to avoid risk of
electric shock when working on electrical installations!
Warnings related to measurement functions:
Insulation resistance
Do not touch the test object during the measurement or before it is fully
discharged! Risk of electric shock!
Automatic discharge of capacitive object will take some time after the finished insulation
resistance measurement. Actual voltage is displayed during discharging until voltage drops
below 10 V. In no case you should disconnect test leads until tested object is completely
discharged!

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Warnings and notes
7
Notes related to measurement functions:
General
If there is any irregular condition on input terminals then the selected measurement
can't be performed.
Insulation resistance, and continuity measurements shall be performed on de-
energized objects, i.e. voltage between test terminals should be lower than 10 V!
PASS / FAIL indication is enabled when limit is set to ON. Apply appropriate limit
value for evaluation of measurement results.
Insulation resistance
When measuring insulation resistance between installation conductors all loads
must be disconnected and all switches closed!
The instrument automatically discharge tested object after finished measurement.
Click the TEST key twice for continuous measurement.
Continuity functions
Parallel resistance paths and interfering currents in measured circuit will influence
the test result!
If necessary compensate test lead resistance before performing continuity
measurement, see 5.2.3.
Measurement of resistance of wire wound components like transformer or motor
windings is possible only in continuous function due to great influence of the
winding inductance.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Battery and charging
8
2.2 Battery and charging
The instrument uses six AA size alkaline or rechargeable Ni-Cd or Ni-MH battery cells.
Nominal operating time is declared for cells with nominal capacity of 2100 mAh.
Battery condition is always present on the display when the instrument is turned on.
In case the battery is weak, the instrument indicates this as shown in figure 2.1. This
indication appears for a few seconds and then the instrument turns itself off.
Figure 2.1: Discharged battery indication
The battery is charged whenever the power supply adapter is connected to the instrument.
Internal circuit controls charging assuring maximum battery lifetime. The power supply
socket polarity is shown in figure 2.2.
+
-
Figure 2.2: Power supply socket polarity
The instrument automatically recognizes the connected power supply adapter and begins
charging.
Symbols:
Indication of battery charging
Figure 2.3: Charging indication
Before opening battery / fuse compartment cover, disconnect all
accessories connected to the instrument and switch off the instrument.
Insert cells correctly, otherwise the instrument will not operate and the battery could
be damaged.
Remove all battery cells from the battery compartment if the instrument is not used
for a long period of time.
Do not charge alkaline battery cells!
Take into account handling, maintenance and recycling requirements that are
defined by related regulations and manufacturers of alkaline or rechargeable
batteries!
Use only power supply adapter delivered from the manufacturer or distributor of the
test equipment to avoid possible fire or electric shock!

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Battery and charging
9
2.2.1 New battery cells or cells unused for a longer period
Unpredictable chemical processes can occur during charging of new battery cells or cells
that were unused for a longer period (more than 3 months). Ni-MH and Ni-Cd battery cells
are affected to capacity degradation (sometimes called as memory effect). As a result, the
instrument operation time can be significantly reduced.
Recommended procedure for recovering battery cells:
Procedure Notes
¾Completely charge the battery. At least 14h with in-built charger.
¾Completely discharge the battery. Use the instrument for normal testing until the
unit displays the “Bat” symbol on screen.
¾Repeat the charge / discharge cycle for
at least twice. Four cycles are recommended.
Complete discharge / charge cycle can be performed automatically for each cell using
external intelligent battery charger.
Notes:
The charger in the instrument is a pack cell charger. This means that the battery
cells are connected in series during the charging. The battery cells have to be
equivalent (same charge condition, same type and age).
One different battery cell can cause an improper charging and incorrect discharging
during normal usage of the entire battery pack (it results in heating of the battery
pack, significantly decreased operation time, reversed polarity of defective cell,…).
If no improvement is achieved after several charge / discharge cycles, then each
battery cell should be checked (by comparing battery voltages, testing them in a cell
charger, etc). It is very likely that only some of the battery cells are deteriorated.
The effects described above should not be confused with the normal decrease of
battery capacity over time. Battery also loses some capacity when it is repeatedly
charged / discharged. Actual decreasing of capacity, versus number of charging
cycles, depends on battery type. This information is provided in the technical
specification from battery manufacturer.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Standards applied
10
2.3 Standards applied
The MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity instrument is manufactured and tested
according to the following regulations, listed below.
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
EN 61326
Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use –
EMC requirements
Class B (Hand held equipment used in controlled EM environments)
Safety (LVD)
EN 61010 - 1 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – Part 1: General requirements
EN 61010 - 031 Safety requirements for hand-held probe assemblies for electrical
measurement and test
Functionality
EN 61557
Electrical safety in low voltage distribution systems up to 1000 V a.c. and
1500 V d.c. - Equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring of
protective measures
Part 1 General requirements
Part 2 Insulation resistance
Part 4 Resistance of earth connection and equipotential bonding
Part 10 Combined measuring equipment
Note about EN and IEC standards:
Text of this manual contains references to European standards. All standards of EN 6xxxx
(e.g. EN 61010) series are equivalent to IEC standards with the same number (e.g. IEC
61010) and differ only in amended parts required by European harmonization procedure.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Front panel
11
3 Instrument description
3.1 Front panel
Figure 3.1: Front panel
Legend:
1 LCD Custom display with backlight.
2 TEST Starts / stops a measurement.
3 UP
4 DOWN Modifies selected parameter.
5 MEM Store / recall / clear tests in memory of instrument.
6 Function selectors Select test function.
7 Backlight Changes backlight level.
Switches the instrument power on or off.
8 ON / OFF The instrument automatically turns off 15 minutes after the last
key was pressed.
9 CAL Compensates test leads resistance in RLOW and CONT
functions.
10 TAB Selects the parameters in selected function.
11 PASS
12 FAIL Indicate acceptance of result.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Connector panel
12
3.2 Connector panel
Figure 3.2: Connector panel
Legend:
1 Test connector Measuring inputs / outputs, connection of measuring cables.
2 Protection cover Protects from simultaneous access to test connector and power
supply adapter socket / communication connectors.
3 Charger socket Connection of power supply adapter.
4 USB connector Communication with PC USB (1.1) port.
5 PS/2 connector Communication with PC serial port.
Warnings!
Maximum allowed voltage between any test terminal and ground is 600 V!
Maximum allowed voltage between test terminals is 600 V!
Maximum short-term voltage of external power supply adapter is 14 V!

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Back site
13
3.3 Back panel
Figure 3.3: Back site
Legend:
1 Side belt
2 Battery compartment cover
3 Fixing screw for battery compartment cover
4 Back panel information label
5 Holder for inclined position of the instrument
6 Magnet for fixing instrument close to tested item (optional)
Figure 3.4: Battery compartment
Legend:
1 Battery cells Size AA, alkaline or rechargeable NiMH / NiCd
2 Serial number label
3 Fuse M 0.315 A, 250 V

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Display organization
14
3.4 Display organization
Figure 3.5: Typical display
Function field
Result field
Analog results display
Message field
Auxiliary monitor
Battery indication
3.4.1 Function field
The function field displays currently selected function.
Selected function is Insulation resistance.
Selected function is 7 mA Continuous resistance measurement.
Selected function is 200 mA Resistance to earth connection and
equipotential bonding measurement.
Selected function is Voltage / frequency measurement.
3.4.2 Result fields
Measuring results are displayed in numeric and analog representation with evaluation
result in case the limits are selected.
Numeric readout of measurement result
Measurement result is inside pre-set limits (PASS).
Measurement result is out of pre-set limits (FAIL).
… Analog presentation of measured result.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Display organization
15
3.4.3 Message field
In the message field, different warnings and messages are displayed.
Warning! Dangerous voltage is applied to the test terminals.
Fuse F1 has blown or not inserted (CONTINUITY functions).
Test leads resistance in CONTINUITY tests is compensated.
Indicates that limit value can be set.
Offers storing of measurement result.
Indicates that recall memory is active.
Indicates location number in installation structure.
Indicates object number in installation structure.
3.4.4 Auxiliary monitor
The monitor shows additional result, test parameter or message.
3.4.5 Battery indication
In the menu line, the name of the selected function is displayed. Additional information
about active cursor / TEST keys and battery condition are shown.
Battery capacity indication.
Low battery.
Battery is too weak to guarantee correct result. Replace or
recharge the battery cells.
Recharging in progress (moving segments if power supply
adapter is connected).
3.4.6 Other messages
HW version of the instrument
Version of built in FW.
Service intervention required.
Compensation of test leads resistance active.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Display organization
16
Locked high backlight intensity.
1st subresult in RLOW function.
2nd subresult in RLOW function.
3.4.7 Backlight
With the BACKLIGHT key the backlight can be adjusted.
Click Toggle backlight intensity level.
Pressed for 1 s Locks-on high backlight. It keeps until power off or next click on the
key BACKLIGHT.
3.5 Instrument set and accessories
3.5.1 Standard set
Instrument
Short instruction manual
Calibration certificate
Test lead, 2 x 1.5 m
Test probe, 2 pcs (black, red)
Crocodile clip, 2 pcs (black, red)
Set of NiMH battery cells
Power supply adapter
CD with instruction manual, and
“Guide for testing and verification of
low voltage installations” handbook
Soft hand strap
3.5.2 Optional accessories
See the attached sheet for a list of optional accessories that are available on request from
your distributor.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Function selection
17
4 Instrument operation
4.1 Function selection
For selecting test function, the FUNCTION SELECTOR shall be used.
Keys:
FUNCTION
SELECTOR
Select test / measurement function:
<VOLT> Voltage and frequency and phase sequence.
<INS> Insulation resistance measurement.
<RLOW / CONT> Resistance to earth connection and
equipotential bonding / continuous resistance measurement.
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.
CAL Compensation of test leads resistance.
Keys in test parameter field:
UP/DOWN Changes the selected parameter.
TAB Selects the next measuring parameter.
FUNCTION SELECTOR Toggles between the main functions.
MEM Stores measured results / recalls stored results.
General rule regarding enabling parameters for evaluation of measurement / test result:
- - - No limit values.
Parameter Value Results will be marked as PASS or FAIL in accordance with
selected limit.
See Chapter 5 for more information about the operation of the instrument test functions.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Settings
18
4.2 Settings
The instrument offers additional functions by the following combinations of the keys during
power on. Combinations are:
UP + ON Opens settings menu.
TAB + ON Resets the instrument to initial factory settings.
Different instrument options can be set in the settings menu.
Options are:
Setting the instrument to initial values,
Setting the date and time,
Support for commanders.
Figure 4.1: Options in Settings menu
Keys:
UP / DOWN Selects appropriate option.
TEST Enters selected option.
Function selectors Exits back to main function menu.
4.2.1 Initial settings
Selecting this option will allow the user to reset the
instrument settings and measurement parameters
and limits to the manufacturers standard values.
Figure 4.2: Initial settings display
Keys:
TEST Restores default settings.
Function selectors Exits back to main function menu without changes.
Warning:
Custom made settings will be lost when this option is used!
If the batteries are removed for more than 1 minute, the custom made settings will
be lost.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Settings
19
The default setup is listed below:
Instrument setting Default value
Function
Sub-function Parameters / limit value
Insulated resistance No limit
Utest = 500 V
Continuity RLOW
RLOW No limit
CONT No limit
Note:
Initial settings (reset of the instrument) can be recalled also if the TAB key is
pressed while the instrument is switched on.
4.2.2 Date and time
Selecting this option will allow the user to set the
date and time of the unit.
Figure 4.3: Setting date and time
Keys:
TAB Selects the field to be changed.
UP / DOWN Modifies selected field.
TEST Confirms new setup and exits.
Function selectors Exits back to main function menu.
Indications:
Set day.
Set month.
Set year.
Set hour.
Set minute.

MI 3121 Smartec Insulation / Continuity Settings
20
Warning:
If the batteries are removed for more than 1 minute, the set time will be lost.
4.2.3 Commander
Selecting this option, the support for remote
commanders can be switched On/ Off in this
menu.
Figure 4.4: Selection of commander
support
Keys:
UP / DOWN Selects commander option.
TEST Confirms selected option.
Function selectors Exits back to main function menu.
Indications:
Commander is / will be enabled.
Commander is / will be disabled.
Note:
This option is intended to disable the commander’s remote keys. In the case of high
EM interfering noise the operation of the commander’s key can be irregular.