Omicron VBO3 User manual
VBO3
User Manual
Manual version: ENU 1210 05 02 - Year: 2018
© OMICRON electronics. All rights reserved.
This manual is a publication of OMICRON electronics. All rights including translation reserved.
Reproduction of any kind, for example, photocopying, microfilming, optical character recognition
and/or storage in electronic data processing systems, requires the explicit consent of OMICRON
electronics. Reprinting, wholly or in part, is not permitted.
The product information, specifications, and technical data embodied in this manual represent the
technical status at the time of writing and are subject to change without prior notice.
We have done our best to ensure that the information given in this manual is useful, accurate, up-to-
date and reliable. However, OMICRON electronics does not assume responsibility for any
inaccuracies which may be present.
The user is responsible for every application that makes use of an OMICRON product.
OMICRON electronics translates this manual from the source language English into a number of other
languages. Any translation of this manual is done for local requirements, and in the event of a dispute
between the English and a non-English version, the English version of this manual shall govern.
VBO3 User Manual
2OMICRON
Contents
About this manual ............................................................................................................ 4
1 Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 5
1.1 Scope of delivery ................................................................................................................ 5
1.2 Designated use .................................................................................................................. 5
1.3 Declaration of conformity (EU) ........................................................................................... 5
1.4 Cleaning and disposal ........................................................................................................ 6
1.4.1 Cleaning ............................................................................................................................................. 6
1.4.2 Information for disposal and recycling ............................................................................................... 6
2 Safety instructions ........................................................................................................... 7
2.1 Symbols used ..................................................................................................................... 7
2.2 Rules for use ...................................................................................................................... 7
2.3 Safe operation procedures ................................................................................................. 8
2.4 Operator qualifications ....................................................................................................... 8
3 Device overview ............................................................................................................... 9
4 Circuit diagram ................................................................................................................. 10
5 Wiring ................................................................................................................................ 11
5.1 Connecting VBO3 to a CMC 430 ....................................................................................... 12
5.1.1 Max. 300 V output voltage ................................................................................................................. 12
5.1.2 Max. 600 V output voltage ................................................................................................................. 13
5.2 Connecting VBO3 to other CMCs ...................................................................................... 14
6 Configuring VBO3 in the control software ..................................................................... 15
6.1 Configuration in Test Universe ........................................................................................... 15
6.2 Calculation of voltage ratio ................................................................................................. 17
7 Setup with OMICRON transport case ............................................................................. 20
8 Transportation with OMICRON trolley ............................................................................ 21
9 Technical data ................................................................................................................... 22
Support .............................................................................................................................. 23
Contents
OMICRON 3
About this manual
The purpose of this user manual is to familiarize you with VBO3 and to show you how to use it safely,
properly, and efficiently. Following the instructions in this user manual will help you to prevent danger,
repair costs, and possible down time due to incorrect operation, and it will help you to maintain the
reliability and life of VBO3.
This manual is to be supplemented by existing national safety standards for accident prevention and
environmental protection.
This manual shall always be available at the site where VBO3 is used. It shall be read and observed
by all personnel operating VBO3. Reading the user manual of VBO3 alone does not release you from
the duty of complying with all safety regulations relevant and applicable to working on systems in any
power distribution network.
In addition to the user manual and the applicable safety regulations in the country and at the site of
operation, the usual technical procedures for safe and competent work shall be heeded.
Keep this manual during the entire service life of the product and always have it available for
reference.
This user manual describes the VBO3 hardware, its usage and wiring. In order to get familiar
with CMC test sets, please refer to the corresponding user documentation.
VBO3 User Manual
4OMICRON
1 Introduction
1.1 Scope of delivery
The following accessories are part of the VBO3 standard delivery but can also be ordered separately:
Accessory Quantity Order number
Connection cable VBO3 to CMC, 4-pole, 1 m length 2 VEHK0053
Connection cable VBO3 to test object, 4-pole, 3 m length 1 VEHK0054
Flexible jumpers 4 VEHZ0009
Module bag 1 VEHP0031
Before operating VBO3 for the first time, use the shipping documents to verify that all accessories are
available.
1.2 Designated use
VBO3 is a voltage transformer and used as an accessory for OMICRON's CMC test sets. The device
is intended for use with CMC test sets only. VBO3 transforms a CMC's output voltages of 0 ... 300 V to
0 ... 600 V.
Therefore, you can use CMC test sets for testing the V>> stage of LOM protection at wind power
stations. Their threshold is at least 460 V (nominal voltage in wind power stations is 690 V L-L
(398.37 V L-E)). You can also test other renewable energy systems such as biogas, photovoltaic,
small hydroelectric power as well as combined heat and power plants.
Furthermore, you can test industrial networks with voltage levels > 300 V.
Disclaimer
The advisory procedures and information contained within this user manual have been compiled as a
guide to the safe and effective operation of VBO3. It has been prepared in conjunction with application
engineers and the collective experience of the manufacturer.
The in-service conditions for the use of VBO3 may vary between customers and end-users.
Consequently, this user manual is offered as a guide only. It shall be used in conjunction with the
customer’s own safety procedures, maintenance program, engineering judgment, and training
qualifications.
If VBO3 is used in a different manner than described in this user manual, the protection provided by
VBO3 may be impaired, and this may result in damage to property or persons.
1.3 Declaration of conformity (EU)
The equipment adheres to the guidelines of the council of the European Community for meeting the
requirements of the member states regarding the low voltage directive (LVD) and the RoHS directive.
Introduction
OMICRON 5
1.4 Cleaning and disposal
1.4.1 Cleaning
To clean VBO3, use a cloth dampened with isopropanol alcohol. Prior to cleaning, always disconnect
VBO3 from the CMC test set and from the test object.
1.4.2 Information for disposal and recycling
This device (including all accessories) is not intended for household use. At the end of its service life,
do not dispose of the device with household waste!
For customers in EU countries (incl. European Economic Area)
OMICRON devices are subject to the EU Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Directive (WEEE directive). As part of our legal obligations under this legislation,
OMICRON offers to take back the device and ensure that it is disposed of by
authorized recycling agents.
For customers outside the European Economic Area
Please contact the authorities in charge for the relevant environmental regulations in
your country and dispose the OMICRON device only in accordance with your local
legal requirements.
VBO3 User Manual
6OMICRON
2 Safety instructions
Before working with VBO3, carefully read the following safety instructions and the safety instructions
for the CMC test set in use. In addition, we recommend to read the user documentation of the CMC
test set in use.
VBO3 may only be operated by trained personnel. Any misoperations can result in damage to property
or persons.
Only operate VBO3 after you have read this user manual and fully understood the instructions herein.
If you do not fully understand any safety rule or instruction or any part thereof, contact OMICRON
electronics before proceeding (→ page 23).
2.1 Symbols used
In this manual, the following symbols indicate safety instructions for avoiding hazards.
WARNING
Death or severe injury can occur if the appropriate safety instructions are not observed.
NOTICE
Equipment damage or loss of data possible.
2.2 Rules for use
►VBO3 and its accessories must only be used when in a technically sound condition. Its use must
be in accordance with the safety regulations for the specific job site and application.
► Always be aware of the dangers of high voltages. Pay attention to the information provided in this
user manual and in the user documentation of the CMC test set in use.
►VBO3 is exclusively intended for the application areas specified in section Designated use on
page 5. The manufacturer/distributors are not liable for damage resulting from unintended usage.
The user alone assumes all responsibility and risk.
► Keep this manual available on site where the VBO3 is used. The instructions provided in this user
manual and the associated manuals are considered part of the rules governing proper usage.
Safety instructions
OMICRON 7
2.3 Safe operation procedures
► Before connecting and disconnecting test objects, verify that all outputs have been turned off and
the installation is dead. Never connect or disconnect a test object while the outputs are active.
► When disconnecting power supply cables or test leads, always start from the device feeding the
power or signal.
► Do not operate VBO3 when explosive gas or vapors are present.
► Only work in well lit areas. If there is not enough daylight, use a strong light to make sure that you
see everything and so ensure your safety.
► Keep your work area clean to avoid accidents.
► If VBO3 seems to be functioning improperly or has visible damages, please contact the OMICRON
Technical Support (→ page 23).
2.4 Operator qualifications
► Working on a power distribution network can be extremely dangerous. Familiarize yourself
thoroughly with all the information in this manual. In addition, you need to be familiar with all
manuals of the devices used in the test procedure.
► Testing with VBO3 shall only be carried out by authorized and qualified personnel. Before starting
to work, clearly establish the responsibilities of all personnel involved.
► Personnel receiving training, instruction, direction, or education on VBO3 shall remain under the
constant supervision of an experienced operator while working with the equipment.
► Personnel operating VBO3 must be familiar with recognized operating practices and procedures
for working on high and low voltage systems. They must be familiar with the five safety rules:
• Disconnect completely.
• Secure against re-connection.
• Verify that the installation is dead.
• Carry out grounding and short-circuiting.
• Provide protection against adjacent live parts.
► In addition, the personnel operating VBO3 must be familiar with all necessary personal safety
equipment.
► Testing with VBO3 must comply with all on-site procedures and methods for personal safety and
the safety instructions relevant for each test. They must be discussed with all personnel involved.
VBO3 User Manual
8OMICRON
3 Device overview
Voltage output triple
0 ... 600 V
(incl. N)
Voltage input triple 1
0 ... 300 V
(without N)
Voltage input triple 2
0 ... 300 V
(without N)
Handle
(detachable)
If required, you can create the neutral phase for input triple 1 by short-circuiting the phases
V4 prim, V5 prim, and V6 prim (→ Wiring on page 11).
Device overview
OMICRON 9
4 Circuit diagram
Input
max. 300 V
V1 prim V1 sec
V2 sec
V3 sec
N sec
V2 prim
V3 prim
V4 prim
V5 prim
V6 prim
Output
max. 600 V
VBO3 User Manual
10 OMICRON
5 Wiring
You can connect VBO3 to CMC 430 test sets as well as to other OMICRON CMC test sets
(CMC 256plus, CMC 310, CMC 353, and CMC 356). Note, however, that the wiring and the
configuration in the Test Universe software are different depending on the respective use case. For
more information on how to configure the control software, see page 17.
WARNING
Avoid serious injury or death caused by electric shock.
► The isolation of VBO3 is designed as a 600 V isolation. Therefore, only operate
VBO3 with primary voltages up to max. 300 V. Otherwise, output voltages higher
than 600 V might occur due to the voltage ratio of about 1 : 2.16.
► Always use the connection cables with 4 mm safety banana plugs (that are
included in the delivery) to connect VBO3 to a CMC test set.
► If you need to use other cables and/or connectors, always refer to the safety
instructions and user documentation of the respective CMC test set in use before
proceeding.
Wiring
OMICRON 11
5.1 Connecting VBO3 to a CMC 430
5.1.1 Max. 300 V output voltage
There is no star point at the VBO3 voltage inputs. Usually, a star point is not necessary for use with a
CMC 430 test set. However, if you would like to use the CMC 430 like one of OMICRON's other CMC
test sets and require an output voltage of only max. 300 V, you need to create a star point.
To create a star point:
• Connect the CMC 430 voltage outputs to one of the VBO3 voltage input triples using a connection
cable with 4 mm safety banana plugs (included in the delivery).
• Use flexible jumpers (included in the delivery) to interconnect the other VBO3 voltage input triple,
and thus, create a star point.
• Connect the star point to the CMC 430's neutral phase.
Flexible jumpers
1
2
3
N
Connection
cable
1
2
3
NTest object
Connection cable
VBO3
CMC 430
VBO3 User Manual
12 OMICRON
5.1.2 Max. 600 V output voltage
There is no star point at the VBO3 voltage inputs. However, a star point is not necessary for use with a
CMC 430 test set when an output voltage of 0 ... 600 V is required. You can simply connect the
voltage outputs of the CMC 430 to the VBO3 inputs using connection cables with 4 mm safety banana
plugs (included in the delivery).
1
2
3
1
2
3
Connection cables
Connection
cable
1
2
3
NTest object
VBO3
CMC 430
Wiring
OMICRON 13
5.2 Connecting VBO3 to other CMCs
There is no star point at the VBO3 voltage inputs. Therefore, you need to create one when connecting
a CMC test set other than the CMC 430 (i.e., the CMC 256plus, CMC 310, CMC 353, or CMC 356):
• Connect the CMC voltage outputs to one of the VBO3 voltage input triples using a connection
cable with 4 mm safety banana plugs (included in the delivery).
• Use flexible jumpers (included in the delivery) to interconnect the other VBO3 voltage input triple,
and thus, create a star point.
• Connect the star point to the CMC's neutral phase.
Connection cable VBO3
CMC 256plus
Test object
Flexible jumpers
Connection cable
1
2
3
N
1
2
3
N
VBO3 User Manual
14 OMICRON
6 Configuring VBO3 in the control software
6.1 Configuration in Test Universe
To configure the voltage outputs in Test Universe:
1. Launch a Test Universe module of your choice, and go to the Hardware Configuration.
2. On the General tab, select your CMC from the Test Set(s) list.
3. Click the Details button.
4. In the Output Configuration Details dialog, select a suitable configuration for the voltage outputs:
•CMC 256plus, CMC 310, CMC 353, or CMC 356 with max. 300 V output voltage: Select a
3 x 300 V configuration.
Example:
Configuring VBO3 in the control software
OMICRON 15
•CMC 430 with max. 150 V output voltage: Select a 3 x 150 V configuration.
Example:
•CMC 430 with max. 600 V output voltage: Select a 3 x 300 V configuration.
Example:
5. Click the Connect VT button.
6. To complete the VT configuration details, you need to calculate the true voltage ratio. Proceed with
section Calculation of voltage ratio on page 17.
VBO3 User Manual
16 OMICRON
6.2 Calculation of voltage ratio
Without load, the voltage ratio between the primary and secondary side of VBO3 is roughly 1 : 2.16. In
real-life testing scenarios with load, however, the voltage ratio will be lower. To ensure accurate testing
conditions, you need to determine the true voltage ratio under load conditions and enter the
corresponding value in Test Universe. You can determine the voltage ratio using a multimeter that
fulfills the requirements for measurement categories CATIII/1000V and CATIV/600V. It is important that
you always connect the load before measuring the output voltages (see workflow below).
WARNING
Avoid serious injury or death caused by electric shock.
► Always measure the output voltages with a multimeter suitable for up to 1000 V
working voltage because at the VBO3 outputs, voltages higher than 600 V might
occur due to the voltage ratio of about 1 : 2.16.
► Do not use a CMC test set for measuring the output voltages. CMC test sets are
designed for input voltages of max. 600 V. Due to the VBO3's voltage ratio of about
1 : 2.16, voltages higher than 600 V might occur.
Configuring VBO3 in the control software
OMICRON 17
To determine the voltage ratio:
1. Connect the CMC test set to VBO3 (as shown in section Wiring on page 11).
2. Connect the load by connecting the VBO3 secondary outputs to the test object.
3. Connect the multimeter as shown in the example below.
Connection cable
Test object
Flexible jumpers
Connection cable
1
2
3
N
1
2
3
N
Multimeter
VBO3
CMC 256plus
4. With the multimeter, measure the output voltages of VBO3 for each phase.
5. Calculate the voltage ratio for each phase, and then calculate the average value of the voltage
ratios:
VBO3 User Manual
18 OMICRON
7 Setup with OMICRON transport case
If you are using VBO3 in combination with a CMC 430, you can create a joint test setup with both
devices in an OMICRON transport case. Simply detach VBO3's handle to conveniently use the voltage
transformer without needing to take it out of the transport case.
Example:
To detach the handle:
1. Remove the two grey cover caps on both sides of the Aluminium handle.
2. Remove the aluminium handle by loosening the screws.
3. Bring the two levers into a 45° position and remove them.
4. Remove the two fasteners on the left and on the right.
NOTICE
Equipment damage possible.
► Do not use the OMICRON transport case for transporting the VBO3 voltage transformer. The
OMICRON transport case does not offer sufficient protection against transport damage for
VBO3 voltage transformers.
VBO3 User Manual
20 OMICRON
Table of contents
