SensorLink 8-117 XT 50HZ User manual

SensorLink®
Operators Manual
Amp Litewire
High Voltage Ammeter Probe

Padmount Conductor
Model 8-117XT
Overhead Conductor
Model 8-117WJ

Operators Manual
Amp Litewire
High Voltage Ammeter Probe
Table of Contents Page
Safety Information 4
Theory of Operation 5
Specifications 6
Amp Litewire Operating Instructions 7-10
Fiber Optic Cable Handling Guidlines 11-12
High Voltage Operation 12
Battery Replacement 12
Troubleshooting Guide 13
Amp Litewire Diagram 14
Warranty 15-16
Quality Assurance Back Cover
Available Stock Codes:
8-117 XT 50HZ 8-117 XT 60HZ 8-117 XT EURO
8-117 WJ 50HZ 8-117 WJ 60HZ 8-117 WJ EURO

Page 4
SAFETY INFORMATION
Read all safety and instruction statements before using the product. Failing
to follow the safety guidelines can cause severe injury or death.
The Amp Litewire is designed for use on live, overhead lines. All procedures
appropriate for the line voltage are to be taken, including proper work
techniques, equipment, and Personal Protection Equipment.
The Amp Litewire should be used by personnel who have been trained for
live-line, high voltage work by their organization.
The hot stick should be considered the sole isolation device.
The hot stick lengths must be correct for line voltage per minimum
approach distances stated in published OSHA regulations and/or provided
by the utility.
The cover plate, chuck, probe section, resistor section, and entire Amp
Litewire Transmitter is to be considered at the same potential. Putting the
cover plate, chuck, or other parts of the Radio Voltstik within the air gap
of adjacent phases or ground could cause a phase to phase or phase to
ground fault.
The fiber optic cable is a high voltage insulator and will isolate equipment
in the same manner as a fiberglass hot stick. Wind extra cable and do not
allow extra length to hang loose.
The Amp Litewire should never be left unattended while on the line.
Do not force the arms of the Amp Litewire.
Do not alter the product in any manner.

THEORY OF OPERATION
The Amp Litewire is a two piece, True RMS Ammeter with a fiber optic link between
the high voltage amp sensor transmitter and the analog output at ground potential.
The amp sensor transmitter is mounted on a hot stick (insulated pole) and slipped
over a low or high voltage line. A fiber optic cable connects the amp sensor
transmitter to a receiver unit at ground potential, which provides the analog output.
An analog replica of the current waveform is available at the BNC connector. This
signal may be read with any instrument that is capable of reading 0-2 volt AC. The
unit has an output impedance of 50 ohms.
The fiber optic cable is physically rugged while providing the high speed data path
required for digital waveform transmission. The cable is the high voltage insulator
between the two units and is specified to provide 100kv isolation per foot. It also is
the high voltage insulator between the two units.
The Amp Litewire may be used with the Volt Litewire to maintain power systems
and troubleshoot power problems.
Page 5

Page 6
SPECIFICATIONS
Model Number 8 -117 X T 8 -117 WJ
Sensor Opening Standard Wide Jaw
Opening Width 2.5"
6.35 cm
4"
10.16 cm
Transmitter Weight 1.75 lbs
0.79kg
2.60 lbs
1.18 kg
Range of Operation
Current 1-2000 A 1-2000 A
Phase to Phase Voltage up to 433 kV up to 433 kV
Phase to Ground Voltage up to 250 kV up to 250 kV
Accuracy ±1 %, ±0.1 millivolt
Phase Angle ±1°
Resolution 0.1 millivolt
Frequency
50Hz Calibrated 47 to 53 Hz
60Hz Calibrated 57 to 63 Hz
Analog Output 1 millivolt RMS per Amp
Output Connector BNC. No DC offset voltage.
Output Impedance 50 ohms minimum
Frequency Response 3000 Hz or to the 50th harmonic
Fiber Optic Cable
Standard Length 40 ft, 12.19 m
Isolation 100 kV per Foot, 150 kV max
Mechanical
Ambient Temperature -22° to +140° F, -30° to +60° C
Lithium battery required for use below -4°F (-20° C)
Housing Fire resistant and waterproof polycarbonate and silicone
Hotstick Mounting Universal Chuck Adaptor (hot stick not included)
Battery 9 volt, one per Transmitter and Receiver
Battery Life Minimum six hours of continuous use

Page 7
Amp Litewire Operating Instructions
Step 1: Connect the Fiber Optic link. Inspect and clean the fiber optic cable per
instructions on page 11 and 12. Uncover the male connector dust cover on the fiber
optic cable. Uncover the dust cap on the female receiver, located on the face of the
unit. Line up the male connector and insert into the female receiver. Push and twist
to lock into place. Repeat the process on the opposite end of the fiber for the other
unit.
Step 4: Power on the unit. The Amp Litewire is controlled by the single push
button switch located on the front panel of each unit. Press the push button switch
one time on both the transmitter and the receiver.
Startup Test: The Amp Litewire conducts a startup test to verify the sensors and
circuitry is functioning correctly. While in startup mode the receiver screen will
display TESTING.
When the test determines the unit is functioning properly, the transmitter push
button LED will be solid green, and the receiver display will be in Measurement
Range selection.
If the test detects a failure the display will show FAIL and a corresponding code. See
page 13 for the failure code chart.
Step 2: Attach unit to the hot stick. Attach the sensor transmitter to a universal
hot stick (Insulated Pole).
Step 3: Attach the Strain Relief Strap. To prevent strain on the fiber optic cable,
wrap the Velcro securely around the handle of the transmitter as shown below:

Page 8
Step 5: Select Measurement Range.
Unit will automatically be set to “2000”. To change, press and hold the button. The
LCD will continuously toggle through “20”, “200”, “2000”, and “OFF” messages
until one is selected by releasing the button.
“20” means 0 to 20A measurement range. In this range, 100mV RMS analog output
represents 1A RMS input.
“200” means 0 to 200A measurement range. In this range, 10mV RMS analog output
represents 1A RMS input.
“2000” means 0 to 2000A measurement range. In this range, 1mV RMS analog output
represents 1A RMS input.
Once the range is selected, and the fiber optic cable is connected, the receiver
display will show “<1” to indicate there is no current applied through the sensor
transmitter.
Step 6: Connect to the analyzer. An analog replica of the current waveform is
available at the BNC connector. This signal may be read with any instrument that is
capable of reading 0-2 volt AC. The unit has an output impedance of 50 ohms. A
portable oscilloscope, waveform recorder, or power analyzer may be used. You will
need the following equipment to output an analog device:
(1) Amp Litewire: 8-117 XT or 8-117 WJ
(2) 7-011-CABL
See the operation manual of the analyzer on how to connect the Amp Litewire to
get the analog replica of the current waveform.
20 200
2000 OFF

Page 9
Step 7: Assembling the hanger (if applicable).
A retaining ring keeps the thumb screw bound to the hanger.
The hanger attaches to a mount on the back of the Amp Litewire, centered just
above the battery door. Insert the thumb screw into the recessed thread. The pin on
the back of the hook aligns with a receptacle adjacent to the threaded insert.

Step 8: Hanging the Transmitter. A detachable hook, ordered separately, is
available to allow the amp sensor transmitter and its hot stick to hang temporarily
from overhead wires.
**The unit should never be left unattended while hanging.
**The receiver unit should never be allowed to hang free.
Page 10
Step 9: Communication. Once hung, the transmitter unit will read and
communicate to the receiver. The display on the receiver will update to “>1” when
there is more than 1A of current applied.
Step 10: Powering the unit OFF. Press and release the switch button to turn off
both the transmitter and receiver.
Step 11: Auto Power OFF. The receiver units and transmitter will power off if it
does not receive more than 1A input for approximately 30 minutes. This feature is
designed to save battery power. If an automatic time-out occurs, the units will have
to be manually restarted.
>1
Directional Properties
The Amp sensor on the Litewire is direction sensitive. In order to ensure proper
phase relationship when comparing to a voltage reference, place the Amp Litewire
so the face of the instrument is facing the load. The proper phase angle should be
0 to ±90º when measuring the fundamental. When the sensor is positioned in an
improper orientation the phase angle will read ±91º to ±180º.

Page 11
Fiber Optic Cable Handling Guidelines
Keeping Ferrites Covered
1. Do not touch the ceramic ferrite end.
2. Cover the fiber optic connector when not in use. Unprotected connector ends
are most often damaged by impact, such as hitting the floor. The provided tethered
dust cap will protect the connector’s ceramic ferrite end from impact damage that
might crack or chip the polished surface. Please contact SensorLink Corporation for
a replacement if the provided dust cap is lost or broken.
3. The fiber end face, ceramic ferrite, and dust cap must be clean and it is
recommended they be cleaned each time they are connected.
Cleaning
The fiber optic cable should be cleaned and handled in the same manner as a
fiberglass hot stick. It is critically important for fiber optic connectors to be free
of dust and dirt to maintain optimum performance. Cleaning should be done as
often as possible in dusty and dirty environment. A simple and effective way to
guarantee cleanliness is to clean the ends of your fiber optic cables each time they
are disconnected and reconnected. Dust, lint, oil (from touching the fiber end face),
or other foreign particles obscure the end face, compromising the integrity of the
optical signal being sent over the fiber.
Recommended Equipment:
Kimwipes® or any lens-grade, lint-free tissue.
Use only industrial grade 99% pure isopropyl alcohol. Commercially available
isopropyl alcohol is for medicinal use and is diluted with water and a light mineral
oil. Industrial grade isopropyl alcohol should be used exclusively.
Canned dry air.
(Optional) Microscope

Recommended Process:
1. Fold the tissue twice so it is four layers thick.
2. Saturate the tissue with alcohol.
3. Clean the sides of the connector ferrule. Place the connector ferrule in the tissue.
Apply pressure to the sides of the ferrule. Rotate the ferrule several times to remove
all contamination from ferrule sides.
4. Move to a clean, saturated part of the tissue. Put the tissue against the end of the
connector ferrule. Put your fingernail against the tissue so that it is directly over the
ferrule.
5. (Optional) Use the microscope to verify the quality of the cleaning. If it isn’t
completely clean, repeat the steps with a clean tissue. Repeat until you have a
cleaning technique that yields good, repeatable results.
6. Connect immediately. If not possible, be sure to replace protective boot.
7. Air can be used to remove lint or loose dust from the connectors. Never insert
any liquid into the ports.
High Voltage Operation
This instrument is designed to operate in high voltage fields. However, difficulty may
be experienced when excessive corona to the instrument occurs, resulting in a lost
reading or requiring the power to be cycled.
Transporting
There are no special considerations for transporting the device.
Battery Replacement
The Amp Litewire is powered by a single 9V battery in both the receiver and
transmitter. The battery should be replaced when the low battery icon shows on the
display. To change the battery, loosen the screw on the battery cover at the rear of
the unit. Pull the battery out of the compartment and install a fresh battery. Secure
by closing and tightening the screw on the battery cover.
Cleaning
The Amp Litewire can be cleaned by wiping with a silicone hot stick wipe to remove
sand, salt, and dirt.
Page 12

Page 13
Troubleshooting Guide
Fail Codes
The unit will not enter into measurement mode if the self-test has any of the below
failures. The unit will need to be returned to SensorLink for repair evaluation.
FAIL CODE "1": Break to the main current sensor
FAIL CODE "2": Break to a current sensor component
FAIL CODE "3": Circuit failure, low gain
FAIL CODE "4": Circuit failure, high gain
Why does the receiver display show “No Signal”? No data output to the
analyzer?
This indicates there is not data output to the analyzer.
a. Make sure the amp sensor transmitter is powered on.
b. Make sure the battery in the amp sensor transmitter has 8.5VDC or greater
c. Check the fiber end faces and ceramic ferrites for dirt. See page 11 and 12 for
the fiber optic cable handling and cleaning instructions
d. There is a break in the Fiber. Replace the Fiber Optic Cable.
Why is my unit not powering on?
Verify that there are fresh 9V batteries in each unit.
Why did my unit power off?
a. The battery voltage is too low.
b. The units will automatically power off after approximately 30 minutes of no cur-
rent (<1A) being sensed.
Service and Repair Questions
Please contact SensorLink or an authorized agent for the return process of product
for evaluation, repair, calibration, and verification.
SensorLink Corporation
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.sensorlink.com
Scan code for more production information

Page 14
Amp Litewire Diagram
1. Fiber Optic Ends
2. ON/OFF Switch
3. Universal Chuck Adaptor
4. Amp Sensor/Transmitter
5. Fiber Optic Cable
6. BNC Output
7. Receiver
8. Hanger
1
2
3
4
6
1
5
7
8

SENSORLINK CORPORATION
LIMITED WARRANTY
What Does This Warranty Cover?
This warranty covers the following with respect to new, non-custom SensorLink
products (the “Product”):
- Defects in materials
- Defects in workmanship
- Damages occurring during shipping from SensorLink if shipped under FOB
Freight Allowed shipping terms
How Long Does This Warranty Last?
This warranty runs for twenty-four (24) months from the date of invoice by
SensorLink.
What SensorLink Will Do:
If a defect in materials or workmanship or shipping damages as described above
occurs within the warranty period, SensorLink will, at its election, repair or replace
the Product at no charge or provide a refund.
What This Warranty Does Not Cover:
This warranty does not cover or apply to:
- Any defects or damages caused directly or indirectly by misuse, abuse,
disassembly, alteration, negligence, accident, act of God, improper voltage, or
improperly or incorrectly performed maintenance or repair
- Any defects or damages caused by any connection, installation or use of the
Product not in compliance with the instructions and specifications for its use
- Any defects or damages caused by any alterations, modifications or repairs not
made by SensorLink
- Third party products connected to the Product or in which the Product is
installed
- Any Product purchased by the user in used condition
- Any custom Product produced by SensorLink
- Any Product repaired or calibrated by any party other than SensorLink
No Other Warranties:
OTHER THAN THE WARRANTIES PROVIDED HEREIN, SENSORLINK MAKES NO
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ORAL OR WRITTEN WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE
PRODUCT AND ALL SUCH WARRANTIES ARE EXCLUDED BY AGREEMENT AND
SHALL NOT BE IMPLIED BY LAW, CUSTOM, USAGE, TRADE PRACTICE, COURSE
OF DEALING OR COURSE OF PERFORMANCE. ALL WARRANTIES IMPLIED BY
LAW, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE, WHICH CANNOT BE EXCLUDED BY LAW ARE LIMITED TO
THE DURATION OF THE WARRANTY. Some states do not allow limitations on how
long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.
Limitation On Damages:
SENSORLINK SHALL IN NO EVENT BE LIABLE FOR DEATH, INJURIES TO PERSONS
OR PROPERTY OR FOR INCIDENTAL, CONTINGENT, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES ARISING FROM USE OF THE PRODUCT. Some states do not allow
the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
Page 15

Page 16
How Do You Get Warranty Performance?
In order to be eligible under this warranty, you must promptly contact SensorLink
upon discovery of a possible defect, supply a copy of this warranty along with
proof of purchase, and request a return material authorization (RMA). If you do not
contact SensorLink within the twenty-four (24) month warranty period, your rights
under this warranty will terminate. All warranty correspondence should be directed
to:
SensorLink Corporation
1360 Stonegate Way
Ferndale, WA 98248
[phone]
SensorLink will begin its inspection of the Product within five (5) business days
of receipt and will contact you when its inspection is complete. If the inspection
uncovers a defect, SensorLink will repair or replace the Product and pay for the
cost of shipping the Product back to you. Alternatively, SensorLink may issue you a
refund of your original purchase price.
If the inspection does not uncover a defect, or the defect resulted from causes not
within the scope of the warranty, then the Product will be replaced only at your
request and at your expense and you must bear all costs of shipping the Product.
Additionally, you will be responsible to reimburse SensorLink for its evaluation
expenses and Product verification fee. You may obtain SensorLink’s current fees by
calling the number listed above.
How Does State Law Apply?
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state.
Choice of Law:
This warranty, including without limitations the rights and responsibilities granted
hereunder, shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the
State of Washington, without regard to the conflicts of law provisions thereof.
Severability:
If any provision of this warranty is held unenforceable or illegal, or otherwise limited
in its application, by a court or other authority with competent jurisdiction, such
provisions shall be modified to the minimum extent required such that the rest of
the warranty will continue in full force and effect in accordance with its terms.
Entire Agreement:
This writing embodies the entire limited warranty of SensorLink, and no other
warranties are given beyond those set forth herein. No oral agreements or
understandings shall be binding on SensorLink. SensorLink neither assumes, nor
authorizes, anyone (including without limitation SensorLink agents, employees or
contractors) to assume or create for it other obligations or liabilities or modify in any
way any item or provision of this warranty.

Quality Assurance Certification
High Voltage Ammeter Probe
8-117
SensorLink certifies that its calibration measurements are traceable to the National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), to the extent allowed by the Institute's
calibration facility, and to the calibration facilities of other International Standards
Organization members.
This document certifies the following High Voltage Ammeter Probe was tested at
the SensorLink High Voltage Laboratory, Ferndale, WA, USA to the appropriate
standard and comply with the requirements of that standard.
Sensor Transmitter Amp Meter; Model 8-117; Serial Number:____________________
I hereby certify that the High Voltage Ammeter Probe listed above has passed all
tests defined in the SensorLink standard. I also certify that I have reviewed the
standard and test procedure and that they are sufficient in determining compliance
with the standard.
Signed: _______________________________________________
Date: _________________________________________________
Scan code for more production information on the Amp Litewire
SensorLink®Corporation
Form No: SALE-Manual Template Amp Litewire
Date: 01/2023
Manual Stock Code No: M050-005-001 V01
Information contained in this document is preliminary and subject to change without notice. Product specification may
change. Contact your SensorLink representative for the most current product information.
© 2020 by SensorLink. All rights reserved.
1360 Stonegate Way
Ferndale, WA 98248 USA
phone: [phone]
fax: [phone]
www.sensorlink.com
These products proudly
made in the USA.