SensorLink Radio Ohmstik User manual

Operators Manual
Radio Ohmstik
Radio Linked
Micro Ohmmeter
SensorLink®Corporation

Model 8-182
Radio Ohmstik Transmitter
Model 8-184 not pictured
Model 8-180
Radio Ohmstik Display Unit
Model 6-182
Radio Ohmstik Kit
and Accessories

OPERATORS MANUAL
Radio Ohmstik
Radio Linked Live-Line Micro Ohmmeter
Table of Contents Page
Specifications 4
Safety Information 5
Theory of Operation 6
FCC and Industry Canada Statements 7
Cleaning and Transporting 7
Calculating Connector Resistance Ratio 8
Ratio Conditions and Actions 9
Radio Ohmstik Communication 10
Software Requrements and Installation 10
Communication with Software 11
Communication with Display Unit 12
Taking a Measurement 13
Reviewing the Measurement 14
Powering Off 14
Troubleshooting 15-16
Probes & Accessories 17-18
Battery Replacement 16
Warranty 19
Quality Assurance Back Cover
Available Stock Codes:
8-182 50HZ 8-182 60HZ 8-182 EURO
8-180 8-180 EURO 8-184 50HZ
8-184 60HZ 8-184 EURO

Page 4
Specifications
Model Number & Type 8-182 8-184
Type Standard Wide Jaw
Sensor Opening 2.5 in, 6.35 cm 3.86 in, 9.8 cm
Weight 2.3 lbs, 1.05 kg 4.0 lbs, 1.81 kg
Measurements
Amps 1-1400 A
Microohms 5-2500 μΩ
Accuracy
Amps ±1% 1 A
Microhms Absolute ±2% 2 
Microhms Repeatability ±1% 2 
Accuracy is diminished if the current is less than 15 amps 0-35kV and when current is less than 50 A while on 36-500kV
Range of Operation
Voltage Rated 500kV
Resolution
Amps 1.9-99 A 0.1 A
Amps 100-1400 A 1.0 A
Microhms 0-999 μΩ 1 μΩ
Frequency Actual frequency indicated on the unit
50Hz Calibrated 47 to 53Hz
60Hz Calibrated 57 to 63Hz
Radio
Frequency ISM 2.4 GHz
Power 63 mW, 10 mW in Europe & Japan
Range 150', (46 meters) Line of Sight, 120' (36.5 meters) in Europe & Japan
Mechanical
Battery 9 Volt Alkaline, 1 each per unit
Battery Life 6-8 Hours at 68°F or 20°C, 3-4 Hours at 32°F or 0°C
Detachable Probes Fused Probe or Adjustable Probe
Ambient Temperature -4 to +140° F, -20 to +60° C
Display Graphics LCD
Software Requirements Radio Ohmstik Software
System Requirements Windows XP, Vista, WIN 7, WIN 8, WIN 10
Hardware Requirements Minimum of two USB ports
EEC Standards Successfully passed international test standards indicated by CE

Page 5
Safety Information
Read all safety and instruction statements before using the product. Failing to
follow the safety guidelines can cause severe injury or death.
Ohmstiks are designed for use on live, overhead lines with 0 to 500KV. All
procedures appropriate for the line voltage are to be taken, including proper
work techniques, equipment, and Personal Protection Equipment.
The Ohmstik should be used only by certified personnel who have been
trained for live-line, high voltage work by their organization.
Connecting the probes in a phase to phase, phase to ground, or any
application where the voltage potential between the probes is more than 2.5
volts will cause damage to the instrument and create a system fault.
The hot stick length must be the correct for line voltage per minimum
approach distances stated in published OSHA regulations and/or provided by
the utility.
The cover plate, chuck, and entire Ohmstik are to be considered at the same
potential. Putting the cover plate, chuck, or other parts of the Ohmstik within
the air gap of adjacent phases or ground could cause a phase to phase or
phase to ground fault.
Do not alter the product in any manner.

Theory of Operation
The Radio Ohmstik Live-Line Micro Ohmmeter measures micro-ohm resistance
on conductors, connectors, splices, and switching devices positioned directly on
energized, high voltage lines. Resistance is the electrical condition of the connection
and calculating the measurements into condition ratios provides definitive and
actionable early warnings of a deteriorating fitting. If the resistance of the fitting
is outside the normal range, the connection is deteriorating. A connection with
resistance above the normal range is in a failure process, where the time to failure
depends on how high the resistance is.
The Ohmstik is placed on a splice or connector so the connection under test is
between the two electrodes. Measurement data is communicated to both the
Remote Display and the Radio Ohmstik Software on the user's laptop. At the
same time, the GPS device sends location data to the Software. When a valid
measurement is received, the software writes the data to a comma separated (CSV)
file. This combined data allows the user to map the location of the connector as well
as the measurements to analyze its condition.
Page 6

FCC & Industry Canada Statements
United States of America and Canada
Contains FCC ID: OUR-XBEEPRO
Contains Model XBee-PRO Radio, IC: 4214A-XBEEPRO
The/XBee-PRO® RF Module has been certified by the FCC for use with other
products without any further certification (as per FCC section 2.1091). Modifications
not expressly approved by Digi could void the user's authority to operate the
equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class
B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures: Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna, Increase the separation
between the equipment and receiver, Connect equipment and receiver to outlets
on different circuits, or Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for
help.
Cleaning
The Radio Ohmstik should be cleaned by wiping with a silicone hot stick wipe to
remove dirt, sand, and salt that will degrade the urethane housing.
Transporting
There are no special considerations for transporting this device.
Page 7

Calculating Connector Resistance Ratio:
Resistance ratio is calculated by comparing the resistance of the fitting over the
resistance of the conductor. Factors effecting the readings may include line tension
and wire condition (heavily birdcaged or other).
Ratio = Connector / Conductor
All fittings or splices consist of two different connectors. All connectors consist of
three resistors in series: (1) resistance of the conductor, (2) the connector, and (3)
the interface between the conductor and the connector.
The interface is the only resistor of the three that changes over time. The object of
using the Ohmstik is to measure as little of the conductor & connector as possible,
and all of the section that surrounds the interface.
EXAMPLE: A splice connector has two interfaces.
Step 1: TAKE THE CONDUCTOR MEASUREMENT
Measure a portion of the conductor equal in length to the interface portion of the
connector. Various lengths can be configured with the probes sent with the unit.
Step 2: MEASURE THE INTERFACE OF CONNECTOR SIDE A
Measure the interface of the first connector.
One contactor should be placed in just past the compressed section. On an
automatic splice, place the contactor in the middle of the connector. The second
contactor should be placed on the conductor, as close to the connector as possible
without touching the connector.
Step 3: MEASURE THE INTERFACE OF CONNECTOR SIDE B
Measure the interface of the second connector.
One contactor should be placed in just past the compressed section. On an
automatic splice, place the contactor in the middle of the connector. The second
contactor should be placed on the conductor, as close to the connector as possible
without touching the connector.
Page 8

Ratio Conditions and Actions
Evaluating any necessary actions can be completed once the ratios for the
connector are calculated. The following table shows the suggested action based on
maintaining the present load rating of the asset.
Resistance Ratio Condition of fitting Action
0.3 to 1.0 Normal Connection: Serviceable
New connections are expected to be in
the 0.3 to 0.8 range
None
1.01 to 1.2 Serviceable; Poor
Shows deterioration; Overloads &
faults may deteriorate the connection
Re-inspect in one
year, or after next
fault
1.21 to 1.5 Serviceable; Poor
Shows deterioration; Overloads &
faults may deteriorate the connection
Re-inspect in six
months, or after
next fault
1.51 to 2.0 Serviceable; Very poor
High loads, overloads, or faults may
deteriorate the connection
Schedule asset
replacement in less
than three months
2.01 to 3.0 Bad; deterioration rate is
increasing
High loads, overloads, or faults may
fail the connection. High tensions from
cold weather or wind may initiate
failure under normal loading
Schedule asset
replacement very
soon
>3.0 Failing
Normal loads, overloads, or faults may
fail the connection; High tensions from
cold weather or wind are likely to
initiate failure under normal loading
Replace as soon as
possible
*Actions required based on resistance ratios (Rfitting / Rconductor)
*These ratio conditions and actions are developed from field measurements, manufacturer
data, lab tests, failure analysis and understanding of deterioration mechanisms. This
guideline may be modified as field and test data accumulates.
Calculating the Resistance of Power Tap
Connectors:
The Ohmstik will take resistance on other Full and Limited tension connectors.
It is always best practice to take all three readings of the series and evaluate the
condition with the above table. However, due to the build and size, it may not be
possible to take all three readings in series. If evaluating based on a benchmark
measurements, or comparison to a known good fitting, a reading across the
connector can be made.
Factors effecting the reading may include line tension and wire condition (heavily
birdcaged or other).
Page 9

Radio Ohmstik Communication
The user is able to view the measurement sets on both a Display Unit and on a
laptop running Radio Ohmstik software. These communications may be used singly,
or at the same time.
With Radio Ohmstik software and GPS, the following data may be written to the
data file: Amps, Micro-Ohms, Date, Time, Comments, Latitude, and Longitude (with
the GPS USB plugged into the laptop).
Communicating to the Display Unit: The Display Unit is designed to be attached
to a hot stick or held by hand. The sensor transmits the live readings to the Display
Unit via radio. This functionality allows the user to easily see readings were taken.
Readings are not saved on the Display unit.
Communicating to the Laptop: With the Radio Ohmstik software loaded, and
the radio adapter plugged in, the Sensor will transmit the data and readings to the
laptop. The measurement set will automatically be saved as a .csv file for future
review.
Radio Ohmstik System Requirements
OPERATING SYSTEM: Radio Ohmstik Software installs onto computers running
Windows XP, VISTA, 7, 8, and 10. USB ports are needed for both GPS and Radio
communication.
NETWORK INSTALLATION: This is a single user application and is not supported
when installed onto a server.
INSTALLATION AUTHORITY: Installation will require administration rights.
Computers managed by electric utility organizations often limit the programs that
can be installed. If the user does not have admin rights they will need the assistance
of the IT department to download the software.
USB PORT PERMISSIONS: The USB GPS and USB Radio have install programs that
run the first time connected. The user may have rights to install programs but may
not be aware that the USB ports are locked on the PC. Please contact your network
administrator for permission and instructions to complete the install if drivers are
not installing automatically and need to be installed manually.
Softlink Installation
Step 1: Softlink Installer is available at www.sensorlink.com/products/ohmstik. Save
the file to the desired location. The Radio Ohmstik .exe file will automatically begin
the download when clicked.
Step 2: You must agree to the licensing agreement to proceed with the download.
Step 3: A dialog box will appear to let you know when the download is complete.
Shortcut paths will automatically load during the install.
Page 10

Setup: Communication with Software
Step 1: Plug the 7-024 USB Radio and the 7-025 USB GPS devices into the laptop's
USB ports. It will take several seconds for the computer to discover the devices
Step 2: Open the Radio Ohmstik Software
Step 3: The program starts by asking the user to select a file name and location to
write the data.
Note: The default File Name is a date and time code for the date and
time the application is opened.
Step 4: Select Save; the Radio Ohmstik Dashboard will load and is ready for
measurments
Page 11

Copyright 2011
SensorLink
F574 8XP 300
Firmware XXX No Signal
Display Software Dashboard
Setup: Communication with Radio Display
Step 1: If securing to a hot stick, place the Display Unit with the Velcro strap so the
LCD display is visible while taking measurements.
Step 2: Press the function button on the Display Unit. The display will run through
a startup sequence, ending with No Signal.
Setup: Radio Ohmstik Sensor
Step 1: Attach the Probe to the back of the Radio Ohmstik.
7-081 XT Standard Probe, for 8-182 Transmitter
7-081 Standard Probe, for 8-184 Transmitter
The probe is designed for use in close proximity to adjacent phases or ground
structures. See Safety Information on page
five. In the event of making a phase
to phase or phase to ground connection, the Probe will break the connection.
Step 2: Press the function button on the Radio Ohmstik sensor. The LED will flash
green when powered on.
Step 3: Both the Display and Software will indicate the Radio Ohmstik is ready to
take measurements
Page 12

Taking a Measurement:
Step 1: Place the Radio Ohmstik on a conductor as depicted below. It is essential to
make contact between the conductor and the voltage sensor, which is the V-shaped
plate between the jaws, as well as the voltage probe.
Step 2: Measurement begins as soon as the Ohmstik is in position and stable on the
conductor.
Step 3: While the Radio Ohmstik is taking the measurement, the screens will
display:
Step 4: The display screens will show the current in the conductor as well as the
Micro-Ohm resistance of whatever is between the two voltage probe.
Step 5: Remove the Ohmstik from the conductor. It holds the reading and displays
it as follows:
Step 6: Remove the Radio Ohmstik from the conductor or splice.
Step 7: The measurements are now written to the Radio Ohmstik software. The
displays will continue to show readings until the Radio Ohmstik is placed on a new
current carrying conductor, or until the units are powered off.
Step 8: Continue to take measurements for ratio analysis. See pages 8-9 for
measurement sequence and resistance ratio calculations.
Page 13

Page 14
Power Off the Radio Ohmstik
Press and hold the Function Button on the Display Unit until the LCD goes blank
or Press and hold the Function Button on the Radio Ohmstik until the LED goes off.
Either of these actions will power off itself and the accompanied device. The Radio
Ohmstik will power off by itself if left inactive for 20 minutes.
Collecting Measurements in Software
Step 1: The Radio Ohmstik software will display the completed measurement and
GPS location on the Dashboard.
Step 2: The data will automatically be written to a comma-separated values (CSV)
file when the Radio Ohmstik is removed from the conductor.
Step 3: A comment may be added before the reading is taken. Any comment
written will be a part of the record for the next reading and will save for future
lines. If the comment is not needed delete it on the record before taking the next
measurement.
Step 4: To review the data, open the saved CSV file in any spreadsheet or word
processing application.
Note: Opening the CSV file while the dashboard is open, will stop the recording
of readings. The number of readings will be recorded on the dashboard
but the readings will not be stored.

Troubleshooting and Error Messages:
“No Contact”
The Radio Ohmstik reads current but not micro-ohms:
This indicates one of the two voltage sensors is not making contact. Use the
rough edges of the probe to clean corrosion from the conductor and re-take the
measurement. Make certain both voltage sensors are making contact. The fitting
cannot be covered. See page 13 for instructions on Taking a Measurement.
“Poor Contact”
The Radio Ohmstik reads current but not micro-ohms:
There is poor contact on the conductor with one of the voltage contacts.Provide
five seconds to measure, while the Radio Ohmstik is held stationary with both
voltage probes securely on the line.
“Reading Ohms”
The following message indicates the current measurement was completed before
the resistance measurement could be completed:
Provide five seconds to measure, while the Radio Ohmstik is held stationary with
both voltage probes securely on the line.
“Unable To Measure”
The Radio Ohmstik uses logic to know when it is on a conductor by looking for a
stable load:
Hold the Radio Ohmstik firmly on the line for at least five seconds. The Ohmstik
samples the line three times every 100 milliseconds. If it cannot find three
consecutive reads that are within tolerance it will display “Unable To Measure”.
Page 15

“Exceeds 1400 Amps”
The Radio Ohmstik limits the maximum current to 1400 Amps:
The Radio Ohmstik is not specified to measure above 1400A.
Battery Replacement
The Radio Ohmstik system is powered by two 9V batteries, one in the Radio
Ohmstik and one in the Display. The expected battery life for both units is 6 to 8
hours at 68° F or 20° C. The expected life declines in colder environments. At 32°F
or 0°C it is reduced 3 to 4 hours.
Note: It is recommended fresh batteries be installed prior to operation each day.
Always replace both batteries.
To replace the battery, remove the four screws on the battery cover at the rear of
the unit. Carefully insert a screwdriver blade in the notch and pry the cover out,
being careful not to damage the cover seal. Pull the battery out of the compartment
and separate the battery from the battery connector. To avoid breaking the battery
leads do not pull on the battery only. Install a fresh battery and reinsert the battery
in its compartment. Do not pinch the wires between the battery and compartment;
put wires in slot above the battery. Reinstall the cover by gently pressing it into
place while pulling out on the edges of the compartment, and reinstall the four
cover screws. Take care to avoid over tightening the screws. Always reuse the screws
provided and do not damage or lose the O-ring seal on each screw.
Page 16

Standard Probe Configuration with Contactor Attachment
Standard Probes and Accessories
7-081 and 7-081XT Accessory Kits Include:
(1) Standard Probe (1) Contactor Attachment
(1) Wire Brush Contactor (1) Probe Hook
(1) 4" Rod, Straight (1) 4" Rod, Bent
(1) Philips Head Screw (1) Coupling Nut
(4) Lock Washers (6) Hexnuts
Standard Probe Configuration with a Straight Rod and Contactor Attachment
Standard Probe Configuration a Bent Rod and Curved Rod
Page 17
Wire Brush Contactor

7-081 ADJ Adjustable Probe Accessory Kit Includes:
The Adjustable probe is designed for any measurement where the distance to be
measured is less than 12 inches. This probe will adjust from 4 to 13 inches.
Adjustable Probe Kit includes:
(1) Adjustable Probe (1) Wire Brush Contactor
(1) Contactor Attachment (2) Hex Nuts
Other Replacement Accessories
The Universal Adapter allows the user to adjust the Ohmstik Transmitter at compound
angles. This is a useful adapter when working from the ground on complex apparatus.
7-050 Universal Adapter
Page 18
Adjustable Probe with Contactor Attachment
7-025 USB GPS Adapter 7-051 Carrying Case 7-024 USB Radio Adpater

Page 19
SensorLink Corporation
Warranty
SensorLink Corporation warrants each instrument it manufactures to be free from
defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for the period of
one year after date of shipment. Within this period, SensorLink Corporation agrees
to repair or replace, at SensorLink Corporation’s option, any instrument that fails to
perform as specified. This Warranty shall not apply to any instrument that has been:
1 Repaired, worked on, or altered, including removal of the front panel, by persons
unauthorized by SensorLink Corporation in such a manner as to injure, in
SensorLink Corporation’s sole judgment, the performance, stability, or reliability
of the instrument;
2 Subjected to misuse, negligence, or accident; or
3 Connected, installed, adjusted, or used otherwise than in accordance with the
instructions furnished by SensorLink Corporation.
This Warranty is in lieu of any other warranty, expressed or implied. SensorLink Cor-
poration reserves the right to make any changes in the design or construction of its
instruments at any time, without incurring any obligation to make any change whatever
in units previously delivered.
If a failure occurs, contact the manufacturer for a Return Authorization and instructions
for return shipment. This warranty constitutes the full understanding of the manufac-
turer and buyer, and no terms, conditions, understanding, or agreement purporting
to modify or vary the terms hereof shall be binding unless hereafter made in writing
and signed by an authorized official of SensorLink Corporation.

Quality Assurance Certification
Radio Ohmstik
Transmitter Models 8-182 and 8-184
Display Unit Model 8-180
SensorLink Corporation 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 Radio Ohmstik was tested at the SensorLink
Corporation High Voltage Laboratory, Ferndale, WA, USA to the appropriate
standard and comply with the requirements of that standard.
Sensor; Model Number: ______________________________________
Serial Number: _______________________________________________
Display Unit; Model Number: __________________________________
Serial Number: _______________________________________________
I hereby certify that the Radio Ohmstik listed above has passed all tests defined
in the Sensorlink Corporation 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: _______________________________________________________
1360 Stonegate Way
Ferndale, WA 98248 USA
phone: [phone]
fax: [phone]
www.sensorlink.com
Form No: SALE-Manual Template OHMSTIK-008 REV: V04
Date: 01/2020
Manual Stock Code No: DOPM-818-200
Information contained in this document is subject to change without notice. Product specification may change. Contact
your SensorLink representative for the most current product information. © 2019 by SensorLink. All rights reserved.
Made in the USA.
SensorLink®Corporation