Check the Specs for Safety When working with test equipment, it's important to understand category ratings. Learn about Overvoltage Installation Category ratings for test equipment, and how they can help you and your tool stay safe. ABCs of Safety |
Playing it safe with your DMM Taking safe measurements starts with choosing the right meter for the application and the environment in which it will be used. Learn about safety feature to look for when selecting a digital multimeter for your job. |
A DMM Primer When working with your digital multimeter, there are a number of basic terms and functions every technician should know. Here is a list of the some of the common terms that you'll probably come across when working with DMMs. |
Selecting the clamp for your job Choosing the right type of clamp meter is critical when you want to ensure proper power supply to all electrical equipment on a circuit. Learn about the different types of clamps, and which one is the best to help you with your job. |
Why "True-RMS"? Many modern loads – including solid-state motor drives and heating controls – often conduct non-sinusoidal current. Learn why a true-rms unit is an essential tool for troubleshooting. |
Understanding Harmonics Harmonics are especially prevalent where there are a large number of PCs, adjustable speed drives and other types of equipment that draw non-sinusoidal current. Learn what causes them and what to look for when you're troubleshooting. |
Understanding Flat-Topped Voltage When you're performing your power quality troubleshooting chores, you'll sometimes see a flat-topped waveform. What causes flat topping? |
Electrical Noise Electrical noise is a common problem when it comes to power quality. It happens as a result of random electrical signals getting coupled into circuits where they're not wanted. The problem is, they can disrupt information-carrying signals. Signal and data circuits are particularly vulnerable to noise.
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Troubleshooting Adjustable Speed Drives There are lots of things to look out for when troubleshooting adjustable speed drives, from current and voltage imbalance to single phasing and overvoltages. Here is just a small sampling of what you need to look at, and the test tools you should be using, when troubleshooting ASDs. |
Overvoltage Reflections When you're on the job troubleshooting adjustable speed drives (ASDs), you'll find there are a number of unique problems that may show up on your test and measurement equipment. One of these is overvoltage reflections. |
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Insulation Resistance Testing Insulation resistance testing is something that every good electrical technician should know about. It can help ensure public and personal safety by eliminating the possibility of a life-threatening short circuit or short to ground. It can also be helpful in protecting and prolonging the life of electrical systems and motors.
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