7
If desired, and before the unit is connected to any source of voltage,
the shrouds can be locked back by pushing and twisting 90°.
The prod tips will be exposed by 3 ± 0.5mm. In this position they are
GS38 compliant.
3.3 Operating Duty Ratio
The voltage indicator should be operated (ON) for a maximum period
of 30 seconds. This should be followed by a recovery period (OFF) of
4 minutes.
The operating duty ratio is 8 to 1, so if the voltage indicator is only
ON for 2 seconds then the OFF period need only be 16 seconds.
3.4 Proving Check
Before each use the voltage indicator should be examined for
damage, cracks, cuts or scratches to the housing, cable and prods.
The cable has black outer and contrasting inner insulation, to allow
damage to the cable to be easily identified. If there is any doubt the
voltage indicator should
not be used
.
Before and after use, verify the voltage indicator is functioning
correctly with a proving device (PD690, PD700 or PD710 is
8
recommended), or a known good voltage source.
Do not
use
the
voltage indicator if any expected voltage indication LED’s (50, 120,
230, 400, 690V) fail to illuminate correctly during proving.
The LED’s that illuminate during proving will depend on the
magnitude of the proving unit output or the voltage source. See
table 1.
Table 1. Required LED indications during proving
VI-15000
LED’s
Voltage
source
230V 50Hz
Proving unit type
PD430 or
PD440
PD690 or
PD700
PD710
+ 50V
On
On
On
Only + or -
On*
- 50V
On
On
On
120V
On
On
On
On
230V
On
On
On
On
400V
Off
On
On
On
690V
Off
Off
On
On
* Illumination of the 50V polarity LED’s depends on the polarity of
the connections to the PD710. Always reverse the connections to
the PD710 to check the other 50V LED.
Warning
If the proving device or voltage source exceeds the specified
limits of the voltage indicator the voltage indicator may be
damaged and the operator may be exposed to a shock hazard.
Always check the specification of the proving device or the
voltage magnitude of the voltage source before proceeding with
a proving check.
9
During this verification emphasis should also be placed upon
the flexing of the voltage indicator’s cable along its length, and
particularly at the entry points to the hand held elements, to confirm
that the cable has not been fractured.
Any unexpected display should be investigated and the VI-15000
not used
unless all expected voltage indication LED’s illuminate.
3.5 Testing for the Presence of Hazardous Live Voltage
Warning
Hold the voltage indicator and test prod behind the finger
guards in a manner that will not obscure the voltage indication
LED’s. Never touch the exposed metal test prods or any part of
the voltage indicator forward of the finger guards while applied
to hazardous voltages.
While taking all required safety precautions connect both test prods
to the UUT (Unit or location under test).
The polarity and voltage level of any voltage present will be
indicated by the illumination of the voltage indicator LED’s.
3.6 Interference (Phantom) Voltage
It is possible for wiring that is ‘dead’ to indicate the apparent
presence of voltage at power frequency.
If wiring that is live is running in close proximity to the ‘dead’ wiring
being tested, there can be capacitive or inductive coupling between
the two, thereby causing interference (phantom) voltages.
Refer to section 1.3 for safety advice relevant to interference
voltage.
10
4. MAINTENANCE
4.1 Periodic Testing
To maintain the integrity of the voltage indicator, Martindale Electric
recommends that it is returned at least once a year to verify physical
integrity, electrical specification and insulation integrity.
Martindale Electric is pleased to offer you this service. Please
contact our Service Department for details.
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01923 650660
4.2 Cleaning
Warning
To reduce the risk of surface leakage, this instrument must be kept in
a clean condition.
Warning
Prior to cleaning, ensure that the instrument is disconnected from
any voltage source.
If contamination is found, clean with a damp soft cloth and if
necessary a mild detergent or alcohol. Do not use abrasives,
abrasive solvents, or detergents which can cause damage to the
unit. If a mild detergent is used, the unit should subsequently be
thoroughly cleaned with a water dampened soft cloth. After cleaning,
dry and allow to remain in a dry environment for 2 hours before use.
4.3 Repair and Service
There are no user serviceable parts in this unit. Return to Martindale
Electric if faulty. Our service department will quote promptly to repair
any fault that occurs outside the guarantee period.
