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TnP Prime
User Manual
Wavecom
RCD Tests – Time Test / Ramp Test– Menu B – F3
Before Testing
When any RCD testing is to be carried out on any circuit that is protected by an RCD in the main switchboard
(upstream), it’s most likely to trip this upstream RCD. When performing RCD Trip Time or Ramp current tests on
any portable RCD devices, the RCD in the switchboard may trip faster. This is due to increased upstream levels
of leakage current from the additional circuits and devices connected to it. The fixed RCD’s may also have
better connectivity, sensitivity and mechanical mechanisms.
To avoid tripping large areas in the work place monitored by the switchboard RCD it is suggested that an
Isolation Transformer be used. Wavecom Instruments offer an Isolation Transformer, designed specifically for
the purposes of field RCD tripping. Do not use these transformers for any other purpose. Rated 240VAC In,
240VAC Out @ 30VA. Fuse protected, Primary Winding 500mA.
Types of RCD
There are two types of RCD - Type 1 and Type 2:
Type 1 - Has a trip time of < 40mS and a trip current of < 10mA. These types of RCD’s are mainly used on sites
containing medical equipment. These types of RCD’s must be compliant with AS3551. (Please refer to this
AS3551 standard if unsure)
Type 2- Has a trip time of < 300mS and a trip current of < 30mA. Unless specified on the RCD device nearly all
RCD will be this type. This is the default setting on all new units.
RCD Trip Time Testing:
This test is designed to trip RCD devices at a fixed current and to determine the trip time of the RCD device.
During an RCD Trip Time test, the TnP Prime injects a true fault current value using a real-time compensation
calculation of the actual voltage at the time of test, delivering a true and accurate trip current. The TnP Prime
will measure the time the RCD takes to trip in milliseconds, and display it on the screen. This function is factory
set to 30mA for fast testing, but the user can set the current to x0.5, x1.0 or x5.0 using the RCD Multiplier.
i.e.
30mA X 0.5 =15mA
30mA X 1.0 = 30mA - This also is effective on any set test current of the RCD tester from 5mA to 500mA output.
30mA X 5.0 = 150mA
These tests should result in no-trip, trip & fast trip times respectively.
To enter the RCD menu from Main Menu B, press the F3 button. Then, to set up a Trip Time Test, press F1. Before
performing an RCD Trip Time Test, the TnP Prime should be configured to ensure an accurate result.
RCD Test Options:
To adjust the Trip Time test options, press F3 . This allows the user to set the trip current level, 5mA to 500mA.
The RCD type can also be select here depending whether the unit is a Type I or Type II RCD. From the options
menu, press F2 to change the current level and F3 to change the RCD type.
Adjusting the current level:
The TnP Prime displays and maintains the last set trip current value. If the user wishes to change the value of
the trip current the following steps enable the changes. Press F2 from the options menu to display test current.
