AEMC INSTRUMENTS MD305 AC Current Probe User Manual
- June 13, 2024
- AEMC INSTRUMENTS
Table of Contents
AEMC INSTRUMENTS MD305 AC Current Probe
Product Information
The AC Current Probe Model MD305 is a versatile tool designed for use in industrial environments. It is equipped with hook-shaped jaws that allow users to pry into or hook onto cables (up to 2 x 500 MCM) or smaller bus bars. The MD305 is compatible with any AC Ammeter, multimeter, or other current measurement instruments with an input impedance lower than 5. To ensure accurate measurements, it is recommended to use the MD305 with an Ammeter that has an accuracy of 0.75% or better.
The MD305 is classified as category III (CAT III), which means it can be used for measurements performed in building installations at the distribution level, such as on hardwired equipment in fixed installations and circuit breakers. However, caution should be exercised when clamping around bare conductors or bus bars.
The product features international electrical symbols to indicate its properties and safety precautions. It is protected by double or reinforced insulation, and only factory specified replacement parts should be used for servicing. Users are advised to refer to the user manual before using the instrument. The MD305 is a type A current sensor, allowing application around and removal from HAZARDOUS LIVE conductors.
Measurement Categories:
- CAT II: For measurements performed on circuits directly connected to the electrical distribution system. Examples include measurements on household appliances or portable tools.
- CAT III: For measurements performed in the building installation at the distribution level, such as on hardwired equipment in fixed installation and circuit breakers.
- CAT IV: For measurements performed at the primary electrical supply.
Product Usage Instructions
- Ensure the MD305 is compatible with your AC Ammeter, multimeter, or other current measurement instrument. The input impedance of the instrument should be lower than 5.
- If accuracy is important, use the MD305 with an Ammeter that has an accuracy of 0.75% or better.
- Exercise extreme caution when clamping around bare conductors or bus bars.
- Refer to the user manual for detailed instructions on using the MD305.
- Before using the MD305, make sure to check that it is in good condition and that all parts are functioning properly.
- When performing measurements, select the appropriate measurement category based on the electrical system you are working with (CAT II, CAT III, or CAT IV).
- If servicing is required, only use factory specified replacement parts.
- Always follow the safety precautions outlined in the user manual.
DESCRIPTION
The MD305 (Catalog #1201.36) is designed for use in industrial environments. The hook-shaped jaws enable the user to “pry” into or “hook” onto cables (will accept 2 x 500 MCM) or even smaller bus bars. compatible with any AC Ammeter, multimeter, or other current measurement instruments with an input impedance lower than 5Ω. To achieve the stated accuracy, use the MD305 with an Ammeter having an accuracy of 0.75% or better.
WARNING
These safety warnings are provided to ensure the safety of personnel and
proper operation of the instrument.
- Read the instruction manual completely and follow all the safety information before attempting to use or service this instrument.
- Use caution on any circuit: Potentially high voltages and currents may be present and may pose a shock hazard.
- Read the Safety Specifications section prior to using the current probe. Never exceed the maximum voltage ratings given.
- Safety is the responsibility of the operator.
- ALWAYS connect the current probe to the display device before clamping the probe onto the sample being tested.
- ALWAYS inspect the instrument, probe, probe cable, and output terminals prior to use. Replace any defective parts immediately.
- NEVER use the current probe on electrical conductors rated above 600V in overvoltage category III (CAT III). Use extreme caution when clamping around bare conductors or bus bars.
INTERNATIONAL ELECTRICAL SYMBOLS
DEFINITION OF MEASUREMENT CATEGORIES
CAT II: For measurements performed on circuits directly connected to the
electrical distribution system. Examples are measurements on household
appliances or portable tools.
CAT III: For measurements performed in the building installation at the
distribution level such as on hardwired equipment in fixed installation and
circuit breakers.
CAT IV: For measurements performed at the primary electrical supply (<1000V)
such as on primary overcurrent protection devices, ripple control units, or
meters.
RECEIVING YOUR SHIPMENT
Upon receiving your shipment, make sure that the contents are consistent with
the packing list. Notify your distributor of any missing items. If the
equipment appears to be damaged, file a claim immediately with the carrier and
notify your distributor at once, giving a detailed description of any damage
.
SPECIFICATIONS
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS
-
Current Range: 1 to 600A AC
-
Transformation Ratio: 1000:1
-
Output Signal: 1mA AC/A AC
-
Overload: 700A for 10mn
-
*Accuracy:
*
600A for 20 mn max (Reference conditions: 23°C ± 5°K, 20 to 75% RH, external magnetic field < 40 A/m, no DC component, no external current carrying conductor, test sample centered.) 5Ω load. -
Frequency Range: 40 to 1000Hz (error: add 2% to ref.)
-
Load Impedance: 5Ω max non-inductive
-
Open Secondary Voltage: Limited to 10V peak max.
-
Working Voltage: 600Vrms
-
Common Mode Voltage: 600Vrms
-
Influence of Adjacent Parallel Conductor: < 30mA/A at 50Hz
-
Influence of Conductor in Jaw Opening: < 1%
MECHANICAL SPECIFICATIONS
-
Operating Temperature: -5° to 122°F (-15° to 50°C)
-
Storage Temperature: -40° to 185°F (-40° to 85°C)
-
Influence of Temperature: < 0.1% per 10°K
-
Altitude:
- Operating: 0 to 2000m
- Non-operating: 0 to 12,000m
-
Jaw Opening: 1.3″ (33mm)
-
Maximum Conductor Size: 1.18” (30mm)
-
Maximum Bus Bar Size: 2.48 x 0.20” (63 x 5mm)
-
Envelope Protection: IP 20 (IEC 529)
-
Drop Test: 1.5m (IEC 68-2-32)
-
Mechanical Shock: 100g (IEC 68-2-27)
-
Vibration: 10/55/10 Hz, 0.15mm (IEC 68-2-6)
Polycarbonate Material:- Handles: 10% fiberglass charged polycarbonate UL 94 V0
-
Dimensions: 2.6 x 7.68 x 1.34″ (66 x 195 x 34mm)
-
Weight: 14.82 oz (420g)
-
Colors: Dark gray handles
-
Output: Double insulated 5 ft (1.5m) lead with safety banana plugs
SAFETY SPECIFICATIONS
Electrical: Double insulation or reinforced insulation between the
primary or secondary and the outer case of the handle conforms to IEC
1010-2-32.
Common Mode Voltage: 600V CAT III, Pollution Degree 2
Electromagnetic Compatibility:
- EN 50081-1 Class B
- EN 50082-2 Electrostatic discharge IEC 1000-4-2
- Radiated field IEC 1000-4-3
- Fast transients IEC 1000-4-4
- Magnetic field at 50/60 Hz IEC 1000-4-8
ORDERING INFORMATION
- Current Probe MD305 ……………….Cat #1201.36
- Accessories:
- Banana plug adapter (to non-recessed plug) ……………….Cat #1017.45
OPERATION
Please make sure that you have already read and fully understand the WARNING section on page 1.
Making Measurements with the AC Current Probe Model MD305
- Connect the black and red terminals to the Ampere AC range of your DMM or current measuring instrument. Select the appropriate current range (2A AC range). Clamp the probe around the conductor to be tested with the arrow pointed toward the load. If the reading is less than 200mA, select the lower range until you obtain the best resolution. Read the value display on the DMM and multiply it by the probe ratio (1000/1). (If reading = 0.459A, the current flowing through the probe is 0.459A x 1000 = 459A AC).
- For best accuracy, avoid if possible, the proximity of other conductors which may create noise.
Tips for Making Precise Measurements
- When using a current probe with a meter, it is important to select the range that provides the best resolution. Failure to do this may result in measurement errors.
- Make sure that probe jaw mating surfaces are free of dust and contamination. Contaminants cause air gaps between the jaws, increasing the phase shift between primary and secondary. It is very critical for power measurement.
MAINTENANCE
Warning
- For maintenance use only original replacement parts.
- To avoid electrical shock, do not attempt to perform any servicing unless you are qualified to do so.
- To avoid electrical shock and/or damage to the instrument, do not get water or other foreign agents into the probe.
Cleaning
To ensure optimum performance, it is important to keep the probe jaw mating
surfaces clean at all times. Failure to do so may result in error in readings.
To clean the probe jaws, use very fine sand paper (fine 600) to avoid
scratching the jaw, then gently clean with a soft, oiled cloth.
REPAIR AND CALIBRATION
You must contact our Service Center for a Customer Service Authorization
number (CSA#). This will ensure that when your instrument arrives, it will be
tracked and processed promptly. Please write the CSA# on the outside of the
shipping container.
Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC® Instruments 15 Faraday Drive • Dover, NH
03820 USA 800-945-2362 (Ext. 360) •
603-749-6434 (Ext. 360) •
repair@aemc.com (Or contact your authorized distributor)
NOTE: All customers must obtain a CSA# before returning any instrument.
TECHNICAL AND SALES ASSISTANCE
If you are experiencing any technical problems, or require any assistance with
the proper use or application of this instrument, please contact our technical
hotline:
800-343-1391 •
508-698-2115 •
techsupport@aemc.com
LIMITED WARRANTY
The current probe is warranted to the owner for a period of two years from the
date of original purchase against defects in manufacture. This limited
warranty is given by AEMC® Instruments, not by the distributor from whom it
was purchased. This warranty is void if the unit has been tampered with,
abused or if the defect is related to service not performed by AEMC®
Instruments.
Full warranty coverage and product registration is available on our website
at: www.aemc.com/warranty.html.
Please print the online Warranty Coverage Information for your records.