TRIPLETT MG530 Insulation Tester and Digital Multimeter User Manual

TRIPLETT MG530 Insulation Tester and Digital Multimeter

Specifications

Technical Specifications

• Function: True RMS Multimeter & Insulation Tester
• Voltage Measurement Range: DC/AC+DC, AC Voltage, Low Z AC/DC
• Resistance Measurement Range: Continuity Test
• Current Measurement: AC Current with Current Transducer
• Insulation Resistance Measurement Range
• Surge Protection: 8kV peak per IEC 61010

General Specifications

• Double-insulated meter
• Input Protection Limits: 3000A AC, >550V DC/AC, Surge Protection 8kV peak per IEC 61010
• Safety Symbols: AC voltage or current, DC voltage or current, Connection to earth

Product Usage Instructions

Precautions and Safety Measures
Before operating the MG530 True RMS Multimeter & Insulation Tester, make sure to read and understand the safety measures outlined in the manual.

General Description
The multimeter functions as both a True RMS Multimeter and an Insulation Tester, providing accurate measurements for various electrical parameters.

Description
The meter includes a display that shows measurement readings and buttons for different functions.

Operating Instructions

• DC/AC+DC Voltage Measurement: Follow the specific steps outlined in the manual for accurate voltage measurement.
• AC Voltage Measurement: Use the appropriate settings to measure AC voltage.
• Low Z AC/DC Voltage Measurement: Select the Low Z function for accurate measurements.
• Resistance Measurement and Continuity Test: Use the meter to measure resistance and test continuity.
• AC Current Measurement: Use the current transducer for AC current measurement.
• Insulation Resistance Measurement: Follow the instructions for insulation resistance testing.

Maintenance
Regular maintenance includes checking the internal battery, replacing fuses when needed, cleaning the instrument, and proper disposal at end of life.

FAQ

1. Q: What should I do if the meter displays an error message?
   A: If you encounter an error message on the meter, refer to the troubleshooting section in the manual or contact customer support for assistance.

2. Q: Can the meter measure both AC and DC voltages?
   A: Yes, the MG530 True RMS Multimeter & Insulation Tester can measure both AC and DC voltages accurately.

Precautions and Safety Measures

• The instrument has been designed in compliance with directive IEC/EN61010-1 relevant to electronic measuring instruments.
• For your safety and in order to prevent damaging the instrument, please carefully follow the procedures described in this manual and read all notes preceded by symbol with the utmost attention.

International Safety Symbols
WARNING: observe the instructions given in this manual; improper use could damage the instrument or its components.

Safety Information

This meter has been designed for safe use, but must be operated with caution, the rules listed below must be carefully followed for safe operation.

• Do not carry out any measurement in humid environments.
• Do not carry out any measurements in case gas, explosive materials or flammables are present, or in dusty environments.
• Avoid any contact with the circuit being measured if no measurements are being carried out.
• Avoid any contact with exposed metal parts, with unused measuring probes, circuits, etc.
• Do not carry out any measurement in case you find anomalies in the instrument such as deformation, breaks, substance leaks, absence of display on the screen, etc.
• Before each use, verify meter operation by measuring a known voltage.
• Do not use the meter on a circuit with voltages that exceed the category based rating of this meter.
• Do not use the meter during electrical storms or in wet weather.
• Do not use the meter or test leads if they appear to be damaged.
• Use Only with CAT IV rated test leads.
• Ensure meter leads are fully seated, and keep fingers away from the metal probe contacts when making measurements.
• Do not open the meter to replace batteries while the probes are connected.
• Use caution when working with voltages above 25V AC RMS or 60V DC, such voltages pose a shock hazard.
• To avoid false readings that can lead to electrical shock, replace batteries when a low battery indicator appears.
• Do not attempt to measure resistance or continuity on a live circuit.
• Make sure the circuit under test does not include components that can be damaged by 1000VDC; such devices include power factor correction capacitors, low voltage mineral insulated cables, electronic light dimmers, and ballast/starters for fluorescent lamps.
• Do not perform insulation resistance testing or earth-bond resistance testing if voltage is present on parts of an installation or equipment under test, circuits under test (except for voltage measurements) must be de-energized and isolated before connections are made.
• Circuit connections must not be touched during a test, accidental contact with conductors could result in electrical shock.
• After insulation resistance testing, make sure the circuit is fully discharged before removing test leads, LCD should read close to zero volts.
• Always adhere to local and national safety codes.
• Use personal protective equipment to prevent shock and arc blast injury where hazardous live conductors are exposed.
• Never apply voltage or current to the meter that exceeds the specified maximum.
• Use extreme CAUTION when working with high voltages.
• Do not measure voltage if the voltage on the “COM” input jack exceeds 1000V above earth ground.
• Never connect the meter leads across a voltage source while the function switch is in the current, resistance or diode mode, doing so can damage the meter.
• Always discharge filter capacitors in power supplies and disconnect the power when making resistance or diode tests.
• Always turn off the power and disconnect the test leads before opening the covers to replace the fuse or batteries.
• Never operate the meter unless the back cover and the battery and fuse covers are in place and fastened securely.
• If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.

Input Protection Limits

Surge Protection: 8kV peak per IEC 61010

Per IEC1010 Overvoltage Installation Category

Overvoltage Category I: Equipment of Overvoltage Category I is equipment for connection to  circuits in which measures are taken to limit the transient overvoltages to an appropriate low level.
Note: Examples include protected electronic circuits.

• Overvoltage Category II: Equipment of Overvoltage Category II is energy-consuming equipment to be supplied from the fixed installation.
  Note: Examples include household, office, and laboratory appliances.

• Overvoltage Category III: Equipment of Overvoltage Category III is equipment in fixed installations.
  Note: Examples include switches in the fixed installation and some equipment for industrial use with permanent connection to the fixed installation.

• Overvoltage Category IV: Equipment of Overvoltage Category IV is for use at the origin of the installation. Note: Examples include electricity meters and primary over-current protection equipment.

Electromagnetic Environment
IEC EN 61326-1, this equipment meets requirements for use in basic and controlled electromagnetic environments like residential properties, business premises, and light-industrial locations

General Description

• The instrument carries out the following measurements:
  • DC voltage
  • AC, AC+DC TRMS Voltage
  • LPF, Low Pass Filter
  • Low Z AC/DC Voltage
  • 30A, 300A, 3000A AC TRMS Current with Current Transducer
  • Resistance and Continuity Test
  • Frequency
  • Insulation Tester
• Each of these functions can be selected by means of the appropriate switch.
• The instrument is also equipped with function keys, analogue bargraph and LCD display.
• The instrument is also equipped with an Auto Power OFF function which automatically switches off the instrument after a certain (programmable) idling time.

Description

Meter Description

1. LCD Display
2. RANGE Button
3. ZERO Button
4. Backlight Button
5. MAX/MIN Button
6. MODE Button
7. TEST Button
8. HOLD Button
9. LOCK Button
10. Rotary Selector Switch
11. Lanyard Hole
12. Test Lead Holders
13. Battery Cover
14. Tilt Stand
15. Input Terminal Ω/ +
16. Input Terminal COM
17. Input Terminal Test Lead
18. Input Terminal Ω/ -/INSULATION-
19. Input Terminal V/Hz/3000A/INSULATION+

Description of the Display

1. Minimum Value
2. Zero Adjustment
3. Low Pass Filter
4. Data Hold
5. Auto Range
6. Maximum Value
7. Bar Graph
8. Main Display
9. Alternating Current
10. Direct Current
11. Minus Sign
12. Greater Than
13. Auto Power Off
14. Low Battery
15. Test Voltage
16. Test Lock
17. Current Transducer
18. Low Impedance Test Mode
19. Low Input Impedance
20. Sub Display
21. Frequency
22. Units of Measure List
23. Audible Continuity

Button Function

RANGE Button

• Press the RANGE Button to activate the manual mode and to disable the Autorange function.
• The message “Manual” appears on the upper left part of the display instead of “AUTO”.
• In Manual mode, press the RANGE Button to change measuring range: The relevant decimal point will change its position, the RANGE Button is not active in positions LoΩ, , INSULATION, Lo Z Voltage.
• In Autorange mode, the instrument selects the most appropriate ratio for carrying out measurement.
• If a reading is higher than the maximum measurable value, the indication “O.L” appears on the display.
• Press and hold the RANGE Button for more than 1 second to exit the manual mode and restore the Autorange mode.
• Press the RANGE Button to select “30A, 300A, 3000A”.

Backlight Button

• Press and hold the Backlight Button for more than one second to turn the backlight on or off.
• The backlight will automatically turns off after approximately 3 minutes.

MAX/MIN Button

• When the MAX/MIN Button is pressed, the meter keeps track of the minimum and maximum value of the measurement for VAC, VDC, Continuity and Ohms.
• The first press of the MAX/MIN Button displays the MAX value, the second press displays the MIN value.
• To return to normal measuring mode, press and hold the MAX/MIN Button for more than one second.

MODE Button

• Momentarily press the MODE Button to select AC Voltage, LPF or Frequency , DC Voltage or AC+DC Voltage.
• The meter will automatically power OFF after 15 minutes of inactivity, to disable auto-power off, press and hold the MODE Button while powering on.
• Press and hold the MODE Button to select the low-pass filter mode.

HOLD Button

• Press the HOLD Button to hold the measurement on the display.
• Press again to release the display to return to live measuring (not for insulation resistance testing).

TEST Button

• With the test leads connected to the equipment under test, press and hold the TEST Button to begin an insulation resistance test.
• The lower-right display will show test voltage, and the main display will show the resistance.

LOCK Button

• For hands-free insulation resistance testing, use the LOCK Button feature.
• With the test leads connected to the equipment under test, press the LOCK Button for two seconds, and then press the TEST Button to begin the test.
• The lock icon will appear on the display and the meter will beep to indicate it is in lock mode.
• Press the TEST Button to end the test.

Operating Instructions

DC/AC+DC Voltage Measurement
CAUTION: The maximum input DC voltage is 1000V. Do not measure voltages exceeding the limits given in this manual. Exceeding voltage limits could result in electrical shocks to the user and damage to the instrument.

1. Set the function switch to the V /AC+DC Position.
2. Insert the black test lead into the Input Terminal COM and the red test lead into the Input Terminal V/Hz/3000A /INSULATION+.
3. Position the red lead and the black lead respectively in the spots with positive and negative potential of the circuit to be measured .
4. The display shows the value of voltage.
5. If the display shows the message “O.L”, select a higher range.
6. For AC+DC measurement, press the MODE Button to indicate “AC+DC” on the display.

AC Voltage Measurement
CAUTION: The maximum input AC voltage is 1000V. Do not measure voltages exceeding the limits given in this manual. Exceeding voltage limits could result in electrical shocks to the user and damage to the instrument.

1. Set the function switch to the V∼ /Hz/LPF Position.
2. Insert the black test lead into the Input Terminal COM and the red test lead into the Input Terminal V/Hz/3000A /INSULATION+.
3. Position the black test probe tip and red test probe tip respectively in the spots of the circuit to be measured.
4. Read the AC voltage in the display.
5. If the display shows the message “O.L”, select a higher range.
6. Press the MODE Button to select measurements “Hz” in order to display the values of frequency input voltage.
7. Press the MODE Button to select low pass filter test.
8. Press and hold the MODE Button to indicate “ ” on the display.

Low Z AC/DC Voltage Measurement
CAUTION: Observe all safety precautions when working on live voltage. Do not connect to circuits that exceed 1000V when the meter is set to Low z. Do not use Low Z when testing circuits that could be harmed by this function’s low input impedance. Let the meter stabilize 15 minutes after using Lo Z.

• Low Z is used to check for “ghost” voltage.
• Ghost voltages are present when non-powered wires are in close proximity to wires powered wires.
• Capacitive coupling between wires make it appear that non-powered wires are connected to a real source of voltage.
• The Low Z setting places a load on the circuit, which greatly reduces the voltage reading when connected to ghost voltage.
  1. Set the function switch to the Low Z Position.
  2. Insert the black test lead into the Input Terminal COM and the red test lead into the Input Terminal V/Hz/3000A /INSULATION+.
  3. Touch the test leads to the circuit under test.
  4. If the display shows the message “O.L”, select a higher range.

Resistance Measurement and Continuity Test
CAUTION: Before attempting any resistance measurement, cut off power supply from the circuit to be measured and make sure that all capacitors are discharged, if present.

1. Set the function switch to the LoΩ/ Position.
2. Insert the black test lead into the Input Terminal Ω/ -/INSULATION- and the red test lead into the Input Terminal Input Terminal Ω/ +.
3. Position the test leads in the desired spots of the circuit to be measured.
4. The display shows the value of resistance.
5. If the display shows the message “O.L”, select a higher range.
6. The value of resistance (which is only indicative) is displayed in and the instrument sounds if the value of resistance is <30Ω.

AC Current (with Current Transducer) Measurement
CAUTION: Maximum input AC current is 3000A (input VHz ). Do not measure currents exceeding the limits given in this manual.

1. Set the function switch to the 3000A Position.
2. Insert the black test lead into the Input Terminal COM and the red test lead into the Input Terminal V/Hz/3000A /INSULATION+.
3. Press the RANGE Button to select “30A, 300A, 3000A” AC Current measurement.
4. Select current Transducer Rang.
5. Press the lock catch to open jaw, fully enclose only one conductor, for optimum results, center the conductor in the jaw.
6. The meter LCD will display the reading.

Insulation Resistance Measurement
CAUTION: Measurements can be adversely affected by impedances of additional operating circuits connected in parallel or by transient currents.

1. Insert the red cable into Input Terminal INSULATION+, and the black cable into Input Terminal INSULATION-, and rotate the function selector to the desired test voltage.

2. Choose from 125V, 250V, 500V or 1000V based on the compatibility with the device tested.
   Note: Disconnect the circuit under test and isolate it from any stray resistance, Insulation test should only be performed on de-energized circuits.

3. Connect the Red and Black cable to the circuit under test, if there is a voltage in the circuit, a constant beep will sound and the Test Voltage symbol will be displayed, disconnect the circuit to proceed.

4. Press and hold the TEST Button to begin test, the lower right display shows test voltage, and the main display shows the resistance.

5. The measured insulation resistance is displayed on the main display in MΩ, allow the reading to stabilize before recording the measurement, turning the function switch, at any time during the insulation test will end the testing process.

6. The circuit will discharge through the meter, keep the test leads connected until the circuit is completely discharged and the lower right display shows near zero volts.

Note: Measurements can be adversely affected by impedances of additional operating circuits connected in parallel or by transient currents.

• Overload “—-” for insulation resistance measurements.

Maintenance

CAUTION:

• Only expert and trained technicians should perform maintenance operations.
• Before carrying out maintenance operations, disconnect all cables from the input terminals.
• Do not use the instrument in environments with high humidity levels or high temperatures, do not expose to direct sunlight.
• Always switch off the instrument after use.
• In case the instrument is not to be used for a long time, remove the battery to avoid liquid leaks that could damage the instrument’s internal circuits.

The Internal Battery
When the LCD displays symbol “ ”, it is necessary to replace the batteries.

Refer to Figure and replace the batteries as follows:

1. Turn the Meter off and remove the test leads from the terminals.
2. Remove the battery door assembly by using a standard blade screwdriver to turn the battery door screw one-half turn counterclockwise.
3. Replace the batteries 1.5V AA x 6.
4. Reinstall the battery door assembly and secure it by turning the screw one-half turn clockwise.

WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads from any source of voltage before removing the battery cover.

• To avoid electric shock, do not operate the meter until the battery cover is in place and fastened securely.

Replacement of Internal Fuses
Referring to Figure, examine or replace the Meter’s fuses as follows:

1. Turn the Meter off and remove the test leads from the terminals.
2. Remove the battery door assembly by using a standard blade screwdriver to turn the battery door screw one-half turn counterclockwise.
3. Remove the fuse by gently prying one end loose, then sliding the fuse out of its bracket.
4. Install only specified replacement fuses.
5. Reinstall the battery door assembly and secure it by turning the screw one-half turn clockwise.

WARNING: To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads from any source of voltage before removing the meter cover.

• To avoid electric shock, do not operate your meter until the fuse cover is in place and fastened securely.

Cleaning the Instrument

• Use a soft and dry cloth to clean the instrument.
• Never use wet cloths, solvents, water, etc.

End of Life
WARNING: the symbol on the instrument indicates that the appliance and its accessories must be collected separately and correctly disposed of.

Specifications

Technical Specifications
Accuracy calculated as [%reading + (num. digits*resolution)] at 18 to 28°C; <75%HR.

Function| Range| Resolution| Accuracy| Input Impedance
---|---|---|---|---
DC Voltage| 4.000V| 0.001V| ±(0.5% + 5 digits)| >10MΩ
40.00V| 0.01V
400.0V| 0.1V| ±(1.0% + 5 digits)
1000V| 1V

Protection against overcharge: 1000VDC/ACrms

Function| Range| Resolution| *Accuracy (50 to 60Hz)*| Accuracy (61 to 1kHz)**
---|---|---|---|---
AC TRMS Voltage| 4.000V| 0.001V| ±(0.9% + 5 digits)|

±(3.0% + 5 digits)

40.00V| 0.01V
400.0V| 0.1V| ±(1.0% + 5 digits)
1000V| 1V| ±(1.2% + 5 digits)

Protection against overcharge 1000VDC/ACrms.
*()Accuracy specified from 10% to 100% of the measuring range, Input impedance: >9MΩ.
Distorted, pulsed, triangle or trapezia waveform Accuracy:** (10%rdg + 10dgt).

Function| Range| Resolution| Accuracy (50 to 1kHz)| Input Impedance
---|---|---|---|---
AC+DC TRMS Voltage| 4.000V| 0.001V| ±(3.0% + 20 digits)| >10MΩ
40.00V| 0.01V
400.0V| 0.1V
1000V| 1V

Protection against overcharge: 1000VDC/ACrms

Protection against overcharge: 1000VDC/ACrms
Input Impedance: Approx. ~3kΩ

Function| Range| Transducer Ratio| Resolution| Accuracy (50 to 1kHz)
---|---|---|---|---
AC Current (with Current Transducer)| 30A| 100mV/1A| 0.01A| ±(1.2% + 10 digits)
300A| 10mV/1A| 0.1A
3000A| 1mV/1A| 10A

Protection against overcharge: 1000VDC/ACrms
() Accuracy specified from 5% to 100% of the measuring range
() Do not include the accuracy of current Transducer

• with Current Transducer (30A/300A/3000* Rang Corresponding Current Transducer Range)
  Distorted, Pulsed, Triangle or Trapezia waveform Accuracy: (10%rdg + 10dgt)

Protection against overcharge: 300VDC/ACrms
Continuity Beeper: Audible signal when resistance <40Ω.
Short circuit >200mA; Open circuit voltage 5.5V DC.

Protection against overcharge: 1000VDC/ACrms
Sensitivity: 2Vrms

Function| Terminal Voltage| Range| Resolution| Accuracy| Test Current
---|---|---|---|---|---
Insulation Resistances| 125V (0%~20%)| 0.125 to 4.000MΩ| 0.001MΩ| ± (2.5%+10)| 1mA at load 125kΩ
4.00 to 40.00MΩ| 0.01MΩ| ± (2%+10)
40.0 to 400.0MΩ| 0.1MΩ| ± (4%+5)
400 to 4000MΩ| 1MΩ| ± (5%+5)
250V (0%~20%)| 0.250 to 4.000MΩ| 0.001MΩ| ± (2%+15)| 1mA at load 250kΩ
4.000 to 40.00MΩ| 0.01MΩ| ± (2%+10)
40.00 to 400.0MΩ| 0.1MΩ| ± (3%+5)
400.0 to 4000MΩ| 1MΩ| ± (4%+5)
500V (0%~20%)| 0.500 to 4.000MΩ| 0.001MΩ| ± (2%+10)| 1mA at load 500kΩ
4.000 to 40.00MΩ| 0.01MΩ| ± (2%+10)
40.00 to 400.0MΩ| 0.1MΩ| ± (2%+5)
400.0 to 4000MΩ| 1MΩ| ± (4%+5)
1000V (0%~20%)| 1.000 to 4.000MΩ| 0.001MΩ| ± (3%+10)| 1mA at load 1MΩ
4.000 to 40.00MΩ| 0.01MΩ| ± (2%+10)
40.00 to 400.0MΩ| 0.1MΩ| ± (2%+5)
400.0 to 4000MΩ| 1MΩ| ± (4%+5)

Short Circuit <5mA.
Due to the alkaline battery charge, multiple tests so that the 1000 volt voltage through the 1MΩ resistor, generally maintain the test time of about 5 seconds.

Intrinsic Uncertainity (EN61557)

Code| Measurement Intrinsic| Operating Uncertainty| Maximum Uncertainty*
A| Insulation Resistance| See Electrical Specifications| <30%
A| Earth-Bond Resistance| See Electrical Specifications| <30%
Influence Variables and Uncertainties (EN61557)

Code| Variable| Range| % Within Range
E1| Position| ± 90°| <5%
E2| Supply Voltage| 7.21 to 9.13V| <5%
E3| Temperature| 0 to 35°C| <5%

General Specifications Safety

• Safety            IEC EN 61010-1, 61010-2-030, 61010-2-033, 61326-1, 61557-1-2-4.
• Insulation    Double Insulation
• Pollution Level  2
• Overvoltage Category CAT IV 600V, CAT III 1000V
• Max Operating Altitude  2000m (6562ft)

Mechanical Characteristics

• Size (L x W x H)  175 x 85 x 55mm (7 x 3 x 2in)
• Weight (Batteries included)  800g

Power Supply

• Battery Type  6×1.5V AA batteries, 1200mAh
• Low Battery Indication  symbol “ ” on the display
• Auto Power Off  after 15 minutes’ idling (can be disabled)
• Fuses F500mA/1000V, 6 x 32mm

Display

• Conversion  TRMS
• Characteristics  LCD, 4000 dots, decimal sign, point backlight and bargraph
• Sampling Frequency 3 times/s

Environmental Conditions for Use

• Reference Temperature  18 to 28°C (64 to 82°F)
• Operating Temperature  5 to 40°C (41 to 104°F)
• Allowable Relative Humidity  <80 %RH
• Storage Temperature   -20 to 60°C (-4 to 140°F)
• Storage Humidity  <80 %RH

Accessories Provided

• Pair of Test Leads
• 6×1.5V AA Akline Batteries
• Carrying Bag
• User Manual

Warranty

Triplett/ Jewell Instruments extends the following warranty to the original purchaser of these goods for use. Triplett warrants to the original purchaser for use that the products sold by it will be free from defects in workmanship and material for a period of (2) two years from the date of purchase. This warranty does not apply to any of our products which have been repaired or altered by unauthorized persons in any way or purchased from unauthorized distributors so as, in our sole judgment, to injure their stability or reliability, or which have been subject to misuse, abuse, misapplication, negligence, accident or which have had the serial numbers altered, defaced, or removed. Accessories, including batteries are not covered by this warranty.
Copyright © 2023 Triplett
Website: www.triplett.com

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