Sonel MZC-304F Fault Loop Impedance Meter User Manual

Sonel MZC-304F Fault Loop Impedance Meter

Specifications

• Product: Fault Loop Impedance Meter MZC-304F
• Manufacturer: SONEL S.A.
• Address: Wokulskiego 11, 58-100 widnica, Poland
• Version: 1.02
• Date: 27.09.2023

Product Information

The MZC-304F is a modern, state-of-the-art measuring instrument that is easy to operate and safe. It is designed to provide accurate measurements for various electrical parameters.

Product Usage Instructions

1. General Information

Read the safety symbols and guidelines provided in the manual before use to ensure safe operation of the device.

2. Quick Start

• Switching on and off: Press the power button to switch on/off the device. The display backlight enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
• Selecting measurement parameters: Use the menu to select the desired measurement parameters.
• Remembering the last measurement result: The device stores the last measurement result for reference.

3. Measurements

• AC voltage measurement: Use the device to measure AC voltages accurately.
• Voltage and frequency measurement: Measure voltage and frequency with precision.
• Checking PE connections: Verify the correctness of protective earth connections.
• Fault loop parameters: Evaluate fault loop parameters efficiently.

4. Memory of Measurement Results

• Entering results to memory: Save measurement results to the device memory.
• Changing cell and bank number: Manage memory organization effectively.
• Browsing and clearing memory: Review and clear stored data as needed.

5. Troubleshooting

Refer to the troubleshooting section in the manual to address any operational issues that may arise.

6. Power Supply

• Monitoring voltage: Keep track of power supply voltage for optimal device performance.
• Replacing batteries: Follow guidelines for replacing Nickel Metal Hydride batteries.

7. Cleaning and Maintenance

Regularly clean and maintain the device to ensure accurate measurements and prolong its lifespan.

8. Storage

Store the device in a safe and dry place when not in use to prevent damage.

9. Dismantling and Disposal

Follow proper procedures for dismantling and disposing of the device at the end of its lifecycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: How do I calibrate the MZC-304F?
  • A: Calibration instructions can be found in the user manual provided by the manufacturer. It is recommended to calibrate the device regularly to maintain accuracy.
• Q: Can I use rechargeable batteries with the MZC-304F?
  • A: Yes, you can use Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) batteries with the device. Refer to the user manual for specific guidelines on battery usage.

“`

General information

1.1 Safety symbols

The following international symbols are used in the device and/or in this manual:

Warning; See explanation in
the manual
DC current/voltage
Do not dispose of with other house-
hold waste

Ground
Dual insulation (Protection class)
Recycling information

AC current/voltage
Declaration of Conformity with EU directives (Conformité Européenne)
Confirmed compliance with Australian Stand-
ards

Measurement categories according to IEC 61010-2-030: CAT II ­ concerns measurements performed in circuits directly connected to low voltage installations,
CAT III ­ concerns measurements performed in buildings installations, CAT IV ­ concerns measurements performed at the source of low voltage installation.

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1.2 Safety
The meter is designed for testing the protection against electric shock in the mains systems. The meter is used to make measurements which results determine the electrical installation safety level. Consequently, in order to ensure safe operation and correct measurement results, observe the following recommendations: Before you proceed to operate the meter, acquaint yourself thoroughly with the present manual
and observe the safety regulations and recommendations of the manufacturer. Any application that differs from those specified in the present manual may cause damage of the
instrument and a serious hazard to its user. The meters must be operated solely by appropriately qualified personnel with relevant certificates
to perform measurements of electric installation. Operation of the instrument by unauthorized personnel may result in damage to the device and constitute a hazard to the user. Using this manual does not exclude the need to comply with occupational health and safety regulations and with other relevant fire regulations required during the performance of a particular type of work. Before starting the work with the device in special environments, e.g. potentially firerisk/explosive environment, it is necessary to consult it with the person responsible for health and safety. It is unacceptable to operate the following: a damaged meter which is completely or partially out of order, leads with damaged insulation, a meter which ahs been stored to long in unsuitable conditions (for example is wet). When the
meter is transferred from cold environment to warm and humid one, do not make measurements until the meter warms up to the ambient temperature (about 30 minutes).
Remember that the message on the display means that the power supply voltage is too low and indicates the need to replace/ charge the batteries. The measurements performed with the meter with insufficient supply voltage have additional measuring errors which are impossible to be evaluated by the user and cannot be the basis to determine the correct protection of the tested installation.
Do not leave the discharged batteries in the meter as they can leak and damage the instrument. Before starting the measurement, check if the leads are connected to correct measuring terminals. Never use the meters with open or only partially closed battery compartment cover and use only
the power supplies specified in this manual. Repairs may be performed solely by an authorized service outlet.
NOTE!
Only accessories for a given device should be used. Using other accessories may cause damage to measuring terminals, introduce additional measurement error and create a risk for the user.
An attempt to install drivers in 64-bit Windows 8 and Windows 10 may result in dis-
playing “Installation failed” message. o Cause: Windows 8 and Windows 10 by default blocks drivers without a digital signature. o Solution: Disable the driver signature enforcement in Windows.
Due to continuous development of the meter’s software, the actual appearance of
the display, in case of some of the functions, may slightly differ from the display presented in this operating manual.

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MZC-304F ­ USER MANUAL

Quick start

2.1 Switching on and off, display backlight

To switch on the meter, briefly press the

button. To switch off, press the same button

longer (the message appears). To switch on/off the display and keypad backlight during the meter operation, briefly press the

button.

2.2 Selecting general measurement parameters

Keeping the SET/SEL button depressed, switch on the meter and wait

for the parameter selection screen to appear.

Use the buttons to go to next parameter.

Use the buttons to change the parameter value. The value or symbol to be changed is flashing.

Set the parameters according to the algorithm.

Press and hold ENTER (until a signal sounds ­ ca. 3 s) to save the changes and go to the measurement function or press ESC to go the measurement function without saving the changes.

At first start-up or after replacing batteries, select the type of power supply: re-

chargeable batteries (ACCU) or batteries (BATT). General measurement parameters

can be selected in the same menu.

Before the first measurements, set the mains rated voltage Un (220/380 V, 230/400 V
or 240/415 V) which is applicable in the test location. The voltage is used to calculate

the prospective short-circuit current, if this option was chosen from the main menu.

The

symbol in the time to auto-off settings, indicates disabling this function.

PIN settings ­ see Meter settings schematic.

Software upgrade ­ see Meter settings schematic and section 4.5.

2.3 Remembering the last measurement result
The result of the last measurement is remembered until the next measurement is activated, the measurement parameters are changed or the measuring function is changed with the rotary switch. Use the ESC button to go to the starting screen of a given function and press ENTER to display the last measurement result.

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8

Meter settings ­ algorithm

UN

220 V 230 V 240 V

fN

50 Hz 60 Hz

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LOOP DISP

Ik Z

Mains voltage
Mains frequency
Result of impedance measurement: shortcircuit current / impedance
Voltage for calculating Ik: rated / measured
Auto-OFF disabled time to automatic shutdown
Bluetooth communication: enabled / disabled

Ik

U

UN

OFF

– – –

300 s

600 s

900 s

BT

on

off

PIN conf

SUPP

ACCU

BATT

0

…

9

BEEP

on

off

0

…

9

Change PIN Power supply selection: rechargeable batteries / batteries Beeper: enabled / disabled
Firmware update
Factory reset: yes / no

UPDT

0

…

9

FACT SETT

yes

0

…

9

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no

3 s

3 s

3 s

9

Measurements

WARNING
During the measurements (fault loop impedance) never touch the earthed and
accessible parts in the tested electrical installation.
During the measurement do not switch the rotary switch as this may cause dam-
age of the meter and hazard for the user.

Message to the meter.

indicates, that an incompatibile measurement adapter is connected

3.1 AC voltage measurement
The meter measures and displays the mains alternating voltage in all measurement functions with the exception of R. The voltage is measured for the 45…65 Hz frequency range. The test leads should be connected as for a given measuring function.
3.2 Voltage and frequency measurement
Set the rotary switch to the U,f position.

Read the measurement result: frequency in the main display field, voltage in the auxiliary field.

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3.3 Checking the correctness of PE (protective earth) connections

Connect the meters as shown in the figure, touch the contact electrode with your finger and wait about 1 second. When the voltage on the PE conductor is detected, the instrument displays the message (error in the installation, the PE conductor is connected to the phase conductor) and generates a continuous audio signal. This option is available for all measurement functions related to the fault loop, except for ZL-N,L-L.
WARNING
When dangerous voltage on the protective conductor PE is detected, discontinue the measurements immediately and repair the electrical installation.
Make sure that during the measurements you are not standing on an uninsulated
floor as this may cause erroneous results.
The threshold value, which triggers the signal of exceeded allowable voltage on PE
conduit, is approximately 50 V.

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3.4 Fault loop parameters
NOTE!
If the tested mains includes residual current devices, for the duration of measure-
ment they should be omitted by bypassing. Remember however that bypassing changes the tested circuit and the results may very slightly differ from the actual values.
After the measurement, restore the mains to its original state and check operation
of the residual current device. This note does not apply to the earth loop impedance measurements with the ZL-PE RCD function.
Measurements of fault loop impedance performed downstream of inverters are inef-
fective and their results are unreliable. This is due to the instability of internal impedance in inverter circuits during its operation. The measurements of fault loop impedance should not be performed directly downstream of inverters.

3.4.1 Selecting the lead length

Switch on the meter.
Set the rotary switch to one of the fault loop im-
pedance measurement types.

SET L
1.2 m 5m 10 m
20 m

Set the parameters according to the following algorithm and the rules for setting the general parameters.

Using original leads and selecting correct length is a guarantee of keeping the de-
clared measuring accuracy.
The WS leads are detected by the meter and you cannot select their length (the
symbol is displayed). When you are using the leads with banana plugs, before you start the measurements set the correct phase conductor length complying with the test leads length.

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3.4.2 Prospective short-circuit current

The meter always measures the impedance, and the displayed short-circuit current is calculat-

ed according to the following formula:

U

I k

n
Z

S

where:

Un ­ rated voltage of the tested mains,

ZS ­ measured impedance.

Based on the rated voltage Un selected in the general settings (section 2.2), the meter automatically detects the measurement with phase-to-neutral or phase-to-phase voltage and includes this in the calculations.
If the tested mains voltage is out of tolerance range, the meter will not be able to determine the correct rated voltage for calculation of short-circuit current. In such case, horizontal lines will be displayed instead of the short-circuit current. The figure below shows the voltage ranges for which the short-circuit current is calculated.

Voltage range for which the impedance is measured

Un=220V Un=230V Un=240V

198 220 242 207 230 253 216 240 264

342 380 418 440 U [V] 360 400 440 U [V] 373 415 440 U [V]

UL-N voltage ranges for which the short-circuit current is calculated

UL-L voltage ranges for which the short-circuit current is calculated

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3.4.3 Fault loop parameters in the L-N and L-L circuits
Switch on the meter. Set the rotary switch to the ZL-L ZL-N position. Select the leads length as described in
sec. 3.4.1 according to the needs.
Connect the test leads as shown in the figure: for measurement in the L-N circuit,
measurement in the L-L circuit

The meter is ready for measurement. Phase conductor length or the symbol. UL-N or UL-L voltage

Press START to perform the measurement.

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Read the main result: the fault loop impedance ZS and the mains voltage during the measurement.
Press to display additional results. Short-circuit current IK
Fault loop resistance R
Fault loop reactance XL

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Save the result in the memory (see sections 4.1, 4.2) or press ESC to return to the

voltage measurement.

Making a large number of tests over a short time causes the meter to emit a lot of
heat. As a result the casing may become warm. This is normal. The meter has an overheat protection.

The minimum time between successive measurements is 5 seconds. This value is

controlled by the meter which displays the

message when you can make

the next measurement.

Additional information displayed by the meter
Meter ready for measurement
Voltage on the meter L and N terminals is out of range for which the measurement can be made. Voltage on the meter L and PE terminals is out of range for which the measurement can be made.
Measurement error
Incorrect or unstable power grid frequency.
Measurement error ­ loss of voltage after the measurement.
Short-circuit loop of the meter is faulty.
N conductor not connected.
Message (displayed after the measurement) indicates significant disturbances in the mains during measurement. The measurement result may include a large, unspecified error. Temperature inside the meter has exceeded the allowed limit. The measurement is blocked. The L and N conductors are switched (voltage between the PE and N conductors).

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3.4.4

Fault loop parameters in the L-PE circuit
Switch on the meter. Set the rotary switch to the ZL-PE position. Select the leads length as described in
sec. 3.4.1 according to the needs.

Connect the test leads as shown in one of the figures.

Measurement in L-PE circuit

Checking effectiveness of protection against electric shock of the meter housing in case of: TN network or TT network

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The meter is ready for measurement. Phase conductor length or the symbol.
UL-PE voltage

Press START to perform the measurement.
The remaining measurement issues are analogous to the ones described for the measurements in the L-N or L-L systems.
A double-lead measurement is possible when selecting the test lead other than with the socket adapter.

Additional information displayed by the meter
Meter ready for measurement
Voltage on the meter L and N terminals is out of range for which the measurement can be made. Voltage on the meter L and PE terminals is out of range for which the measurement can be made.
Measurement error
Incorrect or unstable power grid frequency.
Measurement error ­ loss of voltage after the measurement.
Short-circuit loop of the meter is faulty.
N conductor not connected.
Message (displayed after the measurement) indicates significant disturbances in the mains during measurement. The measurement result may include a large, unspecified error. Temperature inside the meter has exceeded the allowed limit. The measurement is blocked. The L and N conductors are switched (voltage between the PE and N conductors).

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3.4.5 Fault loop impedance in L-PE circuit protected with a residual current device (RCD)
The meter allows the fault loop impedance measurements without making changes in the mains with the residual current devices with rated current of minimum 30 mA.
Switch on the meter. Set the rotary switch to the ZL-PE RCD position. Select the leads length as described in
sec. 3.4.1 according to the needs.
Connect the test leads as shown in one of the figures.

Measurement in a TN-S system

Measurement in a TT system

Measurement in a TN-C-S system
The remaining measurement issues are analogous to the ones described for the measurements in the L-N or L-L systems.

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You can discontinue the measurement by pressing the ESC button. In a mains without interferences, the measurement takes ca. 8 seconds. If interfer-
ences occur, this time may be longer.
In the electrical installations with the 30 mA residual current devices the sum of the
installation leakage currents and the test current may trip the RCD. In such case, try to reduce the leakage current of the tested installation (i.e. by disconnecting the loads).
Additional information displayed by the meter
Meter ready for measurement
Voltage on the meter L and N terminals is out of range for which the measurement can be made. Voltage on the meter L and PE terminals is out of range for which the measurement can be made.
Measurement error
Incorrect or unstable power grid frequency.
Measurement error ­ loss of voltage after the measurement.
Short-circuit loop of the meter is faulty.
N conductor not connected.
Message (displayed after the measurement) indicates significant disturbances in the mains during measurement. The measurement result may include a large, unspecified error. Temperature inside the meter has exceeded the allowed limit. The measurement is blocked. The L and N conductors are switched (voltage between the PE and N conductors).

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3.5 Low-voltage resistance measurement
NOTE! Do not connect to the meter voltage above 440 V DC as this can damage the instrument.
3.5.1 Test leads resistance compensation ­ auto-zeroing Switch on the meter. Set the rotary switch to the RCONT or Rx position.

Set auto-zeroing according to the following algorithm.

RCONT R

AUTO-ZERO

Close the test leads.

Press START to commence the auto-zeroing.

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When auto-zeroing is completed, the meter auto-
matically goes to the “ready for measurement” screen.

The

message is still displayed after switching to one of the measurement

functions (resistance or continuity measurement) in order to indicate that the meas-

urement is being made with compensated test leads resistance.

To remove compensation, perform the activities described above but with open test

leads. The

message will not be displayed in the measurement screen.

Additional information displayed by the meter
Tested facility is live. The measurement is blocked. Immediately disconnect the meter from the facility (both leads).

3.5.2 Low-current resistance measurement
Switch on the meter. Set the rotary switch to the Rx position.

The meter is ready for measurement.

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MZC-304F ­ USER MANUAL

Connect the test leads as shown in the figure.
Read the measurement result.
Additional information displayed by the meter
Tested facility is live. The measurement is blocked. Immediately disconnect the meter from the facility (both leads). Message (displayed after the measurement) indicates significant disturbances in the mains during measurement. The measurement result may include a large, unspecified error. Measurement range is exceeded.

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3.5.3

Measurement of resistance of protective conductors and equipotential bonding with ±200 mA current
Switch on the meter. Set the rotary switch to the RCONT position.

The meter is ready for measurement.

Connect the test leads as shown in the figure. The measurement starts automatically for resistance values below 100 .

Read the measurement result.
The result is the arithmetic mean of the values of two measurements at a current of 200 mA with opposite polarities RCONT- and RCONT+.
R RCONT RCONT 2

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Press to read additional results.

RCONT- ­ resistance measured with 200 mA negative polarity current

RCONT+ ­ resistance measured with 200 mA positive polarity current
Press START to start the next measurement without disconnecting the test leads or to measure the resistance above >100 .
Additional information displayed by the meter
Tested facility is live. The measurement is blocked. Immediately disconnect the meter from the facility (both leads). Message displayed after the measurement, it indicates significant divergences between the partial measurements (point ). The measurement result may include a large, unspecified error. Possible causes:
too much disturbances in the measured object, instability of the object or of the meter’s connection with
the object (unreliable galvanic connection). Measurement range is exceeded.

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Memory of measurement results

The meter has the memory for 10 000 individual measurement results. The whole memory is divided into 10 banks with 99 cells each. Due to dynamic memory allocation, each cell can contain a different number of individual results, depending on the needs. This ensures optimum memory use. Each result can be saved in a cell of a specified number and in a chosen bank, thus allowing the user to assign the cell numbers to measurement points, and the bank numbers to tested facilities, make the measurement in any sequence and repeat the measurements without losing other data.
The memory of measurement results is not cleared when the meter is switched off. The data can be read later or transmitted to a computer. The number of the current cell and bank is not changed, either.
One cell can contain the results of measurements made for all measurement func-
tions.
After each entry of measurement result to a cell, the cell number is automatically in-
creased. To enter the successive results relating to a given measurement point (facility) to one cell, set the correct cell number before each entry.
Only the results of measurements activated with the START button can be entered
to the memory (with exception of auto-zeroing in the low-voltage resistance measurement).
It is recommended to clear the memory after reading the data or before a new se-
ries of measurements, results of which can be saved in the same cells as previous ones.
4.1 Entering the measurement results to the memory
After the measurement, press ENTER.
The meter is in the memory enter mode. Select the bank and cell number acc. To section 4.2 or leave the current ones.
Cell is empty.
Cell includes the same type of result that is to be entered.
Cell is occupied by the displayed type of measurement results.
Cell is occupied by the displayed types of measurement results.

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Confirm by pressing ENTER. An attempt to overwrite the results triggers the warning message.
Press ENTER to overwrite the result or ESC to abort. The screen shown left appears for a moment accompanied by three short audio signals. Then, the meter again displays the last measurement result.
The saved data include a complete set of results (main and additional) for a given measurement function plus the set measurement parameters.

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4.2 Changing the cell and bank number
After the measurement, press ENTER. The meter is in the memory enter mode.
The cell number is flashing. Use the arrows to change the cell number.
Use the SET/SEL button to set the active (flashing) cell or bank number.
The bank number is flashing. Use the arrows to change the bank number.

4.3 Browsing the memory

Switch on the meter. Set the rotary switch to the MEM position.

The content of last saved cell is displayed.
The cell number is flashing.
The bank and cell number which you wish to browse is changed with the SET/SEL button and then with the arrows. If the cell/ bank number is flashing, it can be changed.

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The sequence of saving the individual measurement results is given in the table below:

Measurement function (result group)
ZL-N, L-L
ZL-PE or ZL-PE RCD RCONT

Component results
ZL-N or ZL-L and
UL-N or UL-L IK R XL
ZL-PE and UL-PE IK R XL
RCONT RCONTRCONT+

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4.4 Clearing the memory
4.4.1 Clearing the bank

Switch on the meter. Set the rotary switch to the MEM position.

Set the number of bank to be cleared as described in sec. 4.2.
Set the cell number to (before 1). The message appears, signaling that the meter is ready to delete.

Press ENTER. The

and symbols

appear, requiring confirmation.

Press ENTER to start deleting or ESC to abort.
The deletion progress is shown on the screen as scrolling cell numbers. When deletion is completed, the meter generates three short audio signals and sets the cell number to 1.

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4.4.2 Clearing the whole memory Switch on the meter. Set the rotary switch to the MEM position.
Set the bank number to (before 0). The message appears, signaling that the meter is ready to delete.

Press ENTER. The

and

symbols appear, requiring confir-

mation.

Press ENTER to start deleting or ESC to abort.
The deletion progress is shown on the screen as scrolling bank and cell numbers. When deletion is completed, the meter generates three short audio signals and sets the cell number to 1.

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4.5 Communication with computer
4.5.1 Package for cooperation with computer
In order to ensure the communication of the meter with a computer, additional Bluetooth module and software is required. A program that may be used for this purpose is Sonel Reader. It allows users to read and display the measurement data stored in the meter memory. This program may be downloaded free from the manufacturer’s website. Information on the availability of other programs cooperating with the meter may be obtained from the manufacturer or its authorized distributors.
The software may be used for many devices manufactured by SONEL S.A. which are equipped with the USB interface and/or wireless module.
Detailed information regarding software is available from the manufacturer or an authorized distributor.
4.5.2 Data transmission with Bluetooth module

Keeping the SET/SEL button depressed, switch on the meter and wait for the parameter selection screen to appear (see sec. 2.2).

Using buttons go to parameter bt.

Using buttons select on.
Press and hold ENTER to save the changes. From now on the symbol will be visible on the screen.
Connect Bluetooth module to the USB socket of the PC, unless it is integrated into the PC. During the process of pairing the meter with a PC enter PIN code compatible with the PIN code of the meter defined in main settings. On the computer start Sonel Reader.

Standard pin for Bluetooth is 1234. Settings in the meter according to section 2.2.

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Troubleshooting

Before sending the instrument for repairs, call our service. Perhaps the meter is not damaged, and the problem has been caused by some other reasons.
The meter can be repaired only at outlets authorized by the manufacturer. Troubleshooting of typical problems during the use of the meter is described in the table below.

Measurement function

Symptom

Cause

Action

The meter will not switch off

with the button.

Check if the batteries are placed cor-

The

symbol appears Discharged or incorrectly rectly; replace / charge the batteries.

during voltage measurement. placed batteries.

If this has not helped, send the me-

ter for repair.

All

The meter switches off during

preliminary test.

Measurement errors after the

meter from

has cold

been transferred environment to

No acclimatization.

warm and humid one.

Do not make measurement until the meter reaches the ambient temperature (about 30 minutes) and dries.

Fault loop

Successive

results

in

the

Incorrect connections in the tested installation.

Check and remove the defects.

same measurement point are

significantly different.

Mains with a lot of disturb- Make more measurements, average

ance or unstable voltage. the results.

The meter indicates the values close to zero or zero irrespective of the measurement Incorrectly chosen test leads location, and displayed val- in the meter settings. ues are significantly different than expected.

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Power supply

6.1 Monitoring the power supply voltage
The batteries charging level is indicated by the symbol located in the top right-hand corner of the screen:
Batteries charged.
Batteries discharged.

Replace or charge the batteries!

Remember that: the message on the display indicates insufficient power supply voltage and the need to re-
place or charge the batteries, the measurements made with the meter with insufficient power supply voltage have additional
measurement error which is impossible to be estimated by the user.
6.2 Replacing the batteries
The power supply of the meter is from four LR6 alkaline batteries or four NiMH rechargeable batteries (size AA). The batteries are in an compartment in the bottom part of the casing.
WARNING
Before replacing the batteries, disconnect the test leads from the meter.
To replace the batteries: 1. Disconnect the leads from the measurement circuit and switch off the meter. 2. Unscrew the bolt fastening the battery compartment cover (in the bottom part of the casing). 3. Replace all batteries. Observe correct polarity when putting new batteries (“-” at the spring part of
the contact plate). Reversed polarity of the batteries will not damage the meter or the batteries, but the meter will not work. 4. Put the cover in place and fasten it with the bolt.
NOTE!
After replacement of batteries, set the power supply type in the main menu be-
cause correct charging level indication depends on this. Discharging characteristics of batteries and rechargeable batteries are different.
If batteries leak in the compartment, send the meter to the service outlet.
Rechargeable batteries should be charged in an external charger.

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6.3 General rules of using the Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) batteries
If you are not going to use the instrument for a longer time, remove the rechargeable batteries and
store them separately.
Store the rechargeable batteries in a dry, cool and well ventilated place and protect them from direct
sunlight. The long storage temperature should be below 30ºC. If the batteries are stored long at high temperatures, the chemical processes may reduce their life.
The NiMH rechargeable batteries usually withstand 500-1000 charging cycles. Such batteries
achieve full capacity after forming (2-3 discharging and charging cycles). The most important factor which influences the battery life is the discharge level. The deeper the discharge level, the shorter the battery life.
The memory effect appears in the NiMH batteries in a limited scope. These batteries can be re-
charged without more serious consequences. It is, however, recommended to discharge them completely every few cycles.
During the storage of the Ni-MH rechargeable batteries, they are subject to self-discharge process
at the rate of about 30% a month. Keeping the batteries at high temperatures may accelerate this process even two times. In order not to allow an excessive discharging of the batteries (after which the forming will be needed), recharge the batteries once in a while (even unused batteries).
Modern, fast chargers detect too low and too high temperature of the batteries and respond accord-
ingly. If the temperature is too low, the charging process should not start as it might irrevocably damage a rechargeable battery. The battery temperature increase is a signal to stop the charging and is typical. In addition to faster temperature increase of a battery which will not be fully charged, charging at high ambient temperatures results, however, in a reduced life.
Remember that with fast charging, the batteries are charged to about 80% of their capacity; better
results can be achieved by continuing the charging process: the charger then goes into the small current charging mode and after a few hours the batteries are fully charged.
Do not charge and do not use the batteries at extreme temperatures as they reduce the life of bat-
teries. Avoid using the battery-powered devices in very hot places. The rated operating temperature must be observed at all times.

Cleaning and maintenance

NOTE!
Use only the maintenance methods presented by the manufacturer in this manual.
Clean the meter casing and the case with a wet cloth, using generally available detergents. Do not use any solvents and cleaning media which could scratch the casing (powder, paste, etc.).
The probes can be cleaned with water and then wiped dry. Before longer storage, it is recommended to lubricate the probes with any machine grease.
Clean the leads with water and detergents, then wipe dry. The meter electronic system is maintenance free.

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8 Storage

When storing the instrument, observe the following recommendations: disconnect all leads from the meter, thoroughly clean the meter and all accessories, if you are not going to use the instrument for a longer time, remove the batteries, during a prolonged storage recharge the batteries from time to time to prevent total discharging.

Dismantling and disposal

Used electric and electronic equipment should be collected selectively, i.e. not placed with other types of waste.
Used electronic equipment shall be sent to the collection point according to the Used Electric and Electronic Equipment Act.
Before sending the instrument to the collection point, do not dismantle any parts by yourself. Observe local regulations on disposal of packagings and used batteries.

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MZC-304F ­ USER MANUAL

Technical data

10.1 Basic information
“m.v.” abbreviation in determination of accuracy means a standard measured value.

10.1.1 Voltage measurement
Range 0.0…299.9 V 300…500 V Frequency range: 45…65 Hz

Resolution 0.1 V 1 V

Accuracy (2% m.v. + 6 digits) (2% m.v. + 2 digits)

10.1.2 Frequency measurement

Range 45.0…65.0 Hz Voltage distribution: 50…500 V

Resolution 0.1 Hz

Accuracy (0,1% m.v. + 1 digit)

10.1.3 ZL-PE, ZL-N, ZL-L fault loop impedance measurement

ZS fault loop impedance measurement Measurement range according to IEC 61557:

Test lead

Measurement range ZS

1.2 m WS-07

0.13…1999

5 m

0.17…1999

10 m

0.21…1999

20 m

0.29…1999

WS-03

WS-04 WS-05

0.19…1999

Display ranges:

Display range

Resolution

Accuracy

0…19.99

0.01

(5% m.v. + 3 digits)

20.0…199.9

0.1

(5% m.v. + 3 digits)

200…1999

1

(5% m.v. + 3 digits)

Rated operating voltage UnL-N/ UnL-L: 220/380 V, 230/400 V, 240/415 V Voltage operating range: 180…270 V (for ZL-PE and ZL-N) and 180…460 V (for ZL-L) Mains rated frequency fn: 50 Hz, 60 Hz Frequency operating range: 45…65 Hz

Maximum test current: 7.6 A for 230 V (4×10 ms), 13.3 A for 400 V (4×10 ms)

Check of PE terminal connection correctness with the contact electrode (for ZL-PE)

Readings of fault loop impedance RS and fault loop reactance XS

Display range

Resolution

Accuracy

0…19.99 20.0…199.9

0.01 0.1

(5% + 5 digits) of ZS value (5% + 5 digits) of ZS value

Calculated and displayed values ZS<200

MZC-304F ­ USER MANUAL

37

Readings of short-circuit current IK

Measurement ranges according to IEC 61557 can be calculated from the measurement ranges ZS and rated voltages.

Display range

Resolution

Accuracy

0.110…1.999 A

0.001 A

2.00…19.99 A

0.01 A

Calculated on the basis of

20.0…199.9 A

0.1 A

accuracy for the fault loop

200…9999 A

1 A

Prospective fault current calculated and displayed by the meter may slightly differ from the val-

ue calculated by the user with a calculator, basing on the displayed value of the impedance,

because the meter calculates the current from unrounded value of fault loop impedance (which

is used for displaying). As the correct value, consider Ik current value, displayed by the meter or by firmware.

10.1.4 ZL-PE fault loop impedance measurement RCD (without tripping the RCD)

ZS fault loop impedance measurement
Measurement range according to IEC 61557: 0.5…1999 for the 1.2 m leads, WS-03, WS-04, WS-05 and WS-07, and 0.51…1999 for the 5 m, 10 m and 20 m leads

Display range

Resolution

Accuracy

0…19.99

0.01

(6% m.v. + 10 digits)

20.0…199,9

0.1

(6% m.v. + 5 digits)

200…1999

1

(6% m.v. + 5 digits)

Does not trip the RCD’s with In 30 mA Rated operating voltage Un: 220 V, 230 V, 240 V Voltage operating range: 180…270 V

Mains rated frequency fn: 50 Hz, 60 Hz Frequency operating range: 45…65 Hz

Check of PE terminal connection correctness with the contact electrode

Readings of fault loop impedance RS and fault loop reactance XS

Display range

Resolution

Accuracy

0…19.99 20.0…199.9

0.01 0.1

(6% + 10 digits) of ZS value (6% + 5 digits) of ZS value

Calculated and displayed values ZS<200

Readings of short-circuit current IK

Measurement ranges according to IEC 61557 can be calculated from the measurement ranges ZS and rated voltages.

Display range

Resolution

Accuracy

0.110…1.999 A

0.001 A

2.00…19.99 A

0.01 A

Calculated on the basis of

20.0…199.9 A

0.1 A

accuracy for the fault loop

200…9999 A

1 A

Prospective fault current calculated and displayed by the meter may slightly differ from the val-

ue calculated by the user with a calculator, basing on the displayed value of the impedance,

because the meter calculates the current from unrounded value of fault loop impedance (which

is used for displaying). As the correct value, consider Ik current value, displayed by the meter or by firmware.

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MZC-304F ­ USER MANUAL

10.1.5 Low-voltage continuity and resistance measurement

Continuity measurements of protective conductors and equipotential bonding with the

200 mA current

Measurement range according to IEC 61557-4: 0.12…400

Range

Resolution

Accuracy

0.00…19.99

0.01

20.0…199.9

0.1

(2% m.v. + 3 digits)

200…400

1

Voltage on open terminals: 4…20 V

Output current at R<2 : min 200 mA (ISC: 200…250 mA) Test leads resistance compensation

Measurements for both current polarities

Low-current resistance measurement

Range

Resolution

0.0…199.9

0.1

200…1999

1

Voltage on open terminals: 4…20 V

Short-circuit current ISC: 8…15 mA Audio signal for measured resistance < 30 ± 50%

Test leads resistance compensation

Accuracy (3% m.v. + 3 digits)

10.2 Other technical specifications
a) Insulation type according to EN 61010-1 and IEC 61557……………………………………………….double b) Measurement category according to EN 61010-1 ………………………………………. IV 300 V (III 600 V) c) casing protection rating according to EN 60529………………………………………………………………IP67 d) meter power supply ………….LR6 alkaline batteries or AA size NiMH rechargeable batteries (4 pcs) e) dimensions ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 220 x 102 x 61 mm f) weight……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….ca. 0.8 kg g) storage temperature …………………………………………………………………………………………-20…+70C h) operating temperature …………………………………………………………………………………………0…+50C i) humidity……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..20…90% j) reference temperature ……………………………………………………………………………………….. +23 ± 2C k) reference humidity……………………………………………………………………………………………….40…60% l) altitude (above sea level)…………………………………………………………………………………….. 2000 m* m) time to Auto- OFF…………………………………………………………………..300, 600, 900 seconds or none n) number of Z measurements (for rechargeable batteries)……………………>5000 (2 measurements / minute) o) display …………………………………………………………………………………………………………LCD segment p) measurement results memory …………………………………………………………. 990 cells, 10 000 entries q) transmission of results………………………………………………………………………………………… Bluetooth r) quality standard…………. development, design and manufacture acc. to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 s) instrument conforming to ………………………………………………………………………………….. IEC 61557 t) product meets the EMC requirements (resistance for industrial environments) according to the
standards …………………………………………………………………………….EN 61326-1 and EN 61326-2-2

SONEL S.A. hereby declares that the radio device type MZC-304F complies with Directive 2014/53/EU. The full text of the EU Declaration of Conformity is available at the following website address: https://sonel.pl/en/download /declaration-of-conformity/

MZC-304F ­ USER MANUAL

39

10.3 Additional information
Information about additional uncertainty is useful mainly when the meter is used in untypical conditions and for the measurements laboratories during calibration.

10.3.1 Additional uncertainty according to IEC 61557-3 (Z)

Influencing value Location Supply voltage

Designation E1 E2

Temperature 0…35°C

E3

Phase angle 0…30° at the bottom of measurement range

E6.2

Frequency 99%…101%

E7

Mains voltage 85%…110%

E8

Harmonics

E9

DC component

E10

Additional uncertainty 0%
0% (BAT is not displayed) 1.2 m, WS-07 lead ­ 0
5 m lead ­ 0.011 10 m lead ­ 0.019 20 m lead ­ 0.035 WS-03, WS-04, WS-05 leads ­ 0.015
0.6%
0% 0% 0% 0%

10.3.2 Additional uncertainty according to IEC 61557-4 (R ±200 mA)

Influencing value Location Supply voltage Temperature 0…35°C

Designation E1 E2 E3

Additional uncertainty 0%
0,5% (BAT is not displayed) 1,5%

11 Manufacturer
The manufacturer of the equipment and provider of service during and past the warranty period:
SONEL S.A. Wokulskiego 11 58-100 widnica
Poland tel. +48 74 884 10 53 (Customer Service)
e-mail: customerservice@sonel.com web page: www.sonel.com
NOTE!
Service repairs must be performed solely by the manufacturer.

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MZC-304F ­ USER MANUAL

MEASUREMENT MESSAGES
NOTE!
The meter is designed for operation at rated phase voltages of 220 V, 230 V and 240 V and phase-to-phase voltages of 380 V, 400 V, 415 V. Connecting voltage higher than allowed between any of the test terminals may damage the meter and cause a hazard to the user.
Measurements Interference voltage occurs on the tested object. Measurement is possible but may be burdened with additional uncertainty. The meter is ready for measurement. Maximum temperature of the meter is exceeded. The measurement is blocked. Phase connected to N terminal instead of L terminal (for example, exchange of L and N in the mains socket). An incompatibile measurement adapter is connected to the meter. Short-circuit loop of the meter is faulty. Error during measurement. Error during the measurement: loss of voltage after the measurement. Voltage on terminals L and N is not within measurable range. Voltage on terminals L and PE is not within measurable range.
Safe contact voltage exceeded. The tested facility is live. The measurement is blocked. Immediately disconnect the meter from the object (both test leads). Error in connection of N conductor.
Battery / rechargeable battery status
Charged.
Discharged.
Completely discharged. Replace or recharge the batteries.

References

• Sonel S.A.
• Sonel S.A.
• Sonel S.A.

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