BENNING IT 100 Insulation and Resistance Meter User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation of the BENNING IT 100 Insulation and Resistance Meter. The IT 100 is designed for precise insulation and low resistance measurements on electrical systems, devices, cables, motors, and generators.

Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device and keep it for future reference.

Included Components:

• BENNING IT 100 Insulation and Resistance Meter
• Carrying Bag
• Test Leads (100 cm)
• Crocodile Clips
• Rubber Protection Frame
• 4 x 1.5 V Mignon/AA/LR6 Batteries
• Fuse 0.315 A (757213)

Figure 1: BENNING IT 100 Meter and its accessories, including test leads, crocodile clips, and carrying bag.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Always observe general safety rules and local regulations when working with electrical equipment. Failure to do so may result in injury or damage to the device.

• The device is rated for Measuring Circuit Category CAT IV 600 V. Ensure all measurements are within this rating.
• Do not use the device if it appears damaged or if the insulation of the test leads is compromised.
• Always ensure the test leads are correctly connected before taking measurements.
• Avoid contact with live circuits.
• The red LED indicates test voltage or external voltage. A test cannot be started if external voltage is present.
• Replace batteries and fuses only with the specified types.

3. Product Overview

The BENNING IT 100 features a digital multiple display with backlighting for clear readability. It is housed in a robust rubber protection frame for durability.

Key Features:

• Digital multiple display with backlighting.
• Insulation resistance measurement range: 0.3 MΩ - 20000 MΩ.
• Rated test voltages: 50 V, 100 V, 250 V, 500 V, 1000 V.
• Low ohm measurement up to 40 Ω with 200 mA test current.
• Resistance measurement with 200 mA test current for protective conductor connections.
• Polarisation Index (PI) and Dielectric Absorption Level (DAR) measurements.
• Red LED indicator for test/external voltage.
• Zero balance function for test leads (up to 2 Ω).
• Lock function for continuous insulation and low ohm measurements.
• Adjustable display lighting (brief or permanent).
• Independent storage of the last measurement function (V AC / V DC, resistance/continuity test).
• Continuity test with audible beep.
• Automatic measuring range selection.
• Self-contained internal test.

4. Setup

4.1 Battery Installation

The BENNING IT 100 requires 4 x 1.5 V AA/LR6 batteries. To install or replace batteries:

1. Ensure the device is turned off.
2. Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the device.
3. Use a suitable tool (e.g., screwdriver) to open the cover.
4. Insert the 4 AA batteries, observing the correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
5. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

4.2 Connecting Test Leads

Connect the test leads to the appropriate input jacks on the meter. The red lead typically connects to the "VΩ" or "TEST" jack, and the black lead to the "COM" jack. Ensure a secure connection for accurate measurements.

5. Operating Instructions

The BENNING IT 100 features a rotary switch for function selection and dedicated buttons for specific operations.

5.1 Power On/Off and Function Selection

Turn the rotary switch to the desired measurement function (e.g., V AC, V DC, Ω, MΩ). The device will power on automatically. Turn the switch to "OFF" to power off the device.

5.2 Voltage Measurement (AC/DC)

Select "V AC" or "V DC" on the rotary switch. Connect the test leads to the circuit to be measured. The voltage will be displayed. The maximum voltage measuring range is 600 V for both AC and DC.

5.3 Resistance and Continuity Test

Select the "Ω" position on the rotary switch.

• Resistance Measurement: Connect the test leads across the component. The resistance value will be displayed. The maximum resistance measuring range is 0.6 MΩ.
• Continuity Test: For continuity, the device will emit an audible beep if the resistance is below a certain threshold (typically for low ohm measurements).
• Zero Balance: Before performing low ohm measurements, especially for protective conductor connections, use the "ZERO" function to compensate for the resistance of the test leads (up to 2 Ω). This ensures more accurate readings.

Figure 2: The meter displaying a low resistance value, likely after performing a zero balance for test lead compensation.

Figure 3: The BENNING IT 100 measuring the resistance of a light fixture, showing the test leads connected to the power plug and the fixture's casing.

5.4 Insulation Measurement

Select the "MΩ" position on the rotary switch. Choose the desired test voltage (50V, 100V, 250V, 500V, or 1000V) using the appropriate button or switch. Press the "TEST" button to initiate the insulation test. The red LED will illuminate during the test. The insulation resistance will be displayed.

• Lock Function: For continuous insulation or low ohm measurements, press the "LOCK" button after initiating the test. This will maintain the test voltage without needing to hold the "TEST" button. Press "LOCK" again to release.
• PI/DAR Measurement: Use the "PI/DAR" button to perform Polarisation Index and Dielectric Absorption Level tests, which provide insights into insulation quality over time. Refer to specific electrical standards for interpretation of these values.

Figure 4: The BENNING IT 100 performing an insulation test on the internal wiring of an appliance, with test leads connected to different points.

Figure 5: The BENNING IT 100 performing an insulation test on an electric motor, with test leads connected to the motor's terminals and casing.

5.5 Display Backlighting

Press the backlight button (often indicated by a light bulb icon) to activate the display backlighting. This can be set for a brief period or permanently, depending on the device's settings or subsequent presses.

5.6 Stored Measurement Function

The device independently stores the last selected measurement function (V AC / V DC, resistance/continuity test) for convenience upon next power-on.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning

Clean the device regularly with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Ensure the device is dry before storage or next use.

6.2 Battery Replacement

When the low battery indicator appears on the display, replace all four AA batteries as described in Section 4.1. Always use fresh, high-quality batteries.

6.3 Fuse Replacement

If the device malfunctions or specific measurement functions cease to work, the internal fuse (0.315 A, type 757213) may need replacement. This procedure should ideally be performed by qualified personnel. Refer to the device's internal diagram or contact support for guidance.

7. Troubleshooting

• Device does not power on: Check battery installation and ensure batteries are not depleted. Replace if necessary.
• No test start possible: If the red LED for external voltage is illuminated, a test cannot be initiated. Disconnect the test leads from the circuit and ensure no external voltage is present before attempting a test.
• Inaccurate readings: Ensure test leads are properly connected and not damaged. Perform a zero balance for low ohm measurements. Check battery level.
• Display issues: If the display is dim, activate backlighting. If issues persist, check batteries.
• Continuity test not beeping: Ensure the resistance is within the continuity threshold. Check test leads for damage.

For persistent issues not covered here, please refer to the warranty and support section.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

9.1 Warranty Information

The BENNING IT 100 comes with an EU Spare Part Availability Duration of 1 year. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact your retailer.

9.2 Technical Support

If you encounter issues that cannot be resolved using this manual, or require further technical assistance, please contact the BENNING customer support or your authorized dealer. Keep your product model number (44107) and purchase details ready when contacting support.