AC Current Probe Model MD303 User Manual

Description

The MD303 (Catalog #1201.21) is designed for use in industrial environments. It features hook-shaped jaws that enable users to "pry" into or "hook" onto cables, accommodating up to two 500 MCM cables or smaller bus bars. The Model MD303 is compatible with AC ammeters, multimeters, or other current measurement instruments with an input impedance lower than 5Ω. For optimal accuracy, it should be used with an ammeter possessing an accuracy of 0.75% or better.

Operation

Before operating, ensure you have read and fully understood the WARNING section.

Making Measurements with the AC Current Probe Model MD303

• Connect the black and red terminals to the Ampere AC range of your DMM or current measuring instrument.
• Select the appropriate current range, typically the 2A AC range.
• Clamp the probe around the conductor to be tested, ensuring the arrow on the probe points toward the load.
• If the reading is less than 200mA, select a lower range until you obtain the best resolution.
• Read the value displayed on the DMM and multiply it by the probe's transformation ratio (1000/1). For example, a reading of 0.459A indicates a current of 0.459A x 1000 = 459A AC flowing through the probe.
• For best accuracy, avoid placing the probe in close proximity to other conductors, as this can introduce noise.

Tips for Making Precise Measurements

• It is crucial to select the meter range that provides the best resolution to avoid measurement errors.
• Ensure that the probe jaw mating surfaces are free of dust and contamination. Contaminants can create air gaps between the jaws, increasing phase shift between the primary and secondary, which is critical for accurate power measurements.

Maintenance

Warning

• For maintenance, use only original replacement parts.
• To avoid electrical shock, do not attempt any servicing unless you are qualified.
• To prevent electrical shock and/or instrument damage, do not allow water or other foreign agents to enter the probe.

Cleaning

To ensure optimum performance, keep the probe jaw mating surfaces clean at all times. Failure to do so may result in inaccurate readings. Clean the probe jaws using very fine sandpaper (e.g., 600 grit) to avoid scratching, then gently clean with a soft oiled cloth.

Repair and Calibration

To initiate a repair or calibration, contact the Service Center to obtain a Customer Service Authorization number (CSA#). Please write the CSA# on the outside of the shipping container. This ensures prompt tracking and processing of your instrument.

Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC® Instruments
15 Faraday Drive
Dover, NH 03820 USA
Phone: (800) 945-2362 (Ext. 360) | (603) 749-6434 (Ext. 360)
Email: repair@aemc.com

Alternatively, contact your authorized distributor.

NOTE: All customers must obtain a CSA# before returning any instrument.

Technical and Sales Assistance

For any technical problems or assistance with the proper use or application of this instrument, contact the technical hotline:

Phone: (800) 343-1391 | (508) 698-2115
Email: techsupport@aemc.com

Limited Warranty

The current probe is warranted to the owner for a period of one year from the date of original purchase against defects in manufacture. This limited warranty is provided by AEMC® Instruments. 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 are available on the AEMC Instruments website at: https://www.aemc.com/warranty.html.

Please print the online Warranty Coverage Information for your records.

Specifications

Electrical Specifications

Current Range: 4 to 500A AC

Transformation Ratio: 1000:1

Output Signal: 1mA AC/A AC

Accuracy*:

*Reference conditions: 23°C±3°K, 20 to 75% RH, external magnetic field <40 A/m, no DC component, no external current carrying conductor, test sample centered. 5Ω load.

Phase Shift: < 7° from 45 to 1000Hz

Overload: 700A for 10mn

Frequency Range: 48 to 1000Hz

Load Impedance: 5Ω max non-inductive

Open Secondary Voltage: Limited to 10V Peak max

General Specifications

Working Voltage: 600Vrms

Common Mode Voltage: 600Vrms

Influence of Adjacent Parallel Conductor: < 30mA/A at 50Hz

Influence of Conductor in Jaw Opening: ± 1.5%

Output: Double insulated 5 ft (1.5 m) lead with safety banana plugs.

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 2000 m | Non-operating: 0 to 12,000 m

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: 10/55/10Hz, 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

Safety Specifications

Electrical: Double insulation or reinforced insulation between the primary or secondary and the outer case of the handle conforms to IEC 1010-2-032. Rated for 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).

Symbols:

• [double insulation symbol]: Signifies that the current probe is protected by double or reinforced insulation. Use only factory-specified replacement parts when servicing.
• [caution symbol]: Signifies CAUTION! and requests that the user refer to the user manual before using the instrument.
• [type A current sensor symbol]: This is a type A current sensor. Signifies that application around and removal from HAZARDOUS LIVE conductors is permitted.

Diagram Description

The diagram illustrates the AC Current Probe Model MD303. It shows the probe jaws, the main body, and the connecting leads. Key dimensions are indicated:

• Maximum Cable Diameter: Ø = 1.18" (30 mm)
• Maximum Bus Bar Size: 2.5 x 0.19" (63 x 5 mm)
• Maximum Dual Cable Diameter: Ø = 0.98" (25 mm)
• Overall Probe Dimensions: Approximately 2.6" (66 mm) width, 7.68" (195 mm) length, and 1.34" (34 mm) height.
• Connection leads are shown in Black and Red, labeled S1 and S2 respectively.
• An arrow on the probe body indicates the direction of current flow relative to the load.

Definition of Measurement Categories

• Cat. I: For measurements on circuits not directly connected to the AC supply wall outlet, such as protected secondaries, signal level, and limited energy circuits.
• Cat. II: For measurements performed on circuits directly connected to the electrical distribution system, such as 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, verify 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, providing a detailed description of any damage.

Ordering Information

Current Probe MD303: Cat. #1201.21

Accessories:

• Banana plug adapter (to non-recessed plug): Cat. #1017.45