The test results of cable fault testers may be affected by various factors, which are mainly divided into four categories: equipment performance, operating specifications, cable characteristics, and environmental conditions. The following is a specific analysis:
1. Equipment performance factors
① Sampling rate and resolution
Impact: Insufficient sampling rate (such as<100MHz) or low resolution (such as>1m) can cause waveform distortion and increase fault location errors.
Example: If the sampling rate of the device is only 50MHz, it may not be able to capture high-frequency fault signals, resulting in missed or misjudgment.
② Limitations of testing methods
Impact: Different testing methods (such as low-voltage pulse method and high-voltage flashover method) are applicable to specific types of faults, and improper method selection can reduce accuracy.
Example: High impedance faults require high-voltage flashover method. If the low-voltage pulse method is mistakenly used, it may not be effectively detected.
③ Equipment aging and calibration
Impact: Long term use of equipment without calibration or aging of components (such as battery voltage drop) can lead to test result deviation.
Suggestion: Regularly calibrate the equipment and check the battery level before use.
2. Factors related to operational standards
① Incorrect selection of testing method
Impact: Failure to select appropriate testing methods based on the type of fault may result in incorrect waveform analysis.
Example: Low voltage pulse method should be used for circuit breaker faults. If flashover method is mistakenly used, effective waveforms may not be formed.
② Improper parameter settings
Impact: Incorrect parameter settings such as pulse width, gain, and range can lead to abnormal waveform display.
Suggestion: Adjust parameters according to cable length and fault type to ensure clear waveform.
③ Inexperienced operators
Impact: Lack of experience may lead to waveform interpretation errors or non-standard testing processes.
Suggestion: Provide professional training for operators to become familiar with equipment operation and fault analysis.
3. Cable characteristic factors
① Cable length and structure
Impact: Long cable signals experience significant attenuation and require higher sampling rates; Multi core cables need to be tested separately for each core.
Example: Cables over 10km require equipment to support long-distance testing, otherwise the signal may be lost.
② Impedance characteristics of fault point
Impact: High resistance faults (such as insulation aging) have weak reflected signals, while low resistance faults (such as short circuits) have strong reflected signals.
Example: High resistance faults require high-voltage flashover method to enhance the signal, while low resistance faults can be addressed using low-voltage pulse method.
③ Cable laying environment
Impact: The laying methods such as direct burial, pipe penetration, and cable trays affect signal propagation, and the testing method needs to be adjusted.
Example: Soil resistivity needs to be considered for buried cables, and pipeline interference needs to be eliminated for conduit cables.
4. Other potential factors
① Cable aging and damage
Impact: Aging and damage of the cable insulation layer may lead to abnormal test signals, which need to be judged based on historical data.
Suggestion: Regularly check the status of cables and record the waveform characteristics of faults.
② Test the quality of attachments
Impact: Poor or damaged contact of accessories such as test lines and grounding rods can affect signal transmission.
Suggestion: Use original or high-quality accessories and regularly check the connection status.
5. Summary and Suggestions
Equipment selection: Priority should be given to devices with high sampling rates, high resolutions, and support for multiple testing methods.
Operating standards: Strictly follow standard procedures and adjust parameters according to cable characteristics.
Environmental control: Avoid strong electromagnetic interference, ensure good grounding, and choose a suitable testing environment.
Data analysis: Combining historical data with practical experience, comprehensively judge the test results to avoid misjudgment caused by a single factor.
By comprehensively considering the above factors, the testing accuracy of the cable fault tester can be significantly improved, ensuring rapid positioning and repair of cable faults.
The ZC-700A cable fault tester is a new generation portable cable fault tester designed and manufactured by our company based on user requirements and considering on-site use. It adheres to our consistent principles of high technology, high precision, and high quality, and elevates the level of cable testing to a new level. The cable fault tester consists of three main parts: flash testing, tracking, and positioning. The tester can be used to detect low resistance, high resistance, short circuit, open circuit, leakage and flashover faults of various cables, accurately detecting the location of fault points, cable length and cable burial path of underground cables. It has the characteristics of accurate testing, high level of intelligence, wide adaptability, stable performance, and lightweight portability. The instrument adopts a Chinese character system, high-definition display, and user-friendly interface.
Cable tracing and fault location are composed of a pathfinder, a locator, a T-probe, an A-frame, an earpiece, etc. This instrument is a specialized instrument for cable fault location testing, suitable for testing various cables with metal conductors (wire pairs, protective layers, shielding layers). Its main functions are to locate and test points of poor ground insulation, detect cable paths, and test cable burial depth.
Kvtester Electronics Technology Co.,Ltd. is a high-tech enterprise specializing in power testing, testing, research and development, production, and sales of testing equipment. It has been engaged in the electrical testing industry for many years, and its products are of high quality. We welcome customers to come and purchase. Service hotline: 0086-27-81778799, to learn more, visit the official website: www.kvtester.com
