Chauvin Arnoux®, Inc. d.b.a. AEMC® Instruments
certifies that this instrument has been calibrated
using standards and instruments traceable to
international standards.
We guarantee that at the time of shipping your
instrument has met its published specifications.
An NIST traceable certificate may be
requested at the time of purchase, or obtained
by returning the instrument to our repair and
calibration facility, for a nominal charge.
The recommended calibration interval for this
instrument is 12 months and begins on the date of
receipt by the customer. For recalibration, please
use our calibration services. Refer to our repair
and calibration section at
These safety warnings are provided to ensure the safety of personnel.
Please read and comply with these precautions:
• This instrument is protected from accidental voltages of not more than
50V with respect to earth in measurement CAT IV. The guaranteed level
of protection of this equipment may be compromised if used in a manner
not specied by the manufacturer.
• Safety is the responsibility of the operator.
• All metal objects or wires connected to the electrical system should be
assumed to be lethal until tested. Grounding systems are no exception.
• Never exceed the maximum rated voltage and current, and the mea-
surement category.
• Never exceed the protection limits, and always comply with the condi-
tions and place of use, indicated in the specications.
• Do not use the instrument or its accessories if they appear damaged.
• Use accessories that have overvoltage category and service voltages
greater than or equal to those of the instrument (CAT IV 50V). Use only
accessories that comply with safety standards (IEC 61010-2-031 & 32).
• Wear the appropriate protective gear (insulating boots and gloves).
• Check that no terminal is connected and the switch is set to OFF before
opening the device.
• Use only the charging unit supplied with the instrument to recharge the
battery.
• Troubleshooting and metrological verication procedures must only be
performed by qualied, approved personnel, or the factory.
• NOTE: The potentials on the various rods used for an earth measurement
may be dierent if a nearby electrical installation is defective or certain
weather conditions prevail (thunderstorms). It is up to the operator
to decide whether to continue or postpone measurements in these
situations.
Signifies that the instrument is protected by double or reinforced insulation.
This symbol on the instrument indicates a WARNING that the operator must
refer to the user manual for instructions before operating the instrument. In
this manual, the symbol preceding instructions indicates that if the instructions
are not followed, bodily injury, installation/sample and/or product damage may
result.
Risk of electric shock. The voltage at the parts marked with this symbol may be
dangerous.
Ground/Earth symbol
In conformity with WEEE 2002/96/EC
1.2 Definition of Measurement Categories
CAT II: For measurements performed on circuits directly connected to the electri-
cal distribution system. Exa
ances or portable tools.
CAT III:
CAT IV: For measurements performed at the primary electrical supply (<1000V)
For measurements performed in the building installation at the distribu-
tion level such as on hardwired equipment in xed installation and circuit
breakers.
such as on primary overcurren
meters.
mples are measurements on household appli-
t protection devices, ripple control units, or
1.3 Receiving Your Shipment
Upon receiving your shipment, make sure that the contents are consistent with the
packing list. Notify your distributor of any missing items. If the equipment appears
to be damaged, le a claim immediately with the carrier and notify your distributor
at once, giving a detailed description of any damage. Save the damaged packing
Ground Resistance Tester Model 6471 (no probes included) .... Cat. #2135.48
Includes carrying bag 110/240V power adapter with US power cord, optical USB cable,
rechargeable NiMH battery, and a USB stick with DataView® software, ground tester
workbook and user manual.
Ground Tester Model 6471 (probes included) .............................Cat. #2135.49
Includes carrying bag, set of two SR182 current probes, 110/240V power adapter with US
power cord, optical USB cable, rechargeable NiMH battery, and a USB stick with DataView
software, ground tester workbook and user manual.
Ground Tester Model 6471 Kit (300 ft - probes included) ........... Cat. #2135.50
Includes meter, two carrying bags, two 300 ft color-coded leads on spools (red/blue), two
100 ft color-coded leads (hand-tied, green/black), two 5 ft color-coded leads (red/blue), set
of two SR182 current probes, 110/240V power adapter with US power cord, optical USB
cable, four T-shaped auxiliary ground electrodes, set of ve spaded lugs, one 100 ft tape
measure, rechargeable NiMH battery, and a USB stick with DataView® software, ground
tester workbook and user manual.
Ground Tester Model 6471 Kit (300 ft - no probes included) ......Cat. #2135.60
Includes meter, two carrying bags, two 300 ft color-coded leads on spools (red/blue), two
100 ft color-coded leads (hand-tied, green/black), two 5 ft color-coded leads (red/blue),
110/240V power adapter with US power cord, optical USB cable, four T-shaped auxiliary
ground electrodes, set of ve spaded lugs, one 100 ft tape measure, rechargeable NiMH
battery, and a USB stick with DataView
®
software, ground tester workbook and user manual.
Ground Tester Model 6471 Kit (500 ft - no probes included) ......Cat. #2135.61
Includes meter, two carrying bags, two 500 ft color-coded leads on spools (red/blue), two
100 ft color-coded leads (hand-tied, green/black), two 5 ft color-coded leads (red/blue),
110/240V power adapter with US power cord, optical USB cable, four T-shaped auxiliary
ground electrodes, set of ve spaded lugs, one 100 ft tape measure, rechargeable NiMH
battery, and a USB stick with DataView® software, ground tester workbook and user manual.
®
1.4.1 Kits, Accessories and Replacement Parts
Test Kit for 3-Pole (3-Point) Testing (150 ft) ................................. Cat. #2135.35
Includes carrying bag, two 150 ft color-coded leads on spools (red/blue), one 30 ft lead
(green), two 5 ft color-coded leads (red/blue), two T-shaped auxiliary ground electrodes, set
of ve spaded lugs and one 100 ft tape measure.
Test Kit for 4-Pole (4-Point) Testing (300 ft) ................................. Cat. #2135.36
Includes carrying bag, two 300 ft color-coded leads on spools (red/blue), two 100 ft colorcoded leads (hand-tied, green/black), two 5 ft color-coded leads (red/blue), four T-shaped
auxiliary ground electrodes, set of ve spaded lugs and one 100 ft tape measure.
Test Kit for 4-Pole (4-Point) Testing (500 ft) ................................. Cat. #2135.37
Includes carrying bag, two 500 ft color-coded leads on spools (red/blue), two 100 ft colorcoded leads (hand-tied, green/black), one 30 ft lead (green), two 5 ft color-coded leads (red/
blue), four T-shaped auxiliary ground electrodes, set of ve spaded lugs and one 100 ft tape
measure.
(Supplemental for 4-Pole (4-Point) Testing) .............................................Cat. #2135.38
Includes carrying bag, two 100 ft color-coded leads (hand-tied, green/black), one 30 ft lead
(green), two T-shaped auxiliary ground electrodes, set of ve spaded lugs and one 100 ft tape
measure.
Extra Large Classic Tool Bag ...........................................................Cat. #2133.73
The Ground Resistance Tester Model 6471 is a portable measurement instrument
designed to measure:
• Ground Resistance with 2 clamps (no auxiliary rods needed)
• Bond/Connection Resistance (2-Pole and 4-Pole Kelvin sensing)
• Ground Resistance (3-Pole or 4-Pole)
• Ground Coupling Resistance
• Selective Ground Resistance
• Soil Resistivity (Wenner or Schlumberger method)
The Model 6471 measures from 0.01 to 99.99k
seeking out the optimum measurement range, test frequency and test current.
Easy-to-use - Simply connect the leads, select the test mode, press Start and read
the results. Up to 512 test results can be stored in internal memory for later recall
to the display or downloaded to a PC via DataView
The large LCD is easy-to-read and indicates ground electrode resistance, test
voltage, current and frequency as well as individual electrode resistance, battery
status and more.
The Model 6471 is CAT IV rated to 50V and is over voltage protected to more than
250V
AC against accidental connection to live circuits. The voltage is also displayed
on screen. In the event of a system fault, the Model 6471 can withstand 250V
Additional features of the Model 6471 include a heavy-duty eld case sealed
against dust and water when closed (the test button is also sealed against the
elements); manual and automatic test frequency selection from 41 to 513Hz;
4-Pole Soil Resistivity test methods and user selectable 2-Pole or 4-Pole Bond
Resistance test method.
The Model 6471 is powered by 9.6V, 3.5 Ah NiMH rechargeable batteries. An ex-
ternal recharger powered from 120/230V, 50/60Hz is included and provides for
testing while recharging.
The Ground Resistance Tester Model 6471 is rugged, easy-to-use and ideal for
maintenance crews performing numerous tests. It exceeds mechanical and safety
specications for shock, vibration and drop tests per IEC standards. The adjustable
test frequency provides for rejection of high levels of interference, allowing it to be
used under dicult conditions such as high stray currents that aect accuracy.
NOTE: External voltages will be displayed only on the small displays (A2 and
A3) without the view of the main display (A1). This helps to rapidly recognize
that these are measurements of external voltages.
Backlight: The backlight turns ON automatically when entering a function and
turns OFF after the function is complete. Press the DISPLAY button to turn it back
on.
NOTE: In the Set-up mode, pressing the DISPLAY button also selects the
next configurable parameter.
A1
A2
A3
12
Figure 2-2
Top main display
Middle small display
Bottom small display
If this symbol blinks during a passive measurement, a voltage of more than
42V is present at the tester’s inputs.
If this symbol blinks during an active measurement, the limits of use have
been exceeded.
If the symbol appears constant during an active measurement, the values
to be measured are unstable.
A blinking symbol > (greater than) or < (less than) indicates that the
measurement range is exceeded.
If both symbols are blinking during a passive measurement, the values of
voltage and/or current are too small and are beyond the limits of use. The
resistance R
If both symbols are blinking during an active measurement, the values
to be measured are strongly varying (remedy: switch on smoothing of
measured values with SMOOTH function).
Indicates the battery charge condition; the segments represent the energy.
Indicates whether the 3-Pole EARTH measurement or the EARTH COUPLING
measurement has been selected.
Symbol not used in Model 6471
Symbol not used in Model 6471
Symbol not used in Model 6471
PASS displayed by the tester is then highly uncertain.
OBJ:TEST
DISTANCE
FREQUENCY
SWEEP
MANUAL
AUTO
CONFIG
MR
MEM
REMOTE
Object and test number for storage in memory.
Indicates lead compensation for 2-Pole measurement is active
If blinking, indicates the value is ready to be overwritten with a new value
or that a new value will be entered. If more than one value has to be
entered, use the CHANGE
Indicates the test frequency.
Indicates that the secondary function of a button will be used.
Symbol not used in Model 6471
Indicates MANUAL mode - the user has to stop the measurement,
otherwise the measurement keeps on running.
Indicates AUTO mode - measurement stops immediately after all results
are available.
If blinking, indicates the measurement had a disturbance when the measurement was started.
Indicates that the blinking value of AUTO/MANUAL mode, frequency,
voltage or DC current direction can be changed.
Memory recall - indicates the displaying of stored results is active
Indicates that there is recorded data in memory. When blinking, it indicates that the results need to be saved by pressing the MEM button.
Indicates the instrument is remotely controlled by the RS-232/USB
interface.
Indicates SMOOTHing of the displayed measurement results.
Indicates that a clamp is (steady) or should be (flashing) connected to ES.
ALARM
Measured value (R, U, I).
Indicates that the measurement is running.
Indicates the alarm is activated. An audible alarm will sound if the value
measured is above the limit defined in the SET-UP mode.
Distances to be entered between earth electrode and supplementary
electrodes or between earth electrodes.
Clamp should be connected to H.
If this clamp symbol blinks, the instrument is refusing measurement
because the clamp is not connected correctly.
Symbolizes the soil resistivity value (Rho): W or S indicates that Wenner
or Schlumberger method is used for the measurement (changed by the
Hz/OPTIONS button).
2.5 Button Functions
Starts a measurement and compensates for lead resistance (§ 5.2.1).
START/STOP
Measurement stops automatically (AUTO) or is stopped by pressing this
button again (MANUAL).
Selects the second function highlighted in yellow under the buttons.
MEM/MR
DISPLAY/
SMOOTH
Hz/OPTIONS/
DISTANCE
14
Increases or decreases the value of the flashing parameter displayed or
selects the next parameter. Press the button for a longer time to increase
the change of value speed at a faster rate.
Selects the parameter to be modified or moves the cursor to the right.
MEM: Stores measurements to memory.
MR: Retrieves measurements from memory.
DISPLAY: Displays all parameters of a measurement.
SMOOTH: Smooths the display of measurement providing a more
stable result.
Hz/OPTIONS: Enables configuration of measurement functions.
DISTANCE: Available for soil resistivity and V potential measurements. It
allows the setting of values of distances used for Rho (ρ) calculation.
Measuring method: Digital with a sampling frequency of 4028Hz, low pass, FFT.
The frequency of the strongest spectral component is displayed.
Measuring rate: Display updates approx. 3 times per s.
Measurement Range5 to 450Hz
Resolution1Hz
Operating error± 2Hz
Min. input voltage10mV
Min. current through a clamp0.5mA
3.2.2 Voltage Measurements
Overvoltages up to 75Vrms are displayed as ">65V". Permanent overvoltages
between 70 and 75V at terminals H (Z) and E (X) can cause overheating of the
overvoltage protection varistor.
Voltages of more than 75Vrms lead to error message 31 (excessive external
voltage) or 32 (voltage measurement overrange).
If terminals H (Z) and E (X) are put into contact with the line voltage, the protection
fuse will blow.
(1): The Model 6471 cannot detect whether a current clamp SR182 or MN82 is connected. In the case
of the MN82 clamp, with currents > 10A and frequencies < 100Hz the instrument will not display
any warning messages. It is the operator’s responsibility to observe the limits of use when using the
MN82 clamp.
0.00 to
9.99mA
± (15% + 2cts)± (7% + 2cts)± (5% + 2cts)
> 20%± (15% + 2cts)± (7% + 2cts)
10.0 to
99.9mA
(1)
100 to
999mA
50 to 99Hz
1.00 to
9.99A
(1)
10 to
40A
100 to 400Hz
(1)
3.2.4 DC Resistance Measurements
Measuring method: Voltage/Current measurement (Standard EN 61557 part 4)
Nominal output voltage: 16VDC (if resistance < 22Ω the output voltage is reduced
to 10VDC)
Max output current: > 200mADC for resistances < 20Ω
Max overload (permanent): 50Vrms (protection up to 250V is guaranteed)
Max inductive load: 2 H
Max interfering voltage: 60Vpeak > 10Hz
Time for auto range selecting: approx 5 s
Measuring time: 8 s with automatic polarity inversion
Measuring rate: 3 per s in manual mode
Lead compensation: Possible from 0 to 5Ω
Alarm setting: “>” or “<” from 1 to 999Ω (max 3 digits)
Measuring method: Voltage/Current measurement (EN 61557 part 5)
Open circuit voltage: 16 or 32Vrms square wave (if current > 240mA the output
voltage is reduced to 10Vrms)
Test frequency: Selectable from 41 to 513Hz (see table in § 6.2)
Short circuit current: > 200mAAC
Noise suppression: > 80 dB for frequencies 20% or more above or below the
test frequency
Max. overload: 250Vrms
Max. value for RH & RS: 100kΩ
Measuring time:Short push on START: approx. 7 s for rst value of RE at 128Hz, then 3 measurements per s.
Long push on START: approx. 15 s for rst value of RE at
128Hz, then 3 measurements per s.
The following error indications refer to reference conditions with a test voltage of
32V, test frequency of 128Hz, R
and RS = 1kΩ, no external voltage.
H
The operating error of AC resistance measurements can be less than that speci-
ed for voltage or current because frequency characteristics of the voltage channel
are matched to those of the current channel.
Measurement of auxiliary electrodes R
Measurement
Range
Resolution0.1Ω0.1Ω1Ω10Ω100Ω
Operating error± (10% + 2cts)
0.14 to
9.99Ω
10.0 to
99.9Ω
, RS, RES, RE
H
100 to
999Ω
1.00 to
9.99kΩ
10.0 to
99.9kΩ
The START button must be pressed for more than 2 s. For frequencies between
41 and 256Hz, the resistance of the auxiliary earth electrodes is measured at the
test frequency set. At higher frequencies the resistance is measured at 256Hz.
The START button must be pressed for more than 2 s. For frequencies between
41 and 128Hz, the resistance of the auxiliary earth electrodes is measured at the
test frequency set. At higher frequencies the resistance is measured at 128Hz.
3.2.7 Earth/Ground Measurements with 2 Clamps
Measuring method: Voltage/Current measurement with a rectangular AC signal
Operating Temperature: 32° to 113°F (0° to 45°C); 0 to 90% RH
Specied Operating Temperature
Storage Temperature: -40° to 158°F (-40° to 70°C); 0 to 90% RH
Altitude: < 3000m
(1): This range corresponds to the one defined by standard EN 61557, for which an operating error including the
quantities of influence is defined. When the device is used outside this range, 1.5%/10°C and 1.5% between
75 and 90% RH must be added to the operating error.
(1)
: 0° to 95°F (0° to 35°C); 0 to 75% RH
3.7 Safety
Electromagnetic Compatibility
This instrument satises the EMC and LVD directives required for the CE marking
and product standard IEC 61326-1 (Ed. 97) + A1 (Ed. 98).
• Immunity in industrial environment
• Emissions in residential environment.
Electrical safety according to EN 61010-1 (Ed. 2 of 2001)
Measurement according to EN 61557 (Ed. 2 of 2007) parts 1, 4 and 5.
CAT IV, 50V
Pollution Degree 2
*Specications are subject to change at any time without notice
NOTE: For detailed information regarding ground resistance testing, see
the Understanding Ground Resistance Testing Workbook CD that was
included with the instrument.
4.1 General Operating Instructions
The Model 6471 has operating modes:
• Automatic mode for routine applications.
• Manual (Expert) mode in which the user can change the parameters of the
measurement functions.
NOTE: Fully charge the battery before the first use (see § 9.4)
4.1.1 Automatic Mode
• Set the switch to the desired function.
• Make the connections appropriate to the function.
• Press the START/STOP button. The device makes the measurement and
stops automatically.
• Read the measurement result on the display and the relevant parameters
using the DISPLAY button.
• To save the information in memory, use the MEM button (see § 7.1).
4.1.2 Manual (Expert) Mode
• Set the switch to the desired function.
• Make the connections appropriate to the function.
• Select MANUAL mode.
• Choose various measurement parameters using the Hz/OPTIONS button.
• Press the START/STOP button. The measurement frequency or the direc-
tion of the current (resistance measurement) can be changed during the
measurement. To view their impact upon the measurement and the parameters relevant to the measurement use the DISPLAY button.
VOLTAGE CHECK: The tester first checks for possible interference. If there
is an external voltage of more than 42V, the warning triangle will be
displayed. If measurements are being performed in AUTO mode and a
disturbance frequency is detected, the tester will automatically look for a
frequency that is different from the default 128Hz.
5.1 Switching the Test Voltage
Available in all functions except mΩ and 2 Clamp.
If necessary, the test voltages can be switched to either 16 or 32V as follows:
• Press the Hz/OPTIONS button, then press it again to make the output volt-
age (Uout) blink.
• Use the ► button to switch to 16 or 32V, then press Hz/OPTIONS again.
This setting is retained when the unit is turned o.
5.2 Resistance Measurement mΩ (2-Wire)
WARNING: Before performing the resistance test, verify that the sample
under test is not energized.
1. Set the switch to
2. Connect the resistance to terminals H (Z) and E (X).
3. The 6471 makes a measurement with a positive current (R+), then reverses the
direction of the current and makes another measurement with negative (R-).
H
ALARM
E
AUTO
±
DC
Ω
Ω
Ω
R =
(R+) + (R-)
2
H
ALARM
E
AUTO
±
DC
Ω
Ω
Ω
4. To display the measurement parameters, press DISPLAY several times.
The device displays the following parameters:
R+, R-, +U
H-E
, +I
H-E
, -U
H-E
, -I
H-E
, U-Act (U
and its frequency) and R∆0 if there
H-E
is compensation for the measurement leads.
5.2.1 Lead Compensation Measurement
Lead compensation subtracts the resistance of the test leads from the measured
result.
• Short the two measurement leads connected to H (Z) and E (X) terminals.
• Press the 2nd button, then the START/STOP button to start the measure-
ment.
• This value will be deducted from all resistance values measured thereafter
until the rotary switch is turned to another function.
H
ALARM
E
appears on the display after the compensation value has been measured.
AUTO
±
DC
AC
Ω
R
0
Ω
NOTE: If the compensation resistance is > 5Ω, or if the leads are not shorted
when the measurement is started, the value of compensation will be canceled.
This function is active only for 2-Pole resistance measurements. By default, the
visual alarm (ALARM symbol ashes) and the audible alarm (buzzer sounds for a
few seconds) are triggered when R < 2
This threshold can be changed using the SET-UP function:
3. Start the measurement by pressing the START/STOP button.
H
S
ES
E
ALARM
AUTO
±
±
DC
DC
Ω
Ω
Ω
4. To display the measurement parameters, press DISPLAY several times.
The device displays the following parameters:
R+, R-, +U
H-E
, +I
H-E
, -U
H-E
, -I
H-E
, U-Act (U
and its frequency)
H-E
5.4 Earth/Ground Measurement (3-Pole)
This function is used to measure an earth (ground) resistance with 2 auxiliary
electrodes.
There are several measurement methods, the full and simplied (62% method) will
be discussed in this section.
5.4.1 62% Method
1. Set the switch to
2.
Place electrodes H (Z) and S (Y) to form a straight line with the earth electrode
under test.
The distance between electrode S (Y) and the earth electrode is 62% of
the distance between electrode H (Z) and the earth electrode; the distance
between the electrodes H (Z) and E (X) should be 8 to 10 times the depth of
the rod you are testing.
Ω
.
H (Z)
Ω
Ω
S (Y)
distance d - 62% d
distance A > 80 m
In order to avoid electromagnetic interference, it is best to unwind the full length of
each cable from the reel, to keep the cables as far apart as possible on the ground,
Connect the cables to terminals H (Z) and S (Y) (red and blue respectively); dis-
connect the earth strap from the rod under test, then connect terminal E (green) to
the rod or electrode system to be tested.
3.
Press the 2nd button, then the DISTANCE button. The "hundredths" will blink.
H
S
A
AUTO
m
m
Ω
Ω
d
E
=
DISTANCE
=
4. To modify the hundredths (of meters or feet), press the ▲ button until the
desired digit is displayed (0-9).
5.
To select and modify the tens, press the ► button and then the ▲ button until
the desired digit is displayed (0-9).
6.
To select and modify the units and tenths of a unit, press the ► button and
then the ▲ button until the desired digits are displayed (0.0- 9.9).
7.
To terminate the programming of distance, press the 2nd button and then the
DISTANCE button.
It is also necessary to program distance A. This is done in the same way as for
distance d.
8.
Start the measurement by pressing the START/STOP button.
EARTH
H
S
A
d
E
=
=
AUTO
m
m
H
S
E
AUTO
Ω
mV
mA
9. To display the measurement parameters, press DISPLAY several times.
To measure the resistances of auxiliary electrodes H (Z) and S (Y), or if the resistance of the electrodes is too high(see § 10.1), start the measurement with a long
press of the START/STOP button.
R
, RS will be displayed.
H
EARTH
H
S
> 2s
E
AUTO
Ω
kΩ
kΩ
NOTE: Repeat the process at 52% and at 72% for the S electrode.
5.4.2 Full Method
A more thorough measurement can be obtained by taking measurement by mov-
ing the S (Y) auxiliary electrode every 10% between H (Z) and E (X) and plotting
the results. A distinct plateau should result as shown below.
Move electrode S (Y) towards electrode H (Z) by a distance equal to 10% of d and
make another measurement. Then move electrode S (Y) again by a distance equal
to 10% of d, but towards the earth electrode.
H (Z)
S (Y)
52% d
62% d
72% d
d
The 3 measurement results should be the same to within a few percent. If this is
the case, the measurement is valid.
If not, electrode S (Y) is in the zone of inuence of the earth electrode. It will be
necessary to increase distance d for the H (Z) auxiliary electrode and repeat the
measurements.
Positioning of the Auxiliary Electrodes
To make sure that your earth measurements are not distorted by interference, we
recommend repeating the measurement with the auxiliary electrodes placed at a
dierent distance and in another direction (for example, rotated 90° from the rst
alignment).
H (Z)
S (Y)
H (Z)
S (Y)
E (X)
d1
If you nd the same values, your measurement is reliable. If the measured values
are substantially dierent, it is likely that they were inuenced by earth currents or
a groundwater source. It may be useful to drive the electrodes deeper and/or wet
the ground near them to reduce their contact resistance with the soil.
Avoid routing the connecting cables of the earth electrodes near or parallel to other
cables (transmission or supply), metallic conductors, rails, or fences: high test frequencies may cause cross-talk and aect the measurements.
This function is suited to the measurement of very low earth resistances. It
provides better resolution (10x better than 3P measurement) and there is no need
to compensate for the resistance of the measurement leads.
1.
Set the switch to .
2. Place electrodes H (Z) and S (Y) at least 30m apart.
S (Y)
> 30 m
> 30 m
In order to avoid electromagnetic interference, it is best to unwind the full length of
each cable from the reel, to keep the cables as far apart as possible on the ground,
taking care not to form loops, and to avoid placing the cables near or parallel to
metallic conductors (cables, rails, fences, etc.). Connect the cables to terminals
H (Z) and S (Y); disconnect the earth strap from the rod under test, then connect
terminals E (X) and ES (Xv) to the earth electrode to be tested.
3.
Start the measurement by pressing the START/STOP button.
H
S
ES
E
AUTO
Ω
mV
mA
4. To display the measurement parameters, press DISPLAY several times.
The device displays the following parameters:
RE, U
S-E
, I
H-E
, U-Act (U
and its frequency, U
H-E
and its frequency).
S-E
To measure the resistances of auxiliary electrodes H (Z) and S (Y), or if the resistance of the electrodes is too large(see § 10.1), start the measurement with a long
press of the START/STOP button.
We recommend repeating the measurement with the auxiliary electrodes placed at
a dierent distance and in another direction (see § 5.4.3).
5.5.2 Measurements with a Clamp
For this selective earth measurement you need a current clamp, either an SR182
(provided) or an MN82 (available as an accessory). These two types of current
clamps are specially designed to work with the 6471 ground tester.
The SR182 is more precise, suited to the measurement of higher currents (up to
40Arms) and for use on thicker conductors, while the MN82 (which is easier to
handle) accepts currents up to 10Arms and can be placed on conductors up to
3/4" (20mm) in diameter.
1.
Set the switch to .
2. Place electrodes H (Z) and S (Y) at least 30m (98 ft) apart so that there is no
interference between them.
H (Z)
> 30 m (98 ft)
S (Y)
> 30 m (98 ft)
R
R
R
E3
E1
E2
In order to avoid electromagnetic interference, it is best to unwind the full length of
each cable from the reel, to keep the cables as far apart as possible on the ground,
taking care not to form loops, and to avoid placing the cables near or parallel to
metallic conductors (cables, rails, fences, etc).
3.
Connect the cables to terminals H (Z) and S (Y), connect a cable between
terminal E (X) and the earth electrode under test, then connect the clamp to
terminal ES (Xv). The device recognizes it automatically.
4. Clamp to the path of the earth electrode to be checked, then connect a lead
from the current clamp to this same point [connection to terminal ES (XV) ].
Take care not to place the cable of electrode H (Z) too close to the current
clamp in order to avoid any transmission of the AC signal to the clamp (espe-
cially when using an MN82 clamp).
5.
Start the measurement by pressing the START/STOP button.
H
S
ES
E
You can now move the clamp and its lead to measure the other earth resist-
6.
ances, R
7.
To display the measurement parameters, press DISPLAY several times.
, RE3, etc.
E2
AUTO
mV
mA
Ω
= RE1
R
SEL
The device displays the following parameters:
R
, U
SEL
S-ES
frequency).
, I
H-E
, R-Act (R
), U-Act (U
PASS
and its frequency), I-Act (IES and its
H-E
To measure the resistances of auxiliary electrodes H (Z) and S (Y), or if the resistance of the electrodes is too large (see § 10.1), start the measurement with a long
press of the START/STOP button.
To measure the resistivity of the soil, two measurement methods are possible:
Wenner and Schlumberger
The dierence between the two methods lies in the positioning of the electrodes.
By default, the device selects the Wenner method. The Schlumberger method,
which allows you to move only 2 measurement electrodes rather than 3, is better
suited for measuring soil resistivity at multiple depths.
The soil resistivity measurement with dierent distances d, and therefore in different layers (in depth) of the soil, can be used to establish resistivity proles of
the soil in question, which can be useful for geological analysis, the exploration
of deposits, hydrological studies, etc., and to determine the location of an earth
electrode.
5.6.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of Wenner and Schlumberger
SchlumbergerWenner
AdvantageDisadvantageAdvantageDisadvantage
Need to move the two
potential electrodes ES
(Xv) and S (Y) only for
most readings. This can
significantly decrease the
time required to acquire
a sounding
Because the potential
electrode spacing is
small compared to
the current electrode
soakings, higher meter
sensitivity is required.
Because the potential
electrodes remain in
fixed locations, the effects of the near surface
lateral variations in
resistivity are reduced.
In general, interpretations
based on DC soundings
will be limited to simple,
horizontal; layered
structures
Ground Resistance Tester Model 6471
Potential electrode
spacing increases
as current electrode
spacing increases. Less
sensitive meters may
be used.
All four electrodes, the two
current E (X) and H (Z) and
the two potential ES (Xv)
and S (Y) must be moved
equally to acquire each
reading.
Because all electrodes
are moved for each
reading, this method can
be more susceptible to
near-surface, lateral, and
variations in resistivity.
These near surface lateral
variations could potentially
be misinterpreted in terms
of depth variations in
resistivity.
In general, interpretations
based on DC soundings
will be limited to simple,
horizontal; layered
structures.
Start the measurement by pressing the START/STOP button.
W
H
ρ
d
S
d
ES
d
E
ρ
= 2.π.d.R
W
AUTO
S-ES
k Ωm
Ω
m
To display the measurement parameters, press DISPLAY several times.
The device displays the following parameters:
ρW, R
S-ES
, d, U
S-ES
, I
H-E
, U-Act (U
and its frequency, U
S-ES
and its frequency).
H-E
To measure the resistances of the auxiliary electrodes H (Z), S (Y), ES (Xv) and E
(X), or if the resistance of the electrodes is too high (see § 10.1), start the measure-
ment by a long press of the START/STOP button.
R
and R
P-E
, then R
P-H
P-ES
and R
will be displayed.
P-S
> 2s
W
H
ρ
d
S
d
ES
d
E
AUTO
k Ωm
kΩ
kΩ
W
H
ρ
d
S
d
ES
d
E
AUTO
k Ωm
kΩ
kΩ
5.6.5 Schlumberger Method
1. Set the switch to .
2. Place electrodes S (Y) and ES (Xv) at a distance A apart, then place elec-
trodes H (Z) and E (X) in the same straight line, at a distance d measured from
the midpoint of distance A. Distance d must be between 2 and 30m.
3.
Drive the electrodes to a depth p of not more than 1/20 of d.
4.
Connect the cables to the electrodes, then to terminals H (Z), S (Y), ES (Xv),
Start the measurement by pressing the START/STOP button.
H
ρ
d
S
A
ES
d
E
S
d2-
ρ
= π. .R
s
A
=
2
A
4
AUTO
S-ES
Ωm
Ω
m
To display the measurement parameters, press DISPLAY several times.
The device displays the following parameters:
ρS, R
S-ES
, d, U
S-ES
, I
H-E
, U-Act (U
and its frequency, U
S-ES
and its frequency).
H-E
To measure the resistances of the auxiliary electrodes H (Z), S (Y), ES (Xv),
and E (X), or if the resistance of the electrodes is too high (see § 10.1), start the
measurement by a long press of the START/STOP button.
This is a quick way to measure the value of the earth.
NOTE: The two clamp method typically yields a measurement higher than the
fall of potential method since it uses a higher frequency to perform the test,
resulting in an impedance measurement.
The current clamp connected to terminal H (Z) applies a voltage to the circuit to be
measured. The value of the resulting current is determined by the impedance of
the circuit to be measured. The current owing in the loop is measured using the
clamp connected to terminal ES (Xv). The device then calculates loop resistance
R
from these quantities.
LOOP
NOTE: Use only SR182 or MN82 current clamps, which are specially designed
to operate with the Model 6471.
1. Set the switch to
.
2. Connect a clamp to terminal H (Z) and clamp it to a point down stream from
the rod under test that is a serial path to the earth.
3.
Connect the other clamp to terminal ES (Xv) and clamp it to the rod or elec-
Observe the following minimum distances between the two clamps in order to
avoid direct electromagnetic inuences between the transmitting clamp and the
receiving clamp:
Value measured
Ω)
(
Minimum separation
MN82SR182
0 to 10.1m (4")0m (0")
1 to 50.4m (1' 04")0.1m (4")
5 to 100.5m (1' 08")0.2m (8")
10 to 500.7m (2' 04")0.3m (1')
50 to 1000.9m (3')0.5m (1' 08")
100 to 5001.2m (4')0.5m (1' 08")
1. Start the measurement by pressing the START/STOP button.
In the case of the diagram below, the earth impedance measured is equal to:
R
= RE + ( RE1 // RE2 // RE3)
LOOP
> 2s
H
ES
AUTO
m A
Hz
Ω
NOTE: In the AUTO mode, the measurement frequency is 1611Hz. To make
an earth measurement that is free of inductive effects, you must change to
MANUAL mode and choose a lower measurement frequency (see §6.2).
To change the user frequency (USr), press the ▲▼ buttons (▲▼ raises the value,
and
Table of possible USr frequencies (48 values from 41 to 513Hz):
There are two user frequencies: one for resistivity and one for earth and soil potential measurements. These two values remain in memory even after the device
is switched o.
For soil resistivity measurements, the user frequency is limited to 128 Hz.
Pressing on Hz/OPTIONS in MANUAL mode allows the following parameters to
be changed using the ► button:
• EARTH blinks Earth Coupling Measurement
• 128 Hz blinks Test Frequency Measurement
• Test voltage blinks Test Voltage Selection
6.4.2 Earth/Ground Coupling Measurements
This measurement calls for making and storing three intermediate measurements
(at the same frequency). It is available only in MANUAL mode.
Connection diagram:
Earth
#1
R
R
1-2
R
A
1
R
C
R
b
arth 2
Measurement
R
2
Press Hz/OPTIONS and use the ► button to switch from EARTH to EARTH COU-
PLING. Proceed as follows:
• If you want to eliminate the resistance of the measurement leads, you can
use lead compensation (2nd + START) before starting the actual coupling
measurement (see § 5.2.1).
• Turn the rotary switch to 3-Pole.
• Select a test frequency and a test voltage (if desired).
• The screen displays EARTH COUPLING 1. Make a 3-pole earth measure-
ment on the rst earth system (measurement of R1 in the connection diagram on previous page).
• Stop the measurement by pressing the START/STOP button. The MEM
symbol ashes to indicate that this result must be recorded in memory.
Press the MEM button twice. To save to another location, refer to §7.1.
• The screen now displays EARTH COUPLING 2. Make a 3-pole earth mea-
surement on the second earth system (measurement of R2). For this second
measurement, leave the H (Z) and S (Y) electrodes in the same positions as
for the rst measurement.
• Store this result in the same memory location as before by pressing the
MEM button twice.
• The screen now displays the message EARTH COUPLING 3. Disconnect
terminal S (Y) and make a 2-wire resistance measurement with terminal H (Z) connected to earth 1 and terminal E (X) to earth 2.
• Record this result by pressing the MEM button twice.
• EARTH COUPLING 4 and the results of the measurements are displayed.
The calculation is based on the following formulas:
R
= (R1 + R2 – R
C
C1 = RC/R1 and C2 = RC/R
R
= R2 - R
b
C
)/2
1-2
= R1 - RC
2 RA
• To display all of the measurement parameters, press the MR button.
• To scroll through all of the measurements, use the ► and ▲ buttons.
then x 4
Press DISPLAY several times to display the following parameters:
The instrument has a total of 512 memory locations. Each of these locations is
dened by an object number (OBJ) from 01 to 99 and by a TEST number from 01
to 99.
For 3- and 4-pole earth measurements, the sweep mode (SWEEP) can record
several measurement results at the same memory location, with the frequency as
third addressing criterion.
During soil potential or resistivity measurements (Wenner or Schlumberger methods), several measurement results are recorded at the same memory location,
with the distance between electrodes as the third addressing criterion.
For earth coupling measurements (EARTH COUPLING 1, 2, 3, 4), the four mea-
surements provide the third addressing criterion for the same memory location.
None of the other measurements has an additional addressing criterion, so each
occupies only one memory address.
Since each measurement is dated, you must set the date and time of the device
before any storage in memory(see § 4.2).
7.1 Saving Measurements into Memory
Measurement results can be saved by performing the following:
• Press the MEM button. The tester will automatically suggest the next free
memory location ( message).
• Press the MEM button a second time to save to the OBJ/TEST location.
• If you decide not to save your results, press DISPLAY to exit MEM mode.
• To change the OBJ and TEST location, use the ► and ▲▼ buttons.
NOTE: If a memory location is already occupied, the message
played. Pressing the MEM button will overwrite the measurement record.
For soil resistivity and potential measurements, if several measurements are made
with dierent distances d, you can store them under the same OBJ:TEST number,
with the distance as third addressing criterion.
It will be possible to overwrite values already stored with new ones having the
same distance d, or even to add new results having other values for the distance d
provided that all of the other measurement parameters are identical.
• If you need to change the Object number, press the ▲ button until the desired
number is displayed. Then press the ► button; the Test number now blinks.
• Press the ▲ button until the desired test is displayed.
• Press the MEM button to display the dEL screen. By default, the blinking word
NO appears on the screen, indicating the test is not to be deleted. To delete
the test, press the ▲ button to change the blinking NO to YES, then press and
hold down (>2s) the MEM button. To exit without erasing, perform a short press
on the MEM button.
Note that if the test stored in this Object/Test number is a sweep test (which con-
sists of multiple measurements taken at dierent frequencies) this procedure only
deletes a single measurement. The remaining sweep measurements will still be
stored in this Object/Test. You must delete all individual measurements to completely remove a sweep test.
When a test is deleted, its Object/Test number is removed from memory. When you
subsequently view stored tests, this number will be skipped. This Object/Test number combination remains unavailable for storing tests until you completely erase
DO NOT CONNECT THE INSTRUMENT TO THE PC BEFORE INSTALLING THE
SOFTWARE AND DRIVERS.
NOTE: When installing, the user must have Administrative access rights
during the installation. The users access rights can be changed after the
installation is complete. DataView
multi-user system.
1.Insert the DataView thumb drive into an available USB port on your com-
puter. If Autorun is enabled, an AutoPlay window appears on your screen.
Click “Open folder to view files” to display the DataView folder. If Autorun is not
enabled or allowed, use Windows Explorer to locate and open the USB drive
labeled “DataView.”
2.When the DataView folder is open, find the file Setup.exe located in the root
directory of the USB drive, and double-click it to run the installation program.
3.The DataView setup screen appears.
In the upper left corner of the screen, choose the language vesion of
the Setup interface. (All Setup screens and diaogs will immediately appear in
the selected language.)
In the lower left corner are the available installation options. In addition to the
DataView software, you can select “Adobe Reader.” This links to the Adobe
web site where you can download the latest version of Reader. This program
is required to view DataView .pdf documents. The option Firmware Upgrades
links to the website where you can check for new firmware updates for the
instrument. Finally, User Manuals displays a list of .pdf files contained in the
USB drive that accompanies DataView. (DataView also comes with a Help
system that is installed with the program files.)
To install DataView, select DataView in the Options list and click Install.
4. Select the language version of DataView you want to install (English, French,
or Spanish) then click Next. (By default, the language selected in step 3 is
highlighted.).
5.
You are now prompted to select the software you want to install. Each AEMC
product family has its own specially designed Control Panel. If you are per-
forming a Complete install, by default all available Control Panels are selected
(a check mark next to the Control Panel indicates it is selected). Control Panels
take up disk space on the computer; so unless you have other types of AEMC
instruments, we recommend that you select Ground Tester and deselect the
rest. You should also check the option DataView Core, which is a requirement
if you plan to create DataView reports.
After you nish selecting and deselecting Control Panels and/or DataView
Core, click Next.
6.
The Setup program now informs you that it is ready to install DataView. If you
want to review any of your previous selections, click the Previous button to
return to earlier screens. Otherwise, click Install to begin installation.
7.
The InstallShield program installs the selected software. If an earlier version
of the software is already installed on your computer, for each selected program the InstallShield program will:
(a) Ask you to conrm the installation of the program. Click Next.
(b) Display a status bar indicating the progress of the installation.
(c) Inform you when the program is installed. Click Finish to install the next
selected program.
If the software is not installed (or if the installed software is the same version
as the selected software), the software is installed without requesting conr-
mation.
When all programs are installed, a message appears informing you of this.
Click Finish to return to the Setup screen.
8. You can now select additional Setup options to install (see step 3 above).
When nished, click Exit.
9.
The DataView folder now appears on your computer desktop, within which is
the Ground Tester icon and the icon(s) for any other Control Panel(s) you
Clicking the DataView icon in the DataView folder on your desktop opens the
core DataView program. Clicking the Ground Tester Control Panel icon opens the
Ground Tester Control Panel.
In general, core DataView features are for creating, viewing, editing, and storing
DataView reports; while the Control Panel is for connecting to, conguring, view-
ing measurements on, and downloading data from the instrument. You can access
all DataView features through either the DataView icon or the Control Panel icon.
For users who interact with ground tester instruments, we recommend primarily
using the Control Panel. However, there are situations where using the core DataView icon may be more convenient for some users, such as when viewing multiple
archived reports from dierent AEMC product families.
For further information about using the Ground Tester Control Panel, consult the
Help system that comes with the product. Access this Help by clicking the option
Help in the Control Panel’s menu bar at the top of the screen.
Please make sure that you have read and fully understand the WARNING
section on page 3.
• To avoid electrical shock, do not attempt to perform any servicing unless
you are qualied to do so.
• To avoid electrical shock and/or damage to the instrument, do not get water
or other foreign agents into the case.
• Turn the instrument OFF and disconnect the unit from all circuits before
opening the case.
• Use specied spare parts only.
9.2 Cleaning
Disconnect the instrument from any source of electricity.
Use a soft cloth lightly moistened with soapy water. Wipe with a moist cloth and
then dry with a dry cloth. Never use alcohol, solvents or hydrocarbons.
9.3 Fuse Replacement
The unit is protected from overloads by two identical fuses:
• Fuse for terminal H (Z):
If this fuse is defective, the unit will no longer produce an output voltage, making it
impossible to perform resistance measurements.
To test this fuse, turn the switch to the mΩ position (2-Wire), connect measurement
leads to terminals H (Z) and E (X) and start a measurement. If the unit refuses to
operate and the symbol for terminal H (Z) blinks, the fuse must be replaced.
If this fuse is defective, the unit will no longer recognize a clamp that is connected
to terminal ES (Xv), making it impossible to perform a 4-Pole earth measurement
with a clamp or an earth measurement with 2 clamps.
To test this fuse, select the 4-Pole measurement function and connect a test clamp
to terminal ES (Xv). If a clamp symbol does not appear next to the symbol for terminal ES (Xv) in the display, the fuse must be replaced.
NOTE: For safety reasons this fuse must always be replaced by an identical
model: 0.63 A F 250V 5x20mm 1.5kA (Cat. #2135.81)
Procedure for replacing fuses:
1. Disconnect the unit completely, turn the rotary switch to OFF, and close
the lid.
2. Loosen the four permanent screws at the bottom of the unit, but do not
remove them.
3. Open the lid and carefully turn the housing upside-down, making sure the
front panel does not fall out. Then carefully pull the front panel and the unit
all the way out of the housing.
4. The fuse for terminal H (Z) is accessible at the back of the unit (in the
corner near the terminal for the battery charger).
5. If only the fuse for terminal H (Z) needs to be replaced, jump ahead to step
13. To replace the fuse for the clamp terminal ES (Xv), continue on.
6. Loosen the two screws on the lid of the battery case and remove the lid.
7. Pull the battery a short way out of the case without overstretching the con-
nection leads, and loosen the two screws at the bottom of the case. Then
put the battery back into the case.
8. Making sure the battery leads are not overstretched and that the battery
does not fall out, carefully lift o the back of the unit, turn it over and place
it next to the front panel with the electronic components.
9. The fuse for the clamp terminal ES (Xv) is now accessible on the printed
circuit board [in the corner near terminal E (X)]. When replacing the fuse,
avoid touching the circuitry or components.
10. Return the back of the unit to the front panel with the components, taking
care not to stretch the battery leads. Carefully lower the back of the unit
and make sure that it is aligned correctly (the four cylindrical holes on the
back must slip over the four mounting pins on the front panel). Also make
sure you do not pinch the battery leads or other wires or components.
11. Pull the battery a short way out of the case without overstretching the
connection leads, and retighten the two screws at the bottom of the case.
Then put the battery back into the case.
12. Put the lid back onto the battery case and screw it shut.
13. Wipe o any dirt on the seal and housing rim.
14. Put the unit back into the housing and screw it into place.
9.4 Recharging the Battery
NOTE: To make the best use of the battery and prolong its service life, observe the following rules.
• Use only the battery charger supplied with the unit; other chargers may be
hazardous!
• Recharge the battery only at temperatures between 32° and 104°F (0° and
+40°C).
• Observe the conditions of use and storage dened in the specications.
Even an NiMH battery can be recharged only a limited number of times. This number, and thus the service life of the battery, is highly dependent on the following
factors:
• the operating conditions
• the recharging conditions
As the earth tester might go some time without use and the battery has a natural
tendency to run down, you should check the battery level at regular intervals. To do
this, turn on the unit and check the battery level indicator
display. If there is only one bar in the symbol or if there are no bars at all, the battery should be recharged.
If the unit is not used for a long time, the battery might run down all the way. In
this case, recharging can take several hours. In addition, the unit might not work
properly at the start of recharging.
The capacity and lifetime of the battery may also be diminished. After about ve
charging/discharging cycles the battery will recover its initial capacity.
To recharge the battery, plug the charging unit into the connector at the upper left
(connector
source (suitable for Europe and the U.S.). The frame of the battery symbol will
blink during charging. Charging goes faster when the tester is turned o. The battery voltage is shown on the large display next to Ubatt.
Ground Resistance Tester Model 6471
in Fig. 2-1) and connect the charging unit to a 100 to 240VAC power
At the middle and bottom of the display you will see one of the following messages:
bAtt CHrGFast charging is active (normal state)
bAtt LOWBattery voltage is too low for a fast charge - charging at a lower current
bAttBattery voltage is too high for a fast charge - charging at a lower current
bAtt HOtBattery is too warm for a fast charge (>40°C) - charging at a lower current
bAtt COLdBattery is too cold for a fast charge (< 0°C) - charging at a lower current
bAtt FULLBattery is full - switch to trickle charging
The 6471 tester can also be recharged from a 12VDC car outlet with a special
charging unit.
NOTE: In this case the low-potential of the vehicle’s 12V outlet is at the potential of terminals E (X) and ES (Xv) of the ground tester. For safety reasons,
do not connect or use the unit if there is a possibility that voltages at E (X) or
ES (Xv) could exceed 32V.
9.5 Replacing the Battery
The battery in this unit is a special product with customized safety features and
protective devices. It should be replaced only by the same model. If a dierent
model is used, there is a danger of re or explosion, leading to possible damage
or injury.
NOTE: For safety reasons, replace the battery with an identical model:
NiMH Custom Pack 9.6 V / 3.5 Ah (Cat. #2960.21)
Procedure for replacing the battery:
1. Disconnect the unit completely, turn the rotary switch to OFF, and close
the lid.
2. Loosen the four permanent screws at the bottom of the unit, but do not
remove them.
3. Open the lid and carefully turn the housing upside-down, making sure the
front panel does not fall out. Then carefully pull the front panel and the unit
all the way out of the housing.
4. Loosen the two screws on the lid of the battery case and remove the lid.
5. Pull the battery a short way out of the case without overstretching the con-
nection leads, and loosen the two screws at the bottom of the case. Then
put the battery back into the case.
6. Making sure the battery leads are not overstretched and that the battery
does not fall out, carefully lift o the back of the unit, turn it over and
place it next to the front panel with the electronic components.
7. Press the clip o the plug, and pull out the plug with the four battery
leads (in the corner, near the terminal for the optical interface). Avoid
touching the circuitry or components.
8. Remove the old battery from the case and put in a new one. Run the
leads with the plug through the largest slot in the battery case.
9. Insert the battery plug (in the corner, near the terminal for the optical
interface). The two pins should point towards the clip. Avoid touching the
circuitry or components.
10.
Return the back of the unit (with the new battery in the case) to the front
panel with the components, taking care not to stretch the battery leads.
Carefully lower the back of the unit and make sure that it is aligned
correctly (the four cylindrical holes on the back must slip over the four
mounting pins on the front panel). Also make sure you do not pinch the
battery leads or other wires or components.
11. Pull the battery a short way out of the case without overstretching the
connection leads, and retighten the two screws at the bottom of the
case. Then put the battery back into the case.
12.
Put the lid back onto the battery case and screw it shut.
13. Wipe o any dirt on the seal and housing rim.
14. Put the unit back into the housing and screw it into place.
15. Fully charge the new battery in the unit before using it.
16. Reset the time and date.
NOTE: If the instrument is not used for long periods of time (more than 6
months), it is recommended, in order to recover the initial capacity of the
battery, to make several charge-discharge cycles (3 to 5 times). Discharge
cycle (15 H) can be made with the instrument in MANUAL mode, DC 2-Pole
(2-Pole) resistance measurement and a short-circuit between H (Z) and E (X)
plugs.
This can happen in a 3- or 4-pole earth measurement, a resistivity measurement,
or an earth potential measurement.
This message is displayed when the measurement is triggered by a short press of
the START/STOP button and the resistances of the auxiliary electrodes are too high.
The measurement must then be started by a long press on the START/STOP but-
ton. The device then measures the values of the electrodes and compensates for
them to display the correct result.
10.1.2 Out of Range
>
<
or
<
and
The ashing > or < symbol indicates the measurement is
out of range.
If both symbols ash together, it means that the accuracy
of the value displayed is outside of the instrument
>
specication or is subject to large uctuations. Activating
the smoothing function (SMOOTH) may correct this.
Press the 2nd button, then the SMOOTH button to activate
smoothing.
Conditions that may give uncertain results are indicated on the display of the unit
NOISE
as follows:
FrequencyFunctionTriggering threshold
f > 513Hz
f ≤ 513Hz
f > 513Hz
3P, 4P, V pot.I
4Psel
3P, 4P,
ρ, V potI
4Psel
All (except ρ and 2
clamps)
f ≤ 513HzAllR
< 6 mA
H-E
’ < 6 mA
I
H-E
< 1 mA
H-E
’ < 1 mA
I
H-E
RS > 5 kΩ
> 30 kΩ
S
(1)
(1)
4P selIES < 1 mA
Values measured (U,
All
I, R) unstable, varying
by more than 5% about
their mean values.
IES < 3 mA
I
R
PASS
SEL
U
S-ES
< 30 mA
< 10 mV
IES < 0,3 mA
I
R
PASS
SEL
U
S-ES
< 3 mA
< 1 mV
(2)
Indication on the
display unit
(3)
ashes
H
ashes
(3)
ashes
S
ashes
(3)
ashes
ashes
(3)
steady
ashes
ashes
-.--- (undened)
(3)
AllU
S-ES
, U
, U
> 42 V
S-E
H-E
ashes
Stray voltage of which
All
the frequency and/or
value is likely to inter-
(4)
fere with the measure-
ment.
(1) I
’: current I
H-E
(2) Not active if the SMOOTH function is selected.
(3) The
(4) You should change to manual mode and modify the measurement voltage and/or frequency to make
a valid measurement (when the NOISE symbol is no longer illuminated).
62
measured at the start of the measurement before I
H-E
symbol may also appear if there is an external voltage > 42 V on the terminals of the device.
When started up, the Model 6471 device automatically performs a self-test. If a
fault appears during this self-test or during a measurement, the device displays a
message in the form Err XX.
There are 3 categories of errors:
• Harmless Errors 6, 7, 11 and 17
The message appears for approximately 1 second to inform
the user. Consider a repair if the error recurs.
• Errors 6 and 7 are always preceded by an automatic reset.
• During Error 11, the tester automatically resets to the factory default settings.
• Correctable Errors 5, 9, 14, 15, 18, 19, 30, 31, 32 and 33
These errors concern the current measurement function and
disappear if the function is changed. The device can therefore
be used, but a repair will be necessary if the error persists.
• Error 18 indicates that the rechargeable battery in the
tester cannot be recharged. If this error occurs during
recharging, disconnect the tester from the charger and
follow the procedure described in the “fatal” errors.
• Error 19 can be corrected by clearing the entire memory of
the unit (see section 8.3).
• Errors 31, 32 and 33 indicate excessive voltage or
Explanations for some of the basic terms related to earth measurements follow:
Auxiliary electrode - H (Z)
A supplementary electrode through which a measurement current ows.
Earth conductor
The conductor which connects the installation to be earthed to the earth electrode.
Earth connection
A locally restricted group of electrically connected earth contacts. It also includes metal parts of installations such as pylon footings, bracings, cable
sheathing and earth conductors.
Earth electrode - E (X)
A conductor which is buried in the earth and makes electrical contact with it.
Earth potential
The potential dierence measured between the earth connection and a refer-
ence earth electrode.
Earth electrode - ES (Xv)
A connection on the earth electrode or earthing system used for measuring
the potential of the earth electrode.
Earth resistance
The resistance measured between the earth connection and a reference earth
electrode (cf. selective earth resistance).
Earth
The location of an earth connection (see also reference earth).
Earthing system
The set of all installations connected to the earth.
Electrode - S (Y)
An auxiliary electrode used for measuring the potential of the reference earth.
The voltage, which is proportional to the resistance of the earth connection, is
measured between this electrode and the earth electrode.
The area of earth (especially at the surface) which is outside the range of inu-
ence of the earth electrode or earthing system.
Resistivity of the earth (ρ)
Resistivity is dened as the resistance from wall to opposite wall of a cubic
meter of soil. It is measured in ohm-meters (
Selective earth resistance
The parallel partial resistance of an earth connection or earthing system. It
is measured by selective measurements of current in the corresponding resistance branch. A selective earth resistance is always greater than the total
earth resistance (parallel connection).
Step voltage
The potential dierence bridged by a person who takes a step of 1m (approx.
3 ft), with the resulting current owing through the body from one foot to the
other (cf. touch voltage).
Supplementary electrode
An additional earth electrode (earth stake, earth rod).
Touch voltage
The potential dierence which a person is able to bridge with his or her body,
the resulting current being limited by the body and the local earth resistance
(cf. step voltage).
The general term earth measurement can refer to measurements of individual
earth electrodes, earth connections or entire earthing systems, depending on the
object of interest.
Ωm).
Glossary
This glossary lists the terms and abbreviations used on the instrument and the
digital display.
3-Poles : measurement of earth resistance with 2 auxiliary stakes (3-
Pole method)
4-Poles : 4-Pole measurement of low earth resistance with 2 auxiliary
stakes (4-Pole method)
C
: earth coupling coecient RA with earth Rb (C1= RC / R1 )
1
C
: earth coupling coecient Rb with earth RA (C2= RC / R2 )
2
d, A : distances to be programmed to calculate resistivity according
: selective earth resistance (measurement of the current with a
SEL
clamp)
(2)
R
: resistance between stakes S and ES (used for resistivity
S-ES
measurement)
R
: measuring lead compensation resistance
∆0
S : S (Y) terminal (reference potential socket for calculating earth
resistance)
(1)
U-Act
U
U
: external voltage currently present on the instrument terminals
: voltage measured between terminals H and E
H-E
: voltage generated by the instrument between terminals H and
OUT
E (32V or 16V)
U
: voltage measured between terminals S and E
S-E
U
: voltage measured between terminals S and ES
S-ES
USR : frequency chosen by the user
U
: voltage of terminal S (compared with E) expressed as a
SrEL
relative value (rEL); value without unit
V pot. : ground potential measurement
ρS : ground resistivity measured according to the Schlumberger
method (expressed as Ω.m)
ρ
: ground resistivity measured according to the Wenner method
W
(expressed as Ω.m)
(1) The sux Act becomes In (for "Input" in English) when this value is recorded by the instru-
ment and then read, to make a distinction between the current and recorded values. In both
cases, this value on the display is associated with its frequency.
(2) In this case, the resistances of the 4 stakes used for measurement are indicated by R
To ensure that your instrument meets factory specications, we recommend
that it be scheduled back to our factory Service Center at one-year intervals
for recalibration, or as required by other standards or internal procedures.
For instrument repair and calibration:
You must contact our Service Center for a Customer Service Authorization
Number (CSA#). This will ensure that when your instrument arrives, it will be
tracked and processed promptly. Please write the CSA# on the outside of the
shipping container. If the instrument is returned for calibration, we need to
know if you want a standard calibration, or a calibration traceable to N.I.S.T.
(Includes calibration certicate plus recorded calibration data).
(Or contact your authorized distributor)
Costs for repair, standard calibration, and calibration traceable to N.I.S.T. are
available.
NOTE: You must obtain a CSA# before returning any instrument.
Technical and Sales Assistance
If you are experiencing any technical problems, or require any assistance with
the proper operation or application of your instrument, please call, mail, fax or
The Model 6471 is warranted to the owner for a period of two years from the
date of original purchase against defects in manufacture. This limited warranty
is given by AEMC
®
Instruments, not by the distributor from whom it was pur-
chased. 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 is available on our
website at
.
Please print the online Warranty Coverage Information for your records.
What AEMC
®
Instruments will do:
If a malfunction occurs within the warranty period, you may return the instrument
to us for repair, provided we have your warranty registration information on le
or a proof of purchase. AEMC
®
Instruments will, at its option, repair or replace
the faulty material.
Warranty Repairs
What you must do to return an instrument for Warranty Repair:
First, request a Customer Service Authorization Number (CSA#) by phone
or by fax from our Service Department (see address below), then return the
instrument along with the signed CSA Form. Please write the CSA# on the
outside of the shipping container. Return the instrument, postage or shipment
pre-paid to:
Caution: To protect yourself against in-transit loss, we recommend you insure
your returned material.
NOTE: You must obtain a CSA# before returning any instrument.