
M5400
M5400 Sweep Frequency reSponSe AnAlyzer (SFrA)
®
A tool for detecting “hidden” transformer faults
The M5400 detects mechanical failure or movement of windings due to short circuits, 
mechanical stresses or transportation. Use it to ensure transformer performance, reduce 
maintenance cost, and increase the service life of transformers. 
A major advance in transformer condition analysis.  
The M5400 uses Sweep Frequency Response Analysis, a proven technique for 
making accurate and repeatable measurements. Pioneered by Doble the sweep 
approach has become the industry standard and is the preferred method for 
making frequency domain measurements.  
Here’s how SFRA works: The M5400 
sends an excitation signal into the transformer and measures the returning signals across a broad frequency range. By 
comparing this response to baseline and 
other results (such as from similar units), 
you can identify deviations and confirm 
internal mechanical problems.
DIAGnoSe problems early. 
preVenT expensive equipment 
failures. 
Take 
conTrol. 
Why wait for problems to develop? With 
the M5400’s non-intrusive test technique, 
you can test your power apparatus any 
time you suspect a problem. Or just use 
it as part of your regular maintenance 
program. Either way, you identify problems 
before they lead to failure, such as: 
• Core movement 
• Winding deformation and displacement 
• Faulty core grounds 
• Partial winding collapse 
• Hoop buckling 
• Broken or loosened clamping structures 
• Shorted turns and open windings
M5400
Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer 
(SFRA) For Transformer Core & Winding 
Movement Diagnosis.
 

M5400 SFRA  
Technical  
Specifications 
Excitation Source:
Channels:   1
Frequency Range: 10 Hz – 25 MHz
Output Voltage:   20 V peak-to-peak at 
50 Ohms
Output Protection:  Short circuit protected
Source Impedance:  50 Ohms
Calibration Interval:  3 years
Measurement Channels: 
Channels:   2
Sampling:   Simultaneous
Frequency Range: 10 Hz – 25 MHz
Max. Sampling rate: 100 MS/s
Input Impedance:   50 Ohms
Calibration Interval:  3 years
Data Collection: 
Test Method:   Sweep Frequency 
PC Comm:   Ethernet USB/Serial
Frequency Range: 10 Hz – 25 MHz 
Number of Points:  1000 points (Default) 
Up to1800 points  
(Extended Range)
Point Spacing:  1.2 % Logarithmic
Dynamic Range:  >90 dB
Repeatability:  ±1 dB to –80 dB
IF Bandwidth:   < 10% of active 
frequency
Data Display:
Scaling:  Linear/Log 
Frequency Range:  10 Hz – 25 MHz, 
user defined within  
frequency range 
Plotting:   Frequency vs. 
Magnitude / Phase 
Analysis:   Difference, Sub-band 
Cross-Correlation
®
Physical Specifications:
Dimensions:   18.2 x 13.4 x 6.7 inch 
46.2 x 34.0 x 17.0 cm 
Weight:  13.1 lbs (6.0 kg)
Power Supply:  100-240V AC
Temperature:   0° to 50° C operating, 
-25° to + 70° C  
storage
Relative Humidity:  0% to 95 % non 
condensing
Test Leads Construction:
Integrated three lead system in single cable set 
Standard (362 kV and below): 60 ft/ 18 m 
Optional (> 362 kV): 100 ft/ 30 m
PC Requirements:   With minimum 
configurations as: 
Ethernet/USB Windows 
2000 or Windows XP 
Intel Celeron 1.3 GHz 
Minimum 512 MB RAM 
or more Minimum 40 
GB DVD-RW
Specifications are subject to change without 
notice.
M5400 Technical Merits  
Range 
The M5400 provides a frequency response measurement from 10 Hz to 25 MHz. 
Doble recommends the default setting of 20 Hz - 2 MHz for transformers as there is 
limited diagnostic value in measurements outside of this range. The diagnostic frequency 
range of 20 Hz to 2 MHz covers the most important diagnostic areas: 
• Core and Magnetic Properties 
• Winding Movement and Deformation 
• Interconnections – Leads and Tap Changers 
Resolution 
The M5400 measures the frequency response at logarithmically spaced frequency 
intervals of 1.2%. A constant excitation level is maintained for each frequency 
measurement. The M5400 has the ability to auto-scale each frequency measurement 
providing an overall dynamic range of 80 dB with a ±1 dB accuracy. This gives the 
highest combination of dynamic range and accuracy available. 
Repeatability 
The M5400 is a field-ready instrument for high quality measurements. The sweep 
frequency approach combined with Doble’s world class engineering means that 
frequency response measurements are highly repeatable and even subtle changes 
can be used for diagnostic purposes.  
Test Leads 
We provide simple, robust test leads to handle the rigors of site testing. 
International tests have proven repeatedly that we have the most reliable and 
repeatable test leads available. 
Practicality 
The M5400 is supported by Doble’s world class Client Service Engineers and 
decades of field experience. We have learned through practice and experimentation 
what constitutes good field technique and know how to gain value and benefit from 
the SFRA measurement. Let us work with you to bring that value and benefit to 
your company!
Doble Engineering Company
85 Walnut Street
Watertown, MA 02472 USA
tel +1 617 926 4900
fax +1 617 926 0528
TOGETHER WE POWER THE WORLD
For more information, email sfra.info@doble.com
Doble is certified ISO 9001:2000  
Doble is an ESCO Technologies Company  
MKT-SL-M5400-01/10