HD Electric PRX-4 Instruction Manual

PRX-4

PROXIMITY VOLTAGE DETECTOR

a n d A C C E S S O R I E S

Operating & Instruction Manual

HD ELECTRIC COMPANY

1 4 7 5 L A K E S I D E D R I V E • W A U K E G A N , I L L I N O I S 6 0 0 8 5 U . S . A .

P HO N E 84 7 .4 7 3. 4 98 0 • FAX [phone] • w e bs i te : w w w. HD E le c tr i cC o mp an y .c om

PRX-4

PROXIMITY VOLTAGE DETECTOR

a n d A C C E S S O R I E S

Operating & Instruction Manual

DESCRIPTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

HOW TO USE IT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

BATTERY CHARGING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

MAINTENANCE AND CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY AND LIABILITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

For the latest PRX information, including product updates and technical information,
visit our website at www.HDElectricCompany.com

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The PRX Proximity Voltage Detectors detects voltage at a distance from live unshielded
conductors on overhead and underground power distribution systems. They have been
tested and operate to a voltage of 870kV line-to-line at a detection distance from the
conductor greater than the nominal ten inches.

The PRX have up to nine user selectable voltage ranges covering the range from second­ary voltages to the highest transmission voltages. A setting is included for detecting elbow
test point voltages on underground distribution systems.

The PRX may include a holster, charging cord for charging the unit from a car or truck, a
115-240VAC wall charger adapter and a carrying case.

2

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Read and understand these instructions prior to use. These operating instructions
are not a substitute for proper training in the use of this equipment.

• Only trained, professional operating personnel should use the PRX. The voltages this
instrument operates at are dangerous and lethal. Severe injury or death can occur
if improperly used.

• Risk of electrocution is inherent in or around high voltage.

• Always use proper high voltage procedures, including personal protective equipment,
when working near or around high voltage equipment or conductors.

• Do not exceed the PRX maximum voltage rating.

• The PRX must be used with a hotstick of the appropriate length for the voltage being
measured per your company and OSHA published requirements.

• Do not touch the PRX during measurements. The PRX housing should be
considered to be at the same voltage as the conductor under test.

• Prior to using, inspect the instrument for any physical damage, cleanliness and check for
proper working order by pressing the ON button and checking that all voltage range
lights turn on in turn and that the unit stays on following the self test.

• Never allow another high voltage or grounded conductor to contact the instrument
during use. Keep the PRX housing free and clear of all structures at all times.

• Bridging the PRX housing from line-to-ground or line-to-line may cause a fault
and arc.

• The PRX does not detect voltages below 50 volts. Always use proper
grounding procedures.

• Lack of a voltage indication on the
PRX does not mean the conductor
is dead or grounded.

• Grounded equipment or lines can
appear to be live when in close
proximity to energized conductors.

• The PRX is a proximity sensing
device. Voltage detection distance
is not affected by insulation on conductors
such as on tree wire or spacer wire.

• PRX voltage readings are sensitive
to geometry. Read and understand the
HOW TO USE IT section of this manual
(page 4) before using the PRX.

• The PRX detects AC voltage only.
It does not detect DC voltage such as
charged capacitors or cable.

Read and understand the product

labeling before proceeding

3

HOW TO USE IT

1 CONNECT TO A SUITABLE HOTSTICK: The PRX will accept either a shotgun stick or a

universal spline connection.

2 TURN IT ON: Press the ON/OFF button and verify that the PRX turns on all voltage

range lights one at a time from the lowest range to the highest, returns to the lowest
range and then turns on the voltage indicating lights and beeper. The presence
of the lights and beeper indicates that the PRX is detecting an internally generated
voltage to test the entire circuit. If the PRX stays on following this test it has passed
the self test and is ready to use. If it turns off after this test then it has not passed
the self test and must be recharged or serviced. While the PRX is on it will emit
a very short beep and flash of the lights once every FOUR SECONDS.

3 SELECT A VOLTAGE RANGE: Use the up and down arrows to select a voltage range.

The lowest range is 50VAC. Always select a voltage range at or just below the voltage
of the conductor to be tested. The 50V range is line to ground voltage. All higher ranges
are line to line voltage.

Voltage Sensing Range

Range Selections

Voltage Range Buttons
Up and Down

On/Off Button

Voltage

Charger Port

Voltage Indicating
Lights and Beeper

Hotstick Connection:
Shotgun or
Universal Spline

4

HOW TO USE IT continued

4 DETECT VOLTAGE: Move the PRX toward the conductor to be tested. The nominal

detection distance for all voltage ranges above 50V is 10 inches from the tip of the unit
marked SENSING ZONE. For the 50V range, nominal sensing distance is three inches.
Always keep the PRX perpendicular to the conductor to be tested and choose a
portion of the conductor free of points, corners, extensions or other apparatus such
as fuses, lightning arresters, switches, bushings, etc. Voltage detection is indicated
by flashing lights and beeper.

If voltage is detected, do not further approach or contact the conductor with the
PRX. If voltage is not detected, continue to approach the conductor with the PRX
until the SENSING ZONE end contacts the conductor.

For increased sensitivity or greater sensing distance, select a voltage range lower than
the voltage of the conductor to be tested. Never select a voltage range higher than the
voltage of the conductor to be tested, as sensing distance will be reduced or diminished.

Application near an outside corner of an energized
conductor increases sensing distance.

Application near an inside corner of an energized
conductor decreases sensing distance.

NEVER allow prolonged arcing between an energized conductor and the PRX.

This will damage the housing of the unit.

NEVER bridge between conductors with the housing of the PRX. This may result

in an arc and/or fault.

NEVER select a voltage range above the voltage of the conductor to be tested.

The PRX may not detect voltage on the conductor being tested.

NEVER assume a conductor is deenergized or grounded if the PRX does not

detect voltage.

ALWAYS make sure the PRX is turned on before use. It does not turn on automatically.

ALWAYS align the PRX perpendicular to the conductor being tested and approach the

conductor with the SENSING ZONE end.

5

HOW TO USE IT continued

5 TURN IT OFF: To turn the PRX off, press the ON/OFF button. If the PRX is left on

and does not detect voltage for 30 minutes, it will shut itself off. This automatic
shut-off is accompanied by beeping and flashing of the lights as a warning to the user.

The PRX can be returned to the accessory holster after use and should be returned to the
protective carrying case for longer term storage.

BATTERY CHARGING

The PRX is powered by an internal lithium battery of the same type used in cell phones. It
has a long life, many charge cycles and no memory effect. The PRX will indicate battery
charge when it is turned on and has completed the self test as follows:

• The PRX beeps slowly at once every four seconds indicating the battery charge is good.

• The PRX beeps faster at once per
second indicating the battery charge is
low and should be recharged soon. The
unit can be used for up to 10 minutes in
this condition and will then shut off
automatically. It cannot be turned on
again until the battery has been charged.

Charge the PRX using the charger cord.
Apply the plug end of the cord to a 12VDC
automotive jack or use the 115-240VAC
adapter. Charge is indicated on the face
of the unit by the voltage range lights turning
on in sequence. A full charge of a low battery
can take up to three hours.

115­240VAC
Charging
Adapter

Charging Cord

12VDC Charger Plug

When the charge is complete only the highest voltage range light will remain on. After
three hours, this light will turn off. The PRX battery cannot be overcharged.

A quick fifteen minute charge to a low battery will allow the use of the PRX for one day
of typical use. A full charge will allow more than one week of continuous use.

Return the PRX to the HD Electric Company factory for battery replacement.

Lithium Battery Use and Disposal

• Charge the battery only with the HD Electric supplied charger.

• Do not disassemble, open, crush, bend, deform, puncture
or shred the internal battery.

• Return the PRX to HD Electric for battery replacement or disposal or

• Contact your local recycling center for proper battery disposal.

• Improper battery use may result in a fire, explosion or other hazard.

6

SPECIFICATIONS

OPERATING VOLTAGE RANGES: 50VAC to 500kVAC

OPERATING FREQUENCY: 50-60Hz

VOLTAGE SENSING DISTANCE: 3 inches at 120V, 8 to 10 inches at all other ranges.

When used above the maximum range of 500kV up to 870kV, sensing distance increases
with increasing voltage; PRX held perpendicular to conductor under test with
SENSING ZONE facing live conductor.

OPERATING TEMPERATURE RANGE: -20°F to +140°F (-29°C to 60°C)

DIMENSIONS: 11”L x 3”W x 2”D (28 cm x 7.6 cm x 5 cm)

WEIGHT: 11oz. (0.31 kg)

BATTERY LIFE: One week of typical daily use after full charge.

BATTERY CHARGING CURRENT: 0.5A maximum at 12VDC.

MAINTENANCE AND CARE

STORAGE - It is recommended for protection of the PRX that it and its accessories
are stored in the carrying case.

CLEANLINESS - The molded housing is very rugged, but it should be kept clean and
free of dirt, grease and any other foreign materials. If the housing surface integrity has
been compromised in any way, remove from service and return to factory for repair
or replacement.

DAMAGE - If you suspect any mechanical or electrical damage, do not use the
PRX and arrange for repair by returning to the factory.

CALIBRATION & TESTING - Regular calibration of the PRX is not required.
There is no calibration adjustment.

SERVICE - Return to HD Electric Company for service.

7

LIMITED WARRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

This warranty applies to all products sold by HD Electric Company (the "Products"); provided, however, that the term Products does not include any

hird party products purchased through HD Electric Company, for which no warranties are made (the "Third Party Products"). Third Party Products

t
may be subject to a separate manufacturer's warranty; [should you have any question regarding whether a separate warranty applies, please contact
HD Electric Company].

NOTICE: READ THIS LIMITATION OF WARRANTY AND LIABILITY BEFORE BUYING OR USING THE PRODUCTS CONTAINED HEREIN.

It is impossible to eliminate all risks associated with the use of the Products. Risks of serious injury or death, including risks associated with electrocution,

rcing and thermal burns, are inherent in work in and around energized electrical systems. Such risks arise from the wide variety of electrical systems and

a
equipment to which Products may be applied, the manner of use or application, weather and environmental conditions or other unknown factors, all of
which are beyond the control of HD Electric Company.

HD Electric Company does not agree to be an insurer of these risks.

WHEN YOU BUY OR USE THESE PRODUCTS, YOU AGREE TO ACCEPT THESE RISKS.

HD Electric Company warrants to the original purchaser that the Products (excluding any third party products purchased through HD Electric Company,

or which no warranties are made) will be free from defects in material and workmanship, under normal use and regular service, and preventative

f
maintenance for a period of one (1) year from the date of shipment (the “Warranty Period”). Should any failure to conform with this warranty be found
during the Warranty Period, you must notify HD Electric Company of your claim within thirty (30) days of discovery, and within the Warranty Period. Your

ailure to give notice of claims of breach of warranty within the Warranty Period shall be deemed an absolute and unconditional waiver of claims for such

f
defects. HD Electric Company will have no responsibility to honor claims received after the date the applicable Warranty Period expires.

Upon notice of your claim, HD Electric Company will provide a return authorization number, and further instructions on how to return the
product for service. You must follow HD Electric Company’s instruction. You are responsible for all Product removal, handling, re-installation, and shipping

both to and from HD Electric Company). Products returned for repair, as well as repaired or replacement Products shall be sent postage / freight prepaid.

(
After receipt of a product which HD Electric Company determines is defective, HD Electric will, at its option, either (1) repair (or authorize the repair of)
the Product or (2) replace the Product, subject to the following: The Products are made using parts sourced from a variety of manufacturers. Due to the
rapidly changing technology environment, parts may become obsolete / unavailable over time (end of life). In the event that a Product cannot be repaired
or replaced due to unavailability of parts, HD Electric Company will use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain substitute parts or conduct work around
design, but cannot guarantee its ability to do so.

Items not found defective will be returned at your expense, or failing receipt of instruction from you on return of such items within five (5) business days
of our notice to you that the product is not defective, HD Electric may dispose of the product at its discretion and with no liability to you. HD Electric
Company’s determination of defects is final. Products repaired or replaced during the Warranty Period shall be covered by the foregoing warranties for
the remainder of the original Warranty Period or ninety (90) days from the date of delivery of the repaired or replaced Products, whichever is longer.

LIMITATIONS:

This warranty is void in the event of misuse, alteration, faulty installation, or misapplication of the product. This warranty does not cover failure of
product or components due to any ACT OF NATURE; lightning, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes or any other such catastrophic events.

HD Electric Company does not warrant any third party products or associated hardware or their performance or suitability for use and application.
Such items are provided “as-is”.

All repairs must be authorized by HD Electric Company. Unauthorized repairs will not be reimbursed under any circumstances.

HD Electric Company is not required to make replacement or loaner equipment available while Products are being repaired or replaced, or to
compensate you for any in/out labor charges or expenses associated with removal, handling or re-installation of the Products.

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THIS WARRANTY AND THE REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, REMEDIES AND CONDITIONS, WHETHER ORAL OR WRITTEN, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. HD ELECTRIC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
MERCHANTABILITY AND NON-INFRINGEMENT.

IN NO EVENT SHALL HD ELECTRIC COMPANY BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR SPECIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE
OR HANDLING OF THESE PRODUCTS. THIS SHALL INCLUDE BUT, NOT LIMITED TO, LOST PROFITS OR REVENUE, LOSS OF USE OF THE PRODUCTS, COST
OF SUBSTITUTE PRODUCTS, FACILITIES OR SERVICES, OR DOWNTIME.

IN NO EVENT SHALL HD ELECTRIC COMPANY HAVE ANY LIABILITY FOR ANY THIRD PARTY PRODUCTS OR ASSOCIATED HARDWARE, OR CUSTOMER­OWNED SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT OR SOFTWARE.

HD Electric Company must have prompt notice of any claim so that an immediate product inspection and investigation can be made. Buyer and all
users shall promptly notify HD Electric Company of any claims, whether based on contract, negligence, strict liability, or other tort or otherwise be
barred from any remedy.

HD Electric Company is committed to ongoing review and improvement of its product lines,

and thus reserves the right to modify product design and specifications without notice.

HD Electric Company products are available through HD sales representatives worldwide.

Printed in U.S.A. © HD Electric Company 2013 • Bulletin No. PRX-4 IM-100b

U.S. Patent D664457 S1