Megger Ltd reserves the right to alter the specification of its products from time to time without
notice. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained
within this document it is not warranted or represented by Megger Ltd. to be a complete and
up - to - date description.
Hereby, Megger Instruments Limited declares that radio equipment manufactured by Megger Instruments
Limited described in this user guide is in compliance with Directive 2014/53/EU. Other equipment manufactured
by Megger Instruments Limited described in this user guide is in compliance with Directives 2014/30/EU and
2014/35/EU where they apply.
This manual supersedes all previous issues of this manual. Please ensure that you are using the most recent issue
of this document. Destroy any copies that are of an older issue.
The Megger MCT105 Cable Tracer and Fault Locator kit consists of a transmitter, receiver and ancillary leads.
It is designed to trace and aid fault location in cables, circuits or metallic conductors, such as pipes.
The signal produced by the transmitter is a modulated current, generating an electro-magnetic field around
the conductor. This field induces a voltage within the receiving coil. The induced voltage is measured,
amplified, decoded and converted to the original signal by the receiver, with the result finally displayed on
the screen as a simple signal strength.
1.2 Features
Tracing cables and conductors in walls
Identify cable and conductor interruptions (open-circuits) or short-circuit faults
Cable and conductor tracing in the soil
Identify fuses and circuit breakers within distribution boards
Detecting interruptions and short-circuits in floor heating
Tracing metallic water and heating piping
Transmitter display indicates signal level, the transmission code, as well as any voltage detected on the
output terminals
Receiver display indicates the signal strength, the transmission code, as well as the presence of mains
voltage
Automatic and manual sensitivity adjustment
Variable tone audible signal level on the receiver (may be switched off)
Auto-Power-Off function
Backlight on both transmitter and receiver displays
Torch function when working under bad lighting conditions
1.3 Company web site
Occasionally an information bulletin may be issued via the Megger web site. This may concern new
accessories, new usage instructions or a software update.
This user guide follows the internationally recognised definition. These instructions must be adhered to at all
times.
Description
WARNING : Indicates a potentially dangerous situation which, if ignored, could lead to
death, serious injury or health problems.
CAUTION : Indicates a situation which could lead to damage of the equipment or
environment
NOTE : Indicates important instructions to be followed to perform the relevant process
safely and efficiently.
Icon Description
Warning: High Voltage, risk of electric shock
F
G
c
This WARNING symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury, or result in damage to the product.
Caution: Refer to user guide.
The respective accident prevention regulations established by the associations for
electrical systems and equipment must be strictly met at all times.
UK conformity. This equipment complies with current UK legislation
EU conformity. Equipment complies with current EU directives.
Comply with EMC.
CAT III equipment is designed to protect against transients in equipment in fixed
equipment installations, such as distribution panels, feeders and short branch
circuits, and lighting systems in large buildings.
Double insulated
www.GlobalTestSupply.com
Safety Warnings and Standards
2.2 Safety warnings
Prior to operation, check that the transmitter, receiver and any connection cables are in good
condition and not damaged. The meter must not be used if any damage is identified, Contact Megger
for repair.
The Cable Locator may only be used on systems complying with the nominal voltages indicated in the
technical data section.
Prior to use, ensure the instrument is functioning correctly, as described within this manual. Always
connect the transmitter line terminal first and then the neutral.
The “-” earth/neutral terminal of the transmitter must always be connected to the conductor under
test before the “+” line terminal.
If the RCD/RCBO protecting the circuit under test trips on connection of the transmitter, this indicates
that a fault current is already present within the circuit.
If the instrument is subjected to a high electro-magnetic field, this may impede the functionality of the
instrument.
User safety cannot be insured if the instrument:
Shows obvious signs of damage
Is not functioning correctly. The instrument should be removed from service and the fault
investigated
Has been stored for too long under unfavourable conditions
Has been subjected to excessive heat or mechanical stress during transport or storage
All relevant local statutory regulations must be adhered to when using this instrument
2.2.1 Installation category definitions:
CAT IV - Measurement category IV: Equipment connected between the origin of the low-voltage mains
supply and distribution panel.
CAT III -Measurement category III: Equipment connected between the distribution panel and electrical
outlets.
CAT II - Measurement category II: Equipment connected between the electrical outlets and user’s equipment.
Measurement equipment may be safely connected to circuits at the marked rating or lower. The connection
rating is that of the lowest rated component in the measurement circuit.
The built-in fuses protect the instrument against overload or incorrect operation.
Fuse replacement can only be undertaken by Megger or an approved service center.
If the transmitter signal appears weak, check for fuse failure using the following method:
Disconnect the transmitter from all connected measurement circuits.
Switch on the transmitter.
Set transmission level I.
Connect a single lead to the red terminal of the transmitter..
Switch on the receiver. Search for the signal by placing the sensor head on the cable.
Insert the other end of the cable in the black transmitter terminal and check the received signal
increases accordingly. If the signal remains the same, one of the internal fuses will require
replacement.
3.4 Receiver layout
4
8
5
10
11
2
1
6
7
9
ItemDescriptionItemDescription
1Sensor head 7Mode button
2Torch 8Backlight / Beeper ON/OFF button
3 LCD display 9Upward selection
4NCV button
5Torch button 11Battery compartment (on rear)
6Downward selection
(Non-contact voltage detection) to
select between cable locator mode
and mains voltage detection mode
The Cable Locator consists of a transmitter and a receiver. It is a portable instrument that can be used to
detect or trace conductors.
The signal generated by the transmitter is made of a modulated current, generating an electro-magnetic field
around a conductor. See figure 1. This electro-magnetic field induces a voltage within the receiving coil. The
induced voltage is amplified, decoded and converted to the original signal by the receiver and displayed on
the screen. The process operates on the principle of a closed current circuit.
Figure 1:
5.1 Location in complete circuits
5.1.1 Single pole method
Connect the transmitter to only one conductor. In this operational mode, the transmitter signal is generated
by the internal battery. Due to the high-frequency signal generated by the transmitter, only one single
conductor can be located and traced. The second conductor is the earth. This arrangement causes a high
frequency current to flow through the conductor and to be transmitted to earth, similar to a radio and
receiver.
5.1.2 Double pole “live” method:
Connect the transmitter to the line and neutral conductors using both leads, ensuring correct polarity. The
transmitter power is drawn from the connected voltage supply. Using this method, the modulated current
flows through the phase into the transformer and back through neutral.
5.1.3 Double pole “dead” connection
A further option for testing “dead” or isolated systems is to terminate the transmitter to two line or neutral
cables and connect these together at the far end to make a complete circuit. In this mode, the transmitted
signal is generated by the internal battery. Then, the transmitter is supplied by the built-in battery.
NOTE : The Cable Locator can only detect or locate cables, which are connected correctly.
5.2 Single pole method (In open circuits)
5.2.1 Cable interruptions in walls and floors.
Finding and tracing cables, sockets, junction box, switches, pipes etc.
The black “common” terminal of the transmitter must be connected to a suitable earth (Figure 2). Tracing
is possible up to a depth of 20 cm using this method, depending on the material through which the
transmitted signal and the receiver must travel.
5.3 Double pole method (In complete circuits)
Detecting short-circuits or identifying individual conductors, switches or sockets on circuits with or without
voltage. Both transmitter connections are required (Figure 2 and 3).
Tracing is possible up to a depth of 50 cm using this method, depending on the material through which the
transmitted signal and the receiver must travel.
Figure 2:
NOTE : Maximum tracing depth 50 cm
WARNING : Care must be taken when making any connection to live or potentially live circuits.
Correct safety procedures must be followed.
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
5.4 Locating and tracing of cables, circuit branches, sockets, switches and junctions in
house installations circuits (single-pole method)
When tracing cables or locating switches, sockets, junction boxes etc. the circuit must be isolated (dead). The
circuit must be wired correctly and operational before isolation. Connect the transmitter “red” terminal to
the line and neutral conductor simultaneously and the “black” terminal to earth (Figure 4). Route tracing and
accessory location is now possible.
Figure 4:
NOTE : If the supply cable fed with the signal via the transmitter is running in parallel to other
conductors (e.g. a cable duct), or if any conductors are crossed, the signal may be induced into
these conductors. If this occurs, the fuse for any supplementary conducts should be removed to
avoid mis-identification.
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
Setup: manual mode, minimal sensitivity. Maximum tracing depth 2.0 m
5.5 Locating of cable interruptions in the plastic-sheathed cable (single-pole method)
When locating of line interruptions, the circuit must be dead; All lines which are not required must be
connected to the auxiliary ground as shown in figure 8. When pin-pointing cable interruptions, the circuit
must be isolated (dead). All cables that are not required should be connected to earth, as shown in Figure 5.
Connect the “red” transmitter to the cable to be traced and the “black” lead to one of the cables connected
to ground. Route and accessory tracing using the receiver is now possible.
NOTE : All remaining conductors in a plastic sheathed cable must be earthed. This is to avoid
inducing the signal into the surrounding conductors.
The tracing depth of sheathed cables and conductors is different due to the individual cores being twisted
around each other. To pin-point an interruption, a resistance greater that 100 KΩ must be present.
Verification of the resistance can be made using a simple multimeter.
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
Maximum tracing depth 2.0 m.
5.6 Locating of line interruptions using two transmitters (single-pole method)
When locating a interruption using a single transmitter from one end of the conductor, precise location
may not be possible in the event of field disturbance on a cable. This can be overcome by using a second
transmitter (available separately) connected to the other end of the cable. In this senario, each transmitter is
set to a different transmission code (e.g. Code 1 and Code 2).
If the two transmitters are connected as shown in Figure 6, the receiver will indicate “1” to the left of the
interruptions; and “2” on the right. As the receiver reaches the interruption, no line code will be displayed
due to the overlapping of the two transmitter signals.
5.6.1 Requirements:
The circuit under test must be isolated (dead).
All cables not being used must be connected to earth, as shown.
Both transmitters must be connected exactly as shown.
The interruption is shown at the point the receiver has no transmitter code visible.
The earthed connections must be connected to a known earth, either on an existing circuit or any earthed
metalwork such as a water pipe.
Make sure during interruption locating in multi-wire shielded conductors and cables, that all remaining
cables are connected to earth. This is required to avoid inductive disturbance. (Figure 6)
The tracing depth of sheathed cables and conductors is different due to the individual cores being twisted
around each other. To pin-point an interruption, a resistance greater that 100 kΩ must be present.
Verification of the resistance can be made using a simple multimeter.
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
Setup: manual mode, minimal sensitivity. Maximum tracing depth 2.0 m.
5.7 Error detection in electrical under-floor heating (single-pole method)
The connection conditions:
If a shield mat or shield wiring is located above the heating cables, no earth connection may exist. If
required, separate the shield from the earth connection.
Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
A second transmitter is required for this application. (Figure 7)
Setup: manual mode, minimal sensitivity. Maximum tracing depth 2.0 m.
Figure 7:
5.8 Locating of bottlenecks (obstructions) in installation pipes (single-pole method)
When locating of bottlenecks in installation pipes, All circuits in the pipe must be dead, isolated and earthed.
Connect transmitter to the metal coil and auxiliary earth as shown in figure 8.
NOTE : If you only have a non-conducting coil it is recommended you slide a cable up to the
obstruction in the pipework.
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
Setup: manual mode, minimal sensitivity. Maximum tracing depth 2.0 m.
5.9 Fuse Location (double-pole method)
WARNING : Care must be taken when making any connection to live or potentially live circuits.
Correct safety procedures must be followed.
Connect the “red” transmitter terminal to the line conductor and the “black” terminal to the neutral
conductor of the circuit. Ensure the transmitter is set on level one (single bar).
Precise fuse location within the distribution board will depend upon the condition and routing of the wiring.
By setting the transmitter at level one (single bar-graph) the possibility of induced signals in other circuits is
reduced. If safe to do so, the board cover can be removed to allow exact cable identification made at the
fuse termination (figure 9).
Figure 9:
NOTE : Set transmitter to LEVEL I
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
Manufacturers of safety cut-outs and breakers have different installation positions of the magnetic sensing
coil. If no clear signal can be pin-pointed, it is recommended that the receiver head is rotated by 90° either
left or right.
5.10 Locating of short-circuits in conductors (double-pole method)
When locating short-circuits in conductors, any existing circuits within the cable must be voltage-free.
Connect the transmitter as shown in Figure 10; and carry out this example as described in the application
example.
NOTE : The tracing depth for sheathed cable and conductors are different due to the fact that the
individual leads in the sheathed cable are twisted around themselves. Usually, short-circuits can
only be correctly detected when the short-circuit resistance is lower than 20 Ohm. The verification
of the short-circuit resistance can be carried out with any multimeter.
Figure 10:
Should the short-circuit resistance amount to more than 20 Ohm, it may still be possible to detect it using
the line interruption method. Different transmitter signals may also provide an accurate location.
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
Setup: manual mode, minimal sensitivity. Maximum tracing depth 0.5 m
5.11 Tracing installed water and heating pipes (single-pole method)
NOTE : The tracing conditions: The pipe to be located must be separated from the equipotential
bonding.
WARNING : For safety reasons the circuit must be switched off and isolated as per local
regulations.
Connect the transmitter “red” terminal to the pipe or conductor to be traced. The “black” terminal must be
connected to the Main Earth terminal. (Figure 11)
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
Setup: manual mode, minimal sensitivity. Maximum tracing depth 2.0 m.
5.12 Detecting the direction of water and heating pipes already installed (Single-pole
method)
When detecting the direction of water and heating pipes already installed, the respective water and heating
pipes must be suitably earthed connect the transmitter, as shown in figure 12.
Figure 12:
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
Setup: manual mode, minimal sensitivity. Maximum tracing depth 2.5 m.
5.13 Locating a complete house wiring (Single-pole method)
This method allows all circuits within an installation to be traced:
1. Turn off and isolate the supply in accordance with local regulations.
2. If applicable, remove the PE - N bridge within the distribution board.
3. Connect the transmitter “red” terminal to the Neutral bar and the “black” terminal to the Main
Earthing Terminal (figure 13). This will allow the neutral conductor of all circuits to be traced.
WARNING : For safety reasons the circuit must be switched off and isolated as per local
regulations.
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
Setup: manual mode, minimal sensitivity. Maximum tracing depth 2.0 m
5.14 Following lines with higher location depth (Double-pole method)
If the double-pole method is used on multi-core cables, the location depth is limited. This is because the
signal injection and return lines are installed close together, causing a distortion of the magnetic field. To
overcome this limitation, a second, separate conductor may be used as the return line. Any conductor
outside the multi-core cable, or a separate cable reel can be used.
When tracing the conductors, special care must be taken to ensure the distance between injection and
return line is larger than the location depth. In practical applications, this amounts to approx. 2.0 m.
The circuit under test must not be live
Connect the transmitter as shown in figure 14.
The distance between injection and return line must be 2.0 m or more.
Figure 14:
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
Setup: manual mode, minimal sensitivity. Maximum tracing depth 2.5 m.
5.15 Tracing conductors within the soil (single-pole method)
The transmitter should be connected as shown in Figure 15.
WARNING : Ensure the circuit is switched off and isolated (dead).
Ensure the distance between the connection to the conductor and earth is greater than 2.0 m. If the distance
is too small it becomes impossible to accurately identify and trace the injected signal.
The maximum tracing depth is 2.0 m. This is reduced depending upon the characteristics of the soil the cable
or conductor is buried in.
Set the receiver to automatic mode.
Trace the conductor using the signal intensity display. Circle the receiver slowly across the conductor
and watch for the display values to change. When the display shows the maximum signal intensity the
receiver is directly over the conductor.
Figure 15:
The signal intensity level will decrease as the distance from the transmitter increases.
5.16 The detection range can be increased by connecting to Live conductors
If the transmitter is attached to the line and neutral, the signal will be reduced as the feed and return cables
running side by side cancel each other out (as shown in figure 16).
If the cores are twisted, this can lead to a further reduction in the transmitted signal.
In order to prevent these effects the connection should be carried out as shown in figure 17. The return path
is supplied by a separate cable. The distance in voltage circuits will be up to 2.5 meters.
Make sure there is sufficient distance between the cable under test and the external lead to prevent
interference between the two.
WARNING : Care must be taken when making any connection to live or potentially live circuits.
Correct safety procedures must be followed.
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
When identifying multiple installed conductors, each conductor must be isolated and not carrying any
voltage. One end of the lead will require shorting together (as shown in Figure 18) If multiple transmitters
are available, each transmitter should be set to a unique signal (1 - 7). Connect the transmitters as shown in
figure 18.
NOTE : The stripped lead terminals must be twisted together to ensure a good electrical
connection, as shown in Figure 18.
If only one transmitter be available, each pair should be identified individually, one at a time.
NOTE : Switching sensitivity between Level 1 and Level 3 increases the sensitivity by a factor of 5.
5.18 Non-contact voltage detection
No transmitter is required for this application. (Figure 19)
Select non-contact voltage mode by pressing the NVC button on the receiver, NCV should appear on
the display.
Figure 19:
The display bargraph indicates the signal intensity of a detected voltage. An audible tone is produced that
changes in pitch as the proximity to the voltage is reduced.
WARNING : Although different signal intensities may indicate the presence and level of voltage, a
dedicated voltage measurement instrument MUST be used to prove voltage value if required.
1. Make sure that the transmitter is switched off before setting the codes.
2. Press and hold down the Level button, then press the power button. The current transmitter signal
code is displayed, then press Power key to turn on the meter.
3. To select a different transmitter code, press the Level button to cycle through the available transmitter
codes (1 - 7).
4. Once the required code is displayed, turn the transmitter off. The selected code will be remembered
and used when next turned on.
5.20 Transmitter Flashlight
The flashlight located on the transmitter can be turned on and off by pressing the flashlight button. The
flashlight turns off automatically after approximately 60 seconds to conserve battery life.
Do not attempt to repair this meter. It contains no user-serviceable parts. Repair or servicing should only be
performed by qualified personnel.
Both the transmitter and receiver contain non-rechargeable batteries. On the receiver, the battery level
indicator is shown permanently on the display. On the transmitter, the battery level is briefly shown when the
unit is first turned on. When the battery symbol indicates the battery is depleted in either unit, the batteries
must be replaced to avoid inaccurate of false readings.
6.1 Battery replacement
6.1.1 Receiver batteries
CAUTION : Ensure all test leads are removed and the instrument is switched off before opening
the instrument case or battery cover.
1. Ensure receiver or transmitter is switched off and all transmitter leads are removed.
2. Using an appropriate tool, open and remove the battery cover on the rear of the instrument.
3. Remove used batteries
4. Insert new batteries taking care to ensure the polarity is correct
5. Close and secure the battery cover.
6. Check instrument operation and that the battery level indicators are at 100%.
To avoid damage, remove all batteries if the instrument is being stored for an extended length of time, prior
to storing or replacing the battery, disconnect the instrument from any connected test leads.
Reverse polarity of batteries may damage the instrument. They may explode or ignite
Only use batteries as described in the specifications. (One 9 V battery , NEDA 1604, IE6F22. Power)
Consider your environment when you dispose of used batteries. In most cases, the batteries can be returned
to their point of sale. Comply with the respective valid regulation regarding the return, recycling and disposal
of used batteries, appropriate to your region.
If an instrument is not for over an extended time period, the batteries must be removed. Should the
instrument be contaminated by leaking battery cells, the instrument must to be returned to Megger for
cleaning and inspection.
6.2 Cleaning
Periodically wipe the case with a dry cloth and detergent, do not use abrasives or solvents
This meter is warranted to the original purchaser against defects in material and workmanship for 3 year
from the date of purchase.
During this warranty period, the manufacturer will, at its option, replace or repair the defective unit, subject
to verification of the defect or malfunction.
This warranty does not cover fuses, disposable batteries, or damage from abuse, neglect, accident,
unauthorised repair, alteration, contamination, or abnormal conditions of operation or handling.
Any implied warranties arising out of the sale of this product, including but not limited to implied warranties
of merchantability and fi
not be liable for loss of use of the instrument or other incidental or consequential damages, expenses,
or economic loss, or for any claim or claims for such damage, expense or economic loss. Some states or
countries laws vary, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.
tness for a particular purpose, are limited to the above. The manufacturer shall
The crossed out wheeled bin symbol placed on Megger products is a reminder not to dispose of the product
at the end of its life with general waste.
Megger is registered in the UK as a Producer of Electrical and Electronic Equipment. The Registration No is
WEE/ HE0146QT.
For further information about disposal of the product consult your local Megger company or distributor or
visit your local Megger website.
9.2 Battery disposal
The crossed out wheeled bin symbol placed on a battery is a reminder not to dispose of batteries with
general waste when they reach the end of their usable life.
For disposal of batteries in other parts of the EU contact your local Megger branch or distributor.
Megger is registered in the UK as a producer of batteries (registration No.: BPRN00142).