Megger MIT1020/2 Instruction Manual

MIT1020/2
10kV Digital Insulation Tester

USER MANUAL

M

GSAFETY WARNINGS

Safety Warning must be observed during use.

n

The circuit under test must be switched off, de-energised, isolated and checked to be safe before insulation test connections are made. Make sure the
circuit is not re-energised whilst the instrument is connected.

n

Circuit connections must not be touched during an insulation test.

n

After completing a test, capacitive circuits must be completely discharged before disconnecting the test leads. Capacitive charges can be lethal.

n

Tested items should be firmly shorted out with a shorting link, after discharge, until required for use. This is to guard against any stored dielectric
absorption charge subsequently being released thereby raising the voltage to potentially dangerous levels.

n

The voltage indicator and automatic discharge features should be regarded as additional safety features and not a substitute for normal safe working
practice.

n

It is rare, but in certain circumstances, breakdown of the circuit under test may cause the instrument to terminate the test in an uncontrolled manner,
possibly causing a loss of display while the circuit remains energised. In this event, the unit must be turned off and the circuit discharged manually.

n

Test leads, including crocodile clips, must be in good order, clean and with no broken or cracked insulation.

n

The instrument should not be used if any part of it is damaged.

n

Insulation testing in wet weather conditions might be hazardous. It is recommeded that this instrument is not used in these circumstances. If this
unavoidable, the user must take all necessary precautions.

n

This instrument is not intrinsically safe and must not be used in hazardous atmospheres.

NOTE

THE INSTRUMENT MUST ONLY BE USED BY SUITABLY TRAINED AND COMPETENT PERSONS.

Users of this equipment and/or their employers are reminded that National Health and Safety Legislation requires them to carry out valid risk assessments of
all electrical work so as to identify potential sources of electrical danger and risk of electrical injury such as inadvertent short circuits. Where the assessments
show that the risk is significant then the use of fused test leads may be appropriate.

2

CONTENTS

Safety warnings 2
Introduction 4

General description 4
Features 4

Cleaning 4
Power lead and battery charging 5
Instrument controls and indicators 6

Power On/Off button 7

Test voltage s and t buttons 7

Test start / stop button 7

Ω/I button 7

B button 10

Fn button 10

Mode button 10

Timer s and t buttons 11

Record button 11

Recording to on-board memory 11

Downloading results 11

Deleting results 11

Recording to a PC 11

High voltage warning LED 12

Line input present LED 12

Test terminals 12

Guard terminal 12

RS232 / USB connections 12

Battery bar graph 13

Voltage at terminals 13

Timer indicator 13

Digital display 13

Analogue display 14

Secondary display 14

Pre-Test / during test key action table 14
Test mode summary 15

Insulation resistance ‘IR’ test 15

Breakdown mode / burn mode 15
Alarm limit mode 15
Step voltage ‘SV’ test 16
Polarisation index ‘PI’ test, and dielectric absorption
ratio ‘DAR’ test 16
Dielectric discharge ‘DD’ test 16

Measurements above 100 GΩ 17
Circuit block diagram 18
Specifications 19
Accessories 20
Repair and warranty 21

Symbols used on the instrument are:

F Caution: risk of electric shock
G Caution: refer to accompanying notes
t Equipment protected throughout by Double

Insulation (Class II)

c Equipment complies with current EU directives.

Terms used in this manual

The word must is used to indicate that the instructions following should
be followed under all circumstances. Failure to follow these instructions
could result in damage to the instrument and / or a hazard to the operator.

The word
practice.

should is used to indicate that the instructions indicate best

3

INTRODUCTION

General Description

The MIT1020/2 is a microprocessor controlled 10 kV insulation tester
offering measurement capability of up to 35 TΩ. The instrument performs
automatic tests and has data storage and data retrieval facilities.

Polarization index and dielectric discharge tests are performed
automatically, and test duration and voltages can be adjusted according to
user preference for these tests. A step voltage test can be performed
automatically, with a default voltage of 1 kV, and test duration of 5 minutes.
It is possible for the user to set different voltages and test durations for the
step voltage test.

The MIT1020/2 can be powered from the mains supply or by its own
internal rechargeable battery, which provides for at least 4 hours of
continuous testing with a 100 MΩ load. A battery level indicator on the
LCD display indicates battery capacity. Connecting power to the mains
supply connector will automatically charge the battery whether the
instrument is switched ‘on’ or ‘off ’, except during testing. A high level of
internal isolation allows the instrument to be used while the unit is
supplied from the mains. An internal battery management system switches
the instrument off after ten minutes of inactivity. If the battery approaches
a very low state of charge the instrument turns itself off, and mains power
must be applied before the instrument can be used again. Recorded test
results and settings will not be lost when the instrument is switched off.

A comprehensive LCD display shows resistance, current, capacitance, time
constant, voltage, timer measurements, and figure of merit measurements
such as polarisation index.

Features

n Continuous resistance or current measurement on main display.
n Optional resistance, current, or figure of merit measurements on

secondary display.

n Standard test voltages – 250 V, 500 V, 1 kV, 2.5 kV, 5 kV, 10 kV
n Non-standard test voltages – selectable between 50 V and 1 kV in 10 V

steps, and selectable between 1 kV and 10 kV in 25 V steps.

n Test modes include insulation resistance, polarisation index, step

voltage and dielectric discharge.

n The dielectric absorption ratio is automatically calculated if the

corresponding timers are set.

n Either burn or breakdown selectable in insulation resistance mode.
n Insulation ‘Alarm Limit’ available in insulation resistance mode.
n Programmable timers include a main test duration timer, plus T1 and

T2 timers for time resistance method type tests.

n Load capacitance and time constant measurements – displayed at end

of test.

n LCD backlight.
n Data storage, data retrieval and real time data output.
n USB or RS232 communications.
n Battery level / charge level indicator.

Cleaning

Disconnect the instrument and wipe it with a clean cloth slightly damped
with soapy water or Isopropyl alcohol (IPA).

4

POWER LEAD AND BATTERY CHARGING

If the power lead supplied is not suitable for your mains connection, do
not use an adaptor. Always use a power lead fitted with the correct plug.

The instrument is fitted with a two-pin IEC60320 power inlet. Most power
leads are made with three-core cable, so the ground connection will not
be used.

Power lead connection table

Connection UK/International USA

Earth/Ground Yellow/Green Green

Neutral Blue White

Live (Line) Brown Black

If using a fused plug, ensure that it is fitted with a 3 Amp fuse.

The instrument can be powered from 85 - 265 Vrms a.c. at 50/60 Hz. The
battery will charge as long as the mains supply is connected, except when
a test is in progress. The power On/Off button has a green LED, which
illuminates when mains power is present. For optimum battery life, charge
the battery after each use. A completely exhausted battery will take 14
hours to recharge.

5

INSTRUMENT CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

Line

input

s

Voltage
t selectors

Backlight
on/off

6

USB

RS232

ModeFunction

Measurement terminals

-ve guard +ve

Test start/stop

s and

Time
t selectors

Line input
Present
indicator

Power on/off

Ω/I selector

Data record

High voltage
warning indicator

Voltage at
terminals

Battery level

Breakdown
indicator

High voltage
warning
indicator

Dielectric
absorption
ratio/T1 timer

Digital
display

Test modes

Burn indicator

Polarisation
index/timer T2

Alarm

Time
constant

Data recording

Timers
Main, T1,
T2

Analogue
display

High
voltage
warning
indicator

Capacitance
display

Power On/Off button

The instrument will only turn on if this button is pressed, held and then
released when the display responds. The instrument will not turn on if the
button is released before the display responds, or if the button is held
down for too long. This is a safety feature to prevent the instrument being
inadvertently turned on.

The instrument is turned off either by pressing the button again, or if the
instrument is running on the battery, by timing out after 10 minutes of
inactivity.

Upon switching the instrument on the display will first show ‘Ini’ while it
undergoes a self-checking routine. When Ini disappears, the instrument is
ready for use.

Test voltage s and t buttons

Using these buttons one of six test voltages can be selected: 250 V, 500 V,
1 kV, 2.5 kV, 5 kV, and 10 kV. The selected voltage is shown on the display.

A non standard voltage between 50 V and 10 kV can be selected by holding
down the ‘Fn’ function button whilst operating the buttons. The selectable
voltage is adjustable in 10 V steps between 50 V and 1 kV, and adjustable in
25 V steps between 1 kV and 10 kV. An auto repeat facility is enabled when
the button is held down, allowing faster travel through the range.

If there is an external voltage greater than 50 V on the test leads, the high
voltage warning indicators are flashed, and the display shows this voltage
instead. The instrument will not perform a test if this voltage is greater
than 80 V.

During a test the display shows the actual voltage on the test leads. If the
test voltage is changed during a test, the new test voltage will be displayed
briefly.

When the test has stopped, the display continues to show the voltage
present on the test leads. Pressing either test voltage s or t button will
then display the test voltage immediately before the end of the test.

Test start / stop button

A test will only start if this button is pressed, held and then released as
soon as the red high voltage warning indicator LED lights. The LCD and
red LED high voltage warning indicators flash when the test starts.

A test will not start if the button is released before the red LED shows, or
pressed continuously for longer than 5 seconds. This is a safety feature to
prevent a test being started inadvertently.

The presence of a voltage greater than 50 V on the test leads is indicated
with flashing high voltage warning indicators. Testing is disabled if the
external voltage exceeds 80 V.

Testing will stop if the test start / stop button is pressed again, the preset
test time is reached, or, if the unit is not in burn mode, insulation
breakdown is detected.

When a test has finished, the instrument will discharge the load, which
may take some time. The operator must always check the load has been
discharged before touching the test leads.

Ω/I button

Pressing this button toggles the digital and secondary displays. The details
available when scrolling the secondary display will depend upon the test
mode selected, whether timers T1 and T2 have been set, and the duration
of the test. The digital display toggles between insulation resistance and
current.

7

In the ‘IR’, ‘PI’, and ‘DD’ modes the secondary display initially shows the
PI (polarity index), DAR (dielectric absorption ratio), and, on completion
of the test, the TC (time constant) and capacitance measurements.
Toggling the display shows insulation resistances and currents.

In the ‘SV’ (step voltage) mode, the secondary display toggles between
insulation resistances and currents.

Figures 1 to 4 illustrate the display status for sequential ‘Ω/I’ key presses in
the different modes.

8

Press Ω/I

Press Ω/I

Press Ω/I

Figure 1 - The result of an insulation resistance test (IR)

Test settings: T1 and T2 times set in order to measure the DAR
Test conditions: test runs for longer than 10 minutes as this is required for
a PI reading.

Press Ω/I

Press Ω/I

Press Ω/I

Press Ω/I

Figure 2 - The result of a polarity index test (PI)

Test settings: T1 and T2 times set in order to measure the DAR
Test conditions: timer defaults to 10 minutes, as this is required for a PI
reading

Press Ω/I

Press Ω/I

Figure 3 - The result of a dielectric discharge test (DD)

Test settings: T1 and T2 times set in order to measure the DAR
Test condition: test runs for longer than 10 minutes as this is required for
a PI reading.

9

Press Ω/I

Figure 4 - The result of a step voltage (SV) test

Test condition: timer defaults to 5 minutes and test voltage defaults to
1000 V.

Press Ω/I

B button

Pressing this button toggles the display backlight on and off.

Button Press Function Comment

Fn + Vs Increment in 10 V steps Voltage range between

50 and 1000 V

Fn + Vt Decrement in 10 V steps Voltage range between

50 and 1000 V

Fn + Vs Increment in 25 V steps Voltage range between

1000 and 10000 V

Fn + Vt Decrement in 25 V steps Voltage range between

1000 and 10000 V

Fn + Ts or Tt Cycle through timers Select main timer, T1 or

T2

Fn + Mode Cycle through IR modes Select breakdown, burn

or alarm limit for IR test

Fn + Download mode See ‘Downloading

results’

Fn + Clear stored data The ‘record’ button is

pressed twice

Mode button

Press down on the ‘MODE’ button to cycle through and select the test
mode. Modes of test to be chosen from include an insulation resistance ‘IR’
test, a polarization index ‘PI’ test, a step voltage ‘SV’ test, and a dielectric
discharge ‘DD’ test.

Fn button

The function button when pressed allows other keys to perform another
function. This is summarized in the table below. ‘Vs and ‘Vt represent the
test voltage buttons. ‘Ts and ‘Tt represent the timer buttons.

10

The insulation resistance ‘IR’ test operates in either ‘burn’ or ‘breakdown’
mode, with an option of setting a resistance threshold ‘alarm limit’. These
modes can be cycled through and selected by holding down the Fn button
and pressing the Mode button.

Timer s and t buttons

The main timer can be set up to 99mins 59secs. The Ts button
increments the time, and the Tt button decrements the time in ten
seconds steps. An auto repeat facility allows the time to be set more
quickly. Setting a time of 00:00 disables the timer. With the timer disabled
a test has to be manually stopped.

The minimum timer setting is 15 seconds for test voltages of 1000 V or
more, and 30 seconds below this.

To select timer Tmain, T1 or T2 hold down the Fn button whilst repeatedly
pressing the Ts or Ttbuttons. To set the selected timer, release the Fn
button, and use the Ts or Ttbuttons.

is enabled the record symbol will flash on and off repeatedly. Recording can
only be activated before testing commences. Results are stored at 15, 30, 45
and 60 seconds. After 60 seconds, at minute intervals up to 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, results are recorded at 5 minute intervals until the test
terminates. At each interval the recorded data will contain selected voltage,
test time elapsed, voltage applied, leakage current, and insulation
resistance.

Downloading results

Connect the instrument to the RS232 / USB port of a PC running Download
Manager. Refer to section ‘RS232 / USB connection’ for set up details. Start
Download Manager on your PC, select the MIT520 / MIT1020 driver and
right click the icon. Select ‘Download’.

Note: T2 cannot exceed the time on main timer unless it is disabled
(00:00). T1 cannot exceed the time on T2.

Record button

This button is used to start and stop recording. Recording can only be
activated before testing. When data recording is enabled the ‘record’
symbol flashes.

Data is stored in solid-state memory and under normal circumstances will
maintain its integrity for in excess of ten years, but may rarely be
corrupted or lost by external influences such as transients and static
discharge. Megger Limited cannot accept responsibility for any losses of
data. Regular downloading to a PC using software such as Download
Manager will substantially reduce any such risk.

Recording to on-board memory

Press the record button to start and stop recording. When data recording

Switch the instrument on and wait until initialisation is complete. Press the
function key along with the record key. The instrument now displays ‘dld’
to indicate download mode. Press and hold down test button until
download begins, shown by analogue display lighting clockwise.

Results will not be erased during this operation and so may be downloaded
repeatedly.

Deleting test results

Switch the instrument on and wait until initialisation is complete. Hold
down the function key and press the record key twice. The instrument now
displays ‘clr’ to indicate clear mode. Press and hold down test button until
clear process begins, shown by analogue display lighting anti clockwise.
Press the MODE button to exit without deleting the results.

Recording to a PC

While carrying out a test, the instrument will output the test voltage, test

11

current and resistance every second. Refer to section ‘RS232 / USB
connection’ for setup details. Connect the instrument to the RS232 / USB
port of the PC. The data may be captured with Microsoft®HyperTerminal or
another suitable programme.

High voltage warning LED

This is a red LED next to the TEST button on the front panel. The LED
flashes when the voltage on the test inputs exceeds 50 V.

Line input present LED

This is a green LED next to the power On/Off button on the front panel. It is
illuminated whenever the mains power is connected.

Test terminals

There are three test terminals marked +, - and G. These terminals are
designed to accept only the test leads supplied. Shutters across the
terminals prevent accidental ingress of dirt and other objects. Test lead
plugs interlock with the shutters and are released by rotating the test lead
plug a quarter turn.

leakage paths across the insulation between the bare cable and the external
sheathing due to the presence of moisture or dirt. Where it is required to
remove the effect of this leakage, particularly at high testing voltages, a bare
wire may be bound tightly around the insulation and connected via the
third test lead to the guard terminal ‘G’.

Leakage Path

To +ve Terminal

To Guard Terminal

To -ve Terminal

The guard terminal is at the same potential as the negative terminal. Since
the leakage resistance is effectively in parallel with the resistance to be
measured, the use of the guard causes the current flowing through surface
leakage to be diverted from the measuring circuit. The instrument therefore
reads the leakage of the insulator, ignoring leakage across its surface.

The Guard terminal is explained below and is only used in cases where
surface leakage currents need to be eliminated. Most measurements use just
the + and – terminals. The instrument’s internal voltage generator drives
the + terminal with respect to the – terminal, current being measured in
the – terminal.

Guard terminal

For basic insulation tests and where there is little possibility of surface
leakage affecting the measurement, it is unnecessary to use the guard
terminal i.e. if the insulator is clean and there are unlikely to be any adverse
current paths. However in cable testing for example, there may be surface

12

The display will show ‘FUS’ if the internal guard terminal fuse is found to
have blown. The instrument must be switched off to clear the message
before further testing is permitted. The fuse should be replaced by an
authorised repairer. The instrument may be used in the mean time if the
guard terminal not used. Refer to notes regarding measurements above
100 GΩ on page 17.

RS232 / USB connection

Data can be transferred to a PC via an RS232 or USB port. If using the RS232
port, use the null modem cable supplied. The RS232 settings are 38400
Baud, 8 data bits, 0 parity, 1 stop bit, no flow control (handshake).

If using the USB port, ensure that the USB driver supplied on the
accompanying product CD has been installed BEFORE connecting the
instrument. Installation instructions are also to be found on the CD.
Programmes such as Megger Download Manager may be used to
download the results stored in memory. Programmes such as Microsoft
HyperTerminal may be used to record real time data.

Battery bar graph

This is a battery symbol on the LCD display comprising 4 pairs of
segments. The battery is monitored continuously when the instrument is
turned on. The charge remaining in the battery is shown in the table
below.

Fully charged battery

50% charged battery

Voltage at terminals

The test voltage will default to that selected in the previous test. If the
instrument has been switched off since the previous test, the test voltage
defaults to 250 V. If there is an external voltage greater than 80 V present,

®

this will be displayed regardless of changes made to the test voltage. In
this case the instrument will not perform a test. The high voltage warning
indicators flash, and the beeper sounds, to warn of the hazard until the
external voltage becomes less than 50 V.

When testing, the voltage displayed is the voltage present at the test
terminals of the instrument. If the test voltage is changed, by pressing
either of the test voltage s and t buttons during a test, the new test
voltage is displayed momentarily.

After testing, the voltage displayed is the voltage present on the terminals.
To see what the voltage was immediately prior to the end on the test,
press either test voltage s or t buttons.

Tests cannot be started, and the battery
may fail at any time

Symbol flashes when there is not
enough charge for a test. The
instrument then turns itself off.

When mains power is present the indicator shows the battery is being
charged by animating the segments of the bar graph.

Timer indicator

The timer shows minutes and seconds. At the start of a test the timer will
start from zero and at the end of a test it will stop. The duration of the last
test remains on the display until another test is started.

Digital display

The digital display shows the resistance or current being measured during
a test. The Ω/I button toggles between the two. After a test the display
shows the last measurement made until the timer or voltage test settings
are changed, or the test start/stop button is pressed.

13

Analogue display

This simulates an analogue meter movement to give the user a better
"feel" for how a measurement is progressing. The analogue display shows
resistance only.

The display is also used to indicate how ‘result download’ and ‘deletion of
results’ is progressing.

Secondary display

This part of the display shows the results of ‘time resistance’ method tests.

‘Pre-Test / During test’ Key action table.

Button press Key action Fn + Key action

Pre-test During test Pre-test During test

Vs/Vt Increase / Increase / Increase / Increase /

s AND Vt Sets voltage Show set

V

s/ Tt Increase / Display set time Select main Display time

T

s AND Tt Reset timer to Display set Reset selected Display set

T

Mode Select Test Cycle through

/I Cycle through Cycle through

Ω

decrease the decrease the decrease the decrease the
test voltage in test voltage in test voltage in test voltage in
major steps major steps minor steps minor steps

(IR only) (IR only)

to 500V voltage

decrease the on main timer timer T1 or T2 set for main
time of the briefly timer, T1 or
selected timer T2 briefly

zero time on main timer to zero time on main

timer briefly timer briefly

Mode IR modes

results display results display
of last test of current
completed active test

14

Record Turn recording Select

On/Off download or

clear stored
data

Vs and Vt represent the test voltage buttons. Ts and Tt represent the
timer buttons.

TEST MODE SUMMARY

Press the ‘MODE’ button to cycle through and select the test mode.
Modes of test to be chosen from include an insulation resistance ‘IR’ test, a
polarization index ‘PI’ test, a step voltage ‘SV’ test, and a dielectric
discharge ‘DD’ test. If timers T1 and T2 are set, the instrument will
automatically calculate the dielectric absorption ratio ‘DAR’ of the
insulation. PI, DAR, and IR values are automatically stored and displayed if
the data is available, irrespective of the selected test mode. At the end of a
test the instrument can be made to display either the insulation
resistances, insulation currents or ratios plus capacitance measurements by
using the ‘Ω/I’ toggle button. See section ‘Ω/I button’ for cycling through
results and toggling units.

Insulation Resistance ‘IR’ test

This is the default mode in which the instrument powers up. This test
mode measures insulation resistance continuously at the selected voltage.
The test voltage may be varied during an ‘IR’ test by pressing the test
voltage s or t buttons. The test duration can be set using the ‘main
timer’. The test will finish automatically after this time has elapsed. On test
completion, insulation capacitance and the time constant associated with it
is calculated and displayed.

Time Constant (TC) = R

x C

ins

ins

If timers T1 and T2 are set, the instrument will calculate and display the
DAR value under the segment ‘DAR’. On completion of the test, the
instrument will display the insulation resistance measured at these times
under the segment symbols ‘T1’ and ‘T2’. If the test runs for longer than
10 minutes, the instrument will calculate the ‘polarisation index’. This
value will be displayed under the display segment symbol ‘PI’. On
completion of the test, the instrument will display the insulation resistance
recorded at 1 minute and 10 minutes under the segment symbols ‘1m’ and
‘10m’.

Pressing the ‘Ω/I’ button toggles the display to show the insulation
resistances, insulation currents, DAR and PI ratios, and capacitance. The
resistances and currents will be displayed under the ‘T1’, ‘T2’, ‘1m’ and
‘10m’ segment headings, the ratios under the ‘DAR’ and ‘PI’ segment
headings. The capacitance reading is indicated by its units of either ‘nF’ or
‘µF’. Refer to section ‘Ω/I button’.

Breakdown mode / burn mode

The insulation resistance ‘IR’ test operates in either the ‘Burn’ or
‘Breakdown’ mode of operation. The default mode is breakdown. To
change mode press and hold the function button, then press and release
the mode button repeatedly until the desired mode is indicated by the
flashing symbol on the display. Release the function button to select it.

In the breakdown mode the ‘Breakdown Indicator’ will be illuminated –
refer to page 6. In this mode the test will automatically terminate should
the insulation break down to prevent damage to the insulation under test.

In the burn mode the ‘Burn Indicator’ is illuminated – refer page 6. The
burn mode disables the normal breakdown detection and enables the
insulation test voltage to continue even after breakdown of the insulation.
This will enable the location of the failure to be seen and heard. Due to
the potential damage that could occur, the unit produces two long beeps
when starting a test with burn mode activated.

Alarm limit mode

The insulation resistance ‘IR’ test has an option of setting an alarm limit. If
this mode is selected, the instrument will beep should the resistance
reading exceed a user selectable threshold. To set the limit, hold down the
function button, then press and release the mode button repeatedly until
the ‘A ↑’ symbol is flashing on the display. Use the timer s and t buttons

15

to set the resistance threshold between the limits of 10 kΩ and 35 TΩ.
Release the function button to save the current limit. Adjusting the alarm
threshold level automatically activates the alarm limit mode. This is
indicated by the ‘A ↑’ symbol turning solidly on.

To toggle the alarm limit mode on/off, hold down the function button,
then press and release the mode button repeatedly until the ‘A ↑’ symbol
is flashing on the display. Release the function key to toggle.

Step voltage ‘SV’ test

This is a test based on the principle that an ideal insulator will produce
identical readings at all voltages, while an insulator which is being over
stressed, will show lower insulation values at higher voltages. The main
timer and test voltage settings can be adjusted if desired from their default
values of 5 minutes and 1 kV respectively. During the test the applied test
voltage incrementally steps by one fifth of the test voltage setting final
value every minute, for 5 minutes, taking successive measurements until
the final voltage is reached. Readings for the first 4 recorded values are
displayed under the consecutive segment headings ‘1m’ to ‘4m’. The 5
minute reading is displayed by the main display.

If the range of measured insulation between readings is too wide for the
instrument to display, then those readings too small compared to the final
reading will be represented by ‘---’.

Polarisation index ‘PI’ test, and dielectric absorption ratio
‘DAR’ test

The ‘PI’ test is a particular example of a time/resistance method, which
takes the ratio of the insulation measured at 1 minute and at 10 minutes.
Good insulation generally shows an increase in resistance over a 10 minute
period. Readings for contaminated insulation are fairly constant because

16

any absorption effects are masked by high leakage currents. On
completion of the test the polarisation index is displayed under the
segment heading ‘PI’.

Polarisation Index (PI) = R

R

1 min

10 min

The ‘Dielectric Absorption Ratio’ is the term applied to the polarisation
index using other time intervals set by T1 and T2.

If timers T1 and T2 are both set, then the insulation resistance measured
at these times is also recorded. These are displayed together with the
calculated dielectric absorption ratio under the T1, T2, and DAR segments
respectively.

The instrument can be made to display either the insulation resistances,
insulation currents or ratios plus capacitance measurements by using the
Ω/I toggle button. See section ‘Ω/I button’ for cycling through results and
toggling units.

Dielectric Absorption Ratio (DAR) = R

R

T1 min

T2 min

Dielectric discharge ‘DD’ test

The ‘DD’ test is a diagnostic insulation test that allows ageing,
deterioration, and voids in the insulation to be assessed. The result is
dependent on the discharge characteristic, so the internal condition of the
insulation is tested, largely independent of any surface contamination. On
discharge the capacitive component of the discharge current decays from
a high value with a relatively short time constant of a few seconds. The

other current component, comprising the released absorption current,
decays from a lower value with a relatively long time constant of up to
several minutes. If this component of the discharge current is large (>7 @
500 V test voltage) then the insulation condition is poor.

The main timer will default to 30 minutes, which is normally sufficient
time for full absorption to take place in an insulation material. The default
test voltage is set to 500 V. The ‘DD’ test requires the instrument to
measure the discharge current 1 minute after the removal of the test
voltage. At this time the capacitive current should be insignificant
compared with the released absorption current. On completion of the
test, the instrument uses this measurement along with the test voltage and
calculated capacitance to produce a figure of merit indicating the quality of
the insulation.

Dielectric Discharge (DD) = I

1 min

V x C

where I is the measured current expressed in milliamps (mA), V is the test
voltage in Volts (V), and C is the measured capacitance in Farads (F)

Measurements above 100 GΩ

Measurements up to 100 GΩ can be made without any special precautions,
assuming that the test leads are reasonably clean and dry. The guard lead
can be used to remove the effects of surface leakage if necessary. When
measuring resistances above 100 GΩ, the test leads should not be allowed
to touch each other, or any other object since this will introduce leakage
paths. Sharp points at the test lead connections should also be avoided
since this will encourage corona discharge.

The output is isolated, and so will float relative to ground such that the
positive terminal is at plus half of the test voltage, and the negative
terminal is at minus half of the test voltage with respect to ground.
Leakages therefore occur between the positive terminal and ground,
between the negative terminal and ground, and directly between the
positive and negative terminals. These leakages have a significant effect
and can occur through the air itself.

+ Test V

2

+

- Test V

-

2

Ground

If the guard lead is connected to ground, then since the negative terminal
is at the same voltage as the guard terminal, the leakage into the negative
terminal will be considerably reduced. This will improve accuracy because
the current flowing into the negative terminal is measured by the
instrument and used to calculate resistance. This technique is only
permissible if the item under test is isolated from ground. “Isolated” in this
context means insulated by a resistance of at least 5 MΩ

for the positive

17

terminal, or at least 10 kΩ for the negative terminal.

Conversely, if the positive terminal is grounded, then the negative terminal
will be at a voltage equal to the test voltage relative to ground, which will
result in an increase in leakage current, and worsening of measurement
accuracy.

+ Test V

+

0V

-

Guard

Ground

When making measurements above 100 GΩ therefore, the user should
ground the Guard Lead where possible, otherwise parallel leakage paths
may occur.

Alternatively, screened leads are available as an optional accessory from
Megger. The lead to the negative terminal is fully screened. The screen is
plugged into the Guard terminal, diverting any stray leakage currents. This
considerably improves measurements made with a floating output, where
the leads might touch each other or anything other than the test piece.

Circuit block diagram

C1

Current

R2

Volts

Discharge
resistance

Fuse

Voltage
control

100 MΩ

Ref

-

+

Current
Limit

High
voltage
source

R1

For 5 kV instruments C1 = 47 nF, R1 = 50 kΩ, R2 = 40 kΩ

For 10 kV instruments C1 = 15 nF, R1 = 156 kΩ, R2 = 110 kΩ

+

G

-

Cable
under

test

18

SPECIFICATIONS

Voltage input range

85-265 V rms, 50/60Hz, 60 VA

Battery life

Typical capacity is 4 hours continuous testing at 10 kV with a 100 MΩ load

Test voltages

250 V, 500 V, 1 kV, 2.5 kV, 5 kV, 10 kV ranges, adjustable in 10 V steps from
50 V to 1 kV, and 25 V steps from 1 kV to 10 kV

Accuracy (23°C, 10 kV)

±5% @ 2 TΩ
±20% @ 20 TΩ

Guard

2% error guarding 500 kΩ leakage with 100 MΩ load

Display range

Digital display 10 kΩ to 35 TΩ (3 digits)
Analogue display 100 kΩ to 1 TΩ

Short circuit/charge current

3 mA @ 10 kV

Capacitor charge time

<5 seconds per µF at 3mA to 10 kV

Capacitor discharge time

<250 ms per µF to discharge from 10 kV to 50 V

Capacitance measurement (500 V minimum test voltage)

10 nF to 50 µF (dependent on test voltage)

Capacitance measurement accuracy (23°C)

±5% ±5 nF

Voltage output accuracy (0°C to 30°C)

+4%, -0% ±10 V of nominal test voltage at 1 GΩ load

Current measurement range

0.01 nA to 5 mA

Current measurement accuracy (23°C)

±5% ±0.2 nA at all voltages

Interference rejection

1 mA per 600 V up to a maximum of 2 mA

Timer range

Counts up to 99 minutes and 59 seconds from start of test
15 second minimum setting for test voltage ≥1000 V
30 second minimum setting for test voltage <1000 V

Test regimes

Auto IR, PI, SV, DD
DAR is calculated automatically if timers T1 and T2 are set

Interface

RS232: 38400 Baud, 8 data bits, 0 parity, 1 stop bit, no flow control.
USB

Data storage

Data stored: selected voltage, test time elapsed, voltage applied, leakage
current, and insulation resistance. The PI, DAR, capacitance, time constant
and DD values are also stored if available at the end of the test. Megger
Download Manager may be used to transfer this data to a PC.

Data output

Real time serial data output once per second of the test voltage, test
current, and resistance

19

ACCESSORIES

Lead set

Three flexible silicon insulated leads with compact clamp

Safety

Meets the requirements of IEC61010-1 CAT IV 600 V

EMC

Meets the requirements of IEC61326-1

Operating temperature

Refer to www.megger.com

Operating temperature

-20°C to 50°C

Storage temperature

-25°C to 65°C

Ingress protection (lid closed)

IP65

Humidity

90% RH non-condensing at 40°C

Dimensions

305 x 194 x 360 (mm) (12 x 7.6 x 14.2 inches)

Weight

7.1 kg (16lb) approx.

Included Accessories

Order code

3 m lead set, medium size insulated clips 6220-820
User guide on CD-ROM 2000-213
RS232 cable 25955-025
USB cable 25970-041
3 x 3 m lead set with large insulated clips 6220-811

Optional Accessories

HV test lead sets

3 x 3 m with un-insulated small clips 8101-181

3 x 8 m with un-insulated small clips 8101-182

3 x 15 m with un-insulated small clips 8101-183

3 x 10 m with medium insulated clips 1000-441

3 x 15 m with medium insulated clips 1000-442

3 x 3 m with large insulated clips 6220-811

3 x 10 m with large insulated clips 1000-443

3 x 15 m with large insulated clips 1000-432

Control circuit test lead set

2 x 3 m with small insulated clips 6220-822

Screened HV test leads

1 x 3 m, with 10 kV screened un-insulated small clips 6220-834

1 x 10 m, with 10 kV screened un-insulataed small clips 6220-861

1 x 15 m, with 10 kV screened un-insulated small clips 6220-833

20

REPAIR AND WARRANTY

The instrument contains static sensitive devices, and care must be taken in
handling the printed circuit board. If an instrument’s protection has been
impaired it should not be used, but sent for repair by suitably trained and
qualified personnel. The protection is likely to be impaired if for example,
it shows visible damage, fails to perform the intended measurements, has
been subjected to prolonged storage under unfavourable conditions, or
has been subjected to severe transport stresses.

NEW INSTRUMENTS ARE GUARANTEED FOR 1 YEAR FROM THE

DATE OF PURCHASE BY THE USER.

Note: Any unauthorized prior repair or adjustment will automatically
invalidate the Warranty.

CALIBRATION, REPAIR AND SPARE PARTS

For service requirements for Megger Instruments contact:

Megger Limited or Megger
Archcliffe Road Valley Forge Corporate Centre
Dover 2621 Van Buren Avenue
Kent CT17 9EN Norristown PA 19403
England. U.S.A.

Tel: [phone] Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone] Fax: [phone]

Megger operate fully traceable calibration and repair facilities, ensuring
your instrument continues to provide the high standard of performance
and workmanship you expect. These facilities are complemented by a
worldwide network of approved repair and calibration companies to offer
excellent in-service care for your Megger products.

Returning your product to Megger - UK and USA service
centres

1. When an instrument requires recalibration, or in the event of a repair
being necessary, a Returns Authorisation (RA) number must first be
obtained from one of the addresses shown above. You will be asked to
provide the following information to enable the Service Department to
prepare in advance for receipt of your instrument, and to provide the
best possible service to you.

n Model, e.g. MIT1020/2.
n Serial number, to be found on the underside of the case or on

the calibration certificate.

n Reason for return, e.g. calibration required, or repair.
n Details of the fault if the instrument is to be repaired.

2. Make a note of the RA number. A returns label can be emailed or faxed
to you if you wish.

3. Pack the instrument carefully to prevent damage in transit.

4. Ensure the returns label is attached, or that the RA number is clearly
marked on the outside of the package and on any correspondence,
before sending the instrument, freight paid, to Megger. Copies of the
original purchase invoice and packing note should be sent
simultaneously by airmail to expedite clearance through customs. In the
case of instruments requiring repair outside the warranty period, an
immediate quotation can be provided when obtaining the RA number.

5. You may track the progress of your return on line at www.megger.com

Approved Service Centres

A list of Approved Service Centres may be obtained from the UK address
above, or from Megger’s website at www.megger.com

21

M

Megger Limited
Archcliffe Road, Dover
Kent CT17 9EN England
T [phone]
F [phone]
E [e-mail]

Megger
501 Crystal Paradise Mall
Off Veera Desai Road
Andheri(w), Mumbai - 400053
Maharashtra
India
T [phone]
F [phone]

Megger products are distributed in 146 countries worldwide.

This instrument is manufactured in the United Kingdom.
The company reserves the right to change the specification or design without prior notice.

Megger is a registered trademark

Part No. MIT1020_2_UG_en_V04 1108
www.megger.com

Megger
4271 Bronze Way, Dallas,
Texas 75237-1019 USA
T [phone] (USA ONLY)
T [phone]
F [phone]
E [e-mail]

Programma GmbH
Obere Zeil 2
61440 Oberursel
Germany
T 06171-92987-0
F 06171-92987-19

Megger
Z.A. Du Buisson de la Couldre
23 rue Eugène Henaff
78190 TRAPPES France
T +33 (0)1 30.16.08.90
F +33 (0)1 34.61.23.77
E [e-mail]

Programma Electric AB
Eldarvägen 4
Box 2970
SE-187 29 TÄBY
Sweden
T [phone]
F [phone]

Megger Pty Limited
Unit 26 9 Hudson Avenue
Castle Hill
Sydney NSW 2125 Australia
T [phone]
F [phone]
E [e-mail]

Programma Electric AG
Ob. Haselweg 630
5727 Oberkulm
Aargau
Switzerland
T [phone]
F [phone]

Megger Limited
110 Milner Avenue Unit 1
Scarborough Ontario M1S 3R2
Canada
T [phone] (Canada only)
T [phone]
F [phone]
E [e-mail]