Transcript
Tools & Equipment
METER MADE… FOR PV! The Seaward PV100 Test Meter
Jack Moor from Groombridge Solar Installations takes a closer look at the Seaward PV100 Test Meter. olar PV is one of the fastest growing markets within the entire electrical sector. Having the correct test equipment is therefore essential in making sure the job is done right. When working on a PV job – at height, on roofs and out in the elements – you need tools that can withstand challenging and intensive usage. The Seaward PV100 Tester has protective rubber ends that give it a tough and sleek image, helping when accidents do happen. It comes with a small but effective carry case that matches the good design of the tester. It allows room for both the AC/DC Clamp Meter and PV100 meter, whilst it has another compartment for test leads, and one more for a helpful quick start guide on how to use the tester efficiently.
S
Tough stuff
On first use, the tester has a feel to it that matches the tough look on show – durable and strong.The screen is clear and simple to understand, split into four lines for each test: Earth Resistance,Vo/c, Is/c and Insulation Resistance. It also comes with a blue backlight, helping the user to see the results more easily in dim light. One of the main features of this tester is the plug in MC4 and MC3 test leads. Not only does this save time when testing photovoltaic panels, it virtually cuts out the risk of electrical shock, which is only a good thing when working with DC voltage. Another good feature of the leads is that
“the leads are easy to unclip once the panel had been tested”
they are easy to unclip once the panel had been tested.They are designed so that they simply pull off, rather than having to fiddle about trying to unclip the leads from the panel, which can be tricky.
Test practice
First use of the tester was an installation of a 16 panel 3.68kWp Solar PV system, an ideal job to test it.Testing each panel individually showed how fast, effective and safe the tester is, quickly and clearly bringing the results on the screen after using the Auto test feature.The Auto feature tests the voltage, current and insulation resistance of each panel in one test. I like that you can save up to nine results on the meter, just by pressing the save button. However, having a larger memory to enable more results to be saved would be beneficial, especially on a job such as this where 16 panels were being installed. When I started to test the panels I found that a neck strap would be very
You can save up to nine results on the meter
Tools & Equipment useful, as it turned testing the panels from a one man job into a two man job. We found on more than one occasion that a strap would be helpful and would make the tester easier to use. The test gear comes with a set of normal pronged ended test leads and support CD. The CD has a complete operation manual, video guide and warranty information.These loaded on the computer quickly and easily and are also very simple to use. After using the tester on seven installations I would conclude that it is simple to use, gives clear and concise results and is an essential piece of equipment for all solar installations. Highly recommended.
Having the right test equipment ensures you do your job properly and safely
For more information on the Seaward Solar PV Tester circle readerlink 176
