Troubleshooting Guide
A troubleshooting guide for step-by-step instructions to resolve common issues and ensure proper use. Quickly identify and address challenges to keep your PEM probes performing at their best.
Before contacting our support team, we encourage you to consult this short Troubleshooting Guide. By following the step-by-step instructions provided, you may be able to solve issues efficiently without the need for product return.
No Output Signal
If your Rogowski probe is not producing an output signal:
Check power supply:
Ensure the power supply is connected and turned on.
Verify the power supply voltage matches the probe's requirements, the correct power supply rating and method of connection is described in the relevant product instruction sheet.
Inspect connections:
Check all cable connections are secure.
Look for any visible damage to cables or connectors.
Verify Rogowski coil and cable and electronic (integrator) pairing:
For the RCT range, where there is an option to have a Rogowski coil and cable that can be disconnected from the integrator electronics, confirm you are using a correctly matched pair, there are clear identifiers on both sides of the cable near the connection split.
Test with known current source:
If possible, test the probe with a known current source to isolate the issue.
Inaccurate Measurements
For measurements that seem inaccurate:
Check the Rogowski probe has the correct bandwidth for your measurement:
PEM’s Rogowski probes are AC current probes, so have a low frequency limit and cannot measure DC current. Some of PEM’s higher sensitivity units are not capable of accurate measurement at 50/60Hz. Bandwidth information for each probe model is available on all PEM product datasheets.
Review setup:
Check that the Rogowski coil is fully closed.
Confirm the Rogowski coil is properly positioned around the conductor, ideally the conductor is positioned centrally in the Rogowski coil loop, further information about conductor positioning is provided in the relevant product instruction sheet.
Verify settings:
Ensure any external measurement devices or software are configured correctly and have the correct input impedance, typically for the CWT range this should be DC 1Mohm, though refer to the relevant datasheet for full information.
Consider environmental factors:
Check for strong electromagnetic fields external to the Rogowski coil loop that might interfere with measurements, for example multi-turn inductors near to the conductor under test.
Check calibration:
Verify the calibration date hasn't expired (recommended every 2 years, 1 year if the coil has been subjected to extreme mechanical stresses or repeat thermal cycling over a wide temperature range).
For the RCT range ensure you are using the a correctly matched Rogowski coil/cable and electronic integrator .
Noise in the Output Signal
If you're experiencing noisy output:
Noise (typ.)
All Rogowski probes have an inherent output noise, it is part of their normal operation. The Noise value is clearly stated on the datasheet for all of PEM’s Rogowski probes and described in more detail in our Low Frequency technical notes.
Check grounding:
Ensure proper grounding of equipment to which the probe is connected.
Reduce interference:
Where possible keep the Rogowski probe away from strong electromagnetic fields external to the Rogowski coil loop, and rapidly changing or high voltages that might interfere with measurements.
Check bandwidth settings on recording equipment:
If applicable, adjust the bandwidth settings to filter out high-frequency noise on the recording equipment attached to the Rogowski probe.
Intermittent Readings
For probes with inconsistent or flickering readings:
Check connections:
Ensure all connections are secure and free from oxidation.
Inspect for damage:
Look for any signs of wear or damage to the Rogowski coil or cables.
Verify temperature conditions:
Ensure the probe is operating within its specified temperature range.
Test in different locations:
If possible, test the probe in a different setup to isolate environmental factors.
Still Experiencing Issues?
If you've gone through these troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing issues, please contact our service team at [email protected]. . Be sure to include details about the steps you've already taken, as this will help us assist you more efficiently.
Remember, for warranty service, both the Rogowski coil and electronic integrator must be returned.
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