Fluke 1623-2 and 1625-2 Earth Ground Testers

The Fluke 1623-2 and 1625-2 Earth Ground Testers have advanced features and accessories that speed verification of a reliable connection to earth for grounded electrical systems. The devices can help solve power-quality problems and lower the risk of shock to users. The new accessory reels are claimed to be able to save up to 50% cent of set-up and tear-down time compared to existing wire reels.

The device is designed to help engineers and electricians meet electrical codes, engineering standards and local regulations to ensure that in the event of a lightning strike or utility overvoltage current will find a safe path to earth. The devices perform all four types of earth ground measurements: 3- and 4-pole fall of potential; 4-pole soil resistivity; selective testing; and stakeless testing.

The testers feature USB connectivity for easy storage of up to 1500 records with time stamp and fast downloading of measurements eliminating the need for manual data transfer. The large display makes it easy to read measurements in any environment.

Accessories include heavy-duty stakes that can be hammered into hard ground, colour-coded wires to reduce errors and a rugged carrying case.

The 1625-2 model has advanced features including: automatic frequency control (AFC), which identifies existing interference and chooses a measurement frequency to provide more accurate values; R* measurement, which calculates earth ground impedance with 55 Hz to more accurately reflect the resistance that a fault-to-earth ground would experience; adjustable limits for quicker testing; and battery-level status on the display.

The 1623-2 and 1625-2 may be purchased as stand-alone testers or in kits that include test leads, clamps, batteries, EG stakes, cable reels and carrying case. Optional accessories include a 320 mm split core transformer for performing selective testing on individual tower legs.