Megger offers new test lead options for safety and convenience 
(09/05/2007)
To help electrical contractors carry out tests safely and conveniently, Megger is now offering a choice of fused test leads for instruments in its contractor range. Users can choose between leads with a 10A fuse, or GS38-compliant leads with a 500mA fuse.
Fused test leads significantly reduce the hazards associated with short circuits via the instrument test leads which may occur during testing. They must, however, always be used in conjunction with appropriate working practices as using test leads where the fuse has ruptured allows instruments to indicate that circuits are dead when they are actually live.
In many applications, GS38 leads with a 500mA fuse are preferred but, since fuses of this rating have an appreciable resistance, they are unsuitable for use during loop testing on live systems and a 500mA fuse may rupture when carrying out high current tripping loop tests. In addition, a lead with a replaceable 500mA fuse can introduce variability into the test result. This is usually insignificant, but may be a problem when accurate earth loop impedance values are needed.
Test leads with 10A fuses, while not covered by GS38, avoid these problems while still providing adequate protection against short-circuit faults. By providing contractors with this option, Megger allows them to enjoy enhanced safety, even when carrying out tests where leads with 500mA fuses are unsuitable.
Related categories: Test and measurement
