Megger Tdr500/3: Pros And Cons, Common Issues, And Best Places To Purchase
Megger TDR500/3 Information
The Megger TDR500/3 is a handheld, single-channel time domain reflectometer (TDR) for locating faults on metallic cables. It is compact, easy to use, and has a minimum resolution of 0.1 m and a maximum range of 5 km, depending on the selected velocity factor and cable type.
Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating frequency range | 10 kHz to 1 GHz |
| Minimum resolution | 0.1 m |
| Maximum range | 5 km (depending on velocity factor and cable type) |
| Output impedances | 25, 50, 75, and 100 Ω |
| Velocity factor | 0.2 to 0.99 |
| Trace hold feature | Yes |
| IP rating | IP54 |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 220 x 90 x 35 mm |
Features
- Easy to use: The TDR500/3 has a simple selection option which, together with a four-way control switch, offers intuitive operation. The 'Auto selection' option ensures that the most effective parameters are selected depending on the range required, aiding rapid diagnosis of the TDR trace.
- Clear cursor: A clear operator-controlled cursor allows instant measurement of the distance to the fault.
- Trace hold feature: The trace hold feature allows you to hold a trace on the screen, so you can easily analyze it at a later time.
- Compact and portable: The TDR500/3 is compact and portable, making it easy to take to the job site.
- IP54 rated: The TDR500/3 is IP54 rated, making it dust and water resistant.
What's in the box
- TDR500/3 unit
- Carrying case
- BNC test leads
- USB cable
- Instruction manual
The Megger TDR500/3 is a versatile and easy-to-use TDR that is ideal for locating faults on metallic cables. It is compact, portable, and has a wide range of features, making it a valuable tool for any electrician or technician.
Megger TDR500/3 Compare with Similar Item
a table comparing the Megger TDR500/3 with some similar items:
| Feature | Megger TDR500/3 | Fluke 1587 | Hioki ET6125 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage range | 500 V | 1000 V | 500 V |
| Current range | 10 A | 20 A | 10 A |
| Rise time | 5 ns | 10 ns | 10 ns |
| Resolution | 10 ps | 20 ps | 10 ps |
| Accuracy | ±5 ps | ±10 ps | ±5 ps |
| Weight | 1.4 kg | 1.6 kg | 1.5 kg |
| Price | $1,495 | $1,995 | $1,595 |
As you can see, the Megger TDR500/3 is a mid-range TDR with a voltage range of 500 V, a current range of 10 A, a rise time of 5 ns, and a resolution of 10 ps. It is accurate to ±5 ps and weighs 1.4 kg. The Fluke 1587 is a higher-end TDR with a voltage range of 1000 V, a current range of 20 A, a rise time of 10 ns, and a resolution of 20 ps. It is accurate to ±10 ps and weighs 1.6 kg. The Hioki ET6125 is a similar mid-range TDR with a voltage range of 500 V, a current range of 10 A, a rise time of 10 ns, and a resolution of 10 ps. It is accurate to ±5 ps and weighs 1.5 kg.
Ultimately, the best TDR for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you need a high-end TDR with a wide voltage range and high accuracy, the Fluke 1587 is a good option. If you are looking for a mid-range TDR with good performance and a more affordable price, the Megger TDR500/3 or the Hioki ET6125 are both good choices.
Megger TDR500/3 Pros/Cons and My Thought
a comprehensive overview of the Megger TDR500/3, including pros, cons, user reviews, and my thoughts:
Pros:
- The Megger TDR500/3 is a high-quality cable fault locator that is known for its accuracy and reliability.
- It has a wide range of applications, making it a versatile tool for electricians and other professionals who work with electrical cables.
- The TDR500/3 is easy to use and comes with a variety of features that make it a valuable asset for any electrical troubleshooting job.
- Some of the features that users particularly appreciate include the built-in memory, the ability to store up to 99 test results, and the clear and easy-to-read display.
Cons:
- The Megger TDR500/3 is a relatively expensive tool, so it may not be the best option for budget-minded users.
- Some users have reported that the TDR500/3 can be difficult to use in certain conditions, such as when there is a lot of electrical noise present.
- The TDR500/3 is not a portable tool, so it may not be the best option for users who need to transport their cable fault locator frequently.
User reviews:
Overall, user reviews of the Megger TDR500/3 are positive. Many users praise the tool for its accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. Some users have also commented on the TDR500/3's built-in memory and the ability to store up to 99 test results.
However, there are a few negative reviews of the TDR500/3. Some users have reported that the tool can be difficult to use in certain conditions, such as when there is a lot of electrical noise present. Others have commented that the TDR500/3 is not a portable tool, so it may not be the best option for users who need to transport their cable fault locator frequently.
My thoughts:
Overall, I believe that the Megger TDR500/3 is a high-quality cable fault locator that is worth the investment for electricians and other professionals who work with electrical cables. The tool is accurate, reliable, and easy to use, and it comes with a variety of features that make it a valuable asset for any electrical troubleshooting job. However, the TDR500/3 is not a portable tool, and it may be too expensive for some users.
If you are looking for a high-quality cable fault locator that is accurate, reliable, and easy to use, then I would recommend the Megger TDR500/3. However, if you are on a budget or you need a portable tool, then you may want to consider other options.
Megger TDR500/3 Where To Buy
Sure. Here are some places where you can buy the Megger TDR500/3 and spare parts:
- Direct from Megger: Megger's website sells the TDR500/3 for $1,295. They also sell a variety of spare parts for the TDR500/3, including the TDR500/3 Probe Kit for $199.
- Walmart: Walmart sells the Megger TDR500/3 for $1,399. They do not sell any spare parts for the TDR500/3.
- Amazon: Amazon sells the Megger TDR500/3 for $1,299. They also sell a variety of spare parts for the TDR500/3, including the TDR500/3 Probe Kit for $199.
- Best Buy: Best Buy does not sell the Megger TDR500/3.
- Lowes: Lowes does not sell the Megger TDR500/3.
- Ebay: Ebay is a good place to find used Megger TDR500/3s and spare parts. Prices can vary widely, so be sure to shop around.
I hope this helps!
Megger TDR500/3 Problems and Solutions
some common issues and solutions for the Megger TDR500/3:
Issue: The TDR500/3 may not turn on.
Solution:
- Check the power supply. Make sure that the TDR500/3 is plugged into a working outlet and that the power switch is turned on.
- Check the fuse. If the fuse is blown, it will need to be replaced.
Issue: The TDR500/3 may not display any readings.
Solution:
- Check the cable connections. Make sure that the test leads are properly connected to the TDR500/3 and to the test object.
- Check the test leads. If the test leads are damaged, they will need to be replaced.
Issue: The TDR500/3 may not be able to measure high voltages.
Solution:
- Check the input voltage range. Make sure that the TDR500/3 is set to the correct input voltage range for the test object.
- Check the test leads. Make sure that the test leads are rated for the voltage that you are trying to measure.
Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting common TDR500/3 problems:
- If you are still having problems after following the above solutions, try resetting the TDR500/3. To do this, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds.
- If you are still having problems, contact Megger technical support for assistance.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Megger TDR500/3 Manual
Megger TDR500/3 Manual
Safety Information
- The TDR500/3 is a test instrument and should only be used by qualified personnel.
- Do not use the TDR500/3 on energized cables.
- Always disconnect the test leads from the TDR500/3 before opening the battery compartment.
- Do not expose the TDR500/3 to moisture or rain.
- Keep the TDR500/3 out of the reach of children.
Before Use
- Read the safety information in this manual before using the TDR500/3.
- Make sure that the TDR500/3 is in good working condition before using it.
- Check the battery level and replace the batteries if necessary.
- Set the appropriate range and impedance for the cable type and length you are testing.
- Connect the test leads to the TDR500/3 and the cable.
- Press the "Trace" button to start the test.
- The TDR500/3 will display a trace of the cable's impedance along its length.
- Use the cursors to measure the distance to any faults in the cable.
Troubleshooting
- If the TDR500/3 does not display a trace, check the battery level and replace the batteries if necessary.
- If the TDR500/3 displays an error message, refer to the error message table in the manual.
- If you are still having problems with the TDR500/3, contact Megger Technical Support.
Maintenance
- Keep the TDR500/3 clean and free of dirt and dust.
- Wipe the TDR500/3 with a damp cloth if it becomes dirty.
- Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the TDR500/3.
- Store the TDR500/3 in a cool, dry place.
Warranty
The TDR500/3 is warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. Megger will repair or replace any TDR500/3 that is found to be defective during the warranty period.
Contact Information
Megger Tel: +1 800 553 1714 Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.megger.com
Additional Information
- The TDR500/3 can be used to test a variety of cable types, including twisted-pair, coaxial cable, and fiber optic cable.
- The TDR500/3 can also be used to test the length of a cable.
- The TDR500/3 is a valuable tool for troubleshooting cable faults.
Thank you for choosing Megger.
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