Insulation Multimeter 
  Basic Measurements 
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Figure 9. Testing Insulation 
PI/DAR 
Polarization Index (PI) is the ratio of the 10-minute 
insulation resistance to the 1 minute insulation resistance. 
Dielectric Absorption Ratio (DAR) is the ratio of the 
1-minute insulation resistance to the 30 second insulation 
resistance. 
Insulation tests should only be performed on de-energized 
circuits. To measure the polarization index or dielectric 
absorption ratio: 
1.  Insert test probes in the 
p and q input terminals. 
Note 
Because of the time required to perform the PI and 
DAR tests, use of test clips is recommended. 
2. Press r repeatedly to select the test voltage. 
3. Press g to select polarization index or dielectric 
absorption ratio. 
4.  Connect the probes to the circuit to be measured. The 
Tester automatically detects if the circuit is energized: 
•  The primary display shows ---- until you press the 
g button and a valid resistance reading is 
obtained. 
•  The high voltage symbol (Z) and a primary display 
of >30 V warns if voltage greater than 30 V ac or 
dc is present. If high voltage is present, the test is 
inhibited.