The SensorLink Ampstik®+ is a series of slip-on ammeters designed for measuring AC current in electrical utility environments, capable of operating on live, overhead lines up to 500 kV. The device features True RMS measurement, which allows for accurate readings even when the nominal waveform is distorted or harmonics are present, a common occurrence with Y-connected transformer neutral leads and distribution to industrial customers using SCR controllers. The Ampstik®+ is designed for remote use with any hot stick and universal chuck adapter, eliminating the need for clamping onto the wire and featuring no moving parts. Its polycarbonate housing is fire-resistant, waterproof, and built to withstand high physical impact.
Function Description:
The Ampstik®+ measures AC current in two primary modes: RUN Mode and HOLD Mode.
- RUN Mode: In this mode, the device continuously displays current readings, which change in real-time as the current on the conductor fluctuates. The unit enters RUN mode immediately upon powering on. To switch to RUN mode from another mode, the user presses and holds the control switch, scrolls to the "RUN" option, and then releases the switch.
- HOLD Mode: In HOLD mode, the Ampstik®+ automatically measures and stores up to four unique current readings. To enter HOLD mode, the user presses and holds the control switch, scrolls to the "HLD" option, and then releases the switch. The word "HOLD" appears on the bottom left of the display. To take a measurement in HOLD mode, the unit is placed on the conductor for 2-4 seconds and then removed. Each reading is numbered and displayed on the top left. If four readings are already stored and another attempt is made, the display shows "- - -". Stored measurements can be viewed one at a time by pressing and releasing the control switch to scroll through them. The number of the reading being viewed will flash. Measurements are cleared when the unit is powered off, returned to RUN mode, or manually deleted by pressing and holding the control switch until the "DEL" option appears.
Important Technical Specifications:
The Ampstik®+ comes in two main models: 8-020-XT Plus (Standard Sensor Opening) and 8-024-Plus (Wide Jaw Sensor Opening).
- Range of Operation:
- Voltage Phase to Phase: 0-500 kV
- Current: 0.5-5000 A
- Sensor Opening:
- 8-020-XT Plus: Standard, 2.5 in (6.35 cm)
- 8-024-Plus: Wide Jaw, 4 in (10.16 cm)
- Dimensions:
- 8-020-XT Plus: 13.96 in x 5.5 in x 1.92 in (35.46 cm x 13.97 cm x 4.88 cm)
- 8-024-Plus: 17.04 in x 8.95 in x 1.93 in (43.28 cm x 22.73 cm x 4.9 cm)
- Weight:
- 8-020-XT Plus: 1.75 lbs (0.79 kg)
- 8-024-Plus: 2.6 lbs (1.18 kg)
- Type of Reading: Four readings
- Resolution:
- 0.5-99.9 A: 0.1 A
- 100-1999 A: 1 A
- 2000-5000 A: 0.01 kA (indicated by two decimal places for kAmp range)
- Accuracy: ± 1%, ± 2 Counts
- Frequency: Actual frequency marked on unit
- 50 Hz Calibrated: 47 to 53 Hz
- 60 Hz Calibrated: 57 to 63 Hz
- Operating Temperature: -22° to +140° F (-30° to +60° C). Lithium battery is required for temperatures below -4° F (-20° C).
- Display: 3.5 Digit display
- Backlight: Automatic ambient light sensor
- Housing: Fire-resistant and waterproof polycarbonate & silicone
- Hotstick Mounting: Universal chuck adapter (hot stick not included)
- Battery: 9V Alkaline or Lithium (shipped with Alkaline)
- Durability: Drop tested to 10'
- Testing Standards: IP65, CE DoC available upon request
Usage Features:
- Startup Test: Upon powering on, the Ampstik®+ performs a self-test to verify sensor and circuitry functionality. If successful, it displays "0.0" and is ready for measurement. If a failure is detected, it displays "FAIL" along with a corresponding code (1-4) indicating the type of failure (e.g., break to main current sensor, current sensor component, circuit failure).
- Conductor Placement: For accurate measurements, the conductor should be positioned anywhere below the measurement lines on the arms of the unit. Readings can still be taken if the conductor is placed above the bump-outs, but accuracy may be lessened.
- Powering Off: The unit can be powered off manually by pressing and holding the control switch until the "OFF" option appears. It also features an automatic power-off function after approximately 20 minutes of inactivity.
- Backlight Operation: The backlight automatically activates in low-light conditions, with the light sensor located on the front of the unit. Users may observe flicker under artificial lighting. By default, the unit starts in "Auto on/off" mode ("b-A"). The backlight can be manually set to "Always on" ("b-1") or "Always off" ("b-0") by scrolling through options with the control switch. "Always on" mode will diminish battery life faster. The unit returns to the measurement mode it was in before any backlight changes.
- Safety Warnings: The manual emphasizes critical safety guidelines, including using the device only by certified personnel trained for live-line, high-voltage work, using the correct hot stick length for the line voltage, and considering the cover plate, chuck, and entire Ampstik®+ at the same potential as the line to prevent phase-to-phase or phase-to-ground faults. Users are warned not to force the arms or alter the product.
Maintenance Features:
- Battery Replacement: The Ampstik®+ is powered by a single 9V battery. A "LO BAT" indication on the display signals the need for replacement. To change the battery, the screw on the battery cover at the rear of the unit is loosened, the old battery is removed, and a fresh one is installed. The cover is then secured.
- Cleaning: The device can be cleaned by wiping it with a silicone hot stick wipe to remove sand, salt, and dirt.
- Troubleshooting:
- Unit will not power on: Verify a fresh 9V battery is installed.
- Backlight Flicker: This can occur under artificial lighting due to the light's refresh rate.
- Fail Codes: If a fail code (1-4) is displayed, the unit requires return to SensorLink for repair evaluation.
- Incorrect readings: If readings are inaccurate, verify the issue's scope (single or multiple locations) and cross-reference with another ammeter. If the unit is out of tolerance, contact SensorLink.
- Calibration Mode: If "Yes FAC" is scrolling, the unit is in calibration mode. To exit, press and hold the switch when "NO" appears. This restarts the unit without affecting calibration.
- High Voltage Operation: While designed for high voltage fields, excessive corona may lead to lost readings in HOLD mode or require the power to be cycled.
- Warranty: SensorLink offers a limited warranty covering defects in materials, workmanship, and shipping damages (under FOB Freight Allowed terms) for twenty-four (24) months from the invoice date. SensorLink will repair, replace, or refund at its discretion. The warranty does not cover damages from misuse, abuse, alteration, negligence, accident, improper voltage, maintenance, or repairs not made by SensorLink, or third-party products. The warranty is limited to the duration stated, and SensorLink is not liable for incidental, contingent, special, or consequential damages. For warranty performance, users must contact SensorLink promptly upon discovery of a defect, provide proof of purchase, and request a Return Material Authorization (RMA).
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