3200B SERIES OPERATION MANUAL
TRANSMILLE LTD. Page 56
Introduction to Breakdown / Hipot Testers
Breakdown / Hipot testers come in various configurations, from a simple AC high
voltage source (which is generated by a step up transformer) to more complex units
which generate both AC and DC voltages with leakage current measurement
capabilities. Leakage current is the output current being drawn at the set voltage
from uA levels up to around 20mA. The majority of instruments include a trip circuit
which turns the instrument off when a preset current is exceeded.
From the calibration viewpoint, breakdown / hipot testers can be considered as
power supplies, with the exception of the safety issues caused by the higher
voltages being generated.
The calibration of breakdown testers involves:
1. Measuring the high voltage output at several points on each range
(both AC and DC).
2. Calibrate the leakage current meter if fitted - this is calibrated by comparing the
current displayed on the tester against the current indicated by a calibrated meter.
An appropriate load resistor is used to draw the current at an output voltage of
between 500V and 1kV.
3. Confirming correct operation of the current trip.
The 3200B calibrator with breakdown tester adaptor provides the capability to
perform all of the above testing in one simple solution with AC/DC voltage
measurement up to 12kV and current measurement up to 20mA.
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