Continuity Testing

[Penfield]

Hi,

I having a problem with the readings I'm getting whilst doing continuity tests. The readings tend to fluctuate up and down, starting at say 1.90 then going up to 2.8 then back down to 2.3 for example. Is this a problem with the meter? or does it point to a problem with the cable under test?

Kind Regards,

Paul

 

[WarrenG]

Hi,

I having a problem with the readings I'm getting whilst doing continuity tests. The readings tend to fluctuate up and down, starting at say 1.90 then going up to 2.8 then back down to 2.3 for example. Is this a problem with the meter? or does it point to a problem with the cable under test?

Kind Regards,

Paul

Which circuits are you testing ring final? Sounds like you need to switch the legs of the ring?

 

[Penfield]

Hi Warren,
The problem is occurring mainly whilst testing lighting but today it also happened on a radial whilst trying to get the R1/R2 measurement.

 

[WarrenG]

Well generally you would expect the resistance to increase with the length of the circuit.

If you are unsure about your meter then it would be best to get it checked - not worth having a defective meter!

Check the meter with some fresh batteries and see if this changes how it operates?

 

[Penfield]

Thanks Warren, I'll try that in the morning, fingers crossed it will be ok, it's been a bit of a nightmare.

 

[WarrenG]

Obviously the meter is one thing, I would still investigate further the circuits you are testing just to make sure connections are tight, no visable damage etc. Just to be sure.

 

[Spudnik]

Sometimes have the same prob.

Easiest thing to do is make sure your probes are pushed in tight and the leads arent flapping around all over the place.

 

[randyrat]

Yup...probes and croc clips...squeeze 'em tight....some are really weak (Fluke 1652 hands up!!).....if they arent on tight, or are flappping in the wind, your readings will be all over the place...

 

[sparkyt]

Hi,

I having a problem with the readings I'm getting whilst doing continuity tests. The readings tend to fluctuate up and down, starting at say 1.90 then going up to 2.8 then back down to 2.3 for example. Is this a problem with the meter? or does it point to a problem with the cable under test?

Kind Regards,

Paul

if its been on the van overnight and is very cold then i tend to find that mine plays up a bit. bloke who calibrates mine made a point of telling me to keep it inside at room temp if poss as this will help.he says from experiance when calibrating, various cold meters will take several attempts to just zero the leads correctly. it will also reduce the chance of the crooks stealing it from your van!