IR Test on Lighting circuit (dimmer switches)

[ianphilip007]

hi there

need a little clarification. when IR testing a lighting circuit that contains sensitive equipment such as dimmer switches, is it possible to test LN-E and not damage the dimmer switch. i keep thinking that even with this method LN-E will still pass 500v through the switch, or am i wrong

any thoughts welcome

 

[ianphilip007]

i usually disconnect dimmer switchs and connect sw feed and sw wire with a 2way wago. then test between IR test between LN-E or L-N

 

[alanl]

It's up to you.
There are arguments for both bypassing them and for doing L+N to E.
If you disconnect them, there is the possibility that you could cross-connect, or leave a terminal loose, thus causing a fault.
The disadvantage of doing L+N to E is that is will not pick up any L to N fault.

 

[ianphilip007]

so the LN-E test will not damage the dimmer switch ?

 

[telectrix]

not if you short L and N together.

 

[1shortcircuit]

Why not swap out the dimmer switch for an ordinary switch that you keep with your test equipment? Everything can then be tested and nothing damaged

There is always the case where there's a dimmer in every room I guess but that's just one of those things I guess lol

:thumbsup

 

[ianphilip007]

thanks guys good to know that the LN-E test wont damage the dimmer switch.

 

[ianphilip007]

i will still continue to remove dimmer switches as they need to be removed for zs testing anyway. like the idea of replacing with a normal switch for the purpose of testing though.

 

[Robinson]

always try when poss to just replace with normal switch to carry out test..only do LN+E when no access to sensitive equip . But if done no you wouldnt fry dimmer

 

[Dunc]

I would also carry out tests at 250V if there is any sensitive equipment in circuit that you cannot disconnect to ensure nothing gets damaged.