Sparks Electrical News February 2018

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

4

TBM878: COMBINES MULTIMETER, INSULATION AND EARTH CONTINUITY TESTER

THE TBM878 MULTIMETER 3-IN-1 from Heller- mannTyton is a true RMS digital multimeter with the added functionality of an insulation tester and earth continuity tester combined into a single, compact, handheld unit. This multipurpose CATIV 600VV unit provides maximum versatility for com- pliance testing, troubleshooting and preventative maintenance. The TBM878 has the ability to determine the state of insulation material and earth continuity. Furthermore, it has a convenient remote probe that inhibits testing on live circuits and a hands-free lock feature for continuous testing. The instrument offers five test voltages: 50, 100,

250, 500 and 1000 V in order to measure resist- ance levels from 0 Ω to 25 G Ω for insulation as well as 200 mA high current test for earth continu- ity. The true RMS of the TBM878 is ideal for non- sinusoidal waveforms of complex voltage or cur- rent signals and has an intelligent auto-power-off to extend battery life. Additional features include: • Beep-Jack™ – beeps against improper terminal plug in (decreases risk of damage). • VFD V & Hz – measures fundamental voltage and frequency of most variable frequency drives. • Smooth mode – smooths out unstable insula- tion resistance reading.

• X-Speed capacitance – measures up to 30 mF in a few seconds, 1 kV protection. • LCD display (counts): 6000. • Analogue bar graph. • REC – recording MAX, MIN, MAX-MIN and AVG. • Splash and dust proof. • Certification: UL, IEC610010-1, Certificate of Conformance. • Temperature: -50 °C to 1000 °C. The TBM878 is more cost effective than buying three individual instruments, and applications include CoC testing, motors, generators, cables or switch gear. Enquiries: +27 (0)11 879 6662

MEASURING APP FOR ‘SMART’ CONSTRUCTION SITES I deal for users who need to compile quotes and keep detailed work records, such as building contractors, architects, plumbers and electricians, the Stabila Measuring app allows construction-industry professionals to use their smartphones for quick and easy documentation and processing of measurements. The app is compatible with Stabila’s LD 520 and LD 250 BT laser distance measurers, using integrated Bluetooth Smart technology. Stabila is one of the premium brands distributed locally by Upat SA (Pty) Ltd. Available free of charge from the Apple App Store and Android Play Store, the app makes it possible to create drawings of spaces and objects, and allows users to import images from a gallery, and add dimensions directly to these items. Before measuring an object or surface area with a smart device, the user takes a picture and then applies the Stabila distance-measuring units. These measurements are transferred onto the picture captured on the smart device, and can be moved where required. Users can draw lines and rejig measurements accordingly. The picture is assigned a job name and number, and can be emailed directly to the customer, or shared with the project office, in ad- dition to being stored digitally for reference pur- poses. The app provides for improved design, func- tionality, and intuitive operation. Measurements can be transferred wirelessly from the lasers to a smartphone or tablet, making it possible to docu- ment projects on-site, and to communicate this critical information directly to the project team. In addition, the app ensures a clear project overview for managing drawings, including shar- ing, editing, deletions, and revisions, thereby facili- tating project management. This is supported by ‘zoom’ functionality to focus on pertinent details.

Enquiries: www.upat.co.za

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 2018