Megger LT320&RCDT310. Function Query from a student.

[Marti]

G'd Evening People,

Nearly finished my 2365 Level Three and really enjoyed the study; especially the inspection, testing and problem solving. To this end (ooh er, mrs) a friend has lent me a pair of Megger testers until I can fork out for the MFT.

My query is that the LT320 seems to lack the facility to do the most basic insulation resistance and continuity tests. It does automated loop tests. Having resorted to RTFM with out success; am I missing something besides a bin fill of cash for a 1730 or will the LT320 do the basics? You guidance would be appreciated.

 

[buzzlightyear]

both tester are good ,I would hop for the Megger 1730 being one muti
tester then having 2 testers. but personal preference.

 

[westward10]

The LT320 is only an earth fault loop impedance tester.

 

[Lucien Nunes]

They are from a suite of matching instruments each with a single function. The corresponding insulation tester is the MIT320 series.

There can be advantages in splitting the functions across multiple instruments when working on larger installations. We often find when commissioning theatres that one team can be doing insulation tests every now and then over a few days front of house, which would tie up an MFT, while another team wants to power up backstage and get on with loop tests etc.

 

[westward10]

I love my geriatric single function testers everyone calls me a dinosaur

 

[Marti]

Gawd I love this forum! Every answer makes perfect sense when considered. Having checked, the additional MIT320 will cost me 100+ as well as paying matey for his two I have on loan. The used 1730 is 500 beer vouchers. Gentlemen, thank you for you assistance. Decision made.

 

[telectrix]

whatyou have thereis a loop testerand a RCD tester. youwould need a continuity/IR tester to compliment these. can be got fairly cheap off ebay.

Megger MIT220 250 V / 500 V Insulation and continuity tester | eBay - https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Megger-MIT220-250-V-500-V-Insulation-and-continuity-tester/253515205884?epid=11011036502&hash=item3b06af0cfc:g:7WcAAOSwNGRatVJq

 

[The Ghost]

There are arguments for one intrument for each test. However do you really want to carry around four different tool cases for simple domestic testing (is it you are doing?) A kewtech 63 will do all the functions you need in one small machine for around £350-400. As you grow in your business you will have the thought that "I wish I had bought something that will do more testing functions". But if cash is a consideration and you are operating as one man, then you do not need to share the functions of the meter with others. Testing is bad enough dealing with the vastly differing installations without the complexity of a load of different machines to deal with and leads and so on.