Because the PD Tester is computer-based, all aspects
of the tester can be modified and updated with software changes.
Furthermore, there are many aspects of the tester's operation that can
be reconfigured easily by the user to suit the user's specific needs.
For example, some users may adhere to a very strict phase sequence scheme, and any variation from that scheme is considered a failure of the equipment and the equipment must be removed from inventory. On the other hand, some users may consider phase sequencing as a minor aspect and only want it noted if time permits a repair. And then there is the final option, where a customer does not care about phase sequencing and does not want phase identification to be a distraction.
All of the above examples are addressed by the tester with just the touch of an on-screen button. As just an example, this particular test condition has three user-selectable options (Warning, Caution, Ignore).
An additional option is to identify each phase by color. The National Electric Code does not mandate color coding, nor color sequencing, but many companies choose to use color coding to quickly identify phase for their operators. This option can be enabled or disabled, and the specific color coding sequence can also be chosen. (Additional colors can be programmed on request, such as violet and gray for specific customers.)
For example, some users may adhere to a very strict phase sequence scheme, and any variation from that scheme is considered a failure of the equipment and the equipment must be removed from inventory. On the other hand, some users may consider phase sequencing as a minor aspect and only want it noted if time permits a repair. And then there is the final option, where a customer does not care about phase sequencing and does not want phase identification to be a distraction.
All of the above examples are addressed by the tester with just the touch of an on-screen button. As just an example, this particular test condition has three user-selectable options (Warning, Caution, Ignore).
- If the condition is chosen to be a critical "Warning", then the test will "fail" when the condition exists.
- If the condition is chosen to be "Cautionary", then the test will still pass, but the operator is notified of the condition.
- If the condition is chosen to be "Ignored", then the operator will not even be notified of the condition.
An additional option is to identify each phase by color. The National Electric Code does not mandate color coding, nor color sequencing, but many companies choose to use color coding to quickly identify phase for their operators. This option can be enabled or disabled, and the specific color coding sequence can also be chosen. (Additional colors can be programmed on request, such as violet and gray for specific customers.)
Another aspect of the tester deals with equipment
longevity versus customer convenience. The tester is continually
scanning its inputs and outputs looking for a new cable, but if left
unattended for great lengths of time, this can diminish the life of the
components. The tester automatically implements several stages of
"hibernation" to increase its lifespan, but the user can select how
aggressive this protection is versus the convenience of a delay in
scanning for a new cable. Eventually, the tester will stop looking for
a new cable, and enter a complete shut-down mode, and even this aspect
is controllable by the end user.
Depending on the options available for the tester,
the main configuration menu permits access to the various sub-menus.
Some menu options are available only on systems with Load Banking
options, and some menus are restricted to only those with administrator
rights.