CFL535G dual-channel time domain reflectometer
Dual-channel capability for testing simultaneously on two phases
Compare a good circuit with a faulty one to make the results easier to interpret
“Auto set-up” mode for instant use
Ensure that the most effective parameters are selected depending on the range required, aiding rapid diagnosis of the TDR trace
Ultra fast pulse for near-end fault location
Accurately locate faults that are as close as a few centimetres from the point of connection
About the product
The CFL535G time domain reflectometer (TDR) offers compatibility with virtually all types of paired metallic cables, comprehensive dual-channel operation, “auto set-up” for instant use, excellent near-end fault location performance, and internal storage for up to 100 traces. This instrument is ideal for rapidly, reliably, and conveniently locating cable faults in telecommunications systems.
Directional control buttons and soft keys that aim to make operating the instrument easy and intuitive complement its large high-resolution WVGA colour display. Dual cursors allow instant measurement of the distance between any two points on the traces. Meanwhile, the trace comparison feature makes it easy to spot even slight differences between two simultaneously displayed traces.
To ensure precise fault location, the CFL535G has a minimum resolution of just 0.1 m, and its maximum range is up to 20 km, depending on the type of cable and velocity factor selected. Velocity factors from 0.2 to 0.99 are supported, allowing the instrument to deliver accurate results with any cable type. A choice of five output impedances from 25 Ω to 125 Ω is offered, together with an automatic impedance matching function.
The time-saving “auto set-up” option automatically sets the most suitable operating parameters for the instrument depending on the range selected, aiding rapid fault diagnosis. However, you can easily override the automatic settings, allowing you to manually fine-tune the operation of the instrument when dealing with particularly challenging faults.
Megger’s unique “Xpert” mode is another invaluable aid to fault location. A single press of the “Xpert” key automatically adjusts the range and gain of the instrument, and positions the cursor over the first major event on the cable. Subsequent key presses move the cursor, one event at a time, to the positions of other major events on the cable.
Compact, yet robustly built, the CFL535G dual-channel TDR has an IP54 ingress protection rating, which means that it is well protected against the vagaries of on-site use. It has CAT IV 150 V and CAT III 300 V safety ratings, in line with IEC 61010-1.
We supply Megger’s TraceXpert PC software as a standard issue with every CFL535G. Designed around a powerful database and configured for ease of use and simplicity, this versatile software package gives users complete control over data download from the instrument and provides robust reporting facilities.
Further reading and webinars
Troubleshooting
If your CFL535G won’t power on, it is likely because the battery is not charged. Plug in the charger, charge for six hours and then proceed with testing.
These symptoms indicate that there is a battery malfunction. Please get in touch with your local Megger dealer for a replacement battery.
These are signs that the charger is not functioning. Please get in touch with your local Megger dealer for a replacement charger.
Someone may have set the instrument’s standby time too low. Access the user settings and increase the standby time.
The display of the CFL535G may not be visible because its colour settings are incorrect. Access the user settings and change the colours. Conversely, the instrument may be in “power save” mode - press the standby button to return to the display.
An inaccurate fault distance result is likely due to an incorrect velocity factor (VF) setting. Check the VF value for the cable under test and change the settings.
If the cable velocity factor is unknown, test a known cable length to determine the velocity factor.
When this is the case, the CFL535G is set to “automatic”. Press the escape button and change to “manual”.
When the dual input function is selected, ‘ticking’ is expected due to the relays switching input.
When ticking occurs on a single input test, there is an incorrect connection to the cable under test. Therefore, the end of the cable is not determined, so the CFL535G cannot reach the max range. Check all connections and perform the test again.
You have chosen the wrong range. Press the up navigation button from the main screen to extend the range.
You have set your gain too low. Select and change the gain with the navigation buttons while in “manual” mode.
You have set your gain too high. Select and change gain with the navigation buttons while in “manual” mode.
Check that you have plugged the test leads into the correct channel.
Interpreting test results
The cursor lines on the CFL535G allow the user to identify disturbances at strategic points to determine distances and positions of potential faults on the trace.
Common fault traces include: