4. SPECIAL APPLICATIONS
The tracing signal generated by the Transmitter is conducted along the wire as long as there is
continuity in the metal conductor. To find a fault, trace the wire until the signal stops. To verify
the fault's location, move the Transmitter to the other end of the wire and repeat, tracing from
the opposite end. If signal stops at the exact same location, the fault has been located.
Note: If the place of fault is not found, the open may be a high resistance break (partially open
circuit). Such a break would stop higher currents from flowing but will conduct the tracing
signal through the break. Such faults will not be detected until the wire is completely open.
4.3 Finding Shorts
Shorted wires will cause a breaker/fuse to trip. Disconnect the wires, and make sure the ends of the wires
on both sides of the cable are isolated from each other and other wires or loads and are De-energized.
1. Connect the Transmitter with the test leads to the circuit as shown in Figure 4.3.
2. Switch the Transmitter to Loop mode by short press of On/Off button. Verify that the Loop LED is ON.
3. Turn on the Receiver. Tracing mode is automatically activated.
Start tracing the cable until you find the location where the signal stops. To verify the place of the
fault, move the Transmitter to the other end of the wire and repeat tracing from the opposite end.
If the signal stops at the exact same location you have found the place of short.
Note: This method will be affected by signal cancellation effect. Expect a relatively weak signal.
4.4 Tracing Wires in Metal Conduit
The Receiver is unable to pick up the signal from the wire through the metal conduit. The metal
conduit will completely shield the tracing signal.
Note: The Receiver will be able to detect wires in non-metallic conduit. For these applications
follow general tracing guidelines.
In order to trace wires in conduit:
1. Turn on the Receiver. Tracing mode is automatically activated.
2. Open junction boxes and use the Receiver Tip Sensor to detect which wire in the junction
box is carrying the signal.
3. Move from junction box to junction box to follow the path of the wire.
Note: Applying signal directly to the conduit will send signal through all the conduit branches
making tracing of one particular conduit path impossible.
Figure 4.3: Tracing a cable to find shorts
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