DIGITAL EARTH TESTER

DET-20A
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
 P.No. ZM3140404
REV. NO. 00/1223

THE MOTWANE MANUFACTURING CO. PVT. LTD.

REGD. OFFICE & FACTORY:
Gyan Baug, Motwane Road, Nashik Road, Nashik - 422 101. Maharashtra
MADE IN INDIA.
Tel.: 91-0253-2463752 / 2463753 Fax: 91- 0253 – 2463197
Email: [email protected]

Visit us at: www.motwane.com

 Table of Contents

1 GENERAL INTRODUCTION 1
1.1. Description........................................................................................................................................... 1

1.2. Features ................................................................................................................................................ 1

1.3. Unpacking the instrument ........................................................................................................... 2

1.4. Preparing for operation................................................................................................................. 2

1.5. Switching ON the Instrument: ................................................................................................... 3

2. SAFETY WARNINGS 4
2.1. Symbols used on the instrument ............................................................................................. 4

2.2. Safety Instructions: .......................................................................................................................... 4

2.3. General Precautions: ....................................................................................................................... 5

3. SPECIFICATIONS 6
3.1. Technical Specifications................................................................................................................ 6

3.2. General Specifications ................................................................................................................... 6

3.3. Accessories.......................................................................................................................................... 7

4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 8
4.1. Panel Controls And Indications: ................................................................................................ 8

4.2. LCD display: ....................................................................................................................................... 9

4.3. Menu Understanding ...................................................................................................................... 9

4.4. Making Measurement ................................................................................................................... 10

5. SOFTWARE 19
5.1 Installation ........................................................................................................................................ 19

5.2 System Requirements.............................................................................................................. 19

5.3 Installation Setup......................................................................................................................... 19

5.4 System Regional Settings ..................................................................................................... 19

5.5 Software Features .................................................................................................................... 241

5.6 Software Manual ........................................................................................................................ 241

6. MAINTENANCE 341
6.1 Care & Maintenance ................................................................................................................ 341

6.2 General Maintenance .............................................................................................................. 341

7. WARRANTY 352
1 GENERAL INTRODUCTION
1.1. Description
The Digital earth resistance tester DET-20A is designed for measurement of the resistance
of earth used in Power circuits, Telecommunication, Railway electrification, Domestic &
Industrial electrical installation, Lightning protection installation and various other electrical
systems. The instrument perform equally well in terrain where the conductivity of the soil is low
e.g. in mountainous areas and in places where powerful stray earth current exist.
The instrument is specially designed for making straight forward and approximate
soil investigation of the kind needed in agricultural, geological research and in planning of large
civil engineering projects such as Tunnels, Dams, Drainage, Sewerage schemes, Tube- Railways
etc.
The tester measure directly the resistance of the earth and measure the ground resistivity.
The sturdy, elegant and compact body makes the instrument portable, easy-to-use-Hand-held
instrument.
Alkaline AA Cells power the instrument. Low battery (LO BAT sign) indication
appears on LCD indicates that the battery goes down and needs replacement with new.

1.2.Features
4 ½ digit LCD Display with pleasant backlit.
3 terminal and 4 terminal Measurement Method
Earth Resistance Range 19.999Ω to 19.999KΩ
Earth Measurement Voltage up to 200V
Soil Resistivity Measurement
Replaceable Alkaline battery
Low bat indication
Auto Ranging
Auto Power OFF
Ratio Metric Synchronous Rectification
Store reading access with Galvanic isolated USB port
Internal memory 1000 results.
Bluetooth interface and cloud connectivity through Motware app.

1.3.Unpacking the instrument

1.3.1 Package Contents
Please take care to verify that the package includes the following items:
Digital Earth Tester with USB-BLUETOOTH Model DET-20A. : 1 No.
Earthing Kit includes
Measurement Cable (10m, 20m, 30m & 40m) on a winder as Standard : 1 Set.
Earthing Spike (450mm long) with Screw Nut & Washer (L) : 4 Nos.
Claw hammer with tubular handle : 1 No.
Carrying case for Earth Test Kit of DET-20A : 1 No.
Battery 1.5V, Alkaline, Type AA (6 nos.) : 1 Set
USB Cable : 1 No.
Instruction Manual : 1 No.
Test and Calibration Certificate : 1 No.

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1.4. Preparing for operation
1.4.1 Battery Operation:
DET-20A has Internal Replaceable Batteries 1.5V AA Alkaline (IEC LR6). When the low-battery
condition appears, immediately replace the batteries with the new ones as specified in the
specifications.

1.4.2 Battery Installation:

To avoid electric shock, disconnect the test leads & switch OFF the instrument before installing

the batteries.

Use following procedure for battery installation:

1. Switch OFF the instrument by rotating Rotary switch to OFF position.
2. Remove the Test Leads from the instrument.
3. Open the battery cover by removing the three screws from the rear side of the instrument.
4. Remove the battery holder from battery compartment.

5. Fit in the battery holder with 6 X 1.5V AA Alkaline Batteries (Type IEC LR6) provided with the
instrument, observing the correct polarity as marked on the battery compartment.
6. Place battery holder in the battery compartment.
7. Re-instate battery cover with the three screws.
8. Instrument is now ready for use.

Note: To prevent the risk of electrolyte leakage or deep discharge, refrain from leaving cells
fitted in an instrument that will remain unused for extended periods.

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1.4.3 Battery replacement
Low Battery symbol “ “ appears on the display in either of the below conditions:
The picture can't be displayed.

1. Battery voltage is <6.6’.battery replacement is necessary.

Do not operate the instrument with the battery cover removed.

Incorrect battery cell polarity can cause electrolyte leakage, resulting in damage to the instrument.
If the battery condition indicator does not show full charge when new battery cells
are inserted, check the polarity and reinstate the cells.

For battery replacement use the following procedure:

2. First, ensure to OFF the instrument and disconnect the instrument connections.
3. Place the instrument positioned with its front facing down. Then, carefully release the screws of the
battery cover on the rear panel and lift the cover backwards.
4. Remove the battery holder from battery compartment.
5. Replace the exhausted cells with new ones with correct polarity as marked on the battery
compartment of the same type and rating as stated in the specification on the battery holder.
6. Ensure to dispose the old ones in appropriate way.
7. Replace battery holder in the battery compartment.
8. Replace the battery cover back properly and secure by tightening the screws.

1.5.Switching ON the Instrument:

Unpack the shipping box & locate the DET-20A instrument, earthling kit, batteries, test & calibration
certificate, Instruction manual, USB cable & carrying case.
Ensure the Rotary switch is at OFF position.
Install the batteries provided with the instrument, for this refer “1.4.2 for Battery Installation”.
As an initial check, without any leads connected, switch ON the instrument by turning the rotary
switch to any position other than OFF.
At Power ON condition, the instrument first executes the initialization with following screens displayed
sequentially indicating now the instrument is ready for operation.

(i) (ii) (iii)

(iv)
If the instrument does not power up:
Check that the battery orientations of all the batteries are correct.
Check the battery, if the batteries are exhausted. Replace the batteries with the new of same type or
equivalent as specified in the specifications.
If the instrument still does not respond, sent the instrument back to the factory.

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2. SAFETY WARNINGS

2.1.Symbols used on the instrument

Caution (refer to instruction manual).

Equipment complies with EU Directives

Double Insulation

Earth grounding

NOTE: - Safety Precautions for Digital Earth Resistance Tester

• Ensure the Device under Test (DUT) is completely switched OFF, de-
energized, and isolated, before conducting Earth Resistance measurements,
• Avoid touching the “ “button when connecting the test leads or changing
the ranges.
• Test leads must be in good condition, clean and with no broken or cracked
insulation.

WARNING:
You have selected the instrument, which provides you with a high level of safety. When used for
its intended purpose, safety of the operator, as well as that of the instrument are assured. In case
of incorrect use or careless handling, the safety of both user and instrument, are unassured.
To ensure its safe operation, it is necessary to carefully and completely, read these instructions
before using the instrument, to maintain the safe and proper condition of the instrument. These
instructions must followed stringently in all respects.

WARNING
For your own safety as well as that of the instrument, it is recommended to follow the
procedures described in this instruction manual and carefully read all the notes preceded
by the symbol.

2.2. Safety Instructions:

Only persons who understand the danger of shock hazards and know how to apply safety
precautions must operate the instrument. Shock hazards exist anywhere, where voltages of
more than 30 V may occur.
The earthing spikes, test leads and their terminations is never be touched while the instrument
is ‘ON’.
Do not exceed the permissible overload limits of the measuring ranges. Limit values are
tabulated in the table of specifications.

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2.3. General Precautions:
Always inspect your instrument, test probes and accessories for any sign of damage or
abnormality before every use. If any abnormal conditions exists (i.e., broken or damaged test
probes, cracked case, display not reading, etc.), do not attempt to take any measurements. Never
ground yourself when taking electrical measurements. Keep your body isolated from ground by
using dry clothing, rubber shoes, rubber mats, or any approved insulating material. tempting to
make measurements. Never replace the replaceable parts by other than the specified.
Do not operate this meter in explosive atmosphere (i.e. in the presence of flammable gases or
fumes, vapour or dust).

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3. SPECIFICATIONS

3.1. Technical Specifications

 Power

Main Power Supply : Internal, replaceable alkaline battery 1.5V x 6nos.

Auto Power OFF : After 10 min

 Test Parameters

Open Circuit Voltage : < 40Volt AC approx.

Test Frequency : 128Hz (± 0.5Hz)

 Earth Resistance Range

Sr.No. Range Current Injection Resolution Accuracy

1. 19.999Ω 10mA AC approx. 1mΩ

2. 199.99Ω 1mA AC approx. 10mΩ

± 1.5 % of rdg ± 5 digits
3. 1999.9Ω 100µA AC approx. 100mΩ

4. 19.999kΩ 10 µA AC approx. 1Ω

 Earth voltage Measurement

Range : 2V to 200V AC ( 2% of the range  2V.)

Resolution : 0.1V

Display : 4½ digit LCD Display with pleasant backlit

 Serial Communication

PC Interface : USB & Bluetooth (ISM Band 2.4GHz)

Report Storage : 1000 Reports

Data transfer : Bluetooth (ISM Band 2.4GHz) (optional)

Soil Resistivity : Method Wenner: PE = 2 π a RW (Ωm)

3.2. General Specifications

Dimensions (H X W X L) : 230 mm (H) X 165 mm (W) X 95 mm (L).

Weight : 1.35Kg(Approx.)

 Environmental

Operating Temperature : 0°C to 55°C

Storage Temperature : -10°C to 60°C

Relative Humidity : 95 % RH at 40°C max.(Non Condensing)

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3.3. Accessories

 Included Accessories

Digital Earth Tester with USB-Bluetooth Model DET-20A : 1 No.

Earthing Kit includes:

Measurement Cable 10m, 20m, 30m & 40m : 1 Set.

Earthing Spike (450mm long) with Screw Nut & Washer (L) : 4 Nos.

Claw hammer with tubular handle : 1 No.

Carrying case for Earth Test Kit : 1 No.

Battery 1.5V, Alkaline, Type AA (6Nos) : 1 Set

USB Cable : 1 No.

Test and Calibration Certificate : 1 No.

Instruction Manual : 1 No.

 Optional Accessories:-

• Earthing Spike (250mm long) with Screw Nut & Washer (S) : 4 Nos.

 Note:
Bluetooth Software (Optional)
Motware Desktop Application (Optional)

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4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
4.1. Panel Controls And Indications:
4.1.1 Front panel controls :

Figure 1

1. LCD Display with Backlit.

2. Key for turn on internal Bluetooth.

3. Key for toggle the backlit.

4. Key for save and enter functionality.

5. Key for menu and back functionality.

6. Key for scrolling operation.

7. Key for turning test on and off.

8. Range Selector knob for range selection.

9. LED indication (Red- Test ON condition, Blue –Bluetooth ON )

4.1.2 Range selector:

1 Earth Resistance measurement ranges

2 Instrument in OFF position

3 Neutral to Earth Voltage measurement position

Figure 2

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4.1.3 SIDE PANEL TERMINALS AND CONNECTOR:

Figure 3
1. Current Terminal (C1) 4. Current Terminal (C2)

2. Potential Terminal (P1) 5. USB Connector (B TYPE)

3. Potential Terminal(P2)

4.2. LCD DISPLAY:

Figure 4

1. Range indicator 5. Date in instrument

2. Unknown Result (Earth 6. Battery status
Resistance / voltage) 7. Wire connection setting
3. Stored memory count 8. Resistance range
4. Time in instrument

4.3. MENU UNDERSTANDING

Figure 5

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4.4. MAKING MEASUREMENT
4.4.1 Getting started with the instrument:
To operate the instrument, first turn the range selector switch to measurement ranges. the digital
display will come in action. Connect the test leads to the four terminals as per procedure for testing
given here after. Press the TEST key for 2-3 seconds, the test initialize and LCD display will indicate
the resistance. If the reading is smaller than the range selected available with the instrument, Press the
TEST key to stop test and by rotating range selector switch may be turned to lower range available
with the instrument and retest. If battery status show indication on the right upper side on
The picture can't be displayed.

display by pressing the test switch, it indicates that the battery goes down and needs replacement.
After completing the testing, the selector knob should be turn to “OFF” position and digits over the
display will disappear.

4.4.2 Theory Of Operation:

The principle used in measuring the earth resistance is based on simple ohm's law. Four Electrodes A, B,
C & D are buried in the earth, the resistance of which is to be tested at a distance of 20 meters from
each other as shown in fig.

Figure 6

A.C. signal is applied to electrodes A and D and voltage developed across electrodes B and C due to
flow of current through the earth is measured by ammeter M. If the current is constant, the voltage
measured will be directly proportional to the earth resistance.

4.4.3 Principle Of Measurement :

To find out Resistance of earth C1, three terminal method is to be used.

Figure 7

A current is passed through the EARTH PLATE to an auxiliary electrode “A” in the earth at a distance
away from the earth plate.
A second auxiliary electrode “B” is inserted between EARTH PLATE and the electrode “A”.
The potential difference “V” between “E” and “B” is measured for a given current “I”, so that the

10
 resistance of the earth connections is “V/I”. the placing of the auxiliary electrode is however
important. Following is the curve which given a plot of distance of “B” from “E” versus measured
resistance.

Figure 8
Measurement Of Earth Resistance:
Since many variable factors contribute to the earth electrode resistance, it is not practical to expect a
precise or repeatable measurement over different seasons. Such factor as moisture content, soil
temperature and dissolved salts may vary considerably from summer to winter. When the moisture
content of dry soil is increased by 15% the resistivity can decrease by a factor of 50,000.When water in
the soil freezes, the earth resistivity will increase since ice is not a good conductor. The type and grain
size of each soil also contributes to the resistance value.
Through research conducted by the U.S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Mines, the most reliable and
accurate method to determine the earth electrode resistance was identified as the "fall-of-potential”
method.

4.4.4 "Fall-Of-Potential" Method :-

This technique uses the electrode under test (EUT), a reference probe, and an auxiliary probe, set in a
straight line. Below figure shows, the single electrode measuring method and figure 3 shows the single
electrode measuring setup for the DET-20A earth tester.
After applying a voltage at the designated location in the circuit, the current between the EUT and
auxiliary probe is measured, and the voltage between the EUT and the reference probe is
measured. Using Ohm's Law, the resistance can now be calculated. This routine is completed by the
earth tester.

Voltage Source Ammeter

Voltmeter

Electrode Current
Under Test

0.62D

Figure 9

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 Current
Electrode Electrode

Electrode Under Test

0.62D

Figure 10
Steps to measure Earth Resistance:-
1) The Earth electrode (C1), whose resistance to be measured must be disconnected from its connection
to the site.
2) To obtain a correct measurement, the three electrodes must be in straight line and the well aligned.
3) The auxiliary current Electrode C2 is placed at the distance D, it's approximately 30 meters (100 feet)
from Earth Electrode C1.
4) The potential probe (Reference probe P2) is placed in the soil in a straight line-away from the earth
electrode. Normally, spacing of 20 meters (62 feet) is sufficient. Refer Note 1 The 62 % rule.
5) Now Short the C1, P1 terminal of earth tester and connect that point to Earth electrode, P2 to Potential
Probe (Reference probe) and the last point C2 is connected to Current Electrode
6) Auxiliary electrode. Connect the Earth Tester as shown in the above figure.
7) Press TEST key for 2-3 seconds test get initialize and read out the RE (resistance) value. This is the
actual value of the ground electrode under test.
8) To plot the graph takes more reading as mentioned in the following chart.
Note1: - The 62% rule many publications that make reference to the Fall-of-Potential Method indicate that, in order
to obtain a correct measurement, the three electrodes must be well aligned and the distance between P1
and P2 must be the 61.8% of the distance between C1 and C2. This concept comes from a careful
mathematical development for the particular case of a hemispherical electrode, published by Dr. G. F.Tagg
in 1964.
Due to the large amounts of uncertainty in all properties of probes and soil, the value of D should be varied
for each individual test until reasonably consistent values appear; however, it is recommended that the
value of D stay greater than 90 feet. It is also necessary to take a second set of readings at 90o to the
original in case of interference from overhead power lines or any underground electrical equipment or
metal objects.
Note: - Dr. Tagg´s paper "...bearing in mind that a high degree of accuracy is not necessary. Errors of 5-10% [in
the measurement of earth resistance] can be tolerated. This is because an earth resistance can vary with
changes in climate or temperature, and, as such changes may be considerable, there is no point in
striving after a high degree of accuracy."

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 “Fall-Of-Potential '' Resistance Testing table

Distance of Ground Electrode to Potential Measured

% Distance of D Electrode Resistance

% Feet Ohm
100
90
80
75
70
65
62
58
55
50
40
30
20
10

How do you place the stakes?

To achieve the highest degree of accuracy when performing a 3-pole ground resistance test, it is
essential that the probe is placed outside the sphere of influence of the ground electrode under test and
the auxiliary earth.
If you do not get outside the sphere of influence, the effective areas of resistance will overlap and
invalidate any measurements that you are taking. The table is a guide for appropriately setting the probe
(inner stake) and auxiliary ground (outer stake).

What affects the grounding resistance?

First, the NEC code (1987, 250-83-3) requires a minimum ground electrode length of 2.5 meters (8.0
feet) to be in contact with soil. But, there are four variables that affect the ground resistance of a ground
system:

• Length/depth of the ground electrode

• Diameter of the ground electrode
• Number of ground electrodes
• Ground system design.
4.4.5 Soil Resistivity Or Earth Resistivity (ρ) :-
The second major factor in determining how well a grounding system performs is the resistivity of the
local soil. Soil resistivity is the resistance measured between two opposing surfaces of a 1m cube of
3

homogeneous soil material (see below figure), usually measured in Ωm or Ωcm. Soil resistivity has a
direct effect on the resistance of the grounding system.

Figure 11 Soil Resistivity Definition Cube

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 The evaluation of the resistivity of the local soil can determine the best. Location, depth, and
size of the electrodes in a grounding system, and can be used for many other applications. A geological
survey uses the soil resistivity to locate ore, clay, gravel, etc. beneath the earth's surface. Depth and
thickness of bedrock can also be determined. The degree of corrosion of the local soil also can be
obtained from its resistivity value. Due to these many reasons, it is necessary to measure the resistivity
of the local soil.
Many different factors have a direct effect on the resistivity of the local soil. A large factor is the
type of soil. The resistivity range can go from 1 Ω-cm to the upwards of over 1,000,000 Ω-cm (see
below figure)
Resistivity (Ω-cm)
Soil
Lower Upper
Surface Soils 100 5000
Clay 200 10000
Sandy Clay 10000 15000
Moist Gravel 5000 70000
Dry Gravel 70000 120000
Limestone 500 1000000
Sandstone 2000 200000
Granites 90000 110000
Concrete 30000 50000

Resistivity range for different types of soil

Moisture content can be a large factor in determining the resistivity of the local soil. The drier the
soil, the higher the resistivity. The soil resistivity remains relatively low (and constant) if the moisture
content of the soil is greater than 15% (by weight,) and skyrockets for lower values of moisture content.
Another large factor in the determination of soil resistivity is the content of minerals, such as salts or
other chemicals. For values of 1% (by weight) salt content, the soil resistivity remains low (and
constant,) and skyrockets for lower values of salt content. Finally, compactness and temperature can
set the resistivity of the local soil. With temperature, the colder the soil is, the higher the resistivity. Due
to seasonal changes where the temperature can change drastically for a particular area, the resistivity
of the local soil can also change drastically (see figure above.) Many of these factors (moisture content,
mineral content, compactness, and temperature,) of the local soil can change during the life of the
grounding system, and therefore change the resistance to remote earth of that grounding system.
Like the resistance to remote earth of an electrode, measuring the resistivity of the local soil can
be done with a specific metering device.
The process is Sometimes referred to as the four pole (Wenner Arrangement) method (see below
figures )

Figure 12 Soil Resistivity Four Pole Method

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 Figure 13 Soil Resistivity Four Pole Setup

Note 2 :-The measuring procedure described below uses the universally accepted Wenner method
developed by Dr. Frank Wenner of the US Bureau of Standards in 1915. (F. Wenner, A Method of
Measuring Earth Resistivity; Bull, National Bureau of Standards, Bull 12(4) 258, p. 478-496; 1915/16.)

4.4.6 Measurement of earth resistivity: (wenner arrangement or equally spaced

method)
To test soil resistivity, connect the ground tester as shown above:
As you can see, four earth ground stakes are positioned in the soil in straight line, equidistant from one
another. The distance between earth ground stakes should be at least three times greater than the stake
depth. Therefore, if the depth of each ground stake is one foot, make sure the distance between stakes is
greater than three feet. The meter generates a known current through the two outer ground stakes and
drop in voltage potential is measured between the two inner ground stakes. Using ohm's law (V=IR), the
DET20A calculates the soil resistance.
Four small electrodes (auxiliary probes) are placed in a straight line at intervals of a, to a depth of b. A
current is passed through the outer two probes, and the potential voltage is then measured between the
two inner probes. From this information, it is now possible to calculate the resistivity of the local soil by
using the Equally Spaced (or Wenner Arrangement) method.

ρ = [ 4 x Π x A x R ] / [ 1 + ( ( 2 x A ) / SQRT ( A + 4 x b ))( A / SQRT ( A + b ) ) ]

2 2 2 2

For most practical circumstances, a is twenty times larger than b, where we can then make the
assumption that b=0, and the formula becomes simply:
ρ=2xΠxAxR
ρ = 2 Π AR

Where
ρ = Resistivity of the local soil to depth A (Ω-cm OR Ω-cm)
Π = 3.1416
A = The distance between the electrodes (cm)
R = The measured resistance value from the test instrument (Ohm OR Ω)

b = Depth of probes into the ground (cm)

These values give an average resistivity of the soil to a depth of the value of a. It is recommended
that a series of readings be taken at different values of a, as well as in a 900 turned axis, so that the
measuring results are not distorted by any underground pieces of metal (pipes, ground cables, etc.)
These final values should be plotted, so that a consistent value is determined.

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 Steps to measure Earth Resistivity: -
a) Arrange all the four spikes to be buried in one straight line.
b) Distance between them to be kept same, may be kept between 20 m or 60' to 70'.
c) Take the reading by pressing the test switch (taking care of range factor) observed value is in
ohms.
d) The value of earth resistivity “ρ” may be obtained from the following formula.
ρ = 2 x Π x A x R ohms cms.
Where
R = Value of earth resistance measured in ohms.
A = Distance between spikes in cm.
Π = 3.14
P = Earth's Resistivity in ohms cms.
Note : Divide ohm-centimeters by 100 to convert to ohm-meters.

Example : To measure the soil resistivity start the DET-20A and read the resistance value in ohms. In
this case assume the resistance reading is 50 ohms and Distance between spikes is 20 meter
So, in this case we know: A = 20 meters, and R = 50 ohms
Then the soil resistivity would equal:
ρ = 2 x Π x A x R ohms cms
ρ = 2 x 3.1416 x 20 meters x 50 ohms
ρ = 6280 ohm-meter

4.4.7 NEUTRAL-TO-EARTH VOLTAGE

1. What is neutral-to-earth voltage?
Neutral-to-earth voltage (N-E), sometimes called “stray voltage” is condition that results when an
electrical current flows through a Earth conductor. Most (230-volt) electric lines contain three wires-
one “hot” or powered, one neutral and the ground wire. Traditionally, the hot wire is Red and the
neutral Black. Normally, electricity flows through the Red wire, through the device to powered and
returns to the source through the neutral (Black wire)
Stray voltage occurs when electricity “leaks” from the Red wire directly to the Black or ground wires
before passing through the device to be powered. These leaks produce only small amounts of
electricity. Direct contact between the red and black wires would “short” the system and blow a fuse or
circuit breaker.
Stray voltage can result from arcing at equipment connections, frayed insulation and other mechanical
problems. In addition, multiple grounds that are not interconnected can create ground currents capable
of shocking livestock. Leaks and non-connected ground systems create electric charges in the earth
that are not normal when an electric system is operating properly.
When these ground based currents are present, animals or persons that contact well-grounded
equipment- such as metal stanchions or metal fence posts-will receive a shock as the electricity passes
through their bodies. These N-E voltages, through rare, exist on all devices
Who is affected?
Neutral-to-earth voltage is present in nearly all electrical systems. It is an inherent part of the system,
which can never be eliminated.
Automation Industrial plants, Electrical substations having machinery that demands large amount of
electricity– are most affected. N-E voltage has also been known to affect.
Insulated wires wrapped around metal pipes.
Electrical boxes missing covers, or covers that are loose.
Loose, hanging wires.

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 Electrical outlet missing third hole for earth.
Unbalanced electric load.
Pinched pulsating wiring.

2. What are the possible remedies?

There are several things you can do to try to reduce neutral-to-earth voltage. Keep in mind, though
that some N-E Voltage will always exist in electrical systems.

3. If the problem originates on the Electrical System

Upgrade electrical system.
Replace faulty equipment that may produce leakage currents.
Install heavier equipment grounds or adequate power circuits.

4. If the problem originates off- Electrical System

Always consult with your power supplier to work out a safe and effective solution.
Installation of an isolation transformer on the electrical may be advised you will then assume
responsibility for maintaining a proper neutral ground on the farm.

5. What If I suspect neutral-to-earth voltage?

Have an electrician completely check the farm's electrical system for N-E voltage. If excessive neutral-
to-earth voltage is detected, repair or modify the electrical system to reduce it to a tolerable level.
If an off-electrical system N-E voltage source is the significant cause, contact your power supplier.

6. How to measure Earth Voltage?

Located one or more suitable ground reference points. These ideal reference points are clean,
unpainted metallic surfaces such as curb protectors at least 10 feet in length, neutral lugs, bare metal
locations on fire hydrants, uninsulated, water pipes, earthed metallic conduits etc.
With a high-impedance AC voltmeter, measure the voltage from the object under test to the ground
reference.
Record the measurement, the ground reference object used and the condition (rusty, painted, scraped
metal point, etc.)
Select a second suitable ground reference point and confirm the initial reading.
If a second suitable ground reference point is unavailable, select other local metallic objects and
measure between those objects and the object under test.
Record the second measurement.

4.4.8 MEASUREMENT OF RESISTANCE(NON-INDUCTIVE OR NON-CAPACITIVE)

Connect the unknown resistance 'X' as per below figure and the resistance can be measuredirectly by
pressing the Test key for 2-3 seconds.

Figure 14

17
 CAUTION

Since the instrument supply AC voltage to the test object, the object having no reactance can only be
tested.

PRECAUTIONS

• Testing should start from higher ranges to lower ranges.

• It is necessary to reduce the resistance of the auxiliary earthing by moisting the soil near the electrodes
or by using several earth electrodes in parallel.
• During tests, leads of predetermined resistances should be used and taken care of when taking reading
particularly in the lower ranges i.e. the lead resistance should be measured before measurement of
earth resistance or any other resistance.

4.4.9 ADD-ON Features

Auto Power OFF

The instrument go into a sleep mode, if any of the keys or the function selector switch has not been
activated for about 10 minutes.While instrument in APO mode, by rotating the function selector
switch turns the instrument ON.

Backlit
The meter is provided with user selectable Backlit for taking measurements in poor lighting
The picture can't be displayed.

conditions/dark areas. By pressing the key, the backlit can be switched ON/OFF.
CAUTION
The current consumption in LIGHT mode is high & can reduce the battery life. Use it only when needed.

Save
User can save the displayed result after completion of test by pressing SAVE
key. Every time user has to follow this saving procedure, as there is no auto save option.

Recall
User can recall the saved result by accessing the memory report in Menu options. There
needs to enter the location number by using Scroll key and Enter key to get the respective
store result. Recalled result displayed on the display in the same fashion.

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5. SOFTWARE
5.1 Installation
The outline installation instructions for DET-20A Software are:
DET-20A and all components of software are copyrighted, trademarked, developed and
licensed by The Motwane Manufacturing Company Pvt. Ltd. All DET-20A software is distributed
under license. To ensure the software is operating in an environment, which can support it, the
following requirements must be met.

5.2 System Requirements

Software Requirement
Operating system – Windows 7 or later, .Net framework 4.7.2
Hardware Requirement
Dual core Processor – 1.5GHz or Higher, 2GB RAM, 100MB of Hard Disk space
For installation, run the file “setup.exe” in DET-20A_SETUP folder. Following screens will
appear after installation.

5.3 Installation Setup

Install DET-20A software.
Run the file “setup.exe” in DET20N_SETUP folder.

5.4 System Regional Settings

5 After successful installation, double click on the shortcut created on the desktop or from the
program menu.
Login to the application Default username=”admin”
password=”admin”

Figure 15
Connect page will appear. Make sure that DET-20A is connected to PC/Laptop and power is on.
Select Available COM port where DET-20A is connected and Click “Connect”.

Figure 16

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Landing Page will appear.

Figure 17
Enter report number in Single Reading textbox and click on “Get Single” button.

Figure 18

Click on “Get All” button to Get All Readings.

Figure 19
Excel file will be generated after exporting excel

Figure 20

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5.5 Software Features
Following are the features available with DET-20N software:

1. Import Single Reading: Application allows fetching single reading from device of particular number.
2. Import All Readings: Application allows fetching of all stored readings from device and display in
table format.
3. Export to Excel: User can export all readings or single reading to excel for further process or
reporting. Application allows to save excel file on user defined location with user defined name.
4. Change Password: Change Password: User can change password for security.

5.6 Software Manual

5.6.1 Register with Motware
Scan the QR code below to register with Motware or open a web browser and type in the below
mentioned URL to register with Motware.

URL: https://admin.motware.com/admin_users/signup

Above action will display web page with the following screen for registration.
Fill in the details and click on “SIGN UP” to submit the request.
The account login details will be emailed within 8 working hours of the request post submission.

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5.6.2 Login to Motware web application
After registration use account credentials provided by Motware team to access your account.
Open a web browser and type the account URL provided to you.
For example: If in registration form you have submitted company name as Motwane then Url will be
created as “motwane.motware.com” provided that company name is within 10 characters.
If company name is above 10 characters then Url will be abbreviated accordingly.
On the below screen please enter your Email and Password provided to you.

5.6.3 Bluetooth test template for connected device

Step 1: Click on “SETUP” tab from the main menu. This action will display following screen

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Step 2: Click on “+Add New Sub Account" command button

Step 3: Enter all details like Name, Company Name, Address, Email and Contact no. accurately to add Sub
Account and click on "Save & Next" command button.

Step 4: Click on "+ Add New Location" command button

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Step 5: Add location name and click on "Save & Next" command button.

Step 6: Click on "+ Add New Department" command button.

Step 7: Add department name and click on "Save & Next" command button.

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 NOTE: SUBACCOUNT, LOCATION, DEPARTMENT can be used to categorize assets as per user hierarchy
Step 8: Click on "+ Add New Asset" command button.

Step 9: Click "ADD FIELDS" to add new fields for additional asset details, if any and click on "SAVE &
NEXT" command button.

Step 10: Click on "+ Add New Asset Test" command button

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Step11 : Add test name and click on “Save & Next” command button. For Motwane DET-20A connected
device, type “DET-20A” in “Select test type” field to see the list of available tests for Motwane
DET-20A device.

Step 12: Preview and select the appropriate connected device test template.
Note: The test template structure selected in Motware should be identical to the respective test
equipment test structure

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Step 13: Click on “Save & Next” command button.

Step 14: Select the appropriate test rules and parameter units and click on “Save & Next” command button.

Step 15: Define the test schedule and click on “Save & Next” command button

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5.6.4 Mobile App download
Please download the latest Motware mobile app from Android play store or Apple app store.
Below are the links and QR code to download Motware mobile app

Type QR code Link

Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.motwareapp

iOS https://apps.apple.com/in/app/motware/id1550093144

5.6.5 Login to Motware mobile application

6. Enter the Account name, Email and Password provided to you by Motware team via email.
7. Select required subaccount(s) or location(s) configured by the user from the list to conduct test on
assets configured under it.
8. After login to mobile app, user can view pending tests, upcoming test, draft test and assets.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

5.6.6 Sync test value
Before using the Motware mobile app to sync test data from test equipment, please make sure
following points are followed properly.
Test equipment is turned on.
Bluetooth function in test equipment is turned on.
The test data to be synced to Motware is displayed on the test equipment screen.

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Step 1: Click on “BLE Modules” command button
Step 2: Click on “Refresh” button on the top to scan nearby Motwane DET-20A device.
Step 3: Once the device serial no. is visible, click on the serial no. to connect.

XXXXXXXXX

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

Step 4: Select the test, which is displayed on the DET-20A device.
Step 5: Once the test structure of device is loaded, click on “Sync” command button to sync the test data
from the device
Step 6: Click on “+” command button and select “SUBMIT” to upload the test data to Motware.

Step 4 Step 5 Step 6

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 Please refer below steps to view and share test data in Motware mobile application.
1. Go to the home screen, click on “Assets”
2. Next, search the asset and select Asset from the list below search box.
3. Next, click on “Test Data” tab, and in below select the test name required.
4. After selecting test, select “Passed” tab.
5. Click on “Eye” command button to view and “Share” command button to share the test data via
Email.

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6. MAINTENANCE
6.1 Care & Maintenance
It is advisable periodically wipe the case with a damp cloth. For cleaning, do not use abrasives or
solvents. Check any batteries leakage for time to time. Remove battery cells from instrument in ideal
(no use) storage conditions.

6.2 General Maintenance

Do's and Don't's

DO'S

Keep the range selector switch at OFF position when no use.

If the instrument is not in use for longer periods, remove batteries.
Before initial start-up, or after long storage of your instrument, make sure that no leakage has occurred
on the battery. Repeat this inspection at regular intervals.

DON'T'S
Do not use liquids based on petrol or hydrocarbons for cleaning!
Do not spill cleaning liquid over the instrument!

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7. WARRANTY
The Motwane Manufacturing Co. Pvt. Ltd. or Motwane or Company warrant to the original
purchaser that this instrument is free from defects in material and workmanship under
normal use or / and as specified in the instruction manual or product information leaflet for a
period of one year from the date of purchase from the company or its Authorized
Dealers / Franchisees. Any instrument found defective within this warranty period and
returned to the Factory on door delivery basis, securely packed, transportation charges
pre-paid, will be repaired, adjusted or replaced at no charge to the Original Purchaser.

This warranty does not cover,

(a) Damage or failure caused by or attributable to acts of God, abuse, accident, misuse, improper
or abnormal unintended usage, failure to follow instruction as laid in the manual, improper
installation or maintenance, alteration, unauthorized modifications, lightening.

(b) Any repairs other than those provided or advised by the Company in writing,

(c) Expendable items such as Lamps, Fuses, Batteries, Test Leads etc.

(d) Cosmetic Damage.

(e) For better battery health, it’s recommended to recharge battery periodically within 30 days.

In such cases where the warranty is not applicable, repairs will be billed at nominal cost.

NO OTHER WARRANTY EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED SHALL BE APPLICABLE.

Due to our policy to refine the products continuously, this manual contains minor differences
in specification, components, parts, and circuit design to the instrument actually
delivered. In such cases, notification shall be done as an addendum to this manual.

WARRANTY VOID IF SEAL ON INSTRUMENT IS BROKEN.

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