Basic troubleshooting principles:Basic principles in using a drawing and meter in troubleshooting circuits

Basic principles in using a drawing and meter in troubleshooting circuits

To identify a faulty section, follow the guidelines given below, along with a drawing and a meter:

• Check the incoming supply voltages first

• Check for voltages at the specific test points in circuit (as per manufacturers test point data sheet)

• Do dead test of circuit for integrity of protection devices and others

• In dead test, check for continuity of circuits, as intended, and check for insulation resistance

• If it’s not possible to perform a dead test, connect the supply to the circuit and do a live test of circuit.

Generally, any electrical circuit can be differentiated in two sections:

• Power circuit

• Control circuit.

It is always advisable to first check the power circuit. So, if the power circuit works, as it should, then troubleshoot the control circuit.

Power circuit check list:

0 Incoming power to circuit and its integrity

0 Check for correct functioning of protection devices

0 Check visual cable continuity

0 Check for any signs of flash or burning smell of devices.

Control circuit check list:

0 Control circuit power first

0 Check for proper functioning of relays, timers, and switches

0 Check visual cable continuity

0 Check for wire interconnections and terminal connections of circuit

0 Check logical operational sequence of contactor switching

0 Check for timer duration settings.

If the above criteria are checked and still the motor (final device) is not working, then test the motor (final device).

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