Accuracy test requirements

The most common method for testing meter accuracy is to apply test voltages and currents from a stable power source and compare the meter’s readings with readings from a reference device or energy standard.

Signal and power source

The meter maintains its accuracy during voltage and current signal source variations but its energy pulsing output needs a stable test signal to help produce accurate test pulses. The meter’s energy pulsing mechanism needs approximately 10 seconds to stabilize after every source adjustment.

The meter must be connected to control power in order to conduct accuracy verification testing. Refer to your meter’s installation documentation for power supply specifications.

DANGER
HAZARD OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, EXPLOSION, OR ARC FLASH Verify the device’s power source meets the specifications for your device’s power supply. Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.

Control equipment

Control equipment is required for counting and timing the pulse outputs from an energy pulsing LED or digital output.

Most standard test benches have an arm equipped with optical sensors to detect LED pulses (the photodiode circuitry converts detected light into a voltage signal).
The reference device or energy standard typically has digital inputs that can detect and count pulses coming from an external source (i.e., the meter’s digital output).

NOTE: The optical sensors on the test bench can be disrupted by strong sources of ambient light (such as camera flashes, florescent tubes, sunlight reflections, floodlights, etc.). This can cause test errors. Use a hood, if necessary, to block out ambient light.

Environment

The meter should be tested at the same temperature as the testing equipment. The ideal temperature is about 23 ºC (73 ºF).

A warm-up time of 30 minutes is recommended before beginning energy accuracy verification testing. At the factory, the meters are warmed up to their typical operating temperature before calibration to help ensure that the meters will reach their optimal accuracy at operating temperature.

Most high precision electronic equipment requires a warm up time before it reaches its specified performance levels.

Reference device or energy standard

To help ensure the accuracy of the test, it is recommended that you use a reference device or reference energy standard with a specified accuracy that is 6 to 10 times more accurate than the meter under test. Before you start testing, the reference device or energy standard should be warmed up as recommended by the manufacturer.

NOTE: Verify the accuracy and precision of all measurement equipment used in accuracy testing (for example, voltmeters, ammeters, power factor meters).