General
Enclosure dimensions	64 x 150 mm
Maximum current	3000 A AC
Maximum cable diameter	64 mm

The D38N current transformer from Chauvin Arnoux is an isolated measuring instrument for accurate detection of alternating currents in industrial and technical applications. It is specifically designed for use with oscilloscopes and enables the display of peak currents up to 9000 A. The rectangular shape of the jaw allows encircling thick cables and busbars, making it suitable for measurements in high-performance installations. The magnetic circuits and distributed windings ensure high measurement accuracy, even at high currents. The bandwidth of up to 50 kHz enables the capture of rapidly changing current signals, which is important for the analysis of transient events or harmonic distortions.

Applications
The D38N is used in industrial electrotechnics, where precise measurement of alternating currents on large conductors or busbars is required. It is suitable for applications in power supply, maintenance of electrical installations, manufacturing technology, as well as for diagnosing power quality and consumption. The isolated design protects the user and the measuring instrument from dangerous voltages, especially during measurements on live conductive parts.

Functions and Equipment in Detail
The device features three measurement ranges with different transformation ratios: 1 A/10 mV, 1 A/1 mV, and 1 A/0.1 mV. These allow flexible adaptation to different measurement tasks, with the smallest range suitable for high resolution at low currents and the largest range for capturing high peak currents. The typical accuracy is ≤ 2 %, which is sufficient for reliable measurement in technical applications. The output signal is an alternating voltage, delivered via an isolated BNC connector. This connector is standard on oscilloscopes and other measuring instruments with BNC input.

Technology Explained Simply
The current transformer operates on the principle of a current transformer: the current to be measured flows through the jaw, generating a magnetic field in the magnetic core. This induces a voltage in the secondary winding, proportional to the primary current. The transformation ratios (e.g. 1 A = 10 mV) define how much voltage appears at the output when a specific current flows through the jaw. The bandwidth of 50 kHz means the device can reliably reproduce rapidly changing current signals, such as those occurring during switching operations or when measuring harmonics. The electrical isolation between primary and secondary circuits protects the measuring instrument and the user from dangerous voltages.

Compatibility and Accessories
The D38N is specifically developed for use with oscilloscopes equipped with a BNC input. It can also be used with other devices that receive a voltage signal via BNC. As accessories, a set of 2 adapters BNC female/4 mm male is offered, enabling connection to measuring instruments with 4 mm safety connectors.

Mounting and Installation
The jaw is simply placed around the conductor to be measured. The enclosure dimensions are 64 x 150 mm, enabling measurement on cables with a diameter up to 64 mm or on busbars with dimensions up to 64 x 100 mm. The jaw is designed for an operating voltage of 600 V CAT III, making it suitable for measurements in industrial installations. The operating temperature ranges from -10 °C to +50 °C, allowing use even in outdoor installations or under difficult environmental conditions.

Operational Advantages
The D38N offers high measurement accuracy combined with safety through electrical isolation. The rectangular shape of the jaw allows measurement on large conductors without having to open the jaw. The three measurement ranges allow flexible adaptation to different requirements. Use with oscilloscopes enables visual representation of current waveforms, which is beneficial for troubleshooting and analysis of electrical systems. The electrical safety according to IEC 1010-2-032 and Category III 600 V ensure safe operation in industrial environments.

Protection Rating and Environmental Conditions
The jaw is equipped with a protection rating IP20, meaning it is protected against finger contact and solid foreign objects, but not against water or dust. The operating temperature ranges from -10 °C to +50 °C, and the storage temperature can reach up to +80 °C. The jaw is therefore suitable for indoor use, but not for outdoor environments or humid conditions.

Accessories and Alternatives
For use with devices that employ 4 mm safety connectors, an adapter set BNC female/4 mm male is available. This accessory enables connection of the D38N to multimeters, harmonic or power measuring instruments equipped with 4 mm connectors.

Safety and Environmental Standards
The jaw complies with safety requirements according to IEC 1010-2-032 with double or reinforced insulation. EMC compliance is ensured according to EN 50081-1 (Class B) and EN 50082-2. The housing construction meets UL94 V0 (housing) and UL94 V2 (jaw), ensuring self-extinguishing properties in case of fire. The jaw is designed for use in environments with pollution degree 2.

Dimensions and Weight
The jaw has dimensions of 120 x 315 x 48 mm and weighs 1200 g. The housing is dark grey, the jaw is red, enabling good visibility and identification. The maximum jaw opening is 90 mm, allowing encircling of large conductors.