Eigenschaften
Range	0,1-600V
Dimensions / weight	223 x 126 x 70 mm / 1 kg

The CA 6424 from Chauvin Arnoux is a professional earth resistance tester for 2- and 3-pole earth resistance measurements up to 50 kΩ, specifically designed for operating conditions with high ground resistances. The device enables precise measurements in the range of 0.05 Ω to 50 kΩ in 2-pole mode and from 0.5 Ω to 50 kΩ in 3-pole mode. Additionally, it offers voltage measurement in the range of 0 to 600 V, with measurement accuracy of ± (1% of reading + 1 digit). The resolution of voltage measurement is 0.1 V. The measurement frequency can be selected between 128 Hz and 256 Hz, and the device automatically adjusts the frequency under interference voltages to improve measurement accuracy. The open-circuit voltage is ± 10 V peak, ensuring safety during measurement.

Applications

The CA 6424 is designed for use outdoors and in industrial environments where robust and reliable measuring instruments are required. It is suitable for testing earthing systems in buildings, industrial plants, power supply networks, and other electrical installations. The function supporting the placement of auxiliary earth electrodes by calculating averages and deviations during measurements at distances of 52%, 62%, and 72% simplifies the execution of accurate earthing measurements. The integrated warning light indicates the presence of hazardous stray voltages, preventing measurements under such conditions.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The device features an illuminated, triple LCD display with 206 segments, simultaneously showing measurement results, measurement errors, stored values, and additional information such as the resistance of the auxiliary earth electrode (RH) and voltage USE. The display is backlit, ensuring readability even in poor lighting conditions. Measurement modes include single measurement and continuous measurement. Automatic measurement value stabilization via internal filters ensures a permanent and stable display of the measurement result. Cable compensation is possible up to 5 Ω, increasing accuracy with longer measurement leads.

Technology Explained Simply

Power supply is provided by six rechargeable NiMH batteries, enabling more than 1,500 earth measurements in 3-pole mode at a resistance of 100 Ω. Charging time is approximately 6 hours. The device can be charged via the included AC power adapter, USB connection, or a 12 V vehicle socket. Automatic power-off can be disabled to maintain power supply during extended measurement processes. Measurement of leakage currents is possible with the optional current clamp G72, which covers a measurement range of 0.5 mA to 60 A. The clamp is automatically recognized when connected, and the device switches to current measurement mode.

Compatibility and Accessories

Compatible accessories include a set of four NiMH batteries, a carrying strap, an earthing measurement accessory set with two earth stakes (15 m or 50 m), and a transport bag. These components support field use and increase measurement efficiency. The current clamp G72 is available as an optional accessory and extends the device’s functionality to include phase and leakage current measurements.

Mounting and Installation

Operation of the CA 6424 is performed via directly accessible buttons on the front of the device, which are also operable with gloves. Connections are marked both by color and text to prevent connection errors. Measurement leads are connected to terminals H, S, E (for 3-pole measurement) or Ω + COM (for 2-pole measurement). Voltage measurement is performed via terminals V + COM. The warning light and NOISE symbol on the display inform the user of potential hazards and interferences.

Advantages in Operation

The robust and waterproof housing with protection rating IP 65 according to IEC 60529 and IK 04 according to IEC 50102 protects the device against dust, water, and mechanical impacts. It is designed for use at temperatures from -10 °C to +50 °C and can be stored without batteries up to +70 °C. The device complies with standards IEC 61557-1 and IEC 61557-5, as well as EMC standards such as IEC 61326-1 and IEC 61010-2-030. The 600 V CAT IV category ensures electrical safety during measurements in high-voltage environments. A drop test from 1 meter according to IEC 61010-1 confirms the mechanical stability of the device.

Earth resistance measurement, voltage measurement, current measurement, IP 65, IEC 61557, NiMH batteries are the key features that make the CA 6424 particularly suitable for professional applications in electrical engineering. The combination of high measurement accuracy, user-friendliness, and robust design makes the device a reliable tool for electricians and testing engineers.