The Chauvin Arnoux CA 6513 is an analogue insulation and continuity tester developed for electrical testing of installations and equipment in the trades and maintenance sector. The device enables insulation measurement up to 1000 MΩ at test voltages of 500 V and 1000 V DC, supplemented by functions for continuity testing, resistance measurement, and AC voltage measurement. It is particularly suitable for electricians, installers, and maintenance technicians who need to perform reliable and fast measurements in the field.

Applications

The CA 6513 is used in the field of electrical safety testing, particularly for checking the insulation of electrical installations, machines, and equipment. The function for automatic voltage absence testing via direct measurement supports compliance with safety regulations. The continuity testing with a test current of at least 200 mA and integrated current reversal (polarity reverser) enables checking of wiring, switches, and connections for electrical continuity. The measurement of AC voltages up to 600 V and resistances up to 1000 Ω extends the application range to general electrical diagnostic tasks.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The device features an analogue display with a logarithmic scale, which simplifies reading of measurement values, especially in the range of high insulation resistances. The logarithmic scale provides better resolution in the high resistance range, which is important for assessing insulation quality. Only two colour-coded input terminals are required for all measurement functions, simplifying operation and reducing wiring errors. The automatic discharge of the tested circuit after measurement increases safety for the operator.

Technology Explained Simply

Insulation measurement is performed with test voltages of 500 V and 1000 V DC, with a measurement range from 0.1 to 1000 MΩ. Accuracy is ± 5 % of the reading, which is sufficient for trades applications. Resistance measurement covers the range from 0 to 1000 Ω with an accuracy of ± 3 % of full scale. Continuity testing measures resistances from −10 Ω to +10 Ω, with a test current of at least 200 mA. AC voltage measurement is performed in the range of 0 to 600 V at frequencies from 45 to 400 Hz with an accuracy of 3 % of full scale.

Compatibility and Accessories

Various accessories are available for use with the CA 6513, extending its functionality. These include a probe for continuity testing, test leads with two 4 mm straight plugs (1.5 m, 15 A, CAT IV-600 V, PVC, red + black), a high-performance fuse (1.6 A, 600 V / 6x32 mm), and a shock protection sleeve.

Mounting and Installation

The device is designed as a portable measuring instrument and requires no mounting. It is connected directly to the electrical components to be tested. Operation is via the input terminals and controls on the device. Dimensions are 167 x 106 x 55 mm, weight is 500 g (without sleeve). Electrical safety complies with standard CEI 61010 and installation category 600 V CAT III, enabling use in electrical installations up to 600 V in category III.

Operational Advantages

The CA 6513 offers a compact and robust design suitable for field use. The combination of insulation and continuity testing in one device reduces the number of required measuring instruments. Automatic functions such as voltage absence testing and discharge increase safety. The analogue display with logarithmic scale enables quick and intuitive reading of values, especially at high insulation resistances. Battery-powered operation makes the device independent of mains power supply.

Safety and Standards

The device complies with standards IEC 61557 and IEC 61010, which govern safety and functionality of electrical measuring instruments. Installation category 600 V CAT III ensures safe use in electrical installations with the corresponding voltage class. The automatic discharge of the tested circuit after measurement is an important safety feature that minimises the risk of electric shock.

Display and Operation

The analogue display with logarithmic scale enables precise reading of measurement values, especially in the high resistance range. Operation is via the input terminals and controls on the device. The colour coding of the terminals supports correct wiring. The logarithmic scale is particularly advantageous for insulation measurement, as it provides better resolution of values in the high resistance range.

Accessories and Extensions

Various accessories are available to extend functionality, including a probe for continuity testing, test leads with 4 mm plugs, a high-performance fuse, and a shock protection sleeve.

Note: Batteries are not included in the delivery scope.