Eigenschaften
Number of inputs	4V / 3I
Dimensions / weight	240 x 180 x 55 mm / 1,9 kg
Harmonics
Imbalance

The Qualistar+ C.A 8331 is a network analyser from Chauvin Arnoux, specifically designed for maintenance and testing tasks in industrial and commercial installations. The device enables precise measurement of voltage, current, and power parameters in three-phase networks. With 4 voltage inputs and 3 current inputs, it offers comprehensive measurement capacity suitable for analysing complex electrical systems. Simultaneous recording of all network quality parameters ensures that critical values such as harmonics, flicker, and peak values are immediately visible.

Applications

The C.A 8331 is primarily used in industrial and commercial electrical engineering, where detailed network quality analysis is required. It is ideal for testing installations operating under safety categories CAT III up to 1,000 V and CAT IV up to 600 V. The robust construction and protection rating IP53 / IK08 make it suitable for outdoor use or harsh environments. Automatic detection of connected current transformers simplifies operation and reduces measurement errors.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The device measures voltage and current using TRMS (true RMS) method, both for AC and DC, in the range of 2 V to 1,000 V. Current measurement is performed via various current transformers, with maximum measurement ranges varying by type: C193 up to 1,000 Aac, AmpFLEX® or MiniFlex up to 10,000 Aac, PAC93 up to 1,300 Aac/dc, E3N/E27 up to 100 Aac/dc, and J93 up to 3,500 Aac or 5,000 Adc. Current ratios can reach up to 60 kA. Frequency measurement is performed in the range of 40 Hz to 69 Hz.

Technology Explained Simply

The C.A 8331 not only measures basic values such as voltage and current, but also power quantities such as active power (W), apparent power (VA), reactive power (var), power factor (PF), DPF, cos φ, and tan φ. Energy values such as Wh, varh, and VAh are also measured. Network quality analysis includes harmonic measurement up to the 50th order, THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) for phase and orders 0 to 50, flicker (Pst), unbalance, and peak values. Vector representation is automatic, facilitating visual analysis of phase shifts and voltage ratios.

Compatibility and Accessories

The device is compatible with various current transformers, including clamp types such as C193, PAC93, J93, E27, MN93A, MN93, as well as Ampflex models such as A193-800mm and A193-450 mm. Additional accessories include adapters such as USB/RS232, cigarette lighter adapter, BNC adapter for E3N/E27, magnetic measurement tips, protective films, power/charger units (e.g. PA30W), and software such as DataView. Software PAT2 is standard, DataView® is optional.

Mounting and Installation

The C.A 8331 is designed as a portable device for on-site use. Inputs are colour-coded to facilitate phase assignment. Current transformers are connected to the corresponding inputs, and the device automatically detects connected transformers. Power supply is via a rechargeable NiMH battery (9.6 V) or mains power. Battery life is up to 10 hours, sufficient for extended measurement campaigns.

Operational Advantages

The combination of compact design, robust protection (IP53 / IK08), and comprehensive functionality makes the C.A 8331 a reliable tool for professionals. The integrated USB interface enables data transfer, which can be analysed and exported to Excel using the included software. Display is on a TFT colour screen with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels (¼ VGA, diagonal 148 mm), readable even in daylight. Measurements can be recorded over a period of 4 hours to 2 weeks, enabling long-term trend analysis. Devices are available in more than 27 languages, facilitating international use.