ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses some of the power quality instrumentation commonly used. Solving power quality problems depends on acquiring meaningful data at the optimum location or locations and within an expedient time frame. Harmonic analyzers or harmonic meters are relatively simple instruments for measuring and recording harmonic distortion data. Measuring current harmonic distortion data requires some special considerations. Most current probes use an iron core transformer designed to fit around the conductors in which harmonic measurements are needed. Iron-core current probes are susceptible to increased error at high frequencies and saturation at currents higher than the rated values. Transient-disturbance analyzers are advanced data acquisition devices for capturing, storing, and presenting short-duration, subcycle power system disturbances. Oscilloscopes are useful for measuring repetitive high-frequency waveforms or waveforms containing superimposed high-frequency noise on power and control circuits. Data loggers and chart recorders are sometimes used to record voltage, current, demand, and temperature data in electrical power systems.
