A Handy Oscilloscope from Fluke

 

Do you need to inspect how your motor driver is running? Use this handy oscilloscope from Fluke. It allows you to easily test your electrical setup by selecting the desired function from the menu. Just follow the simple on-screen instructions and you’re all set. With four analog channels, you can add a variety of system inputs. Processing data has never been easier, thanks to the built-in report generator, which collects information at the press of a button.

 

Simplify Motor Drive Troubleshooting with the Fluke MDA-550

The Fluke MDA-550 Motor Drive Analyzer saves time and hassle by eliminating the need to set up complex measurements, while also simplifying motor drive troubleshooting. Simply select a test, and the step-by-step guided measurements will show you where to connect voltage and current. The preset measurement profiles ensure that you capture all the necessary data for each critical motor drive section—including the input, output, DC bus, and motor.

 

 

From basic to complex measurements, the MDA-550 has you covered. With its built-in report generator, you can confidently create as-found and as-left reports. The MDA-550 is the ideal portable test instrument for safely identifying and troubleshooting common issues in inverter-type motor drive systems.

 

Key Features

The MDA-550 is equipped with smart features that streamline motor drive testing—from automated data collection to built-in reporting, making your job easier and more efficient.

 

• Measure essential motor drive characteristics such as voltage, current, DC bus voltage level and AC ripple, voltage and current unbalance, harmonics, voltage modulation, and motor shaft voltage discharges.
• Take extended harmonic measurements to determine the effects of low- and high-order harmonics on your electrical power system.
• Use graphical, step-by-step voltage and current connection diagrams to assist with measurements for the motor drive input, DC bus, drive output, motor input, and shaft.
• Set up quickly using streamlined measurement profiles that automatically collect data based on your selected test method.
• Generate reports quickly and easily—ideal for documenting troubleshooting and collaborating with others. The MDA-550’s built-in report generator simplifies data collection and reporting.
• Measure a wider range of electrical characteristics on industrial systems with the full 500 MHz oscilloscope, meter, and recording capabilities.

 

In-Depth Measurement Capabilities

Get detailed insights into every stage of your motor-drive system with specialized functions tailored for thorough analysis and troubleshooting.

 

• Drive Input. Measure input voltage and current to determine whether values are within acceptable limits by comparing the drive’s nominal rated voltage to the actual supplied voltage.
• Voltage and Current Imbalance. Check the voltage imbalance at the input terminals to ensure the phase unbalance is not too large (> 6–8%), and confirm that the phase rotation is correct. Current imbalance can also be reviewed.
• Extended Harmonic Measurements. The MDA-550 supports three harmonic ranges—1st to 51st harmonics, 1–9 kHz, and 9 kHz–150 kHz—enabling the detection of harmonic pollution issues.
• DC Bus Analysis. High ripple voltage may indicate failing capacitors or an incorrectly sized motor. Use the record function to dynamically monitor DC bus performance during operation under load.
• Drive Output Monitoring. Examine the drive’s output, focusing on the voltage-to-frequency (V/F) ratio and voltage modulation levels. High V/F ratios can lead to motor overheating.
• Voltage Modulation Measurement. Measure pulse-width modulated signals to detect high voltage peaks that could damage motor winding insulation. The dV/dt value (rate of voltage change over time) indicates impulse steepness.
• Motor Input Evaluation. Verifying that terminal current remains within the motor’s rating is essential. Overcurrent can cause the motor to overheat, reduce stator insulation life, and lead to premature failure.
• Motor Shaft Voltage Detection. The MDA-550 includes carbon fiber brush probe tips that can detect damaging flashover currents. Impulse amplitude and event counts help you take preventive action before failure occurs.

 

Whether you’re conducting routine maintenance or troubleshooting critical motor drive issues, the Fluke MDA-550 gives you the tools, precision, and confidence to get the job done right. Its advanced features, intuitive interface, and powerful reporting capabilities make it a must-have for any serious electrical professional.
 
 
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