Hi newbie here. I would appreciate some help to identify the best methods or kit to visualise/identify the type of noise/ EMI) ( low /high frequency) on a 230v single phase (80-100A) AC power supply to domestic and commercial properties on TT, PME, and TNS earthing arrangements. Emphasis on external supply as I am familiar with the type of noise generated in a building. I am just beginning to learn about EMI filters/chokes etc and would like to identify the characteristics of AC line noise in order to source the best filters to help with attenuation, including harmonics in order to create a cleaner supply. Any help or guidance would be most welcome.

 

There are several power analyzer equipment that can measure everything you can imagine and more.
I have seen sophisticated equipment from Dranetz, Fluke and Hioki, but they are very expensive. I have an older mid-range equipment from Voltech, but apparently they are now out of that business.

It would not surprise me if nowadays there are lower cost Chinese clones.

 

There are several power analyzer equipment that can measure everything you can imagine and more.
I have seen sophisticated equipment from Dranetz, Fluke and Hioki, but they are very expensive. I have an older mid-range equipment from Voltech, but apparently they are now out of that business.

It would not surprise me if nowadays there are lower cost Chinese clones.

Thanks Schmitt. I am not familiar with power analyzers can they be hooked up directly to the mains cable without a transformer?

 

I found this info with a quick search but doesn't mention EMi and RFI do the high end power quality analyzers have this capability?

What are the 7 types of power quality issues?

Some of the most common power problems are voltage dips, voltage sag/brownouts, interruptions, voltage swell, harmonic, voltage fluctuation/flicker, and voltage unbalance [4] .

 

For EMI and RFI, something different is required, a Spectrum Analyzer with a Line Interface Network for the conducted RFI, and antenna sets for the radiated RFI.

I AM NOT an expert on RFI but have seen several test setups, and they aren’t simple nor cheap.

 

For EMI and RFI, something different is required, a Spectrum Analyzer with a Line Interface Network for the conducted RFI, and antenna sets for the radiated RFI.

I AM NOT an expert on RFI but have seen several test setups, and they aren’t simple nor cheap.

Thanks that's valuable info and what I am hoping to learn more about; Line interface for conducted RFI and antenna for radiated RFI. There is a YouTuber who reckons a Tiny Spectrum Analyser can achieve radiated RFI with a loup antenna, but definitely not conducted RFI. Thanks

 

Thanks Schmitt. I am not familiar with power analyzers can they be hooked up directly to the mains cable without a transformer?

All of those analyzer products are intended for direct mains connection.
OF COURSE, applicable safety precautions are recommended. If you are not aware of the actual and potential hazards then you should not be using such equipment.

 

All of those analyzer products are intended for direct mains connection.
OF COURSE, applicable safety precautions are recommended. If you are not aware of the actual and potential hazards then you should not be using such equipment.

MrBill2 yes most definitely I am aware of the hazards however if you have knowledge on how they hook up and what is required in terms of interface for RF and EMI readings I am all ears especially if there is a way to do this without a lengthy meeting with my bank manager or 'uncle'.

 

Perhaps there is a better fitting category for my post?

 

The manufacturers of the brands listed will have application information on their websites. They found that providing information on how to use their products helps folks decide which ones to purchase. And so, unlike amazon and other mass marketers they supply a whole lot of information.
And for a basic setup all that is required is to connect. There would also be specific setups for much closer evaluations. But those systems can be set to spot problems that most appliances would not even notice.