CMC 430: The lightest protection test set

The first multi-phase test equipment from OMICRON appeared in the form of the CMC 56. This device was significantly lighter than conventional test sets of the time, provided the necessary binary inputs and outputs, and above all, could be controlled with user-operated software on a PC without demanding any programming knowledge. Another feature was the high accuracy in amplitude, phase, frequency, and power, allowing the device to be used for calibration purposes, especially for measuring transducers and meters. The CMC 56 was the first test set of its kind to provide accurate DC and pulse measuring inputs of the same accuracy. Five years later, OMICRON presented the compact version, the CMC 156, which even then weighed just under 10 kg. The device was available until 2012 and is still in widespread use.

Newer protection and test sets have been fitted with Ethernet and other interfaces as standard for a long time. Various devices, such as the CMC 256-6, can be easily retrofitted with these, since the capability of test and analysis tools to be adapted to new requirements is essential for safeguarding the value of an investment. Upgrades for hardware and software/firmware over that period of dynamic technological development have allowed the service life of test sets to be extended to 10 – 15 years.

CMC 430 – a lot of innovation in a small space
The dynamics of the anticipated future developments is expected to take place more in the realm of software, so the time was ripe for presenting a new test set. There was ample potential for a raft of improvements and new features, and finally there was a gap to be filled in terms of mobility.
• Small and light: Deliberate efforts were made to reduce the weight appreciably to less than that of the CMC 156 model (9.8 kg). The result is a multi-phase secondary test set weighing a mere 8.7 kg – currently the lightest in the world.
• Extremely accurate: Accuracy regarding amplitude, phase, frequency, and the derived variables power (P, Q, S) and energy (Wh, varh) is essential when calibrating meters, measuring transducers, and other measuring instruments. The CMC 430 is more accurate than all previous CMC models, at least with a defined load range.
• Improved sturdiness and handling: The new in-house housing design, with reinforced corner and edge protection and all connections and control elements mounted at the front, puts a desire expressed by many customers into practice. The unit can be used vertically, sideways or in the classic horizontal position. The shock-absorbing rubber corner elements protect the sensitive electronics against mechanical influences, while the integrated handle replaces the typical swivel handle of the past.
• Output status signaling: LEDs show the status of the voltage and current booster outputs, and the AUX DC auxiliary voltage output. In addition, the user can activate an acoustic signal to indicate the “Outputs Active” and “Overload” status audibly as well as visually. The user is warned in advance of the impending output of a preset DC auxiliary voltage for 20 seconds both visually and audibly. These indicators give a better overview of the test progress.

Authored article by:
Reinhard Kuntner
Product Manager
OMICRON