DOBLE SFRA User Guide PDF

Doble SFRA User Guide
Doble Engineering Company

85 Walnut Street
Watertown, Massachusetts
02272-9107 (USA)
Telephone: (617) 926-4900

Fax: (617) 926-0528
www.doble.com
PN 500-0590 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

NOTICE
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and, along with the subject matter to which it applies, is provided for the exclusive use of Doble Users
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Comments contained herein relating to safety represent minimum guidelines, and should never be
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the information contained herein in strict accordance with industry as well as User’s company
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© Copyright, 2006
By DOBLE ENGINEERING COMPANY
All Rights Reserved
ii 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 1 Introduction .................................................................................................................1
Chapter 2 Parts List – Hardware and Software .........................................................................3

2.1. M5200 SFRA Instrument Hardware..........................................................................3
2.2. M5300 SFRA Instrument Hardware..........................................................................4
2.3. M5200 & M5300 Test Cables ...................................................................................5
2.4. Instrument Safety/Chassis Ground ............................................................................6
2.5. Other Accessories ......................................................................................................6
2.4.1 Large Cable Clamps..................................................................................6
2.4.2 Test lead ground extensions......................................................................6
2.6. Software.....................................................................................................................6
Chapter 3 SFRA Theory ...............................................................................................................7
Chapter 4 Safety and Personnel ...................................................................................................9

4.1. Safety .........................................................................................................................9
4.2. Safety – General Rules ..............................................................................................9
4.3. Grounding................................................................................................................10
4.4. Personnel Safety ......................................................................................................10
Chapter 5 SFRA Test Preparations ...........................................................................................11

5.1. Preparing the Transformer.......................................................................................11
5.2. Preparing the Doble SFRA Instrument....................................................................12
5.2.1. Preparing the M5300 SFRA Instrument..................................................................12
5.2.2. Preparing the M5200 SFRA Instrument and PC .....................................................12
5.3. Check test leads .......................................................................................................13
5.4. Connect Test leads to transformer ...........................................................................14
5.5. Perform a test...........................................................................................................14
5.6. Powering Down the Doble SFRA Instrument .........................................................14
Chapter 6 Software ......................................................................................................................15

6.1. Overview .................................................................................................................15
6.2. Installation on a PC .................................................................................................15
6.3. Running the Software ..............................................................................................16
6.3.1. Connect to an Instrument? ......................................................................16
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6.3.2. Main Window .........................................................................................17

6.4. Menu Options ..........................................................................................................19
6.4.1. File ..........................................................................................................19
6.4.2. Edit..........................................................................................................19
6.4.3. Test Init ...................................................................................................19
6.4.4. Graph.......................................................................................................20
6.4.5. Help.........................................................................................................21
6.5. Window Tabs...........................................................................................................21
6.5.1. Magnitude ...............................................................................................22
6.5.2. Phase .......................................................................................................22
6.5.3. Sub-band Magnitude...............................................................................23
6.5.4. Waveform ...............................................................................................24
6.5.5. Analysis ..................................................................................................25
6.5.6. Tabulation ...............................................................................................26
6.5.7. Apparatus ................................................................................................27
6.5.8. Data Manager..........................................................................................27
6.6. Apparatus/Test and Legend Sub-Panes ...................................................................29
6.6.1. Apparatus/Test Sub-window...................................................................29
6.6.2. Legend Sub-window ...............................................................................30
6.7. Apparatus Details – Review, Edit, New, Delete, ....................................................32
6.7.1. Accessing Apparatus Details ..................................................................32
6.7.2. Location, Test Equipment and Test Organization Editors......................33
6.7.3. Importing and Exporting Location Files.................................................36
6.7.4. Transformer Editor..................................................................................37
6.8. Test Templates.........................................................................................................44
6.8.1. Accessing Templates ..............................................................................45
6.8.2. Review Templates...................................................................................45
6.8.3. Creating a New Template .......................................................................47
6.8.4. Managing Tests in a Template................................................................48
6.8.5. Deleting a Template................................................................................49
6.8.6. Template Files.........................................................................................49
6.8.7. Importing a Set of Templates..................................................................50
6.8.8. Associating a Template with a Transformer...........................................50
6.9. Data Management....................................................................................................50
6.9.1. Data Source.............................................................................................51
6.9.2. Data Manager..........................................................................................52
iv 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

6.9.3. Selecting a Data Source ..........................................................................53

6.9.4. Refresh Data Tree ...................................................................................53
6.9.5. Displaying Traces (Results)....................................................................53
6.9.6. Selecting a Subset of Results for Display...............................................54
6.9.7. Exporting Results to a CSV file..............................................................56
6.9.8. Importing Location and Transformer from Results Files .......................56
6.10. Importing 1.x and 2.x M5100 SFRA Files ..............................................................58
6.11. Running a Test.........................................................................................................59
6.11.1. Select Apparatus .....................................................................................59
6.11.2. Set Test Group Parameters .....................................................................60
6.11.3. Select Test from Associated Template ...................................................61
6.11.4. Start Test .................................................................................................61
6.11.5. Test in Progress.......................................................................................64
6.11.6. Checking Results and Trouble Shooting Results....................................66
6.12. Saving and Deleting Traces.....................................................................................70
6.12.1. Saving Traces..........................................................................................70
6.12.2. Deleting Traces .......................................................................................70
6.13. Transferring Data between Machines or PC’s.........................................................70
6.14. Merging Settings Files.............................................................................................71
6.14.1. Opening a Settings File...........................................................................71
6.14.2. A Merge Example ...................................................................................72
6.14.3. Merging Caveats .....................................................................................73
6.15. Application Details..................................................................................................74
6.15.1. Graph Options.........................................................................................74
6.15.2. Pan...........................................................................................................79
6.15.3. Analyze ...................................................................................................79
6.15.4. Printing and Reporting............................................................................84
6.16. Closing the Software ...............................................................................................86
Chapter 7 Application – Connections ........................................................................................88

7.1. Measurement Types.................................................................................................88
7.1.1. Open Circuit............................................................................................88
7.1.2. Interwinding............................................................................................88
7.1.3. Short Circuit............................................................................................89
7.2. Test Templates.........................................................................................................89
7.3. Two Winding Transformers ....................................................................................90
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7.4. AutoTransformers....................................................................................................90
7.5. Three Winding Transformers ..................................................................................91
Chapter 8 Examples.....................................................................................................................92
8.1. Three Responses for One Transformer....................................................................92
8.2. HV Delta Response .................................................................................................93
8.3. HV Wye (star) Response .........................................................................................94
8.4. Short Circuit Test Response ....................................................................................95
8.5. Repeat Results for One Phase at Different Times ...................................................96
8.6. Results Showing a Shorted Turn .............................................................................96
Chapter 9 Data Interpretation....................................................................................................98

9.1. Frequency-dependant Transformer Equivalent Circuit ...........................................98
9.2. Diagnostic Significance of Frequency Ranges........................................................99
9.2.1. Per-phase Open Circuit Measurement ....................................................99
9.2.2. Short Circuit Measurement ...................................................................101
9.3. Analysis of Test Data ............................................................................................102
9.3.1. Initial Measurement ..............................................................................102
9.3.2. Subsequent Measurement .....................................................................102
9.3.3. Other Diagnostic Measurements...........................................................103
Chapter 10 Application Notes..................................................................................................106

10.1. Short Circuit Lead Responses ...............................................................................106
10.2. Open Circuit Lead Responses ...............................................................................107
10.3. Cable Length .........................................................................................................107
Chapter 11 Technical Support and Troubleshooting .............................................................110

11.1. PC ..........................................................................................................................110
11.2. Installing Software on a PC...................................................................................110
11.3. Running Your First Test ........................................................................................110
11.4. Checking Communication between PC and M5200..............................................110
11.5. Field repairs ...........................................................................................................110
11.6. Parts List ................................................................................................................111
Chapter 12 References...............................................................................................................116
Chapter 13 Miscellaneous .........................................................................................................120
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Table of Figures
Figure 1 M5200 Test Set and Accessories...................................................................................... 3
Figure 2 M5200 SFRA Instrument Front View.............................................................................. 4
Figure 3 M5300 Test Set and Accessories...................................................................................... 4
Figure 4 M5300 SFRA Instrument Front View.............................................................................. 5
Figure 5 Safety Ground................................................................................................................... 6
Figure 6 Two Port Network ............................................................................................................ 7
Figure 7 Connecting Safety Ground to Transformer .................................................................... 10
Figure 8 Connect to M5200 .......................................................................................................... 12
Figure 9 No SFRA instrument found............................................................................................ 13
Figure 10 M5200 found – communication blocked...................................................................... 13
Figure 11 Doble SFRA Software Start Up Screen ....................................................................... 16
Figure 12 Connect to M5200 ........................................................................................................ 16
Figure 13 Connected to M5200 .................................................................................................... 17
Figure 14 Connection Not Attempted........................................................................................... 17
Figure 15 Main Software Screen .................................................................................................. 18
Figure 16 File Menu Option ......................................................................................................... 19
Figure 17 Edit Menu Option ......................................................................................................... 19
Figure 18 Test Menu Option......................................................................................................... 20
Figure 19 Graph Menu Option...................................................................................................... 20
Figure 20 Help Menu Option........................................................................................................ 21
Figure 21 Help… About ............................................................................................................... 21
Figure 22 Magnitude Chart........................................................................................................... 22
Figure 23 Phase Chart................................................................................................................... 23
Figure 24 Sub-Band Charts........................................................................................................... 23
Figure 25 Waveform Display........................................................................................................ 24
Figure 26 Analysis Tab................................................................................................................. 25
Figure 27 Tabulation Tab ............................................................................................................. 26
Figure 28 Apparatus Tab .............................................................................................................. 27
Figure 29 Data Manager Tab ........................................................................................................ 28
Figure 30 Apparatus and Test Sub-window ................................................................................. 29
Figure 31 Legend Sub-window..................................................................................................... 30
Figure 32 Plot property Command ............................................................................................... 31
Figure 33 Plot Property Dialog..................................................................................................... 31
Figure 34 Edit Apparatus Menu.................................................................................................... 32
Figure 35 Test Equipment Panel................................................................................................... 33
Figure 36 Editors and Details ....................................................................................................... 34
Figure 37 Reviewing/Editing Location Data – A ......................................................................... 35
Figure 38 Reviewing/Editing Location Data – B ......................................................................... 35
Figure 39 Entering a New Location.............................................................................................. 35
Figure 40 Deleting a Location ...................................................................................................... 36
Figure 41 Exporting Location Entries to a File ............................................................................ 36
Figure 42 Exporting Location Folder Selection ........................................................................... 37
Figure 43 Importing Location Entries from a File........................................................................ 37
Figure 44 Reviewing/Editing Transformer Data – A ................................................................... 38
Figure 45 Reviewing/Editing Transformer Data – B.................................................................... 39
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Figure 46 Reviewing/Editing LTC/DETC Data ........................................................................... 40

Figure 47 Reviewing Test Template Association......................................................................... 41
Figure 48 Selecting a Test Template ............................................................................................ 42
Figure 49 Entering a New Transformer ........................................................................................ 43
Figure 50 Deleting a Transformer ................................................................................................ 44
Figure 51 Reviewing Available Test Templates........................................................................... 45
Figure 52 Reviewing Available Test Templates........................................................................... 46
Figure 53 Creating a New test Template ...................................................................................... 47
Figure 54 Managing Tests in a Template ..................................................................................... 48
Figure 55 Adding a New Test to a Template................................................................................ 48
Figure 56 Deleting a Test from a Template .................................................................................. 49
Figure 57 Deleting a Template ..................................................................................................... 49
Figure 58 Associating a Template with a Transformer ................................................................ 50
Figure 59 Options Menu ............................................................................................................... 51
Figure 60 Data Sources................................................................................................................. 51
Figure 61 Selecting Data Source Location ................................................................................... 52
Figure 62 Opening the Data Manager........................................................................................... 52
Figure 63 Selecting Data Source .................................................................................................. 53
Figure 64 Confirmation of Data Source Being set as Default ...................................................... 53
Figure 65 Available Results.......................................................................................................... 54
Figure 66 Selecting Results by Directory Tree............................................................................. 54
Figure 67 Selecting a Single Result for Display........................................................................... 55
Figure 68 Highlighting Results for Display.................................................................................. 55
Figure 69 Choosing a Folder for CSV Export .............................................................................. 56
Figure 70 Saving File in CSV Confirmation ................................................................................ 56
Figure 71 Confirmation of Transformer Import ........................................................................... 57
Figure 72 Confirmation of no Location Imports........................................................................... 57
Figure 73 Selecting a Transformer Location Combination .......................................................... 59
Figure 74 Setting Test Parameters ................................................................................................ 60
Figure 75 Choosing a Test from a Template ................................................................................ 61
Figure 76 Test Details................................................................................................................... 61
Figure 77 Test Details if no Template was Used.......................................................................... 62
Figure 78 Red-Black Lead Locations are Required Fields........................................................... 63
Figure 79 Test in Progress ............................................................................................................ 64
Figure 80 Self Test - Temperature ................................................................................................ 65
Figure 81 Self Test – Noise .......................................................................................................... 65
Figure 82 Self Test – Ground Continuity ..................................................................................... 65
Figure 83 Self Test – Signal Generation....................................................................................... 66
Figure 84 Waveforms ................................................................................................................... 67
Figure 85 Typical Open Circuit Response................................................................................... 68
Figure 86 Open Circuit in Red Test Lead..................................................................................... 69
Figure 87 Open Circuit in Test Lead Dialog Box......................................................................... 69
Figure 88 Graph Options Menu .................................................................................................... 74
Figure 89 Clicking on Cursor 1 .................................................................................................... 74
Figure 90 Two Cursors Displayed – Red and Blue ...................................................................... 75
Figure 91 Centered Cursors .......................................................................................................... 75
viii 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 92 Plot Range Dialog Box................................................................................................. 76

Figure 93 Graph using Default Log Scale .................................................................................... 77
Figure 94 Graph with Linear Scale............................................................................................... 78
Figure 95 Clear Traces Dialog Box .............................................................................................. 78
Figure 96 Analysis Display........................................................................................................... 79
Figure 97 Analysis - Select Traces Dialog Box............................................................................ 80
Figure 98 Incorrect Number of Traces Selected ........................................................................... 80
Figure 99 Analysis of Two Traces................................................................................................ 81
Figure 100 User Defined Difference Limits ................................................................................. 81
Figure 101 Difference Plot ........................................................................................................... 82
Figure 102 Edited Difference Plot Values .................................................................................... 82
Figure 103 Difference Plot with New Limits ............................................................................... 82
Figure 104 Correlation Range Display ......................................................................................... 82
Figure 105 Correlation Range Selections ..................................................................................... 83
Figure 106 Correlation Coefficients ............................................................................................. 83
Figure 107 Correlation Limits ...................................................................................................... 83
Figure 108 File Menu – Print and Print Preview .......................................................................... 84
Figure 109 Print Preview Dialog Box........................................................................................... 84
Figure 110 Print Preview Details Page ......................................................................................... 85
Figure 111 Windows Print Dialog Box ........................................................................................ 86
Figure 112 Exit Software Confirmation ....................................................................................... 86
Figure 113 Actions before Restoring Network Connections........................................................ 87
Figure 114 Responses for One Phase of a Transformer ............................................................... 92
Figure 115 HV Delta Winding Responses.................................................................................... 93
Figure 116 HV Wye Winding Response ...................................................................................... 94
Figure 117 Short Circuit Test Response ....................................................................................... 95
Figure 118 Short Circuit Response – Detail ................................................................................. 95
Figure 119 Repeat Results for One Phase .................................................................................... 96
Figure 120 Shorted Turn on one Winding .................................................................................... 97
Figure 121 Per-Phase Measurement –Magnitude of the Transfer Function................................. 99
Figure 122 Per-Phase Measurement – Phase of the Transfer Function...................................... 100
Figure 123 T Model of Transformer Winding............................................................................ 101
Figure 124 T Model with LV Short ............................................................................................ 101
Figure 125 Short Circuit Lead Response.................................................................................... 106
Figure 126 Open Circuit Lead Response .................................................................................... 107
Figure 127 Front View of M5300.............................................................................................. 112
Figure 128 Front Panel Assembly, CPU PC Board, and Fan .................................................... 112
Figure 129 Power Supply - +5V, + 12V Output........................................................................ 113
Figure 130 CPU Module Assembly........................................................................................... 113
Figure 131 Assembly, PCB + 15V Converter ........................................................................... 114
Figure 132 High Density Drive, 20GB IDE .............................................................................. 114
Figure 133 PPC4/Analog Module Assembly............................................................................. 115
Figure 134 USB Keyboard......................................................................................................... 115
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 ix

Table of Tables
Table 1 Transformer Settings XML Format ................................................................................. 71
Table 2 User A Transformer Settings XML File .......................................................................... 72
Table 3 User B Transformer Settings XML File .......................................................................... 72
Table 4 Transformer Nameplate Section from User B File.......................................................... 73
Table 5 Two Winding Transformers............................................................................................. 90
Table 6 Autotransformers ............................................................................................................. 90
Table 7 Three Winding Transformers – Part 1 ............................................................................. 91
Table 8 Three Winding Transformers – Part 2 ............................................................................. 91
Table 9 Diagnostic Tests............................................................................................................. 104
Table 10 Minimum PC Requirements ........................................................................................ 110
Table 11 Parts List ...................................................................................................................... 111
x 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Chapter 1
Introduction
Sweep Frequency Response Analysis (SFRA) testing has become a valuable tool for verifying
the geometric integrity of electrical apparatus, especially transformers. The SFRA technique
provides internal diagnostic information using non-intrusive procedures. Over the last ten years,
only the SFRA test method has been proven to provide accurate and repeatable measurements,
with Doble providing the back up and support necessary to extract value from the measurement.
Power transformers are specified to withstand the mechanical forces arising from both shipping
and subsequent in-service events, such as faults and lightning. Transportation damage can occur
if the clamping and restraints are inadequate; such damage may lead to core and winding
movement. The most severe in-service forces arise from system faults, and are axial and radial in
nature. If the forces are excessive, radial buckling or axial deformation can occur. With a core
form design the principal forces are radially directed, whereas in a shell form unit they are
axially directed, and this difference is likely to influence the types of damage found.
Once a transformer has been damaged, even if only slightly, the ability to withstand further short
circuits is reduced. Utility personnel need to effectively identify such damage. A visual
inspection is costly and does not always produce the desired results or the correct conclusion.
During a field inspection, the oil has to be drained and confined entry rules apply. Since so little
of the winding is visible, little damage is seen other than displaced support blocks. Often, a
complete tear down is required to identify the problem. An alternative method is to implement
field-diagnostic techniques capable of detecting damage.
There is a direct relationship between the geometric configuration and the distributed electrical
elements, otherwise known as RLC networks, of a winding and core assembly. This RLC
network can be identified by its frequency-dependent transfer function. Frequency Response
Analysis testing can be accomplished by the sweep frequency method (SFRA). Changes in the
geometric configuration alter the impedance network, and in turn alter the transfer function.
Changes in the transfer function will reveal a wide range of failure modes.
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2 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Chapter 2
Parts List – Hardware and Software
The M5200 and M5300 have different components, as shown below.
2.1. M5200 SFRA Instrument Hardware
The M5200 SFRA Instrument comes complete with packaged hardware, software, and cables, as
shown in Figure 1. This section provides an introduction to the various parts and accessories that
comprise the M5200 SFRA Instrument.
Figure 1 M5200 Test Set and Accessories

The M5200 SFRA Instrument measures and records the frequency response characteristics of
transformer windings. It accomplishes this using the various hardware components packaged in a
rugged field instrumentation/controller module, an excitation source, and a measurement module,
packaged in a robust molded shell, as shown in Figure 2.
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 3

System Status
Indicators
Power Switch
and Indicator
Color coded test Communication Ports Chassis Ground

lead connectors
Figure 2 M5200 SFRA Instrument Front View
2.2. M5300 SFRA Instrument Hardware
The M5300 SFRA Instrument comes complete with packaged hardware, software, and cables, as
shown in Figure 1. This section provides an introduction to the various parts and accessories that
comprise the M5300 SFRA Instrument.
Figure 3 M5300 Test Set and Accessories

The M5300 SFRA Instrument measures and records the frequency response characteristics of
transformer windings. It accomplishes this using the various hardware components packaged in a
4 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

rugged field instrumentation/controller module, an excitation source, and a measurement module,

packaged in a robust molded shell, as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 4 M5300 SFRA Instrument Front View
2.3. M5200 & M5300 Test Cables

The cables and connectors supplied with the M5200 and M5300 should not be modified in any
manner.
The test leads are made from low loss RG-58 RF coaxial cable with the shields grounded to the
instrument chassis through a standard connector. The SFRA Instrument requires a matched
impedance signal cable, and performs a single end measurement, that is, the signal is measured
with respect to the instrument ground. The shield of the signal cable must be connected to the
chassis using a 50 Ohm impedance-matched RF BCN connector. Practical field experience
indicates that the leads be 60 ft. in length. This length is the shortest length useful to test the
largest transformers from a location on the ground, adjacent to the unit. Nevertheless, it is the
lead length that determines the maximum effective frequency.
Cable Shield Grounds - used to connect cable shield to the transformer ground at the base of the
bushing. These ground connections are located 12 ft. (3.7m) back from the terminal connection
on the measurement ends of the cables.
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2.4. Instrument Safety/Chassis Ground

Grounding of signal cable shields, specimen, and instrument chassis is important to achieving a
reproducible result.
Figure 5 Safety Ground
The Safety Ground, also known as the instrument Chassis Ground, shown in Figure 5, is used to
connect the instrument chassis to the ground of the transformer.
2.5. Other Accessories

2.4.1 Large Cable Clamps
These clamps are used to make connections to larger bushing studs or terminals where the
normal connectors do not fit. The standard test cables then clip to the large clamps.
2.4.2 Test lead ground extensions

In those cases where the 12 feet (3.7m) of ground is not enough to reach from the bushing
terminal to the base of the bushing, the white ground extension leads are used to provide extra
length.
2.6. Software
The M5200 SFRA test set is controlled by a user supplied lap top.
The M5300 SFRA test set has the software installed on it before delivery.
The software is discussed in more detail in Section 0.
6 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Chapter 3
SFRA Theory
The primary objective of SFRA is to determine how the impedance of a test specimen behaves
over a specified range of frequencies. The impedance is a distributive network of real and
reactive electrical components. The components are passive in nature, and can be modeled by
resistors, inductors, and capacitors. The reactive properties of a given test specimen are
dependent upon and sensitive to changes in frequency. The change in impedance versus
frequency can be dramatic in many cases. This behavior becomes apparent when we model the
impedance as a function of frequency. The result is a transfer function representation of the RLC
network in the frequency domain.
Frequency response analysis is generally applied to a complex network of passive elements. For
practical purposes, we will only consider resistors, inductors, and capacitors as passive circuit
elements, and they are assumed to be ideal. These three fundamental elements are the building
blocks for various physical devices, such as transformers, motors, generators, and other electrical
apparatus.
It is important to understand the difference between the physical device and the mathematical
model we intend to use. When large and complex systems are electrically analyzed, we are often
faced with a poorly defined distributed network. A distributed network contains an infinite
amount of infinitely small RLC elements. For example, transmission lines are generally
distributed in nature. It is practical to model such distributed systems by lumping the basic RLC
components together, resulting in a lumped network. Lumping elements together for a single
frequency is a trivial task, however, when system modeling requires spanning over a significant
frequency interval, then producing a suitable lumped model becomes difficult.
When a transformer is subjected to SFRA testing, the leads are configured in such a manner that
four terminals are used. These four terminals can be divided into two unique pairs, one pair each
for the input and the output. These terminals can be modeled in a two-terminal pair or a two-port
network configuration. Figure 6 illustrates a two-port network.
Figure 6 Two Port Network
Solving for the open-circuit impedance for each lumped element forms the impedances, Z11,
Z22, Z12, and Z21. It should be noted that the negative terminals are short-circuited when
transformers are tested. The transformer tank is common for both negative and lower terminals.
The transformer tank and lead ground shields must be connected together to achieve a common-
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 7

mode measurement. This assures that no external impedance is measured. Applying the
connection in this manner helps reduce the effects of noise. It is very important to obtain a zero
impedance between the lower or negative terminals to assure a repeatable measurement.
The transfer function of an RLC network is the ratio of the output and input frequency responses
when the initial conditions of the network are zero. Both magnitude and the phase relationships
can be extracted from the transfer function. The transfer function helps us better understand the
input/output relationship of a linear network. The transfer function also represents the
fundamental characteristics of a network, and is a useful tool in modeling such a system. The
transfer function is represented in the frequency domain and is denoted by the Fourier variable H
(jω), where (jω) denotes the presence of a frequency dependent function, and ω= 2πf. The
Fourier relationship for the input/output transfer function is given by:
Voutput ( jω )
H ( jω ) =
Vinput ( jω )
When a transfer function is reduced to its simplest form, it generates a ratio of two polynomials.
The main characteristics, such as half-power and resonance, of a transfer function occur at the
roots of the polynomials.
The goal of SFRA is to measure the impedance model of the test specimen. When we measure
the transfer function H (jω), it does not isolate the true specimen impedance Z (jω). The true
specimen impedance Z (jω) is the RLC network, which is positioned between the instrument
leads, and it does not include any impedance supplied by the test instrument. It must be noted
that when using the voltage relationship, H (jω) is not always directly related to Z (jω). For Z
(jω) to be directly related to H (jω) a current must be substituted for the output voltage and then
Ohms Law can be realized. However, SFRA uses the voltage ratio relationship for determining H
(jω). Since the SFRA test method uses a 50 Ohm impedance match measuring system, the 50
Ohm impedance must be incorporated into H (jω). The next equation shows the relationship of Z
(jω) to H (jω):
Hv(jω) = Vout(jω) /Vin(jω)
Often it is useful to plot the magnitude and phase relationship of the transfer function in
logarithmic format. The units of magnitude and phase are in the decibels (dB) and degrees,
respectively. The magnitude and phase is represented as follows:
A(dB) = 20 log10 (H ( jω ) )
A(θ ) = tan −1 (H ( jω ) )
This format takes advantage of the asymptotic symmetry by using a logarithmic scale for
frequency. Plotting the phase relationship with the magnitude data will help determine whether
the system is resistive, inductive, or capacitive. It is often useful to compare resonance in the
magnitude plots with the zero crossings in the phase relationship.
8 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Chapter 4
Safety and Personnel
4.1. Safety
Safety cannot be overemphasized when working on or around high voltage electrical apparatus.
Companies that generate, transmit, distribute, or utilize high voltage electricity should, and do,
have precise rules for safe practices and procedures for personnel whose working responsibilities
involve testing and maintenance of the various types of high voltage apparatus, and their
associated lines, cables and conductors, as well as the associated accessories.
4.2. Safety – General Rules

The transformer under test should be completely de-energized and isolated from the power
system before performing any SFRA tests using an M5000 series SFRA Instrument.
The method of testing a high voltage apparatus (transformer) involves exciting the apparatus
with the Doble SFRA Instrument. Care must be taken to avoid contact with the apparatus being
tested, it’s associated bushing and conductors, and with the Doble SFRA Instrument cables and
connectors.
The test crew must make a visual check to ensure that the apparatus terminals are isolated from
the power system. Because the apparatus under test may fail, precautions (such as barriers or
entrance restrictions to the test area) must be taken to avoid harm in the event of a violent failure.
All of your company rules for safe practice in testing must be strictly conformed to, including all
practices for tagging and isolating apparatus during testing and maintenance work. State, local,
and federal regulations, e.g., OSHA, HSE, may also apply.
Note
Company rules and government regulations take precedence over Doble recommendations.
Personal Protective Equipment suitable for electrical testing of transformers is recommended.
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 9

4.3. Grounding
The apparatus under test, its tank or housing, and the Doble SFRA Instrument must be solidly
and commonly grounded or earthed. This also applies to any mobile equipment being tested. See
Figure 7 for an example safety ground connection.
Figure 7 Connecting Safety Ground to Transformer
The Doble SFRA Instrument test cable shields must also be grounded or earthed to the same
common point as the instrument. This is usually achieved by attaching the grounds securely to
the bushing flange base.
NOTE
Proper grounding techniques are a very important step
in safety and in ensuring reliable SFRA test results.
4.4. Personnel Safety

A pretest meeting is recommended. Frequently, other crews will be working on non-test related
tasks in close proximity to equipment being tested. The pretest meeting should include all
personnel who will be working in proximity to the area where testing will be performed. In this
meeting, the tests to be performed, the apparatus and the voltage test levels involved, potential
hazards involved with the work, and the individual assignments should all be reviewed with the
crew members.
Test personnel need to remain aware of the work activity taking place around them and alert to
the possibility that non-test personnel may enter the test area. A consistent and uniform set of
signals, both visual and verbal, should be agreed upon, and should be followed by all of the crew
members during testing. While making the various types of connections involved in the tests, it
may be necessary for personnel to climb up on the apparatus, but no one should remain on the
apparatus during the test itself.
10 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Chapter 5
SFRA Test Preparations
SFRA test preparations consist of:
• Preparing the Transformer
• Preparing the Doble SFRA Instrument
• Creating the Test Files
• Connecting the Apparatus
5.1. Preparing the Transformer

The transformer to be tested must be completely isolated from the power system. This requires
that all bushings of all windings be disconnected from any bus and insulators. This ensures that
the measurements performed are not adversely affected by interference.
We wish to measure only the RLC network of the transformer. In order to maintain consistency
and repeatability of measurements, all terminals that are not under test should be isolated and
floating. In order to maintain a balanced and symmetrical approach, where a delta winding is
completed and grounded external to the transformer tank, the delta should be complete but
floating. Such windings are frequently used for regulation; where such windings are grounded
internal to the tank, we are forced to leave that ground in place – but we should expect
asymmetry in results.
A frequency response could be measured with the remaining terminals grounded, however it
could not be compared to a response that was measured with floating terminals since a different
RLC response would be measured.
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5.2. Preparing the Doble SFRA Instrument
5.2.1. Preparing the M5300 SFRA Instrument
Turn on the power switch located on the front of the M5300 SFRA Instrument
The M5300 SFRA software should start up automatically; if your system has been altered,
double click on the SFRA icon or begin the program using ‘Start… Run…’.
5.2.2. Preparing the M5200 SFRA Instrument and PC

Turn on the power switch located on the front of the M5200 SFRA Instrument without it being
connected to the user PC. The power light should come on. Both LED’s will come on, then go
out and finally the ‘System OK’ LED will come on to indicate status as ‘OK’.
The M5200 SFRA software should be run on the user PC. Make sure the M5200 SFRA software
is installed on the PC hard drive, not a network drive.
The PC should not be connected to any network and wireless connections should be turned off;
firewalls and virus software should be disabled. These restrictions do not apply if you wish to
use the software in viewer mode only and not communicate with an M5200.
Double click on the SFRA Icon on the PC Desktop, or use “Programs… Run…” to start the
software. When the window shown in Figure 8 appears, connect the M5200 to the PC using
either the USB cable or the Ethernet Cable with Crossover adapter.
Figure 8 Connect to M5200
Click ‘yes’ to connect to the M5200.
If no communication with the M5200 is possible, the message in Figure 9 is shown.
12 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 9 No SFRA instrument found
It is possible that the M5200 and the PC can communicate but not allow data transfer – as may be
the case when a Windows or other firewall is enabled. The message shown in Figure 10 is
shown.
Figure 10 M5200 found – communication blocked
This message will appear if there is no cable connection between the PC and M5200 or if there
are firewalls or virus software enabled which prevent communication.
5.3. Check test leads

Connect the test leads to the instrument; these are color coded cables with BNC adapters.
Note
Test leads may be damaged either through poor storage, mishandling in
application or accidental damage on site. It is important to check the status
of the leads before performing a measurement. This can be done by a short
circuit leads test as described in the Quick Start Guide.
Short the measurement clips (cable end) on the cables together and the ground clips (middle of
cable) together. Do not connect the measurement clips to the ground clips.
Perform a short circuit measurement.
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5.4. Connect Test leads to transformer
Connect the safety ground to the Doble SFRA test set and to the ground on the transformer.
Caution
To minimize the chance of the conductors becoming energized due to static
electricity, Doble Engineering Company recommends attaching all test set
leads to the instrument while the other end of the leads are still on the
ground. Attaching the leads to the transformer bushings first increases the
risk of operator injury.
5.5. Perform a test

Connect test leads to the transformer as per the recommended tests in Section 0.
Perform a test - this consists of three stages:
• Initiate a test (F2)
• Monitor test in progress
• Test finishes or is aborted (F2)
It is important to monitor the test in progress to make sure good data is being collected.
Response results begin appearing as soon as the test set begins receiving the data and the
software continues to plot the results in until the test is complete.
5.6. Powering Down the Doble SFRA Instrument

Power down the M5200 using the power switch.
The M5300 is a PC and should be shut down using standard PC practice – use ‘Start… Shut
Down’ from the menu bar.
14 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Chapter 6
Software
The Doble SFRA M5200 & M5300 Instruments come complete with intuitive Windows ™ based
software which runs on a standard PC supplied by the user or on the M5300 itself. 256 Mb of
RAM are recommended as a minimum.
6.1. Overview
The software allows users to make and compare SFRA measurements. The test itself is easy to
perform, but it is important that all relevant details are recorded for future reference otherwise it
becomes difficult to reproduce test results.
It requires a minimum set of details before a measurement can be made:
• Transformer manufacturer and serial number
• Test location
• Testing organization
• M5200/M5300 serial number
• Basic test details: lead location and tap positions.
Basic information can be set up before performing any tests and saved.
Templates of tests are available for use as a guideline with different transformer designs.
All traces are automatically saved on completion.
6.2. Installation on a PC
The software installs as a standard Windows application. It is not recommended that the
software be installed on a network drive or data stored to a network drive. When setting up
data paths (Edit… Options…) it is not recommended that data is saved to a network path.
If a network path is specified then data will not be saved in the field as the network will not
be accessible.
When testing in the field using an M5200 the PC where the software is installed should not be
connected to any other network and should not have a wireless network enabled (or switched on).
Firewall and virus software should be disabled or turned off while making measurements. These
may be returned to default settings when using the software as a viewer only and not
communicating with an M5200.
When closing down the M5200 software a window will appear confirming that you wish to exit
the software.
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6.3. Running the Software
On running the software on the PC or an M5300, a Doble SFRA start up screen is shown, similar
to that in Figure 11; you may have a later version of the software.
Figure 11 Doble SFRA Software Start Up Screen

6.3.1. Connect to an Instrument?
If running the software on a PC, the software will ask whether you wish to connect to an SFRA
instrument, as shown in Figure 12.
Figure 12 Connect to M5200
16 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Click Yes only if:
• the M5200 has been turned on

• the indicator LED’s show system ready light on, test light off
• the M5200 is connected to the PC via USB or Crossover Ethernet cable
On connection, a confirmation message appears, similar to that shown in Figure 13.
Figure 13 Connected to M5200
If you click ‘No’, no attempt will be made to connect to an M5200 and the confirmation window
shown in Figure 14.
Figure 14 Connection Not Attempted
6.3.2. Main Window

The results area, as shown in Figure 15, dominates the main screen.
The screen has a number of menu options, which are discussed in Section 6.4, including:
• File
• Edit
• Test Init
• Graph
• Help
And the tabs on the lower left side of the screen:
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• Apparatus and Test

• Legend
Individual Window Tabs, are discussed in section 6.5:
• Data Manager
• Magnitude
• Phase
• Sub-band
• Waveform
• Analysis
• Tabulation
• Apparatus
Figure 15 Main Software Screen
18 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

6.4. Menu Options

Menu options are available ‘point & click’ or through ‘Alt & key’ commands.
6.4.1. File
Menu option ‘File, as shown in Figure 16, has four sub-options:
• Print – allows printing of results and associated details
• Print Preview – allows for preview of printing
• Exit – quits the Doble SFRA software
Figure 16 File Menu Option
Note: there is no ‘Save’ option as all traces are automatically saved on completion of the trace.
6.4.2. Edit
The ‘Edit’ menu option has two sub-options, as shown in Figure 17.
Figure 17 Edit Menu Option
Edit Apparatus – allows for entry of apparatus, location and template details; see section 6.7.
Options – which control sources for data storage and system settings; see section 6.9.
6.4.3. Test Init
‘Test’, as shown in Figure 18 allows selection of apparatus for test. It is only active after the
‘Select Apparatus’ button has been used once to select and Apparatus/Location combination for
test purposes.
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Figure 18 Test Menu Option
6.4.4. Graph
This menu option controls graph related features, as shown in Figure 19. See section 6.15.1.
Figure 19 Graph Menu Option
20 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

6.4.5. Help
The ‘Help’ menu option, as shown in Figure 20, allows access to the help facility, which is not
available in this version and to the ‘About’ option which gives the software version and related details.
Figure 20 Help Menu Option
Click on ‘About’ to bring up the window shown in Figure 21.
Figure 21 Help… About

The software version and build number are given in the upper right corner of the window. If
connected directly to an instrument, or if you are using an M5300, the Instrument Firmware Box
will show the version number for the instrument firmware and related items. These may be useful
in diagnostic situations. Scroll down to reach the firmware version:
6.5. Window Tabs

These allow access to different aspects of SFRA measurements. Click on the appropriate tab for
access.
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6.5.1. Magnitude
As shown in Figure 15, this is the tab, which displays magnitude data. See section 6.11 for
information on trace manipulation.
Figure 22 Magnitude Chart
6.5.2. Phase
Phase information is plotted on a separate chart, on the phase tab, as shown in Figure 23.
Phase is a useful quantity when looking whether a measurement is more inductive or more
capacitive. It is rarely used but can occasionally be a useful diagnostic.
22 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 23 Phase Chart

6.5.3. Sub-band Magnitude
The ‘Sub-band’ tab, Figure 24, is given for reasons of historical continuity. Early work on SFRA
required results is displayed on charts of 2 kHz, 20 kHz, 200 kHz and 2 MHz. The last three of
these are given here as a means to view the data in that format.
Figure 24 Sub-Band Charts
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 23

6.5.4. Waveform
The ‘Waveform’ tab, as shown in Figure 25, is useful when monitoring the progress of a
measurement: it displays both the reference waveform generated by the test set and the measured
wave form of the object under test.
When a bad connection is made, it is possible to use the waveform tab to help diagnose the
problem, as discussed in Section 0.
This tab only provides a waveform when the test is in progress.
Figure 25 Waveform Display
24 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

6.5.5. Analysis
The ‘Analysis’ tab, as shown in Figure 26, allows for comparison of two selected traces.
The traces must first be shown on the magnitude plot. They can then be analyzed using
difference and cross-correlation.
Limits have not yet been set on what is an acceptable variation for difference between two traces
on the same transformer at a given frequency; likewise, limits have not been set on what are
acceptable differences in correlation coefficient in a given frequency range. Both are areas where
the international SFRA community is currently undertaking much research. This will be the page
where the Doble Expert System for SFRA, SAM ™, (the SFRA Analysis Manager) will appear
in a future version of the software.
Data analysis is discussed in more detail in Section 0.
Figure 26 Analysis Tab
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6.5.6. Tabulation
Data may be viewed purely in a graphical format, as in the magnitude plot, but may also be
viewed in tabular form, as shown in Figure 27. By clicking on an entry in the legend at left, the
corresponding results consisting of:
• Frequency
• Magnitude
• Phase
The values are shown in the table on the right of the window.
Figure 27 Tabulation Tab
26 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

6.5.7. Apparatus
The ‘Apparatus’ tab shows information related to the traces displayed on the Magnitude plot –
see Figure 28. This allows full details of the test to be viewed, including:
• Transformer Details
• Apparatus Location
• Test Set Up
Click on the legend entry for which details are required and they appear in the window to the right.
Figure 28 Apparatus Tab

6.5.8. Data Manager
The ‘Data Manager tab allows for display of traces in user defined folders and the recall for
display of those traces, as shown in Figure 29.
Traces may be stored in the default folders or in user defined folders. A search tree is available to
select sub-sets of the data displayed and the spreadsheet of results may be used to select results for
display. Details of Data Management are given in Section 6.9.
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 27

Figure 29 Data Manager Tab
28 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

6.6. Apparatus/Test and Legend Sub-Panes

The “Apparatus and Test” sub-pane is only useful for field measurements when connected to an
M5200.
6.6.1. Apparatus/Test Sub-window
This is where a particular transformer is chosen for test, as shown in Figure 30. It allows setting
of basic test parameters and initiation of a test. Subsequently, it shows which frequency is being
measured and the progress of the test.
Figure 30 Apparatus and Test Sub-window
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 29

6.6.2. Legend Sub-window

The legend option, Figure 31, allows control of graph features, such as line width, style and
color.
By checking or un-checking the tick box at the left of the legend name it is possible to make the
trace visible on the chart or invisible. This is particularly useful when comparing a number of
traces simultaneously.
Figure 31 Legend Sub-window
30 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Right click on a trace name in the legend to show the ‘Plot Property’ box as shown in Figure 32.
Figure 32 Plot property Command
Left click on the ‘Plot Property’ box to bring up the properties menu, as shown in Figure 33.
Figure 33 Plot Property Dialog

Use the down arrows to show options available for Color, Line Style and width of the plot.
‘Interference Cancellation’ should be left checked unless there is a need to identify noise
frequencies specifically within the results. This option is not available with results which were
produced using M5100 version 1.x or M5100 version 2.x software.
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 31

6.7. Apparatus Details – Review, Edit, New, Delete,

Before performing a test on any transformer, it is necessary to enter a certain set of minimum
details regarding the:
• Transformer
• Transformer location
• Test set
• Testing organization
These must be entered before any tests take place: one or two fields suffice to meet the
requirements of unique identification for each item.
6.7.1. Accessing Apparatus Details
Apparatus details are accessed through the Edit menu, as shown in Figure 34.
Figure 34 Edit Apparatus Menu
Click on the ‘Edit Apparatus’ to bring up the Test Equipment panel as shown in Figure 35.
32 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 35 Test Equipment Panel

The three sets of editors on the left side work in the same way as each other -
6.7.2. Location, Test Equipment and Test Organization Editors
The set of panels on the left of the Test Equipment panel is used to create, edit, review and
delete:
• Locations
• Test Equipment (the M5000 series instrument)
• Test Organizations
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 33

Location Location
Editor Detail
Test
Equipment Test
Editor Equipment
Detail
Test Test
Organization Organization
Editor Detail
Figure 36 Editors and Details

A Location is any uniquely identifiable place where a transformer SFRA test may take place. As
all SFRA tests take place at some location, and many take place on the same transformer at
different locations, it is important to record this information as a feature of the SFRA test.
A Test Equipment is an M5200 or M5300 test set, uniquely identified by its serial number.
A Test Organization is any uniquely identifiable organization, which performs SFRA testing. It
is important to record this information as a feature of the SFRA test.
The three editors work in identical ways for reviewing, editing adding and deleting entries.
Reviewing/Editing Location, Test Equipment and Test Organization Data
Each editor allows review and editing of entries – Location, Test Equipment, Test Organization.
Examples here are given for Location, but the others work in the same way.
Each entry must have a unique name: this is its key identifier. It is not good practice to try to
enter locations with duplicate names. This may lead to unexpected and undesirable consequences
when trying to recall data.
34 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

By clicking on entries in the list, details for that entry are brought up in the field on the right of
the window, as can be seen by comparing data in Figure 37 and Figure 38.
To edit data associated with a particular location, simply edit the contents of the fields and click
‘Save and Exit’.
Figure 37 Reviewing/Editing Location Data – A
Figure 38 Reviewing/Editing Location Data – B
Entering a New Location, Test Equipment or Test Organization
Click on ‘New’ or type Alt-N. A new entry titled ‘New Location’ appears in the Location list at
the left side of the window, as shown in Figure 39. This may be edited as with any other entry.
Figure 39 Entering a New Location
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Deleting a Location, Test Equipment or Test Organization
Choose location by clicking on an entry in the Location List. Click Delete; you must confirm the
delete via the Dialog box shown in Figure 40.
Deleting a location will not delete any of the results associated with that location.
Figure 40 Deleting a Location

6.7.3. Importing and Exporting Location Files
The SFRA software allows for importing/exporting of Location files between users. This helps
ensure consistency of locations for different users. A similar feature is available for transformers.
Use the Ctrl key and left mouse click to highlight a number of entries in the Location list, as
shown in Figure 41.
Figure 41 Exporting Location Entries to a File
A dialog box appears asking for the name of the file for the exported Locations to be saved in, as
shown in Figure 42.
36 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 42 Exporting Location Folder Selection
The file is saved in xml format. When importing Locations from a file, click the “Import from
Location File” and open an xml file. If no valid locations are found, the message in Figure 43
appears.
Figure 43 Importing Location Entries from a File
6.7.4. Transformer Editor

The ‘Transformer Editor’ is used to create, edit, review and delete ‘Transformers’. To access the
Transformer Editor click “Edit Transformers” from the Test Equipment panel, Figure 35.
Transformers are not tied to particular locations – ‘Transformers’ and ‘Locations’ are combined
when a test is made so that a test is performed on a transformer at a particular location. That
location may change on subsequent tests, after relocation of the transformer, say.
A transformer is any uniquely identifiable test object. It is, in fact, quite a complicated object
consisting of many parts and sub-assemblies: coolers, bushings, tap changers. The transformer
editor allows salient information to be entered and recorded.
Reviewing/Editing Transformer Data
After clicking on ‘Transformer Editor’ a window similar to that in Figure 44 is shown. This is the
main window for Transformer data.
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 37

Transformers presently available are listed in the box on the left of the window. On the right of
the window there are three tabs:
• Transformer
• LTC/DETC
• Test Template
Each tab allows access to data related to a particular transformer. Each may be edited
independently.
Each transformer must have a unique serial number: this is its key identifier. It is not good
practice to try to enter transformers with duplicate serial numbers. This may lead to unexpected
and undesirable consequences when trying to recall data.
By clicking on entries in the list, details for that entry are brought up in the field on the right of
the window, as can be seen by comparing data in Figure 44 and Figure 45.
To edit data associated with a particular transformer, simply edit the contents of the fields and
click ‘OK.
Figure 44 Reviewing/Editing Transformer Data – A
38 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 45 Reviewing/Editing Transformer Data – B
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 39

Reviewing/Editing LTC/DETC Data

Select ‘LTC/DETC’ data by clicking on the ‘LTC/DETC’ tab. This brings up a window similar
to that in Figure 46.
This tab allows entry of data associated with any LTC or DETC which may be present on the
transformer. This data is not ‘required’ data for a test but is useful reference data.
The ‘Range’ fields are used to indicate the full range available for the LTC or DETC.
The position of these during a test is recorded in a separate table when a test is made.
Figure 46 Reviewing/Editing LTC/DETC Data
40 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Reviewing Test Template Association

An individual transformer may have a ‘Test Template’ associated with it, as shown in Figure 47.
See Section 6.8 for details on test templates.
A test template allows a collection of tests to be identified and named, for example, a set of tests
for a three phase auto transformer. These may then be associated with a transformer through this
tab of the transformer editor.
A test template gives a list of recommended test for a transformer, but does not constrain the
tester to particular tests. It is a guide, rather than a constraint.
Figure 47 Reviewing Test Template Association
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Editing Test Template Association

By clicking on select, a list of available templates is given, as shown in Figure 48.
Figure 48 Selecting a Test Template
It is possible to then associate a transformer with any template available. See Section 6.8 for
details of entering and editing test templates.
42 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Entering a New Transformer

Click on ‘New’. A new entry entitled ‘NewSerialNumber’ appears in the Transformer list at the
left side of the window, as shown in Figure 49. Details may be entered, including giving the new
entry an appropriate serial number.
Figure 49 Entering a New Transformer
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Deleting a Transformer
To delete a transformer, highlight its entry by clicking on it in the transformer list in the left side
of the Transformer Editor window. Then click on ‘Delete’.
A Dialog Box asking for confirmation of the delete will appear. Click ‘Yes’ to delete the
transformer.
Deleting a transformer does not delete any of the results associated with that transformer.
Figure 50 Deleting a Transformer
6.8. Test Templates
Test templates are a means of grouping tests for a particular transformer design and are a flexible
way of specifying tests for use in the field.
A template is used as a guide and is not a constraint. When testing a transformer the user may
select tests from the template, specify tests that are not in the template or ignore the template
recommendations.
Each test describes the test connections and the state of the transformer.
A template may be associated with a number of transformers; it may also be created for future
reference and not associated with any transformer.
44 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

6.8.1. Accessing Templates

To access templates click on ‘Edit Templates’ in the ‘Test Equipment Panel’ menu, as shown in
Figure 35.
6.8.2. Review Templates

Available templates are listed at the left side of the window. Click on an entry to show tests,
which have been predefined for that template. Figure 51 shows available tests for a 3 Phase 2
Winding D-Y transformer.
Figure 51 Reviewing Available Test Templates
By clicking on the next entry, as shown in Figure 52, we see tests available for a 3 phase 2
winding Y-D transformer.
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Figure 52 Reviewing Available Test Templates
46 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

6.8.3. Creating a New Template

To create a new template, click on ‘New’ in the Template Editor.
A new entry, ‘New template’ will appear in the list in the window on the left, as shown
in Figure 53.
Figure 53 Creating a New test Template
To add tests to the template, see Section 6.8.4
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6.8.4. Managing Tests in a Template

The template editor allows the user to add, edit or delete tests in the template. Click on ‘Manage’
in the Template Editor to bring up the window shown in Figure 54. Each available test has a
name which appears in the window at the left. The minimum required information is:
• Position of the red lead (e.g. H1, A or N)
• Position of the black lead (e.g. X0, n or v)
together these values are used to give the name of the test.
Figure 54 Managing Tests in a Template
A new test may be added by clicking on ‘New’ in the left hand side of the window. This adds a
new entry to the template, as shown in Figure 55.
Figure 55 Adding a New Test to a Template
Clicking on its entry in the window at left and then clicking on ‘Delete’ may delete a test. A
dialog box appears to confirm deletion of the test, as shown in Figure 56.
48 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 56 Deleting a Test from a Template

6.8.5. Deleting a Template
To delete a template, click on the entry in the list of templates and then click delete.
A dialog box appears asking for confirmation of the deletion, as shown in Figure 57.
Figure 57 Deleting a Template

6.8.6. Template Files
The Doble SFRA Software comes complete with a set of preconfigured templates. These are in
the Settings file of the directory where the data files are stored, as set up on installation. These
files may be edited directly or replaced. Note: it is recommended that data is backed up before
replacing a file.
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 49

6.8.7. Importing a Set of Templates

Further templates may be imported using a simple procedure to merge template files, as outlined
for transformer file merge in section 6.14.
6.8.8. Associating a Template with a Transformer
Templates may be created without reference to individual transformers entered through the
Transformer Editor (see Section Error! Reference source not found.).
To associate a template with a transformer, enter the Transformer Editor and click on the Test
template tab, as shown in Figure 58.
Figure 58 Associating a Template with a Transformer
Click Select to choose a template from the list of available templates.
6.9. Data Management
Data Management with the Doble SFRA software is a simple but powerful process based on
manipulating Windows ™ files.
Data folders may be set up based on transformers, sub-stations, manufacturers or whatever the
user decides. A default folder is set up for results. When a measurement is made, the resulting
50 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

trace is saved to the default folder automatically. Traces are date and time stamped and may be
moved or copied between folders as with any Windows ™ file.
6.9.1. Data Source

The Data Source is the location for data: this can be any drive accessible by the software.
Click on ‘Options’ under the Edit menu, as shown in Figure 59.
Figure 59 Options Menu
The Dialog Box in Figure 60 appears. This gives the current locations for:
• Data Path
• Editor List
Figure 60 Data Sources
By clicking on the buttons marked ‘…’ a new dialog Box appears allowing selection of location,
as shown in Figure 61.
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Figure 61 Selecting Data Source Location
6.9.2. Data Manager

The Data Manager is accessed via the Data Manager tab on the main window, as shown in Figure
62. Results are show in spreadsheet form. Selecting one or more spreadsheet rows allows one or
more traces to be selected for display.
Figure 62 Opening the Data Manager
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6.9.3. Selecting a Data Source
Click on ‘Select Data Source’ to bring up a standard Windows Explorer ™ type window; this
allows for selection of the folder where results are stored, as shown in Figure 65.
Figure 63 Selecting Data Source

Note there is no ‘Delete’ option in the Doble SFRA software: to delete files, locate the file via
the date and time stamp in the folder where it is stored and use Windows Explorer ™ to delete it.
The automatic saving and procedure for deletion of files is set up to help protect data from
inadvertent replacement or loss. By checking the box ‘Search All Sub-Folders’, results in any
folders which are within the selected data source will also be displayed in the results
spreadsheet.Click on ‘Set Data Source as Default’ to set the current data source as default for
opening when the software is next run, as shown in Figure 64.
Figure 64 Confirmation of Data Source Being set as Default

6.9.4. Refresh Data Tree
This function is only required when a new data source has been selected or additional SFRA
traces have been made and stored in the default folder. They do not automatically appear in the
data spreadsheet: a Refresh Data Tree click means that the traces will appear in the spreadsheet.
6.9.5. Displaying Traces (Results)
The Data Manager lists all results that are saved to the current data source location. Figure 65
shows results stored in a particular folder. The actual list of results may be very long as each
trace is identified separately.
The directory-like tree structure on the right allows for selection of a subset of results for display.
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Figure 65 Available Results

6.9.6. Selecting a Subset of Results for Display
To select a sub-set of results, use the ‘+’ sign next to a given attribute in the Tree to identify
results.
In Figure 66 we have:
• Looked at available Test Dates
• Selected for spreadsheet view only results from one test date as shown in the window to the
right.
Figure 66 Selecting Results by Directory Tree
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To display a single result, click on the button at the left end of the result, as shown in Figure 67,
then click on ‘Display Traces’.
Figure 67 Selecting a Single Result for Display
To select multiple results, use the ‘Ctrl’ key and select entries by clicking on the gray buttons at
the end of each test, as shown in Figure 68. Then click on ‘Display Traces’.
Figure 68 Highlighting Results for Display
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6.9.7. Exporting Results to a CSV file

Having selected a sub-set of results, click on “Export Selected Results to CSV Files”.
A dialog box appears as in Figure 69. Select a folder where the CSV files will be saved. There
will be one CSV file for each measurement traces selected.
Figure 69 Choosing a Folder for CSV Export
Having selected a folder, click “OK” and each measurement trace will be saved as CSV format in
the folder, as shown in Figure 70. The source data is not affected.
Figure 70 Saving File in CSV Confirmation

6.9.8. Importing Location and Transformer from Results Files
Having selected a sub-set of results, it is possible to add the Location and Transformer entries in
each file to your own settings file.
Click on “Import Location and Transformer From Results File”.
If a Transformer or Location is imported, a confirmatory message is given, as shown in
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Figure 71 Confirmation of Transformer Import
If no import is made, a message is shown, as in .
Figure 72 Confirmation of no Location Imports
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6.10. Importing 1.x and 2.x M5100 SFRA Files
It is possible to import data from M5100 versions 1.x and 2.x software simply by placing those
files in the appropriate data source location. See Section 6.9.1.
Any M5100 files of version 1.x or 2.x will be parsed for content and put into the new Doble
SFRA format. They will then be renamed with a different extension so as not to be re-converted
subsequently. Make sure to have backed up copies of files imported as a precaution against loss
of data.
Nameplate data in M5100 versions 1.x and 2.x format is not easily converted to M5200/M5300
format. There are a number of corresponding fields, such as ‘Transformer Serial Number’ and
‘Location’ but location of test lead may be less obvious. All data imported should be checked for
accuracy and details, with no ‘odd’ characters in any field, such as @, *,? etc..
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6.11. Running a Test

A test may only be performed using the M5300 or with a PC connected to an M5200 test set; it is
not possible to perform a test from the PC Viewer version of the software without an instrment.
Selecting a combination of performs a test:
• Transformer (complete with template)
• Location
• Test Organization
• Test Equipment
And then entering test Setup details.
The software will not allow a test to be run without this combination of information.
6.11.1. Select Apparatus

Click on ‘Select Apparatus’ from the Apparatus/Test Sub-pane to bring up a window similar to
that in Figure 73. This window has sections for each element of data for the test to be selected.
Figure 73 Selecting a Transformer Location Combination
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Click on the transformer to be tested, the Location, the test Organization and the Test Equipment.
This will give the combination of details, which will be tested; for review purposes a basic
indication of selected details is given at the bottom of the ‘Apparatus and Test’ sub-pane, as
shown in Figure 74.
6.11.2. Set Test Group Parameters
Click on the ‘Apparatus and Test’ tab to bring up the Test sub-pane, as shown in Figure 74. This
window allows general f parameters, which are valid for a group of successive tests on a
transformer to be entered. A default set of test parameters are given:
• Oil – gives the level of oil in the transformer, defaults to full
• Reason – is the motivation for the test, which is normally routine, the default value
Figure 74 Setting Test Parameters
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6.11.3. Select Test from Associated Template

Having set test parameters for a group of tests, an individual test from a transformer template
may be identified. Click on ‘Select test’ to bring up the window in Figure 75. Highlight the
appropriate test and click OK.
Note: this does not start a test, and test details may still be edited before the test begins.
Figure 75 Choosing a Test from a Template
6.11.4. Start Test

Click on ‘Start test’ or press ‘F2’ to start a test. The window shown in Figure 76 appears with
values from the test template line selected filling the details fields.
Figure 76 Test Details
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As a minimum, it is necessary to fill in the location of the red test lead and the location of the
black test lead. It is recommended to fill in as many test details as possible. This makes it more
likely that the same test set up can be repeated in the future.
The trace name is a combination of the Red and Black lead locations.
If no test template was selected, a blank window is displayed, as shown in Figure 77.
If the ‘Run test’ button is clicked without entering data, an error is recorded and the Lead
Locations are highlighted, as shown in Figure 78.
Figure 77 Test Details if no Template was Used
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Figure 78 Red-Black Lead Locations are Required Fields
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6.11.5. Test in Progress

When at least a minimum set of details has been entered, it is possible to run a test. Click on
‘Start Test’ in the test details window to return to the test sub-window, as shown in Figure 79.
Figure 79 Test in Progress
At this point, the M5200 or M5300 will undergo a number of self tests to ensure:
• Internal Temperature does not exceed acceptable limits

• Noise levels on the test leads do not exceed safe levels for the instrument
• Resistance between ground connections is not too high
• The internal M5200/M5300 performance check was successful
If each test is successful, as is usually the case, then no message is given and the test starts. If
however, a test fails, then one of the following messages is given.
The M5200 and M5300 are designed to operate in a 50oC environment for extended periods. The
internal temperature is tested before each test as an elevated temperature may reduce component
life and reduce reliability of the Doble SFRA instrument. If the temperature is abnormally high, a
warning is given. It is possible to continue with the test, as shown in Figure 80, but it is
recommended that the unit be switched off for a number of minutes to allow it to cool down first.
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Figure 80 Self Test - Temperature

Excessive noise on the input channels may cause excessive noise in the results. If this level rises
too high, it may damage the instrument. Consequently, the Doble SFRA instrument tests the
noise level on the input channels, as shown in Figure 81, before each test. It is recommended that
if a high noise level is found that the test is stopped, bushing terminals are grounded to reduce
static, and the test restarted. It is possible to continue with the test, but results may be noisy.
Figure 81 Self Test – Noise

An SFRA test is reliant on good test connections at the bushing terminal and at the base of the
bushing. The Doble SFRA instrument tests the ground loop resistance before running a test, as
shown in Figure 82. A value of less than 1 ohm is ideal, but less than 5 ohms is usually
acceptable. Causes of high ground loop resistance include poor connections to bushing studs due
to dirt, grease or paint or, occasionally, the stud itself not being grounded. Any measurement
above 250 ohms should be considered an open circuit.
Figure 82 Self Test – Ground Continuity
The Doble SFRA test set also generates signals at a number of frequencies and measures those
without sending them through the test object; this signal verification test, as shown in Figure 83,
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confirms that the test set is performing as expected. If the test fails, it is still possible to continue
with the SFRA measurement, but results should be checked for acceptability.
Figure 83 Self Test – Signal Generation
The test will have its progress monitored by a percent completion indicator and a value for the
current frequency being tested.
6.11.6. Checking Results and Trouble Shooting Results

SFRA is an easy test to perform, but experience has shown that some simple problems may occur
during a test. These have a characteristic signature, discussed here.
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Monitoring Waveforms
It is a feature of the Doble SFRA test sets to be able to monitor the reference and measured
waveforms as we run through a test. Click on the ‘Waveform’ tab to display the waveforms, as
shown in Figure 84.
Figure 84 Waveforms
Both waveforms should be displayed. At very low dB response the measured waveform may be
very small.
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Diagnosing Open Circuit Response

An open circuit response may be caused by the black test lead dropping off the bushing, a poor
connection or damage within the test lead. The blue trace in Figure 85 shows the typical open
circuit response – about -100 to -115 dB. This test should be investigated – to check whether the
open circuit lies in the test set up or in the transformer.
Figure 85 Typical Open Circuit Response
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Diagnosing Open Circuit in Red Test Lead

The Doble SFRA test set monitors the output signal as a reference waveform. If this waveform is
not present then an error is indicated, as shown in Figure 86 and Figure 87. This situation may be
caused by forgetting to attach the test leads (not uncommon), a damaged test connection at the
test set or possibly a damaged lead. This situation has also been caused by misconnecting the test
leads such the red signal lead is grounded and no reference waveform is measured.
Figure 86 Open Circuit in Red Test Lead
Figure 87 Open Circuit in Test Lead Dialog Box
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6.12. Saving and Deleting Traces

6.12.1. Saving Traces
All completed traces are automatically saved.
If the test is canceled, the data is not saved.

6.12.2. Deleting Traces
This is done through Windows Explorer. Individual files may be identified through a
combination of:
• Manufacturer
• Serial Number
• Location
• Date
• Time
It should be noted that each tabbed option in the data manager, which shows the traces, also
gives the individual file name as the last field.
6.13. Transferring Data between Machines or PC’s
This is easy to do using Windows Explorer.

Identify tests to transfer and copy them to a disk or suitable medium.
Transfer them to target PC by copying them to the location identified in the data source. The files
will be then available through the Data Manager.
The software will try to identify duplicate files but is not foolproof. Please be careful when
copying and importing data.
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6.14. Merging Settings Files
Make sure all data and settings files are backed up before performing a merge operation.
Settings files contain entered data for:
• Transformers
• Locations
• Test Organizations
• Test Equipment
• Test Templates
The files are in XML format and can be found in the ‘Data Source’ directory under ‘Options’ on
the ‘Edit’ menu – see Section 6.4.2.
The method for merging Transformer Settings files described here is also applicable to other
settings files. Care must be taken as incorrect merging could make the software unstable.
6.14.1. Opening a Settings File

To open a settings file, use a standard text editor such as Microsoft Notepad. Microsoft Word
should be avoided since it will attempt to save files in its native format, which is not compatible
with the SFRA software. This document assumes the use of Notepad.
The following simplified view of the Transformer settings file will be used to describe the file in
detail.
Line # XML File

1 <?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
2 <transformerNameplates>
3 <transformerNameplate version="1">
4 <manufacturer>ABB</manufacturer>
5 <serialNumber>1234</serialNumber>
- .
- .
- .
54 </transformerNameplate>
55 <transformerNameplate version="1">
56 <manufacturer>GE</manufacturer>
57 <serialNumber>xyz</serialNumber>
- .
- .
- .
106 </transformerNameplate>
107 </transformerNameplates>
Table 1 Transformer Settings XML Format
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Line 1 of the xml file is always the xml declaration that describes the xml version and encoding
used. This must not be modified.
Line 2 contains start tag that is the beginning of the container of all transformers contained in the
file. It must have a matching end tag, which is shown on line 107.
Line 3 contains the start tag of the first transformer nameplate and must also have an ending tag,
shown on line 54 in this case. It is important to understand that the line numbers are only
important for this example that describes the file contents, they may vary for different
Transformer Settings files. Future versions may add or remove data that would shift absolute line
numbers. It is important to recognize the xml start and end tags for each section.
Line 55 shows the start another transformer that ends on line 106.
If another transformer were added, it would start after line 106 on line 107, but it would be
inserted before the xml tag </transformerNameplates> that is currently on line 107.
6.14.2. A Merge Example

In this example we look at two SFRA users who wish to share XML files.
Table 2 shows a simplified transformer settings file from User A (as viewed in Notepad):
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<transformerNameplates>
<transformerNameplate version="1">
<manufacturer>ABB</manufacturer>
<serialNumber>1234</serialNumber>
</transformerNameplate>
<manufacturer>GE</manufacturer>
<serialNumber>xyz</serialNumber>
</transformerNameplates>
Table 2 User A Transformer Settings XML File
Table 3 shows another simplified transformer settings file from User B:
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>

<transformerNameplates>
<manufacturer>ACME</manufacturer>
</transformerNameplates>
Table 3 User B Transformer Settings XML File
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User A’s file contains two transformers (both underlined in the tables for clarity):
• ABB with serial number 1234
• GE with serial number xyz
User B’s file contains one transformer:
• ACME with serial number 9999
The safest method for merging files is to combine the contents of the two files into a new file,
which contains elements from both source files.
The following procedure merges the contents into a new transformer Settings file. It makes use
of the fact that several versions of Microsoft’s Notepad ™ may be run simultaneously.
• Back up all TransformerList.xml files.
• Start a version of Notepad and load User A’s TransformerList.xml file.
• Start another version of Notepad and load User B’s TransformerList.xml file.
• Start another Notepad; we will merge original data into this blank Notepad document.
• Select the entire text in User A’s file and paste it into the blank Notepad. Close User A’s file.
• Select just the transformerNameplate section from User B’s file, as shown in Table 4:
<manufacturer>ACME</manufacturer>
Table 4 Transformer Nameplate Section from User B File
• Close User B’s file.

• In the remaining notepad, place the cursor on the beginning of Line 3 and paste the text. This
will incorporate the transformer nameplate that was copied. Check that the file has the right
format – carriage returns and line feeds to ensure readability of the document
• Save the file as TransformerList.xml.
• You can now overwrite the existing TransformerList.xml file located at My
Documents\SweepFrequencyResponseAnalyzer\Settings (or wherever the Data Source has
been configured to address) with this file either by saving to this location or copying the file
using Windows Explorer.
6.14.3. Merging Caveats

The manual merge is prone to cut and paste errors. It will be updated in a future version of the
SFRA software.
Be especially careful to avoid possible duplicate entries in any Settings file; this may cause the
SFRA software to become unstable.
Back up all files before merging.
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6.15. Application Details

6.15.1. Graph Options
The Graph Menu, shown in Figure 88, allows control of various aspects of the display area.
Figure 88 Graph Options Menu
Most of the controls are intuitive; a short description is given here.
Cursor 1
Click on ‘Cursor 1’ to display the blue cursor. Current cursor co-ordinates are displayed in a field
at the bottom of the graph, as shown in Figure 89.
The cursor will ‘attach’ itself to a trace. By moving the mouse pointer over the cursor lines it is
possible to move it around the graph. The cursor will always attach itself to the nearest graph.
Figure 89 Clicking on Cursor 1
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Cursor 2
Click on ‘Cursor 2’ on the Graph menu to bring up Cursor 2, which is displayed in red, as shown
by the co-ordinates at the bottom of the graph, in Figure 90.
Figure 90 Two Cursors Displayed – Red and Blue
Center Cursors
By clicking on ‘Center Cursors’ the cursors are taken to the center of the displayed graph. This is
the center of the scale values – which may be offset on a log scale, as shown in Figure 91.
Figure 91 Centered Cursors
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Zoom
On a log or linear scale, the zoom function works by zooming in between cursor positions. Both
cursors must be visible.
On a linear scale it is possible to zoom in on a particular area by holding down the shift key then
using left click drag and drop.
Unzoom
Clicking on ‘Unzoom’ on the Graph menu resets the graph to default values.
New Range
Clicking on ‘New Range’ brings up the Dialog Box shown in Figure 92. This allows for manual
setting of the plot maxima and minima. This is useful when producing zoomed plots of set graph
areas for reports.
Figure 92 Plot Range Dialog Box
Click on ‘Restore Defaults’ to reset all values to their original level.
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Log & Linear Options

Click on ‘Log’ or ‘Linear’ on the ‘Graph option to set the X-axis scale mode for the graph.
Figure 93 and Figure 94 show the same graph on Log and Linear scales.
The Log scale allows for display of all data in one chart emphasizing lower frequencies.
The Linear scale also displays all data but emphasizes higher frequencies.
Figure 93 Graph using Default Log Scale
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Figure 94 Graph with Linear Scale
Clear Traces
Click on ‘Clear Traces’ on the Graph menu to bring up the dialog box shown in Figure 95. Check
one or more traces for deletion from the display.
Note this is different to checking the boxes on the legend display, which makes an individual
trace visible or invisible.
Figure 95 Clear Traces Dialog Box
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6.15.2. Pan
On the graph screen hold down the ‘control’ key and use the left mouse button to drag the traces
across the screen.
6.15.3. Analyze
The ‘Analysis’ tab brings up the display in Figure 96.
Figure 96 Analysis Display
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Click on ‘Select Traces’ to bring up the Dialog Box in Figure 97.
Figure 97 Analysis - Select Traces Dialog Box
This Dialog box allows the user to select two traces for analysis using difference and correlation.
If less than or more than two traces are selected, the dialog box in Figure 98 is displayed, and no
action is taken.
Figure 98 Incorrect Number of Traces Selected
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Having selected two traces, the results are shown, as in Figure 99.
Figure 99 Analysis of Two Traces
The Analysis screen allows analysis of two traces for the overlapping section of the two traces.
For instance, if one trace is 10 Hz to 2 MHz and the other 20 Hz to 10 MHz, the analysis will
cover 20 Hz to 2 MHz, the higher of the lower values to the lower of the higher values. This is
where the two traces ‘overlap'.
Difference Analysis
The difference plot shows a trace of the difference between the two plots using the user selected
dB limits to color the result. Figure 100 shows the section of the display where these values are
set.
Figure 100 User Defined Difference Limits
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A difference of less than 2.0 dB will be plotted on the difference chart in green; a difference
between 2.0 dB and 5.0 dB will be plotted in yellow, while a difference of more than 5.0 dB will
be plotted in red. The display shows the results of these values, as shown in Figure 101.
Figure 101 Difference Plot
Selecting new values for the difference plot, as shown in Figure 102, results in a new difference
chart, as shown in Figure 103, when the ‘Recalculate button on the display is clicked.
Figure 102 Edited Difference Plot Values
Figure 103 Difference Plot with New Limits
Correlation Analysis
Correlation analysis between two traces is performed on sub-sections of the two traces. Figure
104 shows the default bands.
Figure 104 Correlation Range Display
The cursor positions for the correlation bands are set by either moving the cursors or by altering
the corresponding field values, as shown in Figure 105. The cursor colors correspond to the field
backgrounds in Figure 105.
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Figure 105 Correlation Range Selections
The value of the correlation coefficient in each range is given in the fields below the cursor
selection, as shown in Figure 106.
Figure 106 Correlation Coefficients
If the cursors are moved, the values of the correlation coefficients must be recalculated using the
‘Calculate’ button on the screen.
The correlation coefficient limits are set by the fields on the ‘Analysis’ tab shown in Figure 107.
These values govern the values of the correlation coefficient results.
Figure 107 Correlation Limits

After editing the correlation limit values, or amending the cursor positions, click on ‘Recalculate’
to determine the new correlation values.
Analysis Discussion
There are no standard limits for acceptability of SFRA traces. Doble is involved in the latest
research and submissions to International Standards Organizations such as IEEE and CIGRE.
Recommendations from these organizations along with Doble proprietary experience will be
incorporated into the Doble Expert System for SFRA Analysis: SAM™ (SFRA Analysis
Manager).
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6.15.4. Printing and Reporting

Click on the ‘File’ menu to display the menu shown in Figure 108.
Figure 108 File Menu – Print and Print Preview
Print Preview brings up the Dialog Box shown in Figure 109. This Dialog Box allows for
preview of the printed report.
Figure 109 Print Preview Dialog Box
The report consists of two parts:

The graph area – showing those traces on the graph, which are checked (and thus displayed)
The details pages – showing test details for each trace, as shown in Figure 110.
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Figure 110 Print Preview Details Page
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Clicking on ‘Print’ from the ‘File’ menu to bring up the standard Windows print Dialog Box, as
shown in Figure 111.
Figure 111 Windows Print Dialog Box
6.16. Closing the Software
When closing down the Doble SFRA software a window will appear confirming that you wish to
exit the software, as shown in Figure 112
Figure 112 Exit Software Confirmation
If you click ‘yes’ a reminder window appears, Figure 113, asking for a computer restart before
restoring connections to any networks.
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Figure 113 Actions before Restoring Network Connections
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Chapter 7
Application – Connections
Generally, an SFRA measurement is made from one terminal on the transformer (e.g H1 or A) to
another terminal (e.g. H2 or N).
It is important to record all relevant information, which includes tap position, oil level and
terminals grounded or shorted.
It is IMPORTANT to note that where previous test results exist, the best testing procedure is to
repeat those tests: taking note of tap position, shorted or grounded bushings and any particular
details for specific tests performed.
Doble is a key member of international bodies such as CIGRE and IEEE, which are pursuing
FRA test standards. As standards develop, recommended tests may be changed with input from
experienced users around the world. Doble will reflect those changes.
7.1. Measurement Types
7.1.1. Open Circuit

An open circuit measurement is made from one end of a winding to another with all other
terminals floating. For a delta winding, connections would be H1 to H3, for example. For a star
(wye) winding measurements are taken from HV terminals to neutral, such as X1 to X0.
7.1.2. Interwinding
An interwinding measurement is from one from one winding to another with all other terminals
floating. This would include, for example, H1 to X1 on a double wound transformer or H1 to Y1
on an autotransformer with a tertiary. Note that H1 to X1 on an autotransformer is not an
interwinding measurement but an open circuit measurement on the series winding.
Interwinding measurements are usually considered as optional tests or tests for further
investigation when open circuit and short circuit tests are inconclusive.
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7.1.3. Short Circuit
A short circuit measurement is made with the same SFRA test lead connections as an open
circuit measurement but with the difference that another winding is short circuited. To ensure
repeatability, Doble recommends that the three voltage terminals on the shorted winding are all
shorted together. This would mean, for example, shorting X1 to X2, X2 to X3 and X3 to X1.
This ensures all three phases are similarly shorted to give a consistent impedance. Any neutral
connections available for the shorted winding should not be included in the shorting process.
7.2. Test Templates

The test templates given here do not indicate tap changer position or no-load tap changer
position. There are two test categories: comprehensive and basic.
A comprehensive set of tests would make measurements at both neutral position and an extreme
tap position, such as extreme raise. A comprehensive set of measurements includes open circuit,
short circuit and interwinding measurements.
A basic set of tests, recorded when a baseline is needed and there is no question of the
transformer’s health and time is short, consists of a set of results only taken at extreme tap
position. A basic set of measurements includes open circuit and short circuit measurements only.
Note
Interwinding tests are marked with an asterisk to indicate their optional nature.
Note
Each table gives the recommended tests with position of the red lead and black
lead clearly identified. Reversing these test leads may provide small variations in
higher frequency response. Care must therefore be taken in attaching test leads in
the appropriate manner.
Note on LTC Position

Changing LTC will change SFRA response; LTC position should be recorded. At
neutral tap, previous tap position should also be recorded.
Note on DETC Position

Transformers in service occasionally have problems due to DETC movement; it is
not recommended that DETC position be altered for an SFRA test. The exception
is in factory tests on a new transformer where it can be assumed that the DETC is
in operating condition, and tests performed on nominal tap.
Note on Grounding Connections

Good grounds are key to good high frequency responses – make sure ground
connections are not hampered by loose connections, paint or dirt and grease.
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 89

7.3. Two Winding Transformers
3φ 3φ 3φ 3φ
Test Type Test # Delta- Wye- Delta- Wye-Wye 1φ
Wye Delta Delta
HV Open Circuit (OC) Test 1 H1-H3 H1-H0 H1-H3 H1-H0
H1-H2
All Other Terminals Test 2 H2-H1 H2-H0 H2-H1 H2-H0
(H1-H0)
Floating Test 3 H3-H2 H3-H0 H3-H2 H3-H0
LV Open Circuit (OC) Test 4 X1-X0 X1-X3 X1-X3 X1-X0
X1-X2
All Other Terminals Test 5 X2-X0 X2-X1 X2-X1 X2-X0
(X1-X0)
Floating Test 6 X3-X0 X3-X2 X3-X2 X3-X0
Short Circuit (SC) Test 7 H1-H3 H1-H0 H1-H3 H1-H0 H1-H0
High (H) to Low (L) Test 8 H2-H1 H2-H0 H2-H1 H2-H0 Short [X1-
Short [X1-X2-X3] Test 9 H3-H2 H3-H0 H3-H2 H3-H0 X2]
Table 5 Two Winding Transformers
7.4. AutoTransformers
Test Type Test # 3φ 1φ

Test 1 H1-X1
Series Winding (OC)
Test 2 H2-X2 H1-X1
All Other Terminals Floating
Test 3 H3-X3
Test 4 X1-H0X0
Common Winding (OC)
Test 5 X2-H0X0 X1-H0X0
Test 6 X3-H0X0
Test 7 Y1-Y3
Tertiary Winding (OC) Y1-Y2
Test 8 Y2-Y1
All Other Terminals Floating (Y1-Y0)
Test 9 Y3-Y2
Short Circuit (SC) Test 10 H1-H0X0 H1-H0X0
High (H) to Low (L) Test 11 H2-H0X0 Short [X1-
Short [X1-X2-X3] Test 12 H3-H0X0 H0X0]
Short Circuit (SC) Test 13 H1-H0X0
H1-H0X0
High (H) to Tertiary (Y) Test 14 H2-H0X0
Short [Y1-Y2]
Short [Y1-Y2-Y3] Test 15 H3-H0X0
Short Circuit (SC) Test 16 X1-H0X0
X1-H0X0
Low (L) to Tertiary (Y) Test 17 X2-H0X0
Short [Y1-Y2]
Short [Y1-Y2-Y3] Test 18 X3-H0X0
Table 6 Autotransformers
90 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

7.5. Three Winding Transformers
3φ 3φ 3φ 3φ
Test Type Test # Delta-Delta- Delta-Delta- Delta-Wye- Delta-Wye-Wye 1φ
Delta Wye Delta
Test 1 H1-H3 H1-H3 H1-H3 H1-H3 H1-H2
HV Open Circuit (OC)
Test 2 H2-H1 H2-H1 H2-H1 H2-H1 (H1-
Test 3 H3-H2 H3-H2 H3-H2 H3-H2 H0)
Test 4 X1-X3 X1-X3 X1-X0 X1-X0 X1-X2
LV Open Circuit (OC)
Test 5 X2-X1 X2-X1 X2-X0 X2-X0 (X1-
Test 6 X3-X2 X3-X2 X3-X0 X3-X0 X0)
Test 7 Y1-Y3 Y1-Y0 Y1-Y3 Y1-Y0 Y1-Y2
Tert Open Circuit (OC)
Test 8 Y2-Y1 Y2-Y0 Y2-Y1 Y2-Y0 (Y1-
Test 9 Y3-Y2 Y3-Y0 Y3-Y2 Y3-Y0 Y0)
Test 10 H1-H3 H1-H3 H1-H3 H1-H3 H1-H0
Short Circuit (SC)
Test 11 H2-H1 H2-H1 H2-H1 H2-H1 Short
High (H) to Low (L)
Test 12 H3-H2 H3-H2 H3-H2 H3-H2 [X1-
Short [X1-X2-X3]*
2]*
Short Circuit (SC) Test 13 H1-H3 H1-H3 H1-H3 H1-H3 H1-H0
High (H) to Tertiary (T) Test 14 H2-H1 H2-H1 H2-H1 H2-H1 Short
Short [Y1-Y2-Y3]* Test 15 H3-H2 H3-H2 H3-H2 H3-H2 [Y1-2]*
Short Circuit (SC) Test 16 X1-X3 X1-X3 X1-X0 X1-X0 X1-X0
Low (L) to Tertiary (T) Test 17 X2-X1 X2-X1 X2-X0 X2-X0 Short
Short [Y1-Y2-Y3]* Test 18 X3-X2 X3-X2 X3-X0 X3-X0 [Y1-2]*
Table 7 Three Winding Transformers – Part 1
3φ 3φ 3φ 3φ
Test
Test Type Wye-Wye- Wye-Wye-Delta Wye-Delta-Wye Wye-Delta-
#
Wye Delta
Test 1 H1-H0 H1-H0 H1-H0 H1-H0
HV Open Circuit (OC)
Test 4 X1-X0 X1-X0 X1-X3 X1-X3
LV Open Circuit (OC)
Test 7 Y1-Y0 Y1-Y3 Y1-Y0 Y1-Y3
Tert Open Circuit (OC)
Test H1-H0 H1-H0 H1-H0 H1-H0
10
Short Circuit (SC)
High (H) to Low (L)
11
Short [X1-X2-X3]*
12
13
Short Circuit (SC)
High (H) to Tertiary (T)
14
Short [Y1-Y2-Y3]*
15
Test X1-X0 X1-X0 X1-X3 X1-X3
16
Short Circuit (SC)
Low (L) to Tertiary (T)
17
Short [Y1-Y2-Y3]*
18
Table 8 Three Winding Transformers – Part 2
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 91

Chapter 8
Examples
In this section we give typical results from a number of different transformer windings and
designs. They are given here as typical examples of how results vary between transformers –
both designs and phases.
8.1. Three Responses for One Transformer

Figure 114 shows the two open circuit responses and the short circuit response of one phase of an
autotransformer. The three traces are clearly quite different at low frequencies.
The HV response starts at a much lower level, about –50 dB than the LV response which is at
about –22 dB. The short circuit response is approaching 0 dB at low frequency but comes back in
line with the HV response at higher frequencies.
Figure 114 Responses for One Phase of a Transformer
92 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

8.2. HV Delta Response

Figure 115 shows the responses for three phases of a HV delta winding. This is a characteristic
response at low frequencies:
• The center phase has a slightly higher impedance (more negative response) at lower
frequencies
• The center phase is different to the outer phases at the first resonance below 10 kHz
• The center phase is more similar to the outer phases as we rise in frequency
• All three phases have the same basic shape above about 100 kHz
Figure 115 HV Delta Winding Responses
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 93

8.3. HV Wye (star) Response

Figure 116 shows a typical HV wye (star) winding response. All three phases show similar
responses at low frequencies, with the following characteristics:
• The center phase has a slightly increased impedance (more negative dBs) at low
frequencies
• The center phase has one resonance and the outer phases two resonance below about 1 kHz
• The outer phases are very similar at low frequencies
• The three phases ‘come back together’ as frequencies rise toward 10 kHz
• The three phases show regions of similarity and regions of dissimilarity across the
frequency range
Figure 116 HV Wye Winding Response
94 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

8.4. Short Circuit Test Response

Figure 117 shows the three short circuit responses from the HV side of a transformer. Clearly the
responses are very similar, which is what we would expect from this test.
Figure 117 Short Circuit Test Response
Even when we zoom in on the responses, as shown in Figure 118, they are still very similar. This
is a useful diagnostic where no previous results are available.
Figure 118 Short Circuit Response – Detail
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 95

8.5. Repeat Results for One Phase at Different Times

The two responses shown in Figure 119 were taken 18 months apart; the original data was taken
as a baseline set of results; the subsequent data was taken after an incident involving the
transformer.
Figure 119 Repeat Results for One Phase
The results are very similar.

Low frequency variation, below about 5 kHz, is characteristic of core magnetism affecting the
results; the traces have the same basic shape but one is offset compared to the other; they come
back into lone as we approach 10 kHz.
The higher frequency results are almost identical; this is strong evidence that there has been no
change within this transformer.
8.6. Results Showing a Shorted Turn

A shorted turn produces a similar effect to shorting the low side windings for a short circuit
measurement. The effect is very easy to see at low frequencies, and does not require reference
results.
The original results show the characteristic low frequency response of a wye (star) winding. The
subsequent results, taken a year later after a close in fault, show the characteristic response of a
short somewhere on that phase.
96 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 120 Shorted Turn on one Winding
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 97

Chapter 9
Data Interpretation
9.1. Frequency-dependant Transformer Equivalent Circuit
The power transformer equivalent circuit is a very complicated network of distributed resistive,
capacitive and inductive elements. These include:
• Capacitance between the neighboring turns of the same winding.
• Capacitance between the turns of different windings.
• Capacitance between the turns and the ground.
• Turns self-inductance.
• Turns mutual inductance.
• Conductor dc resistance.
• Resistance that accounts for dielectric losses in insulation.
• Resistance that accounts for eddy losses in conducting and magnetic components.
Depending on the test leads connection, the equivalent circuit involved in the measurement
represents an individual phase of the winding, the space between phases in a given winding or
the space between the windings. Size of the conductors, diameters of the coils, distance between
the coils, distance between the windings, number of turns, type of the core, winding
configuration, type and thickness of insulation, geometry and size of supporting material are
among the factors that define the elements of the equivalent circuit. Furthermore, each element is
specific to the transformer design and even influenced by the ability of the manufacturing shop to
replicate the units of the same design. Therefore, there is a direct relationship between the
geometry of core-winding configuration and the network of distributed resistive, capacitive and
inductive elements.
Since reactance of capacitive and inductive elements is frequency dependent, the contribution of
each element to the overall network impedance varies with frequency making the equivalent
circuit unique at each frequency. Therefore, the signature that represents the changing continuum
of the network impedance with frequency uniquely describes the geometry of the core-winding
configuration for a given unit and carries a wealth of diagnostic information. The network
impedance, which is the ratio of the output and input signals, is often referred to as the transfer
function. The frequency response analysis (SFRA) uses the transfer function behavior over the
specified range of frequencies as the transformer diagnostic signature. Being a complex variable,
the transfer function is described by the magnitude and the phase angle.
98 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

9.2. Diagnostic Significance of Frequency Ranges

Diagnostics of frequency ranges are discussed on two levels:
• Per-phase Open Circuit Measurement
• Short Circuit Measurement
9.2.1. Per-phase Open Circuit Measurement
As the name implies, the per-phase measurement targets the individual phase of a given winding.
At low frequencies, the influence of capacitance is negligible and the winding behaves as an
inductor. Therefore, the attenuation (described by the magnitude of the transfer function) and the
phase shift (described by the phase of the transfer function) of the low-frequency sinusoidal
signals, passing through the winding, are determined by inductive and resistive nature of the
network.
The inductive characteristics are determined by the magnetic circuit of the core and the resistive
characteristics are dominated by the resistance of the output measuring cable. An example of
transfer function magnitude and phase for a per-phase measurement is shown in Figure 121 and
Figure 122. In Figure 122 the phase angle is around −80 degrees, indicating the inductive nature
of the total impedance (in the region below 1 kHz). For a three-legged core-type unit, the
magnetic flux coupled with the outer phase (H1-H3 or H3-H2 in Figure 121) faces a different
reluctance than the flux coupled with the middle phase (H2-H1 in Figure 121). Therefore, the
corresponding magnitude traces, in the low frequency range, differ as well, i.e., the traces for the
two outer phases correlate very closely and are shifted from the middle-phase trace. The presence
of the residual magnetism may have an effect on relationship between the traces. This is the same
phenomenon that, during exciting current and loss measurement, creates a pattern of two high
similar and one lower reading under normal conditions and a slightly distorted pattern in the
presence of residual magnetism.
Figure 121 Per-Phase Measurement –Magnitude of the Transfer Function
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 99

Figure 122 Per-Phase Measurement – Phase of the Transfer Function
As the frequency of the input signal increases, the capacitive effects begin to dominate and the
phase angle quickly becomes close to +90 degrees (in the region above 1 kHz). Now, the
attenuation and the phase shift of the high-frequency sinusoidal signals, passing through the
winding, are determined by inductive and capacitive nature of the network. However, in high-
frequency region, the inductive characteristics are determined by the leakage flux coupling and
the capacitive characteristics are determined by the various capacitance elements associated with
individual turns. The propagation characteristic of the winding becomes complex as a result of
the many resonance frequencies found in the high-frequency range. However, since the winding
responses become less dependent on the magnetic circuit of the core, the traces of the three
phases converge and become quite similar.
As the frequency increases even further (over 100 kHz in Figure 122), the sinusoidal signals
travel mostly outside the winding and reflect the other elements found in the transformer, e.g.,
leads, support insulation, etc. The magnitude and the phase of the transfer function in that
frequency region are influenced by the inductive-capacitive-resistive nature of these elements.
Although most of the low-frequency magnitude responses exhibit a typical shape, there are no
typical form responses in the high-frequency region. These vary greatly with design of the unit.
Therefore, the frequency ranges noted in description of Figure 121 and Figure 122, are different
for different units.
100 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

9.2.2. Short Circuit Measurement

The aim of this measurement is to allow direct comparison between the three phases of a three-
phase transformer where no prior measurements exist.
By making a measurement on one winding with another winding short circuited, the effect of the
core at low frequencies is removed. The resulting response is that for a large inductor with no
core. The responses for all three phases should be very similar at low frequencies.
The theory behind the short-circuit measurement is straightforward.
Any two winding transformer may be modeled at low frequencies by a simple T-model, as shown
in Figure 123.
Normal test on HVs - LVs float
HV Winding LV Winding
Signal & Reference
R small R small
Core
M5200/5300
M5100
R high
Test
Model is relevant for LOW FREQUENCIES

Figure 123 T Model of Transformer Winding
The impedance of the windings is small, while the impedance of the core to ground is extremely
high. This means that for any input signal, the response is dominated by the core. By adding a
short to the LV side, the effect of the core is removed and the response is dominated by the
windings, which are predominantly inductors at low frequency. The response of an inductor is to
have a low db response at low frequency with an inductive roll off as frequency rises, as shown
in Figure 124.
Normal test on HVs - LVs float
HV Winding LV Winding
Signal & Reference
R small R small
Core
M5200/5300
M5100
R high
Test
Model is relevant for LOW FREQUENCIES

Figure 124 T Model with LV Short
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 101

All three phases of a transformer have similar winding inductances, which means their responses
should be very similar. See Chapter 9 for examples of the use of the short circuit response for
diagnostic purposes.
9.3. Analysis of Test Data

Topics concerned with analysis of test data include:
• Initial Measurement
• Subsequent Measurement
• Other Diagnostic Measurements
9.3.1. Initial Measurement
Present state of the art is such that analysis of SFRA data is based only on a subjective
comparison of traces. For the initial measurement, the traces are analyzed for changes between
responses of the three phases of the same transformer and changes between responses of
transformers of the same design. Obviously, for the single-phase unit, only the later comparison
is applicable.
The appearance of new features or major resonance frequency shifts is a cause for concern.
When tapped windings are involved, it is useful to perform measurements on at least two tap
positions, to assess whether differences in the trace originate from the tapped or untapped
sections of the winding.
When interpreting differences observed between phases, bear in mind that for many windings
there may be minor design differences associated with the disposition of internal connections
between windings, bushings and tap-changers. These differences could introduce small
differences between phases in the frequency response. Therefore, for the initial measurement, if
minor differences between phases are observed, it is not possible to make an unambiguous
conclusion about the presence of winding deformation. Fortunately, responses obtained for units
of the same design can often serve as a reference data for each other.
Short circuit measurements allow for direct phase-to-phase comparison of a three phase
transformer.
9.3.2. Subsequent Measurement
For the subsequent measurement, the traces are analyzed for changes between the initial and
subsequent response. Considerations described for the initial measurement apply here as well.
Any variation in response between an initial measurement and a subsequent measurement must
be treated with caution.
Low frequency variations usually relate to core effects, including residual magnetism, which may
provide variation between responses.
Higher frequencies, above 1 MHz, may well be affected by grounding quality; this is easy
enough to identify but must be considered as a cause of variation.
102 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

9.3.3. Other Diagnostic Measurements

Each FRA diagnostic measurement has failure modes it is most sensitive to as its purpose in life.
Therefore, understanding the significance of each measurement and knowing its associated
failure modes is essential for a successful diagnostic investigation. Table 9 Diagnostic Tests
relates the typical failure modes with various diagnostic measurements. This table also shows
that no single method can cover the multitude of problems occurring in transformers.
Failure Mechanism Failure Mode Diagnostic

Measurement
Windings Winding distortion FRA, leakage
Electromagnetic forces caused by reactance
overcurrent conditions change the geometry
of the winding, and so changing the
measured leakage reactance.
Windings Turn-to-turn winding failure: FRA, exciting
Insulation failure creates a circuit coupled a) One or more turns are current and loss,
with the main flux. The resulting short-circuited DGA
circulating current creates a load completely.
component in the measured exciting current b) Two or more parallel
and loss. strands of different turns
are short-circuited.
Windings Strands within the same turn Leakage loss, DGA
Insulation failure creates a circuit coupled are short-circuited.
with the leakage flux. The resulting
circulating current contributes a load
component to the measured leakage loss.
LTC contacts Misalignment, Mechanical Exciting current and
Contact problems affect the current problems, coking and wear loss, DGA
circulating through the preventive of LTC and DETC contacts.
autotransformer in bridging positions. The
change in the circulating current influences
the load components of the exciting current
and the loss measured in the bridging
positions.
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 103

Failure Mechanism Failure Mode Diagnostic

Measurement
DETC contacts Misalignment, DC winding resistance,
Contact problems change the resistance of Mechanical problems, DGA
the current path. coking and wear of LTC
and DETC contacts.
Conductors Open circuit, broken Exciting current and
Movement of conductors results in the strands, termination loss, DC Winding
breaking of strands and the deterioration of problems. resistance, DGA.
terminations changing the resistance of the
current path.
Core Overheating due to FRA, exciting
Movement or over excitation of the (abnormal) circulating current and loss
magnetic system creates a circuit coupled currents in the core,
with the main flux. The resulting clamping components
circulating current contributes a load and through multiple
component to the measured exciting current core grounds.
and loss.
Moisture, aging, contaminants, poor Dielectric breakdown of Power factor and
maintenance, and manufacturing defects insulation. capacitance (including
leads to insulation deterioration. measurements on
bushings), oil tests,
DGA
Table 9 Diagnostic Tests
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72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 105

Chapter 10
Application Notes
10.1. Short Circuit Lead Responses
The Cable Continuity Test is performed next. It verifies the proper condition of the Test
Specimen Cable, which is connected to the Doble SFRA Instrument and then short circuited by
connecting alligator clamps. Since there is no attenuation, signal loss between the
Source/Reference and Measure, the resulting data graph plots along the 0 dB horizontal line as
frequency increases, until an inductive roll off occurs, as shown in Figure 125.
This roll off is a feature of the cables due to the 12 feet (3.7m) ground connections. This roll off
is consistent for all tests and reduces the variability in response due to variation in ground lead
length. It is expected and acceptable.
Figure 125 Short Circuit Lead Response
106 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

10.2. Open Circuit Lead Responses

The Open Circuit lead Test is performed next. It is performed for two reasons:
• To confirm that the Doble SFRA Instrument recognizes an open circuit condition for
any or all of the connections of the Test Specimen Cable.
• To train the operator to recognize this condition and correct it, which results in more
efficient and accurate accumulation of good SFRA test data.
Figure 126 shows the open circuit lead response which is also around 0 dB but is clearly affected
by noise and shows a lot of ‘hashing’ compared to the short circuit lead response. It is relatively
easy to identify.
Figure 126 Open Circuit Lead Response
10.3. Cable Length

RG-58 50 Ohm impedance matched test leads are used. The SFRA measurement requires a
matched impedance signal cable, and performs a single-ended measurement, i.e., the signal with
respect to the instrument ground. Thus, the shield of the signal cable must be connected to the
chassis via RF BCN connectors.
Practical field experience dictates the leads be 60 ft. in length. This length has been selected as
being the minimum length required to test the largest transformers from a location on the ground
adjacent to the unit. Nevertheless, it is the lead length that determines the maximum effective
frequency. At lengths of 60 ft., the cable approximates the wavelengths of the higher
measurement frequencies, and there is probably little to be gained from the 2-10 MHz scan. As
long as the cable is less than ¼ of a wavelength in length, the short cable approximation can be
used. At lengths greater than ¼ of a wavelength, phasing effects start to occur. It turns out that at
60 ft., the frequency cutoff with respect to wavelength is approximately 2 MHz.
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 107

It is important for the operator to not only recognize any problems with the cables, but to be
prepared to confirm a problem further by, for example, having an ohmmeter available when a
cable is recognized by the Doble SFRA Instrument as having an open circuit condition. The
connections to the apparatus must be contaminant free, metal-to-metal junctions. This assures not
only reliable and efficient SFRA data collection, but helps to reduce the effects of noise and
interference inherent in a substation environment. Remember that a bad connection to the
apparatus can appear as an open circuit cable.
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72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 109

Chapter 11
Technical Support and Troubleshooting
This section should help with most problems if you are having trouble with you Doble SFRA
Test Set. In addition, you can always call Doble for support or e-mail SFRAsupport@doble.com.
11.1. PC
The Doble M5200 test set requires the M5200 SFRA software running on a computer connected
to the test set. The minimum PC specification is given in Table 10.
Specification Requirement
Processor 500 MHz
Operating system Windows 2000, XP
RAM 256 Mb
Hard Drive Free Space 20 Mb for application
Communications Ethernet crossover cable
Table 10 Minimum PC Requirements
11.2. Installing Software on a PC

The Doble SFRA software is loaded on your PC using standard software load procedures.
As part of the load, the Microsoft.Net™ framework is installed on your machine if it is not
already present. This will fail to load if there is insufficient disk space available.
Do NOT install the software to a network drive or to an image of a network drive – these
will not be available in the field and data will not save.
11.3. Running Your First Test

There is a minimum set of data that must be entered by the user before a test can be run:
• A transformer nameplate complete with template selected
• A location
• M5200/M5300 Test Set Serial Number
• Test Organization
If these are not entered the software will give an error message and ask for the data to be entered.
See Section 0.
11.4. Checking Communication between PC and M5200

The user PC with M5200 software needs to be connected to the M5200 using a network cable
and crossover adapter or a plain crossover cable. Use of a standard network cable without adapter
will not allow communication and SFRA tests may not be made.
11.5. Field repairs

There are no user maintainable parts within the M5200 or M5300. Contact Doble customer
service at 617-926-4900 or e-mail customerservice@doble.com for support.
110 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

In a case of a severe problem, your Doble technical support team may recommend removal of
one the boards within the Doble SFRA test set for return to Doble. This is a simple process, but
appropriate precautions should be taken to prevent electrostatic build up and discharge damage to
the boards:
• Disconnect M5x00 from power supply
• Remove power leads and test cables
• Remove main cover of M5x00
• Disconnect power supply from input connector on front panel
• Unscrew main circuit board assemblies, complete with power supplies
Before returning any defective modules to Doble, call or e-mail Customer Service to receive an
RMA number. Return the main modules to Doble in padded and protective packaging.
11.6. Parts List
Table 11 lists the parts you may obtain for the M5300 from Doble Engineering Company.
LIST NUMBER PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION
1. (Figure 128) 03D-1632-01 Front Panel Assembly

2. (Figure 128) 380-0055 Fan
3. (Figure 128) 401-0292 CPU PC Board
4. (Figure 129) 384-0216 Power Supply +5V, +12V Output
5. (Figure 130) 03D-1633-01 CPU Module Assembly
6. (Figure 131) 045-0852-01 Assembly, PCB +15V Converter
7. (Figure 132) 401-0063 High Density Drive, 20GB IDE
8. (Figure 133) 03D-1631-01 PPC4/Analog Module Assembly
9. (Figure 134) 401-0295 USB Keyboard
10. 02C-0019-01 Cable, Ground, 30' M4K/M2H/MEU
11. 05B-0654-01 Ground. Jumper Extender 3 Ft.
12. 05B-0655-01 Ground. Jumper Extender 5 Ft.
13. 05B-0659-04 Cable, Specimen Test, M5200
14. 2FB-3449-01 Bag, Cable, Large
15. 401-0196 Software, Win XP, OEM Package
16. 071-0036-04 Cable Bag
17. (Chapter 13.) Littlefuse 312 001P Fast M5200 Fuse
Blo, 3AG Glass Cartridge
UI and CSA certified or
equivalent
18. (Chapter 13.) Littlefuse 312 01.5P Fast M5300 Fuse
Blo, 3AG Glass Cartridge
UI and CSA certified or
equivalent
Table 11 Parts List
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 111

Upon power up, lights after measurement
& PC boards have passed test. Specimen Connections
System OK Light
Externa
l
Ethernet
USB
AC “ON” Light
Figure 127 Front View of M5300
Front Panel Assembly Fan
Figure 128 Front Panel Assembly, CPU PC Board, and Fan

CPU PC Board
112 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 129 Power Supply - +5V, + 12V Output
Figure 130 CPU Module Assembly
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 113

Figure 131 Assembly, PCB + 15V Converter
Figure 132 High Density Drive, 20GB IDE
114 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 133 PPC4/Analog Module Assembly
Figure 134 USB Keyboard
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 115

Chapter 12
References
These are Doble conference papers, arranged by year.
2006
Paper Title Author/Company
Voltage Regulator Test Procedures and Test Joe Brown, Bob Sarni, Doble Engineering
Data (A Progress Report) Company
Field Experiences with SFRA G. M. Kennedy ,C. Sweetser, T McGrail,
Doble Engineering Company
2005
Advanced Diagnostics Support Critical Patrick M. McKenney, Entergy Vermont
Decision Making Yankee Nuclear Power
Field Experiences with SFRA C. Sweetser, T McGrail, Doble
Report On Activities By Ieee Wg Pc57.149 Charles L. Sweetser, Doble Engineering Co.,

And Cigre Wg A2.26 On Frequency Response Watertown, MA USA Patrick Picher, Hydro-
Analysis Testing Québec, Varennes, Canada
2004
Measuring Frequency Responses of Transformer A. Yadaw, S. Taneja , PowerGrid, India
Windings - Powergrid Experience
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of S. Jayasinghe, Z Wang, UMIST
Frequency Response Analysis Method for P. Jarman, NGT
Diagnosing Transformer Winding Deformations A. Darwin, Areva T&D
Investigation of Two 28 MVA Mobile Units P. Prout, M. Lawrence, National Grid USA
Using Sweep Frequency Response Analysis C. Sweetser, T McGrail, Doble
SFRA: An Efficient Tool for Decision Making Harry Fridman, Elco Industries Ltd., Israel
Transformer Condition Assessment Greg Bennet, Excel Energy
2003
Transformer Diagnostics Using Frequency Simon A. Ryder, Alstom
Response Analysis: Results for Fault
Simulations
A Comparison of the Swept Frequency and Simon A. Ryder, Stefan Tenbohlen, Alstom
116 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Impulse Response Methods for Making

Frequency Response Analysis Measurements
A Report on Activities by IEEE Standards Dr. Ramsis Girgis, ABB
Committee on Transformer FRA Testing Rowland James, Jr. Entergy
Charles L. Sweetser, Doble
Experience with SFRA for Transformer Dr. Tony McGrail, Doble
Diagnostics
2002
The Need for and Use of Techniques to Assess the Alan Wilson, Doble
Mechanical Integrity of Transformer Windings Tony McGrail, National Grid
Experimental Investigations of the Repeatability Charles L. Sweetser, Doble
of FRA Measurements: Experience with Sweep
Frequency Response Analysis Measurements
Transformer Fails Seven Years After Close Up John Lapworth, National Grid
Faults - FRA Diagnoses the Problem
2001
Testing Practices for Frequency Response Charles L. Sweetser, Doble
Analysis
Recent Developments Relating to the Detection John Lapworth, National Grid
of Winding Movement in Transformers by
Frequency Response Analysis
ESBI Experiences with SFRA Tim Noonan, ESBI
Frequency Response Analysis of the Leakage Librado Magallanes R., Ernesto López Azamar,
Impedance Used as a Power Transformer Isaí Gallardo F., CFE
Diagnostic Tool
2000
Powergrid Experience with Frequency Response Ajay K. Kapur, Narendra S. Sodha, Barindra N.
Analysis of Power Transformers De Bhowmick, Alok Sharma
Power Grid Corporation, India
Eurodoble Subcommittee Report on Frequency Timothy J. Noonan, ESB International Ireland
Response Analysis by the Swept-Frequency
Method, and Development of a Test Guide
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 117

1999
Transformer Winding Movement Detection John Lapworth, Tony J. McGrail, The National Grid
by Frequency Response Analysis
Case Study of Frequency Response Analysis Alain Moissonnier, Electricite De France France
Method
Frequency Response Analysis Using the A. John Vandermaar and May Wang, Powertech
Impulse Test Method as a Transformer Labs
Diagnostic Technique Christopher P. Stefanski, ComEd,
Barry H. Ward, EPRI
Experience in the Application Of Frequency Sokom K. An, BPA, USA
Response Analysis
1998
Belgian Experience with Frequency Response Paul Leemans, LABORELEC Belgium
Analysis Measurements on 400/150/36 Kv, 150
Mva Shell Autotransformers
1997
Experience with Failure Prevention in Power Ernesto Perez, Norcontrol, S.A. Spain
Transformers Using Frequency Response
Analysis Technique
Power Transformer Condition Assessment Timothy J. Noonan, ESB International
and Renewal,Frequency Response Analysis
Update
Life Assessment of 275 And 400 Kv Paul N. Jarman, John A. Lapworth, Alan Wilson, The
Transmission Transformers National Grid
1995
Mechanical Condition Assessment of Power Timothy J. Noonan, ESBI,
Transformers Using Frequency Response John A. Lapworth, National Grid
Analysis
118 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

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72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 119

Chapter 13
Miscellaneous
The following two serial plates illustrate the voltage and current ratings of the M5200 and the
M5300.
120 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Technical Specifications – M5200 & M5300
Physical:
Instrument Weight—M5200 ......................................................................12 lbs./5.5.kg
Instrument Weight—M5300 ......................................................................16 lbs./7.5.kg
Dimensions—M5200 & M5300 ....................................... 10.0 H x 16.0 W x 15.5 D inch

25.4 H x 40.6 W x 39.4 D cm
Transport Shock.............................................. High impact, molded, flame retardant,

ABS designed to meet International Safe Transit Association Testing
Procedure 1A for Resistance to Transport Shock and Vibration
Electrical:
Installation Classification .............................................................Overvoltage Class II
AC Input Voltage ....................................................................................... 100-240 VAC
AC Input Frequency ..................................................................................... 50 or 60 Hz
AC Input Current—M5200.......................................................................................... 1A
AC Input Current—M5300.......................................................................................... 1A
AC Protection—M5200.............................................................................3A FAST BLO

3AG 250V FUSE
AC Protection—M5200.........................................................................1.5 A FAST BLO
3AG 250V FUSE
Environmental:
Operating Ambient
Temperature ....................................................................................................0 to 40° C
(IEC-60068-2-1 and IEC-60068-2-2)
Operating Relative
Humidity...........................................................................10% to 90% non-condensing
(IEC-60068-2-56)
Storage Ambient
Temperature ............................................................................................... -20° to 70° C
(IEC-60068-2-1 and IEC-60068-2-2)
Storage Relative
Humidity.............................................................................5% to 90% non-condensing
(IEC-60068-2-56)
Pollution Degree............................................................................................................ II
Operating Altitude ......................................................................................2000M (Max)
72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 121

Log 95
A
M
Analysis 13, 32, 39, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 121
Apparatus Details 46 Magnitude ix, 32, 36, 37, 40, 41, 118
AutoTransformers 109 Manufacturer 86
B N
BNC 27 New Range 94
C P
Clear Traces 96 Parts List 15, 129
coaxial 17 Phase 32, 36, 37, 40, 60, 111, 115, 118, 119
conference papers 135 Plot Property 45
correlation 39, 98, 101 power switch 26, 28
cursor 90, 91, 94, 101 Print 33, 102, 103, 104
Print Preview 33, 102, 103
D
R
Data Manager 32, 41, 42, 67, 69, 86
Data Source 66, 67, 68, 69,74, 86, 87, 90 Running a Test 75
Data Tree 68
S
E
Safety 19, 23, 24
Edit Apparatus 33, 46 Self Test 81, 82
editors 47, 48 Software 15, 19, 29, 30, 32, 65, 104, 128, 129
Exporting 51, 52, 71 software version 35
F T
Firewall 29 Tabulation 32, 40
folder 66, 68, 69, 71, 72 tap position 29, 107, 108, 121
Template 53, 56, 57, 62, 63, 64, 65, 77, 78
Test Cables 17
G Test Equipment 46, 47, 48, 50, 51, 53, 60, 75, 76, 87
Ground Continuity 81 Test set 46
Testing organization 29, 46
Three Winding Transformers 110
H trace name 45, 78
Hardware 15, 16 transfer function 13, 21, 22, 117, 118, 119
Transformer24, 25, 29, 41, 46, 53, 54, 58, 59, 65, 72, 74, 75, 87, 89, 90, 111, 11
Trouble Shooting 82
I Two Winding Transformers 109
two-port network 21
Importing 51, 52, 65, 72, 74
L W
Waveform 32, 38, 83
lead
black 63, 108
red 63, 108 Z
Linear 95, 96
location18, 29, 33, 46, 48, 50, 51, 53, 66, 69, 74, 78, 86, 90, 126, 128 zoom 94, 114
Location33, 41, 47, 48, 50, 51, 52, 53 67, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 78, 79, 86, 87
122 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

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Doble SFRA User Guide

Doble Engineering Company

Telephone: (617) 926-4900

PN 500-0590 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

By DOBLE ENGINEERING COMPANY

All Rights Reserved

ii 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Chapter 1 Introduction .................................................................................................................1

Chapter 2 Parts List – Hardware and Software .........................................................................3

Chapter 3 SFRA Theory ...............................................................................................................7

Chapter 4 Safety and Personnel ...................................................................................................9

Chapter 5 SFRA Test Preparations ...........................................................................................11

Chapter 6 Software ......................................................................................................................15

72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 iii

6.3.2. Main Window .........................................................................................17

iv 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

6.9.3. Selecting a Data Source ..........................................................................53

Chapter 7 Application – Connections ........................................................................................88

72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 v

Chapter 9 Data Interpretation....................................................................................................98

Chapter 10 Application Notes..................................................................................................106

Chapter 11 Technical Support and Troubleshooting .............................................................110

Chapter 13 Miscellaneous .........................................................................................................120

vi 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 vii

Figure 46 Reviewing/Editing LTC/DETC Data ........................................................................... 40

viii 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 92 Plot Range Dialog Box................................................................................................. 76

72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 ix

x 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 1

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2 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

The M5200 and M5300 have different components, as shown below.

2.1. M5200 SFRA Instrument Hardware

Figure 1 M5200 Test Set and Accessories

72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 3

Color coded test Communication Ports Chassis Ground

Figure 2 M5200 SFRA Instrument Front View

2.2. M5300 SFRA Instrument Hardware

Figure 3 M5300 Test Set and Accessories

4 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

rugged field instrumentation/controller module, an excitation source, and a measurement module,

Figure 4 M5300 SFRA Instrument Front View

2.3. M5200 & M5300 Test Cables

72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 5

2.4. Instrument Safety/Chassis Ground

Figure 5 Safety Ground

2.5. Other Accessories

2.4.2 Test lead ground extensions

The software is discussed in more detail in Section 0.

6 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

Figure 6 Two Port Network

72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 7

8 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

4.2. Safety – General Rules

Personal Protective Equipment suitable for electrical testing of transformers is recommended.

72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 9

Figure 7 Connecting Safety Ground to Transformer

4.4. Personnel Safety

10 72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06

5.1. Preparing the Transformer

72A-2570-01 Rev. E 06/06 11