PowerCheck 1557 - Measurement Seaward - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Portable Electrical Safety Tester
Brand	Seaward
Model	PowerCheck 1557
Category	Measurement
Dimensions (approx.)	150 x 70 x 30 mm
Weight (approx.)	200 g (including battery)
Power Supply	9V alkaline battery (PP3)
Display	LCD, 3½ digits, max reading 1999
AC Voltage Range	0 – 600 V
DC Voltage Range	0 – 600 V
Resistance Range	0 – 20 MΩ
Continuity Test	Yes, with audible beeper
Diode Test	Yes
Safety Rating	CAT III 600 V
Operating Temperature	0°C to 40°C
Storage Temperature	-10°C to 50°C
Humidity	≤ 80% RH (non-condensing)
Overload Protection	Fuse 500mA/250V
Maintenance	Clean with a dry lint-free cloth; do not use solvents.
Battery Replacement	When low battery indicator appears
Spare Parts / Repairability	No user-serviceable parts; contact Seaward service center.
Accessories Included	Test leads, battery, carry case, manual
Certifications	CE, UKCA

Frequently Asked Questions - PowerCheck 1557 Seaward

How do I measure AC voltage with the PowerCheck 1557?

Set the rotary switch to the AC voltage range (marked with ~V). Insert the black test lead into the COM jack and the red lead into the V/Ω jack. Connect the probes to the circuit and read the display. Ensure the voltage is within the rated range (max 600 V).

What does the continuity beep indicate?

The continuity function tests if a circuit is closed. When resistance is less than approximately 50 Ω, the meter emits a continuous beep. This is useful for checking wires and fuses.

How often should I replace the battery?

Replace the 9V battery when the low battery indicator appears on the LCD. For best accuracy, use a fresh alkaline battery.

Can I measure current with this device?

No, the PowerCheck 1557 does not measure current directly. It measures AC/DC voltage, resistance, continuity, and diodes. For current measurements, use a clamp meter or a multimeter with current input.

What is the maximum voltage I can safely measure?

The meter is rated for CAT III 600 V. Do not exceed 600 V AC or DC between any terminal and ground, or between terminals.

How do I clean the PowerCheck 1557?

Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or water. Remove the leads and battery before cleaning.

What does the 'OL' reading mean?

'OL' indicates an overload condition – the measured value exceeds the selected range. Switch to a higher range or avoid measuring voltages above 600 V.

My meter shows erratic readings. What should I do?

First, check the test leads for damage. Replace them if needed. Ensure the battery is fresh. If the problem persists, the meter may need calibration or repair. Contact Seaward support.

Is the PowerCheck 1557 suitable for automotive testing?

Yes, it can test automotive batteries (12V/24V) and circuits for voltage, continuity, and resistance. However, it is not designed for high-current measurements.

Where can I find the full user manual?

The full user manual is available for free download on the dedicated product page at notice-facile.com in PDF format. It contains detailed specifications, safety instructions, and troubleshooting tips.

USER MANUAL PowerCheck 1557 Seaward

Operating Instructions

SEAWARD

Bracken Hill, South West Industrial Estate,

Peterlee, Co. Durham. SR8 2SW. England.

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

www.seaward.co.uk

[e-mail]

[e-mail]

Limited Warranty & Limitation of Liability

SEAWARD Electronic Limited guarantees this product for a period of 1 year. The period of warranty will be effective at the day of delivery.

© Copyright 2008

All rights reserved. Nothing from this edition may be multiplied, or made public in any form or manner, either electronically, mechanically, by photocopying, recording, or in any manner, without prior written consent from SEAWARD Electronic Limited. This also applies to accompanying drawings and diagrams.

Due to a policy of continuous development SEAWARD Electronic Limited reserves the right to alter the equipment specification and description outlined in this publication without prior notice and no part of this publication shall be deemed to be part of any contract for the equipment unless specifically referred to as an inclusion within such contract.

Disposal of Old Product

Symbol of a trash bin crossed with no text or numbers, representing waste sorting or disposal (no text present)

This product has been designed and manufactured with high quality materials and components that can be recycled and reused.

When the crossed out wheelie bin symbol is attached to a product it means the product is covered by the European Directive 2002/96/EC.

Please familiarise yourself with the appropriate local separate collection system for electrical and electronic products.

Please dispose of this product according to local regulations. Do not dispose of this product along with normal waste material. The correct disposal of this product will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health.

Operating Instructions

PC1557 PAT and Installation Tester Checkbox

The PowerCheck 1557 is designed to be a full instrument verification system capable of testing all types of both installation testers and PAT testers.

The PowerCheck conforms with BSEN61010-1 and BSEN61326.

Contents

1. User Notes
2. Safety Notes
3. Description
4. Specifications
5. General Overview
6. PAT functionality
7. Installation tester functionality
8. Maintenance
9. Cleaning
10. Contact

1.0 User Notes

These operating instructions are intended for the use of competent personnel.

The PowerCheck 1557 has been designed for operation in a dry environment.

The following symbols are used in these operating instructions and on the PowerCheck 1557

Warning of electrical danger!

Indicates instructions must be followed to avoid danger to persons.

Important, follow the documentation!

This symbol indicates that the operating instructions must be adhered to in order to avoid danger.

2.0 Safety Notes

The PowerCheck 1557 has left the factory in a perfectly safe state. To maintain this state and ensure safe operation of the unit, all notes and warnings in these instructions must be observed at all times.

The PowerCheck 1557 is intended to prove

verification on a regular basis. It is not intended to replace annual calibration of the test equipment. It is also suggested that the PowerCheck is annually calibrated.

use test equipment which comply with IEC61010-1 and test leads which comply with IEC61010-031 with the PowerCheck 1557.

Using the PowerCheck 1557 in ways not described

by this manual may lead to damaging either the PowerCheck 1557 or the Measuring Device being checked.

3.0 Description

The PowerCheck 1557 is comprised of the following features:-

a) The ability to perform verification of PAT testers including;

i) 2 different earth bond values.
ii) 3 different insulation values
iii) 4 different flash test values
iv) 3 different PE current values
v) 3 different touch current values

b) The ability to perform verification of voltage measuring equipment.

c) The ability to perform verification of continuity measuring test equipment including;

i) 2 different continuity values
ii) to verify the voltage and current outputs meet the requirements of IEC1557

d) The ability to perform verification of insulation measuring test equipment including;

i) 3 different insulation values
ii) to verify the voltage and current outputs meet the requirements of IEC1557

e) The ability to perform verification of loop impedance measuring test equipment including;

i) 3 different loop impedance values

f) The ability to perform verification of RCD test equipment including;

i) No tripping of any series in-line RCD protection
ii) 3 different current ranges values
iii) 3 different test time values

iv) to verify the current outputs meet the requirements of IEC1557

4 Specifications

4.1 Environmental Specifications

The PowerCheck 1557 has been designed to be used in a dry environment.

Maximum barometric elevation for use is 2000M.

Overvoltage category IEC 60664/IEC 61010, 300V CAT II.

Pollution Degree 2 according IEC61010-1.

Protective system IP40 according to IEC 60529.

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) interference, immunity and emitted interference conforming to IEC 61326-1.

Operating temperature range 0^ C to 40^ C.

Storage temperature range -25°C to 65°C.

4.2 Mains Supply

Mains Supply Voltage 230V 10%

Mains Supply Frequency 50Hz 1Hz

4.3 PAT Electrical Test Specification

Earth Bond	0.2Ω, 2.0Ω	±2%	±20mΩ
Insulation	0.5MΩ, 1MΩ, 2MΩ		±2%
PE Current	see reference table		±2%
Touch Current see reference table	±2%
Flash	see reference table		±2%

Mains	Supply	210V	220V	230V	240V	250V
Flash Test Type A (mA)	0.5MΩ	1.37	1.43	1.50	1.57	1.63
	1MΩ	0.91	0.96	1.00	1.04	1.09
	2MΩ	0.55	0.57	0.60	0.63	0.65
Flash Test Type B (mA)	0.5MΩ	2.74	2.87	3.00	3.13	3.26
	1MΩ	1.37	1.43	1.50	1.57	1.63
	2MΩ	0.68	0.72	0.75	0.78	0.82
PE / Touch Current (mA)	0.5MΩ	0.42	0.44	0.46	0.48	0.50
	1MΩ	0.21	0.22	0.23	0.24	0.25
	2MΩ	0.11	0.11	0.12	0.12	0.13

FLASH TEST Type A are the values obtained for PAT test equipment which conform with EN50191. This includes the Supernova series of testers.

FLASH TEST Type B are the values obtained for PAT test equipment which do not conform with EN50191.

Mains Supply	210V 2	20V 230V	240V		250V
FLASH CLII TEST	For verification of functionality only

4.4 Installation Electrical Test Specification

Continuity	0.5Ω, 2.0Ω ±2% ±20mΩ
Continuity voltage	4V < Un <24V	±5%
Continuity current	In > 200mA 2R load	±5%
Insulation	0.25MΩ, 0.5MΩ, 1MΩ	±2%
Insulation voltage	250V, 500V, 1000V	±5%
Insulation current	0.1mA < In <15mA	±5%
Voltage	mains input voltage
Loop Impedance	1Ω, 180Ω	±5%
RCD test time	30ms, 40ms, 250ms	±3ms
RCD test current	10mA, 30mA, 100mA	±5%

5 General Overview

Figure 1: Front Panel

The PowerCheck 1557 comprises of the following elements;

5.1 General

a) Rotary switch which is used to select the required test functionality.

5.2 PAT Functionality

b) 2x Earth Bond test terminals.
c) 4x Insulation, PE/Touch Current and Flash test terminals which are used to obtain 3 different measurement values.
d) A Class II Flash test terminal.

5.3 Installation Tester Functionality

e) 2x Continuity measurement terminals and 1 voltage verification terminal.
f) Continuity voltage and current verification LEDs.
g) 3x Insulation measurement terminals and 1 current verification terminal.
h) Insulation voltage and current verification LEDs.
i) Insulation short current verification LED.
j) A voltage output and LED.
k) A Loop Impedance measurement selection switch.
I) Mains socket indication LEDs.
m) An RCD test time selection switch.
n) 5x RCD verification LEDs.
o) A reset LED and switch.
p) A mains power lead.
q) Loop/RCD mains outlet socket.

6.0 PAT Function Operation

6.1 Connections

Connect the PAT tester to a mains supply. Connect the PowerCheck 1557 mains plug into the EUT socket on the PAT tester. On the PowerCheck 1557 use the rotary switch to select the PAT function.

6.2 Earth Bond

The PowerCheck 1557 includes two Earth Bond test points, 0.2Ω and 2Ω. Connect one end of the earth bond probe to the PAT tester and clip the other end onto the appropriate resistance value stud. Perform an earth bond test. The PAT tester will indicate the test measurement taken.

Do not perform an Earth Bond test with >25A test setting.

The PowerCheck 1557 is protected by a thermal monitoring device. If the Earth Bond measurements start measuring open circuit after excessive testing then allow the PowerCheck 1557 to cool down before proceeding.

6.3 Insulation

The PowerCheck 1557 includes three Insulation test points, 0.5MΩ, 1.0MΩ and 2.0MΩ. These test points are selected by moving the link between the 4 red test terminals. See Figure2, Figure 3 and Figure 4.

Do not perform an Insulation test with >500Vdc test setting.

Figure 2: 500KΩ selected

Figure 3: 1MΩ selected

Figure 4: 2MΩ selected

Select the value required and perform an Insulation test. The PAT tester will indicate the test measurement taken.

6.4 Class I Flash Test

The PowerCheck 1557 includes three Class I Flash test currents, the value of this current is dependant on the mains voltage. The test point is selected by moving the link between the 4 red test terminals (see Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4). The value selected is referenced to a table printed in the lid of the PowerCheck 1557. Select the test current required and perform a Flash test. The PAT tester will indicate the test measurement taken.

Do not perform a Flash test with >1500Vac test setting.

6.5 Class II Flash Test

The PowerCheck 1557 includes one Class II Flash test current, the value of this current is dependant on the mains voltage. Disconnect the black link which is used to select the Class I Flash test current value. Connect the Flash probe to the PAT tester and to the Flash CL II terminal on the front of the PowerCheck 1557 (see Figure 5). Perform a Flash test, the PAT tester will indicate the test measurement taken.

Do not perform a Flash test with >3000Vac test setting.

Figure 5: Flash CLII connection

6.6 PE Current Test

The PowerCheck 1557 includes three PE Current test currents, the value of these is dependant on the mains voltage. These test currents are selected by moving the link between the 4 red test terminals (see Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4). The value selected is referenced to a table printed in the lid of the PowerCheck 1557. Select the test current required and perform a PE Current test. The PAT tester will indicate the test measurement taken.

Do not perform a PE Current Test if the mains voltage is outside of the ±10% specification.

6.7 Touch Current Test

The PowerCheck 1557 includes three Touch Current test currents, the value of these is dependant on the mains voltage. These test currents are selected by moving the PAT's touch current probe between 3 of the red test terminals (see Figure 6, Figure 7 and Figure 8). The value selected is referenced to a table printed in the lid of the PowerCheck 1557. Select the test current required and perform a Touch Current test. The PAT tester will indicate the test measurement taken.

Do not perform a Touch Current Test if the mains voltage is outside of the ±10% specification.

Figure 6: Touch Current value 1

Figure 7: Touch Current value 2

Figure 8: Touch Current value 3

7.0 Installation Function

7.1 Connections

Connect the PowerCheck 1557 Mains plug into a mains outlet socket.

7.2 Voltage

Connect the Installation tester between the Common and 230V test terminals, turn on the Installation tester and select Voltage. When the Voltage LED is illuminated 230Vac is present at the terminals, the Installation tester will measure this voltage. If the voltage goes off during testing unplug the PowerCheck 1557 from the mains supply and re-connect.

This voltage is dependant on the incoming mains supply. The Voltage will be present independent of the test type selected on the PowerCheck 1557.

7.3 Continuity

Select the Rpe function on the PowerCheck 1557, turn on the Installation tester and select the Continuity test.

not perform a Continuity test with >25A test setting.

7.3.1 Connect the Installation tester between the Common and the 0.5Ω terminals. Perform a Continuity test and ensure that the Installation tester measures within specification.

7.3.2 Connect the Installation tester between the Common and the 2.0Ω terminals. Perform a Continuity test and ensure that the Installation tester measures within specification. If the In LED indication is illuminated for the duration of the test then the Continuity test current meets the requirements of IEC1557.

7.3.3 Connect the Installation tester between the Common and the o/c terminals. Perform a Continuity test. If the Un LED indication is illuminated for the duration of the test then the Continuity test current meets the requirements of IEC1557.

7.4 Insulation

7.4.1 Select the 250V function on the PowerCheck 1557, turn on the Installation tester and select the Insulation test. Setup the Installation tester to output 250V. Connect the Installation tester between the Common and 0.25MΩ terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Installation tester measures within specification. Ensure that both the Un and In LEDs are illuminated, this indicates that the Insulation voltage and current meet the requirements of IEC1557.

7.4.2 Connect the Installation tester between the Common and 0.5MΩ terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Installation tester measures within specification.

7.4.3 Connect the Installation tester between the Common and 1.0MΩ terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Installation tester measures within specification.
7.4.4 Select the 500V function on the PowerCheck 1557, turn on the Installation tester and select the Insulation test. Setup the Installation tester to output 500V. Connect the Installation tester between the Common and 0.5MΩ terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Installation tester measures within specification. Ensure that both the Un and In LEDs are illuminated.
7.4.5 Connect the Installation tester between the Common and 0.25MΩ terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Installation tester measures within specification.
7.4.6 Connect the Installation tester between the Common and 1.0MΩ terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Installation tester measures within specification.
7.4.7 Select the 1000V function on the PowerCheck 1557, turn on the Installation tester and select the Insulation test. Setup the Installation tester to output 1000V. Connect the Installation tester between the Common and 1.0MΩ terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Installation tester measures within

specification. Ensure that both the Un and In LEDs are illuminated.

7.4.8 Connect the Installation tester between the Common and 0.25MΩ terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Installation tester measures within specification.
7.4.9 Connect the Installation tester across the Common and 0.5MΩ terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Installation tester measures with specification.
7.4.10 Select the Ik function on the PowerCheck 1557, turn on the Installation tester and select the Insulation test. Setup the Installation tester to output 250V. Connect the Installation tester between the Common and Ik terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Ik LED is illuminated.
7.4.11 Select the Ik function on the PowerCheck 1557, turn on the Installation tester and select the Insulation test. Setup the Installation tester to output 500V. Connect the Installation tester between the Common and Ik terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Ik LED is illuminated.
7.4.12 Select the Ik function on the PowerCheck 1557, turn on the Installation tester and select the Insulation test. Setup the Installation tester to output 1000V. Connect the Installation tester between the Common and Ik

terminals. Perform an Insulation test and ensure that the Ik LED is illuminated.

7.5 Loop Impedance

Plug the PowerCheck 1557 into a wall mains socket. Select the Loop function on the PowerCheck 1557.

If the LN and LE LEDs are not illuminated then the mains supply does meet the requirements in order to perform Loop tests, testing is inhibited.

Connect the Installation tester to the mains outlet socket on the front of the PowerCheck 1557, turn on the Installation tester and select the Loop Impedance test.

Do not perform a Loop Impedance test with >25A test setting.

7.5.1 Ensure that the Loop Impedance rocker switch is in the Loop position, perform a Loop test and note the value.
7.5.2 Switch the Loop Impedance rocker switch to the Loop+1 position. Perform a Loop test. Ensure that the Installation measures 1 more than the measurement obtained in 7.5.1. Ensure the measurement is within specification.
7.5.3 Switch the Loop Impedance rocker switch to the Loop+180 position. Perform a Loop test. Ensure that the

Installation measures 180Ω more than the measurement obtained in 7.5.1. Ensure the measurement is within specification.

7.6 RCD

Plug the PowerCheck 1557 into a wall mains socket. Select the 10mA RCD test current on the PowerCheck 1557.

If the LN and LE LEDs are not illuminated then the mains supply does meet the requirements in order to perform Loop tests, testing is inhibited.

Connect the Installation tester to the mains outlet socket on the front of the PowerCheck 1557, turn on the Installation tester and select the RCD test.

7.6.1 Setup the Installation tester so that it will test 0° 0.5lΔn using the same test current that has been selected on the PowerCheck 1557. Perform an RCD test. The 0° and 0.5lΔn LED will be illuminated. The simulated RCD will not trip for 0.5lΔn tests.

7.6.2 Setup the Installation tester so that it will test 180° 0.5lΔn using the same test current that has been selected on the PowerCheck 1557. Perform an RCD test. The 180° and 0.5lΔn LED will be illuminated. The simulated RCD will not trip for 0.5lΔn tests.

7.6.3 Setup the Installation tester so that it will test 0° IΔn using the same test current that has been selected on the PowerCheck 1557. Select a trip time on the PowerCheck 1557. Perform an RCD test. The 0° and IΔn LED will be illuminated. The simulated RCD will trip as indicated by the illuminated Trip LED. The Installation tester will measure the test time selected on the PowerCheck 1557. In order to reset the simulated RCD press the Reset switch, the Trip LED will go off.

7.6.4 Setup the Installation tester so that it will test 180° IΔn using the same test current that has been selected on the PowerCheck 1557. Select a trip time on the PowerCheck 1557. Perform an RCD test. The 180° and IΔn LED will be illuminated. The simulated RCD will trip as indicated by the illuminated Trip LED. The Installation tester will measure the test time selected on the PowerCheck 1557. In order to reset the simulated RCD press the Reset switch, the Trip LED will go off.

7.6.5 Setup the Installation tester so that it will test 0° 5lΔn using the same test current that has been selected on the PowerCheck 1557. Select a trip time on the PowerCheck 1557. Perform an RCD test. The 0° and 5lΔn LED will be illuminated. The simulated RCD will trip as indicated by the illuminated Trip LED. The Installation tester will measure the test time selected on the PowerCheck 1557. In order to reset the simulated RCD press the Reset switch, the Trip LED will go off.

7.6.6 Setup the Installation tester so that it will test 180° 5lΔn using the same test current that has been selected on the PowerCheck 1557. Select a trip time on the PowerCheck 1557. Perform an RCD test. The 180° and 5lΔn LED will be illuminated. The simulated RCD will trip as indicated by the illuminated Trip LED. The Installation tester will measure the test time selected on the PowerCheck 1557. In order to reset the simulated RCD press the Reset switch, the Trip LED will go off.

7.6.7 Repeat steps 7.6.1 to 7.6.6 for the 30mA and 100mA test ranges.

8.0 Maintenance

8.1 The PowerCheck 1557 is extremely robust and should always be kept free from dust.
8.2 Ensure the PowerCheck 1557 is kept dry with no surface moisture on the unit.
8.3 The case of the PowerCheck 1557 should be regularly inspected to ensure no physical damage.
8.4 Ensure the insulation of the power cable is fully intact and that no sharp creases have occurred in the cable.
8.5 If any of the above conditions have been observed then the PowerCheck 1557 must be appropriately secured to prevent any further use.

9.0 Cleaning

9.1 Clean the external case and front panel of the PowerCheck 1557 with a clean dry cloth.

10.0 Contact

For help or advice contact:

Tel: [phone]

For Service and Calibration contact:

Service Department

Seaward Electronic

Bracken Hill

South West Industrial Estate

Peterlee

Co Durham SR8 2SW

England

Tel: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

369A552 Rev 4