As the number and variety of power electronics devices increases, issues such as device malfunctions and failures caused by power supply problems are becoming more common. To address these issues effectively requires detailed knowledge about their causes, but obtaining such knowledge is an extremely time-consuming proposition due to the diverse array of parameters that must be investigated and the high level of expertise required to do so. By using a power quality analyzer, it is possible to discover the underlying causes of these hardware issues precisely and efficiently.

Adding to the complexity of the situation is a recent trend toward more widespread use of distributed power sources such as solar power, wind power, and cogeneration systems. Initiatives to put in place smart grid technologies (which form the basis of the next-generation power distribution network) are also proceeding apace, with increasingly complex power transmission systems driving up demand for more rigorous monitoring.

Furthermore, there has been little progress in improving the power environment in developing nations such as China and India compared to Japan and the U.S. or Europe due to the failure of infrastructure development to keep pace with economic growth. Consequently, power supply problems are an everyday occurrence.

In this way, the need for power quality measurement continues to increase with each passing year, providing the ideal environment for the PW3198 to leverage its capabilities.

• Compliance with the IEC 61000-4-30 Class A international power quality standard and dramatically improved measurement reliability
  Compliance with the IEC 61000-4-30 Class A international standard on power quality measurement, which stipulates the most stringent requirements in the field, points to the PW3198’s unparalleled functionality and reliability. To comply with the standard, the instrument delivers basic voltage measurement precision of 0.1%, an improvement of 200% over the previous model.
  
  
• Simple configuration function for intuitive operation
  The PW3198 incorporates a user-friendly configuration function that automatically selects the necessary measurement items once the user has chosen a measurement pattern, for example abnormal voltage detection. This capability eliminates the need for the user to configure a series of complex settings, significantly improving the instrument’s convenience.
  
  
• Extended measurement capability thanks to flexible use of SD cards (2 GB card bundled with product)
  The need for continuous monitoring in power quality measurement applications makes extended recording capability a must. The PW3198 ships standard with a 2 GB SD card that allows continuous measurement for up to 55 weeks.
  
  
• Improved safety thanks to CAT IV 600 V compliance
  Whereas the PW3198’s predecessor POWER QUALITY ANALYZER 3196 offered a CAT III 600 V safety level as defined by IEC 61010, the new PW3198 complies with CAT IV 600 V requirements. The higher level of protection enables the instrument to safely measure incoming power lines.

Information included in this press release is current as of the date of the release. Pricing, specifications, and other information included in this release are subject to change without notice.