IEC 61481-1:2014

Live working - Phase comparators - Part 1: Capacitive type to be used for voltages exceeding 1 kV a.c.

IEC 61481-1:2014 is applicable to portable phase comparators of capacitive type to be used on electrical systems for voltages exceeding 1 kV a.c. and frequencies of 50 Hz and/or 60 Hz. This standard is applicable to single-pole phase comparators of capacitive type operating with a memory system up to 36 kV a.c., and two-pole phase comparators of capacitive type operating with a wireless connection up to 245 kV a.c. This standard is applicable to phase comparators of capacitive type used in contact with the bare conductive parts to be compared as a complete device including its insulating element or as a separate device, adaptable to an insulating stick which, as a separate tool, is not covered by this standard. A device that is designed to provide other functions than phase comparison is a different device and is not covered by this standard. For example a device designed to be also used as a voltage detector is not covered by this standard. This first edition, together with the first edition of IEC 61481-2, cancels and replaces the first edition of IEC 61481 published in 2001, Amendment 1:2002 and Amendment 2:2004. This edition constitutes a technical revision including the following major changes:
- split of the standard in two parts;
- extension of the scope to include two-pole phase comparators operating with a wireless connection up to 245 kV a.c.;
- review of the requirements for indication;
- introduction of a requirement for a new marking "LU" for limited use;
- and revision of existing annexes. The contents of the corrigendum of July 2015 have been included in this copy.

Travaux sous tension - Comparateurs de phase - Partie 1: Type capacitifs pour usage sur des tensions alternatives de plus de 1 kV

L'IEC 61481-1:2014 est applicable aux comparateurs de phase portatifs de type capacitif pour une utilisation sur des installations électriques à des tensions alternatives supérieures à 1 kV et à des fréquences de 50 Hz et/ou 60 Hz. La présente norme est applicable aux comparateurs de phase unipolaires de type capacitif fonctionnant avec un système de mémoire, jusqu'à une tension alternative de 36 kV, et aux comparateurs de phase bipolaires de type capacitif fonctionnant avec une liaison sans fil, jusqu'à une tension alternative de 245 kV. La présente norme est applicable aux comparateurs de phase de type capacitif utilisés au contact avec les parties nues conductrices à comparer au dispositif complet incluant son élément isolant ou au dispositif séparé adaptable sur une perche isolante qui, en tant qu'outil séparé, n'est pas couverte par la présente norme. Un dispositif conçu pour réaliser d'autres fonctions que la comparaison de phase est un dispositif différent et n'est pas couvert par la présente norme. Par exemple, un dispositif conçu pour être aussi utilisé comme détecteur de tension n'est pas couvert par la présente norme. Cette première édition, avec la première édition de l'IEC 61481-2, annule et remplace la première édition de l'IEC 61481 parue en 2001, l'Amendement 1:2002 et l'Amendement 2:2004. Cette édition constitue une révision technique qui inclut les modifications majeures suivantes:
- division de la norme en deux parties;
- extension du domaine d'application permettant de couvrir les comparateurs de phase bipolaires fonctionnant avec une liaison sans fil jusqu'à des tensions alternatives de 245 kV;
- la révision des exigences relatives à l'indication;
- l'introduction d'une exigence relative à un nouveau marquage "LU" pour une utilisation limitée;
- et la révision des annexes existantes. Le contenu du corrigendum de juillet 2015 a été pris en considération dans cet exemplaire.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 23-Oct-2014
• ICS: 13.260 - Protection against electric shock. Live working
• ICS: 29.240.20 - Power transmission and distribution lines
• ICS: 29.260.99 - Other electrical equipment for working in special conditions
• Technical Committee: TC 78 - Live working
• Drafting Committee: WG 14 - TC 78/WG 14
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 15-Nov-2014
• Completion Date: 24-Oct-2014

Relations

• Replaces: IEC 61481:2001/AMD2:2004 - Amendment 2 - Live working - Portable phase comparators for use on voltages from 1 kV to 36 kV a.c.
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Replaces: IEC 61481:2001/COR2:2005 - Corrigendum 2 - Live working - Portable phase comparators for use on voltages from 1 kV to 36 kV a.c.
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Replaces: IEC 61481:2001/AMD1:2002 - Amendment 1 - Live working - Portable phase comparators for use on voltages from 1 kV to 36 kV a.c.
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Replaces: IEC 61481:2001 - Live working - Portable phase comparators for use on voltages from 1 kV to 36 kV a.c.
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Corrected By: IEC 61481-1:2014/COR1:2015 - Corrigendum 1 - Live working - Phase comparators - Part 1: Capacitive type to be used for voltages exceeding 1 kV a.c.
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 61481-1:2014 sets the international standard for capacitive-type phase comparators used in live working on electrical systems with voltages exceeding 1 kV alternating current (a.c.) and frequencies of 50 Hz or 60 Hz. This first part of the IEC 61481 series specifies requirements for portable single-pole phase comparators with memory systems for voltages up to 36 kV a.c., and two-pole phase comparators operating wirelessly up to 245 kV a.c. The standard covers devices employed in direct contact with bare conductive parts, either as complete units with insulating elements or as separate devices adaptable to insulating sticks.

Major technical revisions in this 2014 edition include separation into two parts, expanded scope to wireless two-pole devices, updated indication requirements, introduction of a "LU" marking for limited use, along with revised annexes and incorporated corrigenda. This standard ensures reliable phase comparison tools essential for worker safety during live electrical system operations.

Key Topics

• Device Types and Scope

  • Single-pole capacitive phase comparators (memory-based) for voltages >1 kV up to 36 kV a.c.
  • Two-pole wireless capacitive phase comparators for voltages up to 245 kV a.c.
  • Coverage of complete devices and separate devices adaptable to insulating sticks.
  • Exclusion of multi-function devices such as voltage detectors.

• Functional Requirements

  • Clear and unambiguous phase indication under varied environmental conditions.
  • Precise response time and reliable performance across different frequencies (50 Hz/60 Hz).
  • Dependability of power sources and durability of testing elements.
  • Protection against bridging, spark resistance, and insulation criteria for safe operation.

• Mechanical and Electrical Specifications

  • Robust construction meeting grip force, deflection, vibration, drop, and shock resistance tests.
  • Marking requirements, including the new "LU" marking for limited-use devices.
  • Detailed testing procedures for dielectric strength, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and climatic resistance.

• Testing and Compliance

  • Comprehensive function and type testing protocols.
  • Tests under wet and dry conditions, including simulations of foreseeable misuse during live working.
  • Conformity assessment after production ensuring ongoing compliance and safety.

Applications

IEC 61481-1:2014 phase comparators play a critical role in:

• Live Working Safety
  Enabling electrical workers to verify phase sequences and confirm phase continuity without shutting down high-voltage systems, reducing downtime and risks.

• High Voltage System Maintenance
  Supporting field operations on power distribution and transmission lines above 1 kV, ensuring accurate phase identification for safe switching and repair.

• Wireless Phase Comparison Technology
  The inclusion of two-pole wireless phase comparators up to 245 kV facilitates safer, more flexible live working environments by eliminating cumbersome wired connections.

• Quality Assurance for Electrical Tools
  Manufacturers can design phase comparators compliant with IEC 61481-1 to meet global market demands and improve device reliability and user confidence.

Related Standards

• IEC 61481-2:2014
  Part 2 of this series, covering inductive-type phase comparators for voltages exceeding 1 kV a.c.

• IEC 60417-5216
  International graphical symbol standard relating to live working suitability markings, referenced for the double triangle symbol.

• Other Live Working Standards
  Various IEC standards that govern tools, protective equipment, and procedures for safe live electrical work practice.

---

IEC 61481-1:2014 establishes rigorous requirements for capacitive phase comparators, ensuring enhanced safety and reliability in high-voltage live working contexts. Adherence to this standard is vital for manufacturers and end-users in the electrical power industry aiming to maintain operational safety, accuracy, and compliance worldwide.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 61481-1 ®
Edition 1.0 2014-10
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Live working – Phase comparators –
Part 1: Capacitive type to be used for voltages exceeding 1 kV a.c.

Travaux sous tension – Comparateurs de phase –
Partie 1: Type capacitif pour usage sur des tensions alternatives de plus de 1 kV
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IEC 61481-1 ®
Edition 1.0 2014-10
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Live working – Phase comparators –

Part 1: Capacitive type to be used for voltages exceeding 1 kV a.c.

Travaux sous tension – Comparateurs de phase –

Partie 1: Type capacitif pour usage sur des tensions alternatives de plus de 1 kV

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
CODE PRIX XC
ICS 13.260; 29.240.20; 29.260.99 ISBN 978-2-8322-1879-2

– 2 – IEC 61481-1:2014 © IEC 2014
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 6
INTRODUCTION . 9
1 Scope . 10
2 Normative references . 10
3 Terms and definitions . 11
4 Requirements . 15
4.1 Indication . 15
4.2 Functional requirements. 16
4.2.1 Clear indication . 16
4.2.2 Distance range . 17
4.2.3 Clear perceptibility . 17
4.2.4 Temperature and humidity dependence of the indication. 17
4.2.5 Frequency dependence . 18
4.2.6 Response time . 18
4.2.7 Power source dependability . 18
4.2.8 Testing element . 18
4.2.9 Time rating . 19
4.3 Electrical requirements . 19
4.3.1 Insulating material . 19
4.3.2 Protection against bridging . 19
4.3.3 Resistance against sparking . 19
4.3.4 Insulating element of phase comparator as a complete device . 19
4.3.5 Indicator casing . 19
4.4 Mechanical requirements . 20
4.4.1 General . 20
4.4.2 Design . 20
4.4.3 Dimensions, construction . 22
4.4.4 Grip force and deflection . 23
4.4.5 Vibration resistance . 23
4.4.6 Drop resistance . 23
4.4.7 Shock resistance . 23
4.5 Marking . 23
4.6 Instructions for use . 24
4.7 Requirements in the case of reasonably foreseeable misuse during live
working . 24
4.7.1 Voltage selection . 24
4.7.2 Frequency selection . 24
4.7.3 Channel selection for wireless connection . 24
5 Tests . 24
5.1 General . 24
5.1.1 Testing provisions . 24
5.1.2 Atmospheric conditions . 25
5.1.3 Tests under wet conditions . 25
5.1.4 Type test . 25
5.1.5 Test methods . 26
5.2 Function tests . 26

5.2.1 Description of the test set-up and general pass criteria . 26
5.2.2 Clear indication . 32
5.2.3 Distance range for two-pole phase comparators with wireless
connection . 34
5.2.4 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) . 34
5.2.5 Influence of electric interference fields. 35
5.2.6 Clear perceptibility . 37
5.2.7 Frequency dependence . 45
5.2.8 Response time . 46
5.2.9 Power source dependability . 47
5.2.10 Check of testing element . 47
5.2.11 Time rating of single-pole phase comparator . 47
5.2.12 Time rating of two-pole wireless phase comparators . 48
5.3 Dielectric tests . 48
5.3.1 Insulating material for tubes and rods . 48
5.3.2 Protection against bridging for indoor/outdoor type phase comparators . 49
5.3.3 Protection against bridging for outdoor type phase comparator . 52
5.3.4 Spark resistance . 54
5.3.5 Leakage current for phase comparator as a complete device . 56
5.4 Mechanical tests . 58
5.4.1 Visual and dimensional inspection . 58
5.4.2 Grip force and deflection for phase comparator as a complete device . 59
5.4.3 Vibration resistance . 59
5.4.4 Drop resistance . 60
5.4.5 Shock resistance . 61
5.4.6 Climatic resistance . 61
5.4.7 Durability of markings . 63
5.5 Test for reasonably foreseeable misuse during live working . 63
5.5.1 Voltage selection (where relevant) . 63
5.5.2 Frequency selection (where relevant) . 63
5.5.3 Channel selection for wireless connection (where relevant) . 63
6 Conformity assessment of phase comparators having completed the production
phase . 64
7 Modifications . 64
Annex A (normative) Instructions for use . 65
Annex B (normative) Suitable for live working; double triangle (IEC 60417-5216 (2002-
10)) . 67
Annex C (normative) Chronology of type tests . 68
Annex D (normative) Classification of defects and tests to be allocated . 70
Annex E (informative) Information and guidelines on the use of the limit mark and of a
contact electrode extension . 72
E.1 General . 72
E.2 Situation when using a phase comparator as a complete device . 72
E.3 Situation when using a phase comparator as a separate device . 76
Annex F (informative) Rationale for the classification of defects. 78
Annex G (informative) In-service care . 80
Bibliography . 81

– 4 – IEC 61481-1:2014 © IEC 2014
Figure 1 – Illustration of different elements and different principles of functioning of
phase comparators . 21
Figure 2 – Location of allowed conductive parts within the minimum length of the
insulating element of a pole of a phase comparator as a complete device . 22
Figure 3 – Test set-up for clear indication with the ball electrode in front of its ring
electrode . 28
Figure 4 – Test set-up for clear indication with the ball electrode behind its ring
electrode . 29
Figure 5 – Positioning of a pole of the phase comparator in relation to a ball and ring
test arrangement. 31
Figure 6 – Examples of suitable means for ensuring appropriate contact between a
contact electrode and the ball electrode . 31
Figure 7 – Test set-up for clear perceptibility of visual indication . 38
Figure 8 – Test set-up for measurement of clear perceptibility of visual indication in
the case of an indicator unit . 40
Figure 9 – Test set-up for clear perceptibility of audible indication . 42
Figure 10 –Test set-up for measurement of clear perceptibility of audible indication in
the case of indicator units . 44
Figure 11 – Test arrangements and dimensions of the bars for protection against
bridging . 49
Figure 12 – Electrical connection of the bars . 51
Figure 13 – Surface stress test . 51
Figure 14 – Radial and surface stress test . 52
Figure 15 – Test arrangement for testing bridging protection of outdoor type phase
comparator . 54
Figure 16 – Arrangement for leakage current test under dry conditions for phase
comparator as a complete device . 57
Figure 17 – Arrangement for leakage current tests under wet conditions for phase
comparator as a complete device . 58
Figure 18 – Test for grip force . 59
Figure 19 – Drop resistance test – Diagonal position . 61
Figure 20 – Curve of test cycle for climatic resistance . 62
Figure E.1 – Insulating element of a pole of a phase comparator as a complete device . 72
Figure E.2 – Example of positioning of a pole of a phase comparator in contact with a
live part without obstacles from other live parts . 73
Figure E.3 – Example of incorrect positioning of a pole of a phase comparator with the
limit mark between two live parts . 74
Figure E.4 – Usual ways of managing the design or the use of the phase comparator
for maintaining the insulation distance between the limit mark and the hand guard . 75
Figure E.5 – Usual ways of managing the use of the phase comparator as a separate
device for assuring the appropriate insulation for the worker . 77

Table 1 – Climatic condition ranges . 18
Table 2 – Minimum length of the insulating element (L ) of a phase comparator as a
i
complete device . 22
Table 3 – Dimensioning of the ball and ring test set-up . 30
Table 4 – Test series and conditions for clear indication . 33
Table 5 – Test series and conditions for influence of electric interference fields . 36

Table 6 – Type of test . 49
Table 7 – Distance d for the bridging test set-up . 50
Table 8 – Dimensions for the concentric rings and band electrodes . 52
a
Table C.1 – Sequential order for performing type tests . 68
Table C.2 – Type tests out of sequence . 69
Table D.1 – Classification of defects and associated requirements and tests . 70
Table E.1 – Recommended minimum lengths from the limit mark to the contact
electrode (A ) . 75
i
Table F.1 – Rationale for the classification of defects . 78
Table G.1 – In-service testing . 80

– 6 – IEC 61481-1:2014 © IEC 2014
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
LIVE WORKING –
PHASE COMPARATORS –
Part 1: Capacitive type to be used for voltages exceeding 1 kV a.c.

FOREWORD
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International Standard IEC 61481-1 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 78: Live
working.
This first edition, together with the first edition of IEC 61481-2, cancels and replaces the first
edition of IEC 61481 published in 2001, Amendment 1:2002 and Amendment 2:2004. This
edition constitutes a technical revision.

The major changes are:
• split of the standard in two parts;
• extension of the scope to include two-pole phase comparators operating with a wireless
connection up to 245 kV a.c.;
• review of the requirements for indication;
• introduction of a requirement for a new marking “LU” for limited use;
• addition of requirements and tests for two-pole phase comparators operating with a
wireless connection;
• clarification of the test procedures in case of additional contact electrodes, accessories
and combination of accessories, as well as in case of family of phase comparators;
• addition of requirements and tests for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC);
• clarification of the test provisions for the function tests;
• clarification of the test procedure for clear perceptibility of audible indication;
• preparation of the elements of evaluation of defects, and general application of
IEC 61318:2007;
• revision of existing annexes;
• change of existing normative Annex C in two new Annexes D and F giving the
classification of defects (normative) and the rationale for the classification of defects
(informative);
• deletion of existing Annex D, no longer needed following the specification of IEC 60068-2-
75;
• deletion of existing Annex F, not applicable according to IEC 61318:2007;
• addition of a new informative Annex E giving additional information on the use of the limit
mark and of a contact electrode extension.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
78/1051/FDIS 78/1087/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
In this standard terms defined in Clause 3 appear in italics.
A list of all parts of the IEC 61481 series, published under the general title Live working –
Phase comparators, can be found on the IEC website.

– 8 – IEC 61481-1:2014 © IEC 2014
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data
related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
The contents of the corrigendum of July 2015 have been included in this copy.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
INTRODUCTION
This International Standard has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of
IEC 61477.
Taking into consideration the two different functioning principles of portable phase
comparators of capacitive type available on the market, the maximum a.c. nominal voltage to
be associated with each of them has been considered for delimiting the scope of this
standard.
The following table presents the rationale for the resulting maximum nominal voltage to be
associated with each functioning principle of phase comparator of capacitive type.
Functioning principle Maximum Rationale
nominal
voltage
kV rms
– With this principle of functioning, the clear indication of the
phase comparator is limited by the memory holding time.
Single-pole phase
With higher nominal voltages, the distance between phases of
comparators operating 36
the installation increases and the time necessary to move the
with a memory system
pole of the phase comparator between the two parts to be
compared becomes the limitation.
– With this principle of functioning, there is no theoretical limit
Two-pole phase
for the maximum nominal voltage.
comparators operating
with a wireless
– The definition of 245 kV corresponds to the present limit of
connection
validation of the electric test set-up.

The product covered by this standard may have an impact on the environment during some or
all stages of its life cycle. These impacts can range from slight to significant, be short-term or
long-term, and occur at the global, regional or local level.
In terms of environmental improvement, this standard includes neither requirements nor test
provisions for the manufacturers of the product nor recommendations to the users of the
product. However, all parties intervening in its design, manufacture, packaging, distribution,
use, maintenance, repair, reuse, recovery and disposal are invited to take account of
environmental considerations.
– 10 – IEC 61481-1:2014 © IEC 2014
LIVE WORKING –
PHASE COMPARATORS –
Part 1: Capacitive type to be used for voltages exceeding 1 kV a.c.

1 Scope
This part of IEC 61481 is applicable to portable phase comparators of capacitive type to be
used on electrical systems for voltages exceeding 1 kV a.c. and frequencies of 50 Hz and/or
60 Hz.
This standard is applicable to:
• single-pole phase comparators of capacitive type operating with a memory system up to
36 kV a.c.,
• two-pole phase comparators of capacitive type operating with a wireless connection up to
245 kV a.c.
This standard is applicable to phase comparators of capacitive type used in contact with the
bare conductive parts to be compared:
• as a complete device including its insulating element or
• as a separate device, adaptable to an insulating stick which, as a separate tool, is not
covered by this standard.
NOTE Some parts such as the contact electrode or the insulating element of a phase comparator as a complete
device may be dismantled.
Some restrictions on their use are applicable in the case of factory-assembled switchgear and
on overhead systems of electrified railways (see Annex A).
A device that is designed to provide other functions than phase comparison is a different
device and is not covered by this standard. For example a device designed to be also used as
a voltage detector is not covered by this standard (see Annex A).
Products designed and manufactured according to this standard contribute to the safety of
users provided they are used by persons trained for the work, in accordance with the hot stick
working method and the instructions for use.
Except when otherwise specified, all the voltages defined in this standard refer to phase-to-
phase voltages of three-phase systems. In other systems, the applicable phase-to-phase or
phase-to-earth (ground) voltages should be used to determine the operating voltage.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and
are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
CISPR 11, Industrial, scientific and medical equipment – Radio-frequency disturbance
characteristics – Limits and methods of measurement

IEC 60060-1:2010, High-voltage test techniques – Part 1: General definitions and test
requirements
IEC 60068-1, Environmental testing – Part 1: General and guidance
IEC 60068-2-6, Environmental testing – Part 2-6: Tests – Test Fc: Vibration (sinusoidal)
IEC 60068-2-14, Environmental testing – Part 2-14: Tests – Test N: Change of temperature
IEC 60068-2-31, Environmental testing – Part 2-31: Tests – Test Ec: Rough handling shocks,
primarily for equipment-type specimens
IEC 60068-2-75, Environmental testing – Part 2-75: Tests – Test Eh: Hammer tests
IEC 60304, Standard colours for insulation for low-frequency cables and wires
IEC 60417, Graphical symbols for use on equipment (Available from: http://www.graphical-
symbols.info/equipment)
IEC 60942, Electroacoustics – Sound calibrators
IEC 61000-4-2, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4-2: Testing and measurement
techniques – Electrostatic discharge immunity test
IEC 61000-4-3, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4-3: Testing and measurement
techniques – Radiated, radio-frequency, electromagnetic field immunity test
IEC 61260, Electroacoustics – Octave-band and fractional-octave-band filters
IEC 61318, Live working – Conformity assessment applicable to tools, devices and equipment
IEC 61326-1, Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use – EMC
requirements – Part 1: General requirements
IEC 61477, Live working – Minimum requirements for the utilization of tools, devices and
equipment
IEC 61672-1, Electroacoustics – Sound level meters – Part 1: Specifications
ISO 354, Acoustics – Measurement of sound absorption in a reverberation room
ISO 3744:2010, Acoustics – Determination of sound power levels and sound energy levels of
noise sources using sound pressure – Engineering method for an essentially free-field over a
reflecting plane
ISO 3745, Acoustics – Determination of sound power levels and sound energy levels of noise
sources using sound pressure – Precision methods for anechoic and hemi-anechoic rooms
CIE 15, Colorimetry
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 61318, as well as
the following apply.
– 12 – IEC 61481-1:2014 © IEC 2014
3.1
accessory
supplementary item not necessary for the functioning of the phase comparator and provided
by the manufacturer to facilitate its use under certain operating conditions
Note 1 to entry: An accessory is not considered as a part of a device. Without the accessory, the device is still
functional. An item that is required each time a device is used is not an accessory but a part of the device which
may be disassembled.
Note 2 to entry: For example an accessory is used to lengthen the handle, to improve the efficiency of the contact
electrode, to enable the contact electrode to reach the parts to be compared, etc.
3.2
active signal
visual phenomenon, and optionally audible phenomenon, whose presence, absence or
variation is considered as representing information on the condition “correct phase
relationship” or “incorrect phase relationship”
Note 1 to entry: A signal indicating that the phase comparator is ready to operate is not considered as an active
signal.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-101:1998, 101-12-02, modified – the definition of “signal” has been
modified to fit the specific context of diagnostic of phase relationship and Note 1 to entry has
been added.]
3.3
adaptor
part of a phase comparator as a separate device which permits attachment of an insulating
stick
3.4
clear indication
unambiguous detection and indication of “incorrect phase relationship” and/or “correct phase
relationship” between the parts to be compared
3.5
clear perceptibility
case when the indication is unmistakably discernible by the user under specific environmental
conditions when the phase comparator is in its operating position
3.6
contact electrode
bare conductive part of the phase comparator which establishes the electric connection to the
part to be compared
3.7
contact electrode extension
externally insulated conductive part to enable the contact electrode to reach the parts of the
installation to be compared
Note 1 to entry: For a certain installation configuration, the contact electrode extension is used to increase the
insertion depth (see Figure 1d).
Note 2 to entry: The contact electrode extension is an accessory of the phase comparator.
3.8
end fittings
part of an insulating stick permanently fitted to the end of an insulating tube or rod
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-651:2014, 651-22-02]

3.9
family of phase comparators
for testing purposes, a group of phase comparators, delimited by a minimum and a maximum
rated voltage and/or by the two frequencies (50 Hz and 60 Hz), that are identical in design
(including dimensions) and only differ by their nominal voltages or nominal voltage ranges
and/or their nominal frequency
3.10
hand guard
distinctive physical guard separating the handle of a phase comparator as a complete device
from its insulating element
Note 1 to entry: The purpose of a hand guard is to prevent the hands from slipping and passing into contact with
the insulating element.
3.11
indicator
part of the phase comparator that indicates the status of the phase relationship between two
parts to be compared
Note 1 to entry: In the case of single-pole phase comparators, the indicator also indicates that the phase
comparator is ready to be moved to the second part to be compared ("memory ready").
Note 2 to entry: In the case of two-pole-wireless phase comparators, the indicator also indicates the
communication status.
3.12
indicator unit
additional unit of a two-pole phase comparator with wireless connection, normally intended to
be hand-held and which is either an indicator or repeater that brings the indication and
possibly other information close to the user
3.13
indoor type
phase comparator designed for use in dry conditions, normally indoors
3.14
insertion depth
A
i
distance between the limit mark and the top of the contact electrode for a phase comparator
as a complete device
3.15
insulating element
part of a phase comparator as a complete device that provides adequate safety distance and
insulation to the user
3.16
insulating stick
insulating tool made essentially of an insulating tube and/or rod with end fittings
Note 1 to entry: For phase comparison, an insulating stick is intended to be attached to a phase comparator as a
separate device in order to provide the length to reach the installation to be tested and adequate safety distance
and insulation to the user.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-651:2014, 651-22-01, modified – the Note 1 to entry has been added.]
3.17
interference field
superposed electric field which may affect the indication

– 14 – IEC 61481-1:2014 © IEC 2014
Note 1 to entry: The interference field may result from the parts to be compared or other adjacent parts and may
have any phase relationship.
Note 2 to entry: The extreme cases for the tests are:
– an in-phase interference field. This occurs as a result of the dimensions and/or configuration of the parts of the
installation to be compared or of adjacent parts of the installation having voltages in the same phase as the
parts to be compared;
– an interference field in phase opposition. This occurs as a result of the adjacent parts of the installation having
voltages in phase opposition to the parts to be compared.
3.18
limit mark
distinctive location or mark to indicate to the user the physical limit to which the phase
comparator may be inserted between live parts or may touch them
3.19
maintenance test
test carried out periodically on a device or equipment to ascertain and, if necessary, make
certain adjustments to ensure that its performance remains within specified limits
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-151:2001, 151-16-25, modified – the definition has been modified to fit
the specific context of maintenance of device or equipment.]
3.20
memory holding time
for a single-pole phase comparator, maximum available time to contact the second part to be
compared, after the indication “memory ready” appears when the phase comparator is in
contact with the first part to be tested
3.21
nominal voltage
U
n
suitable approximate value of voltage used to identify a system or device
Note 1 to entry: The nominal voltage of the phase comparator is a parameter associated with its clear indication.
When a phase comparator has more than one nominal voltage, or a nominal voltage range the limit values of the
nominal voltage range are named U and U .
n min n max
[SOURCE: IEC 600500-601:1985, 601-01-21, modified – the definition has been modified to
fit the specific context of device or equipment and Note 1 to entry has been added.]
3.22
outdoor type
phase comparator designed for use in wet conditions, either indoors or outdoors
3.23
permanent contact electrode extension
externally insulated conductive element located between the indic
...