“The tracker dog” VS3 is a combi instrument for troubleshooting and checking electrical installations.

The instrument has four functions:

• Socket tester

• Phase identifier

• Fuse identifier

• RCD tester

The transmitter communicates with the receiver by radio. It also emits current pulses via the mains that can be detected by the receiver’s sensitive current sensor. This enables the identification of the fuse for a specific wall socket.

VS3 can be used to locate a voltage-conducting socket and also to distinguish between phase and neutral, even in the case of childproof and earthed sockets. With the transmitter connected to a socket, information is then also provided concerning the phase relationship of a second socket or an appliance relative to the socket to which the transmitter is connected. The phase for the socket to which the transmitter is connected is always “Phase 1”, and the socket or appliance being checked can thus be indicated as “Phase 1”, “Phase 2” or “Phase 3”.
The receiver also works without a transmitter, when it becomes a very sensitive analogue “Volt Stick”.

It is also possible to test 30 mA RCDs. VS3 shows the tripping time.

VS3 is supplied in a sturdy plastic case.

VS3 helps you to determine the configuration of a wall socket (see how a wall socket is connected)

Once the transmitter is connected to a socket, press the on/off button. The configuration of the socket is shown on the receiver’s display, together with the voltage and frequency

VS3 helps you to find the right fuse

The transmitter generates a superimposed current, which passes through the fuse. The electromagnetic field thus created is measured by the receiver. To find the fuse belonging to the socket to which the transmitter is connected, move the receiver tip over the fuses. The correct fuse is the one producing the highest signal. The receiver always checks the phase relationship with the transmitter. Fuses connected to other phases are ignored automatically. If the socket to which the transmitter is connected is voltage free, as a result of the fuse being disconnected, for example, this is indicated by the display.

VS3 helps you to check the phases of connected appliances

The phase connection of different appliances and sockets is easily checked by connecting the transmitter to an arbitrary socket. The socket’s phase is then automatically designated as “Phase 1”. When the receiver tip is moved over fuses or other connection cables, the display shows the units’ phase relationships with the socket to which the transmitter is connected as the point of reference. This allows any uneven loads to be mapped. A three-phase cable can easily be checked without removing the insulation. Moving the receiver around the cable displays all the phases. The field strength is shown as a bar. This is the same type of indication as used by a “Volt Stick”, but here it is shown graphically rather than as a red indicator. This function can also be used when the transmitter is switched off.

VS3 helps you to check RCDs

VS3 can check the function of a 30 mA RCD. Press the RCD button and VS3 generates a fault current of 30 mA. The RCD is tripped. The display shows how long the process took. If the RCD does not trip within 300 ms, an error message is displayed.