Connect generator
Attach the generator leads to the DC system and ground, then select the voltage level for the site.
Online DC Ground Fault Location
PITE3836 Ground Fault Locator
Trace inadvertent grounds on live DC systems with low-frequency signal injection and directional current clamps.
PITE3836 helps maintenance engineers follow a 10 Hz test signal through busbars, branches and loads, then compare direction, phase angle and signal strength to isolate the physical fault point without normal circuit shutdown.
System voltage24-1000 VDC
Output frequency10 Hz
Fault sensitivity≤ 1 MΩ
Current detection≥ 0.5 mA
Clamp opening60 mm
Kit weight7 kg
Field Ready Kit
Pinpoint DC ground faults while the system remains energized.
The signal generator injects a small directional low-frequency current into the faulted polarity. The handheld receiver and current clamps follow that signal from the main bus into downstream branches, helping technicians identify where leakage leaves the DC circuit and returns through ground.
- Patented leakage fault location for grounding resistance up to 1 MΩ.
- Dual-clamp receiver helps cancel capacitive interference on online DC systems.
- Direction, phase angle and signal-strength comparison support fast orientation.
- Built-in filtering and spectrum analysis help separate test signal from ambient noise.
Working Rule
Trace the return path, not just the panel.
The receiver indicates current direction as clamps move along the bus and each branch. Before and after the grounding point, signal strength and phase angle change clearly enough to confirm the faulted section.
Test Workflow
Discuss your DC system
From signal injection to confirmed fault point.
Scan main bus
Use the receiver clamp on busbars and feeders to find where the 10 Hz signal continues.
Follow branches
Move branch by branch, comparing direction, phase angle and relative signal strength.
Confirm location
Verify the section where the signal drops or reverses before isolating the faulty load or cable.
Why It Matters
Ground faults can hide until the second fault becomes critical.
Battery and DC control systems may keep operating after the first inadvertent ground, but the system becomes vulnerable to overheating, nuisance trips, reduced battery capacity and unsafe working conditions. PITE3836 is built for the moment when the alarm is known, but the exact location is not.
- Substation DC systems
- Utility protection circuits
- Railway signaling systems
- Telecom power rooms
- Industrial DC distribution
- UPS and backup battery rooms
Locator Features
Designed for noisy, branch-heavy DC installations.
The locator combines a controlled signal source, dual clamp measurement and DSP filtering so technicians can keep moving through a live plant instead of opening circuits one by one.
- Adjustable output voltage covers common 24V, 48V, 110V, 220V, 500V and 1000V DC systems.
- One pair of clamps works together to reduce capacitive interference during online tests.
- Receiver can set reference points for quick before-and-after signal comparison.
- Digital signal processing detects grounding resistance and capacitive resistance behavior.
- Built-in band-pass filtering helps bypass interference from the surrounding environment.
- No disconnection of the electrical installation is required for normal fault tracing.
- Frequency spectrum view helps technicians understand ambient signal conditions.
- Multiple indications combine current direction, phase angle and signal strength.
Specifications
Technical data
Key parameters are organized from the PITE3836 product introduction and current product page. Confirm final configuration and accessories with PITE before ordering.
| Output voltage | 24, 48, 110, 220, 500, 1000 VDC |
|---|---|
| Output frequency | 10 Hz |
| Output current limitation | 5 mA or unlimited, maximum 25 mA |
| Fault location sensitivity | ≤ 1 MΩ |
| Current detection sensitivity | AC/DC circuit: ≥ 0.5 mA |
| Quick search clamp | 55 mm diameter, 60 mm jaw opening |
| Current sensor | φ8 and φ20 |
| Display | Backlit color LCD |
| Power requirements | 8.4 VDC Li-ion battery |
| Operating environment | -5°C to 40°C (23°F to 104°F) |
| Dimensions | 360 × 260 × 135 mm (14.2 × 10.2 × 5.3 in) |
| Weight | 7 kg (15.4 lb) |
Manufacturer Confidence
Built by PITE TECH INC, a national high-tech enterprise since 2001.
PITE3836 is supported by a Shenzhen manufacturer with in-house R&D, production, sales and customer service capabilities for intelligent battery and DC power maintenance equipment.
120+ employees
2,000 m² factory area
37 patents & software copyrights
ISO and high-tech credentials
View company profile
Typical Faults
Built for the faults technicians actually meet.
- Positive bus to ground
- Negative bus or branch to ground
- Load-side leakage to ground
- Partial short circuit between busbars
- Bus connection mixed with a separate circuit
- Leakage capacitance that influences measurement
PITE3836 Ground Fault Locator Datasheet
Download the product introduction with specifications, wiring concept and field test visuals, or send your DC system details for model and accessory advice.
FAQ
Common ground fault questions.
These answers summarize the current product guidance for DC system maintenance teams.
Can PITE3836 test AC systems?
No. PITE3836 is designed for DC systems and DC ground fault location.
How does it detect a fault?
The generator injects a low-frequency signal into the DC bus with respect to ground. The receiver traces that signal with current clamps, using direction, phase angle and strength changes to move toward the faulted branch.
Does the system need to be de-energized?
For normal fault tracing, the locator is used online with a very low output current, so maintenance teams can locate faults without disconnecting the electrical installation.
How are the generator and receiver powered?
Both units use rechargeable batteries and can be charged with the included power supplies for 110/220 VAC, 50/60 Hz input.
How long does a full charge last?
The rechargeable batteries last approximately 4 hours in normal use.