Pearson Electronics VD-305A-10,000 Capacitive Voltage Divider

Pearson Electronics VD-305A-10,000 Capacitive Voltage Divider The Model VD-305A capacitive voltage divider is intended for the measurement of voltage
amplitude and wave-shape of ac signals at high potential. It has a nominal division ratio of 10,000:1,
and the exact measured ratio is printed on the name-plate. This ratio is measured in insulating oil
at 35oC, and is accurate to ±5%. The division ratio is temperature compensated to ±1% over the
range of 20o to 80oC. Calibration for other ratios or for use in air is available from the factory for an
additional charge.
The unit consists of two capacitors connected in series. The high voltage center electrode forms
a capacitor with a guarded pickup ring located in the lower metal cylinder. This pickup ring is
connected to the center conductor of the output connector via a 50Ω resistor. The low-voltage
capacitor connects the pickup ring to the outer conductor of the connector. The output voltage is
thus a fraction of the input voltage determined by the ratio of the capacitances.
Typically, the divider is placed in high-voltage insulating oil, such as Shell Diala AX, along with other
components of the high-voltage circuit being measured. The case has drain holes to allow oil to
enter or drain out as the unit is inserted or removed from the oil bath. The standard calibration is
for use in oil, which has a dielectric constant of about 2.3.  Consult Pearson engineering for voltage
derating for longer pulses.
As manufactured, the outer conductor of the connector is isolated from the case. Safe operation
requires that a connection be made from the connector shell to ground. However, this isolation
makes it possible to choose the location and nature of this connection so that ground loops may be
controlled.
The conductor connecting the high voltage to the voltage divider should be free of sharp points or
edges, and of sufficient diameter to avoid corona and arcs. The outer conductor of a standard
coaxial cable, such as RG-58, works well. The conductor should be located as far as possible from
the acrylic chimney and any grounded conductors such as the case or the output cable. Occasional
arcs usually do not cause damage to the unit. However, if sustained arcing causes visible damage
to the acrylic chimney, the unit should be returned for repair. The screws which attach the chimney
to the base also hold the guard ring and should not be removed by the user. The VD-305A can be
secured to a base-plate or tank bottom with 1/4 inch bolts or studs. Two four-place bolt circles are
provided. The smaller diameter circle is compatible with early units