KYORITSU MULTI FUNCTION INSTALLATION TESTER KEW 6516BT-EV2

The Ultimate EVSE Testing and Diagnostic Kit

The rapid growth of electric vehicles demands specialized tools for the installation and maintenance of their charging infrastructure. This comprehensive kit, which includes the KEW 6516 series Multi-Function Tester (MFT) and the 8602 EVSE Adapter, represents the gold standard for testing Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). This powerful combination allows professionals to perform a full suite of diagnostic tests on EVSE, ensuring both safety and optimal performance. The kit’s design focuses on versatility and precision, enabling technicians to handle a wide array of electrical measurements, from basic voltage and insulation checks to highly specific RCD and loop impedance tests for EV charging stations. This all-in-one solution is a critical asset for any professional working in the burgeoning electric vehicle industry.

Testing EVSE Under De-Energized Conditions

Safety is the first priority when working with electrical systems, and this kit provides the tools to perform crucial tests with the power turned off (CP STATE A). The Insulation test function allows for the measurement of insulation resistance between the EVSE cables and the ground. This is a vital check for ensuring the cables are free from damage or defects that could lead to dangerous current leakage. The Earth Continuity test (200mA) verifies the integrity of the protective earth connection, a fundamental safety measure. Additionally, the kit enables a full 3-wire and 2-wire Earth test, which measures the resistance of the earth connection to which the EVSE is connected. This comprehensive set of de-energized tests ensures that the foundational electrical installation is sound before any power is applied.

Advanced Diagnostics for Live EVSE Circuits

Once the foundational safety checks are complete, the kit moves on to a range of advanced diagnostics for live circuits (CP STATE C, D). The Voltage and Phase Rotation functions allow technicians to verify that the power supply to the EVSE is correct, checking for proper voltage levels and the correct phase sequence on three-phase installations. A standout feature is the device’s ability to test the EVSE’s built-in 6mA DC RCDs. Unlike standard RCDs, these specialized devices require a very low current to trip. The KEW 6516 series can perform polarity tests (+,-), as well as x1/2, x1, and x5 auto-tests on these sensitive RCDs, along with Type AC, A, B, and F RCDs, ensuring the RCDs are functioning correctly to protect against electric shock.

Specialized Loop Impedance for EVSE Safety

Loop impedance testing is a cornerstone of electrical safety, but EVSE presents a unique challenge. The 6mA DC RCDs built into charging stations are highly sensitive and often trip even at the low test currents used by typical instruments. The KEW 6516 series addresses this with a dedicated EVSE range and its Loop ATT (Anti-Trip Technology), which measures loop impedance at an even lower current. This feature, available in firmware version 2.10 or later, introduces an “L-PE 3W EV” mode with both “Normal I” (6mA) and “Low I” (4mA) settings, allowing for accurate loop impedance measurement without tripping the RCD. This specialized functionality is critical for verifying the safety of the EVSE without causing unnecessary interruptions or false trips.

The 8602 Adapter: The Heart of EVSE Testing

While the KEW 6516BT MFT is a powerful tool on its own, its full potential for EVSE testing is unlocked by the 8602 EVSE Adapter. This adapter acts as the interface between the tester and the EVSE, simulating the presence of an electric vehicle. The adapter supports various CP states (A, B, C, D) and PP states (OPEN, 13A, 20A, 32A, 63A), allowing technicians to test the EVSE under different simulated conditions. The adapter also includes important pre-tests, such as CP Error and PE Error checks, which can quickly diagnose communication or grounding faults before any major testing begins. The adapter’s terminals and mains socket provide a safe and convenient point of connection for all the necessary tests, streamlining the diagnostic process and ensuring reliable results.

Applications in a Growing Electric World

The combined power of the KEW 6516BT and the 8602 adapter makes this kit invaluable for a wide range of applications. It is essential for installers of new EV charging stations, who need to certify that the equipment is functioning correctly and safely before commissioning. For maintenance and service technicians, it is the go-to tool for troubleshooting issues with existing charging stations, whether the problem is a faulty RCD, a poor earth connection, or a communication error. The kit’s ability to test both single-phase and three-phase EVSEs makes it a versatile solution for both residential and commercial installations. Its specialized features for low-current RCDs and loop impedance make it particularly well-suited for the unique demands of EVSE testing.

Why this Kit is a Professional’s Choice

This kit stands out as a professional’s choice due to its combination of specialized features, robust design, and user-friendly operation. The clear interface of the KEW 6516BT, coupled with the functional simplicity of the 8602 adapter, makes it easy to use even for complex diagnostic tasks. The inclusion of the dedicated EVSE Loop Impedance function is a testament to the manufacturer’s commitment to creating tools that meet the specific challenges of the industry. By providing a comprehensive and accurate set of tests in a single, well-designed kit, it empowers technicians to work more efficiently and with greater confidence. This is not just a collection of tools; it is a complete solution for EVSE testing.