Traditional ground testing, called Fall of Potential, is a time-consuming, but very accurate method to confirm that an electrical system is grounded properly. Proper grounding can save money by making sure that unwanted energy can safely go to earth to be dissipated. It can also save lives by making sure there are no shock hazards at a location. Ground resistance clamps, like the DET24C can quickly test certain ground systems, but they do have some limits. Unlike fall of potential tests, you do not have to disconnect the ground system from what it is protecting. In fact, the clamp-on method requires a complete circuit in order to effectively measure. However, it will only give an accurate reading when there are multiple ground electrodes set up in parallel. If the ground is isolated, with no return path.

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There were several improvements from the older-style ground clamps (still used by many other brands) to the new DET Ground Clamps. The most significant changes are: • Flat jaws over interlocking jaws. This will reduce the build-up of dirt in the jaws, which can prevent the contacts making a clean connection. Improper connections can give false measurements • Elliptical over Round head design. The larger, elliptical shape of the new clamp head allows you to reach down into tighter spots, making it easier to take a good measurement. • Longer level handle. The handle on the new DET14C and DET24C has been made longer, while the body made shorter. This makes it easier to get a good grip on the tester and requires less force to open the jaws. The shorter body also means it can fit into smaller spaces.

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Besides being able to measure the resistance of the ground loop, you can use the Megger DET24C to check for ground leakage current. The presence of leakage current will tell you that the line is live and you should make sure you taking full safety precautions. A leakage current could also indicate that there is an imbalance in the circuit. When loads are properly balanced, there should be no current flowing. When three-phase systems are not balanced there is a tendency for the system to shift any energy to the ground. This wastes money (in the form of improperly used energy) and can put undue stress on the grounding system.

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