Why 500VA for hipot testers? A TC66 investigation to explore the necessity of the 500VA hipot tester

Abstract

The IEC 61010-1 3rd Edition standard for measurement and control equipment for laboratory use stipulates that a 500VA dielectric withstand tester must be used to test product insulation as part of testing for electrical hazards. This requirement harks back to a time when most withstand tester outputs were unregulated and could cause problems with load regulation. Advancements in withstand tester technology include testers with regulated outputs. This calls into question the need for a 500VA requirement in the IEC 61010-1 3rd Edition standard.