Application Note

3 Fluke Corporation Revenue meter socket checks using the new Fluke 113 Utility Multimeter
A typical method of disconnecting service is to
“boot” or seal the meter at the socket, by placing
sleeves over the two load side terminals of the
meter and placing the meter back into the socket.
This cuts the service to a customer, but allows the
meter to remain in place. Removing the meter,
installing a blank plate, and sealing the socket
prevents the meter from being set until the socket
is tested for load, foreign voltage, or faults, which
may cause an arc fault if one of these conditions
exists. Whether the socket is booted, or blanked
and sealed, is generally established through work
practices from the appropriate utility, or local or
state guidelines.
If the socket tests described in the six tests above
agree with the displayed readings shown, it is OK
to set or reconnect the meter.
In summary
There are around a dozen meter socket variants, with voltage
levels ranging from 120 volts to 480 volts available, depending
upon the configuration. Most basic test and safety practices
are similar. Although many multimeters can probably be used
to make these tests, the Fluke 113 was designed by custom-
ers with simplicity and ease of use in mind, which eliminates
the guesswork. Unlike other multimeters, which may require
range and function changes to check for continuity or volt-
age to make these measurements, the Fluke 113 requires no
interaction from the meter technician to test the socket other
than putting the meter in the VCHEK function and using the
test probes.
Generally accepted guidelines
1. Visually inspect the enclosure and socket first
2. Use the appropriate PPE
3. Check your meter and test leads/probes
4. Load side breaker should be OFF and bypass handle
should be open
5. Always make line side tests first
6. Load side tests second
7. If load side tests indicate no back feeds or continuity
(shorts or faults), it’s OK to set the meter.
Fluke Corporation
PO Box 9090, Everett, WA 98206 U.S.A.
Fluke Europe B.V.
PO Box 1186, 5602 BD
Eindhoven, The Netherlands
For more information call:
In the U.S.A. [phone] or
Fax [phone]
In Europe/M-East/Africa [phone] or
Fax [phone]
In Canada (800)-36-FLUKE or
Fax [phone]
From other countries [phone] or
Fax [phone]
Web access: http://www.fluke.com
©2008 Fluke Corporation.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
Printed in U.S.A. 5/2008 3338221 A-EN-N Rev A
Fluke. Keeping your world
up and running.
®
Disclaimer
This application note is only a guide. It is intended
to provide general information on meter socket
testing using the Fluke 113 Multimeter. Your
employer, power utility or municipality may have
different testing practices or test procedures and
equipment that are required for these tests.