HI-POT-TEST
In the so-called hipot test (high potential or high voltage test), electronic components or cables are tested for dielectric strength of the electrical voltage. Hipot tests play a special role in the automotive sector.
INGUN offers specialised test probes for these tests – both standard or high current probes which are used in pairs, as well as dipole probes (DPS series) which feature an outer and inner conductor meaning only one probe is needed.
Hipot tests are carried out with a higher voltage compared to regular operation. AC voltage as well as with DC voltage can be used for the test, usually in the range of several hundred volts up to several kilovolts. To perform the test, high voltage is applied, and a specialised test device is used to measure whether a breakdown is present (pass/fail) - no additional measurement data is collected.
When selecting the test equipment, it is important to ensure that the test probes can withstand the high voltages. On the other hand, they must be spring-contacted for the automated test so that high quantities can be tested in the test line.
Possible solutions and practical tips
INGUN offers special test probes for high voltage testing, which are put through their paces in our in-house laboratory. Standard probe versions with a continuous plunger or high current probes which have a low intrinsic resistance are best suited to this test. Coaxial versions are also advantageous, e.g., coaxial dipole probes, which are essentially two probes in one as they feature an outer and inner conductor. As only one dipole probe is need for the test, these probes save space. Another advantage is that dipole probes are designed for a variety of connectors and DUTs.
A hipot test should always take place separately from the continuity check and radio frequency test. If possible, a combination with the same test probe for different types of measurements should be avoided in order to ensure an optimal service life of all test elements. Depending on the choice of probe, the connection to the test device is either made using a coaxial connector and coaxial cable, by soldering, using a threaded connection (cable lug) or - less frequently - by plug connection.
