PQube FAQ

Do I need to program the PQube before I start using it?

The PQube is a plug-and-play instrument. It starts to monitor as soon as it is plugged in. It automatically detects the nominal voltage, nominal frequency, and power configuration for its location, anywhere in the world. You can also set or change these parameters in the PQube's Setup.ini file.

Does the PQube require a power supply?

It depends on the installation. The PQube can be powered directly from AC 24 / DC 24-48V. This low voltage is often available from locations where the PQube is typically installed (control panels or machines) and can be used to power the PQube. If the installation does not provide this kind of voltage (a solar inverter for example), you will need a PS1 (power supply module) to power your PQube.


What is the Setup.ini file?

The Setup.ini file is located in the root directory of your PQube's SD card. Here, you can set and edit all the parameters you wish to monitor, set thresholds, set up email addresses, etc. The Setup.ini file can be edited in a text editor such as Windows Notepad, or using the PQube Configurator Utility.


What are current transformers (CTs)?

A current transformer is a device that allows you to measure high levels of electrical current by giving an attenuated signal in output. Some CTs output a voltage measurement, while others output a current measurement.

Current transformers (very much like potential or voltage transformers) have primary and secondary windings. The PQube's current input modules, such as CT4, XCT4 and XCT5, connect to the CT's secondary windings. This enables the PQube to measure current in the conductor(s) of interest

Description: Split-core-CTs-300x300-02.pngDescription: SCS-300-5000A-0.3V-02 142x200.pngDescription: Drawing.jpg


What CT ratio should I use with the CT4 module?

The CT4 module is plug and play. It automatically communicates the correct CT ratio to the PQube and therefore one should leave the CT ratio field either blank or set to 1:1. Entering a different ratio, will result in incorrect reading of the current signal.


What CT ratio should I use with the XCT4 module?

With an XCT4 module, you need to tell the PQube the correct ratio. The ratios vary and are written on the outside of the CT you are using. This is the ratio you need to type into the Setup.ini file.
Image 008Description: Split-core-CTs-300x300-02.png

How do I configure the CT ratio in the Setup.ini?
The setup.ini is a configuration file located in the root directory of your PQube's SD card. You can edit the setup.ini in two ways:
  1. Using a text editor such as Windows Notepad
  2. Using the PQube Configurator Tool
Description: CT.png

I bought a Split-Core CT from PSL, which wire is positive and which is negative?
PSL Split-Core CTs come with twisted pairs of black and white wires, the white is the positive(+) and the black is the negative(-).

I bought a CTE1 Module, which terminal is positive and which is negative on each of the channels?
Some earlier CTE1 Modules had a labeling issue. In general, odd terminals are negative and even terminals are positive. For example, on L1 Current, terminal 1 is negative, terminal 2 is positive.

I am using a Cellular Modem with the PQube and I'm having a hard time forwarding ports correctly, what's wrong?
Cellular Modem providers sometimes reassign IP addresses every time you are reconnected to the network, which is an issue for the PQube. To resolve this, consider requesting an static IP address from the provider, or using a free dynamic DNS service that are readily available (your modem manufacturer may have several they recommend).

I got an email error when trying to send a test email, what does it mean?
The full list of PQube email errors can be found on page 30 of the PQube manual.