Target Intelliground™ Reading: Less than 1 ohm. (This is the recommended maximum value set forth by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Standard 1100-2005 (Emerald Book)).
Likely Cause For High Impedance Reading: Loose connection at the tested outlet OR along the neutral path from 120VAC outlets upstream from the point of test!
(Be sure to test ALL outlets!)
Likely Solution: Engage a qualified electrician to tighten up the neutral connections at the suspected outlet(s).
Why Is Neutral Impedance Important?
A circuit as simple as a 120VAC outlet can affect so many things within the electrical environment, regardless of whether it’s a complex data center or a small room in a home. High neutral conductor impedance essentially restricts the passage of normal load current, which can cause:
- Overheating of circuit wiring.
- Periodic dimming of lighting loads.
- Inefficiency of electronic loads.
- Reduction in RMS Voltage.
- Overheating of electronic power supplies.
The electromagnetic compatibility of an entire equipment room is compromised if the impedance of its conductors is too high.
It is important to note that the physical wiring of the neutral conductor path is crucial for mitigation since deficiencies can increase the impedance greatly. Physical items to consider are listed below in order of importance:
- Tightness of connections.
- Length of conductor.
- Number of bends in conductor path.
- Bend radius in conductor path.
