Measurement Category I: For measuring circuits of electrical and elec-
tronic equipment that is not directly supplied with a mains voltage (e.g.
CAT I
battery-operated devices, safety extra-low voltage systems, signal/con-
trol voltages, etc.)
Measurement Category II: For measuring circuits of electrical and elec-
tronic equipment that is directly supplied with a mains voltage via a
CAT II
mains plug. This category also includes all lower categories (e.g. CAT I
for measuring signal and control voltages).
Measurement Category III: For measuring circuits of installations in
buildings (e.g. mains sockets or sub-distributions). This category also in-
cludes all lower categories (e.g. CAT II for measuring electrical devices).
CAT III
Measuring in CAT III is only permitted with test prods with a maximum
free contact length of 4 mm or with cover caps over the test prods.
Measurement Category IV: For measuring at the origin of a low-voltage
installation (e.g. mains distribution, electricity provider's transfer points to
homes) and outdoors (e.g. when conducting tasks on underground ca-
CAT IV
bles or overhead lines). This category also includes all lower categories.
Measuring in CAT IV is only permitted with test prods with a maximum
free contact length of 4 mm or with cover caps over the test prods.
Earth potential
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