A digital meter for measuring dissipation factor

The usual practice of measurement of the dissipation factor, i.e. tan/spl delta/ uses a schering bridge. This method of determining dissipation factor is however, of low accuracy and has a number of disadvantages. To obtain accurate result, for the true balance, stray capacitance are eliminated by using a Wagner's earthing device which increases the cost. This paper describes a simple and accurate technique for measurement of dissipation factor using a 8085A microprocessor. The implementation scheme is discussed briefly. A computer algorithm for generating lookup table data has been highlighted. The microprocessor programs have been developed by using an assembler. This technique is found to be the most accurate method provided the supply frequency is kept constant.