SEL-735 Meter Manual: A Comprehensive Plan
This manual, released January 15, 2019 (PM735-01-NB), guides users through the SEL-735’s operation.
It details installation, configuration, and troubleshooting,
covering features like harmonic analysis and California ISO certification.
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. holds all rights, with copyright spanning 2011-2025.
The SEL-735 Power Quality and Revenue Meter represents a significant advancement in electrical monitoring technology, developed by Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. (SEL). This device is designed for comprehensive analysis of power systems, offering detailed insights into power quality, revenue metering, and system performance. The SEL-735 isn’t simply a meter; it’s a versatile tool for utilities, industrial facilities, and commercial operations seeking to optimize energy usage and ensure grid reliability.
This manual serves as your primary resource for understanding and utilizing the full capabilities of the SEL-735. It’s structured to guide you from initial setup and configuration through advanced features and routine maintenance. Whether you are a seasoned electrical engineer or new to power quality analysis, this document provides the necessary information to successfully integrate and operate the SEL-735 within your specific application. Your journey with the SEL-735 begins here, promising efficient and reliable power system monitoring.
Overview of the SEL-735 Power Quality and Revenue Meter

The SEL-735 is a multi-functional power quality and revenue metering solution, meticulously engineered by Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories. It accurately measures a wide range of electrical parameters, including voltage, current, power, frequency, and harmonic content. Beyond standard metering, the SEL-735 excels in power quality analysis, detecting disturbances like voltage sags, swells, and transients.
Crucially, the SEL-735 is certified by the California ISO, ensuring compliance with stringent grid standards. This certification validates its accuracy and reliability for revenue metering applications. The device supports various communication protocols, including serial and Ethernet, facilitating seamless data integration into existing SCADA systems. A standard CD manual accompanies each unit, providing comprehensive documentation. It’s a robust and versatile instrument designed for demanding power system environments.
Key Features and Applications
The SEL-735 boasts a comprehensive suite of features, including advanced harmonic analysis, enabling detailed assessment of power system distortion. Its voltage sag/swell detection capabilities pinpoint power quality events, while transient recording captures short-duration disturbances for in-depth investigation. California ISO certification confirms its suitability for revenue-grade metering.
Applications span diverse sectors, from industrial facilities and commercial buildings to utility substations. It’s ideal for power quality monitoring, demand-side management, and revenue billing. The SEL-735’s robust design and accurate measurements ensure reliable performance in challenging environments. Its communication capabilities allow for remote data access and control. The included manual provides guidance for successful implementation and operation, maximizing its potential.

Installation and Wiring
Proper installation requires careful unpacking and inspection of the SEL-735. Wiring diagrams detail connections, while considerations for Current and Potential Transformers are crucial for accuracy.
Unpacking and Inspection
Upon receiving your SEL-735 Power Quality and Revenue Meter, a thorough unpacking and inspection process is essential to ensure no damage occurred during shipment. Carefully examine the shipping container for any visible signs of impact or mishandling. Once opened, verify that all components listed on the packing list are present, including the meter itself, any ordered accessories, and the accompanying documentation – notably, the instruction manual (735_IM_20190115.pdf, PM735-01-NB).
Inspect the meter for any physical damage, such as cracks, dents, or loose connections. Pay close attention to the terminal blocks and the display screen. If any damage is detected, immediately document it with photographs and contact Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) support. Do not attempt to install or operate a damaged meter. Retain all packaging materials for potential return or inspection by SEL or the carrier. The standard SEL-735 includes a CD manual for convenient access to detailed information.
Wiring Diagrams and Connections
Proper wiring is critical for accurate measurement and safe operation of the SEL-735 Power Quality and Revenue Meter. Refer to the detailed wiring diagrams provided within the instruction manual (735_IM_20190115.pdf) for specific connection configurations based on your application. These diagrams illustrate the connections for current transformers (CTs) and potential transformers (PTs), ensuring correct phase and polarity alignment.
Ensure all wiring complies with applicable electrical codes and safety standards. Use appropriately sized conductors and terminals, and verify secure connections to prevent loose wiring and potential hazards. Double-check all connections before applying power. Incorrect wiring can lead to inaccurate readings, meter damage, or safety risks. The manual provides guidance on CT and PT considerations, crucial for optimal performance and reliable data acquisition.
Current Transformer (CT) Considerations
Selecting and installing appropriate Current Transformers (CTs) is paramount for accurate revenue metering and power quality analysis with the SEL-735. The instruction manual (735_IM_20190115.pdf) details crucial CT specifications, including ratio, burden, and accuracy class. Ensure the CT’s burden rating matches or exceeds the SEL-735’s input requirements to avoid saturation and measurement errors.
Pay close attention to CT polarity; incorrect polarity will result in inaccurate readings. Proper CT wiring, as illustrated in the wiring diagrams, is essential. Consider the CT’s knee-point voltage to prevent saturation during fault conditions. Regularly inspect CT connections for tightness and corrosion. Correct CT selection and installation directly impact the reliability and accuracy of the SEL-735’s measurements.
Potential Transformer (PT) Considerations
Accurate voltage measurement relies heavily on correctly specified and installed Potential Transformers (PTs) when utilizing the SEL-735. The SEL-735 manual (735_IM_20190115.pdf) emphasizes the importance of matching PT ratios and burden ratings to the meter’s input requirements. Incorrect PT selection can lead to voltage distortion and inaccurate power quality data.
Verify PT polarity before connecting, as reversed polarity will cause erroneous readings. Ensure PT connections are secure and free from corrosion. Consider the PT’s voltage rating and insulation level to ensure safe and reliable operation. Proper grounding of the PT secondary is critical for safety and accuracy. Regularly inspect PTs for signs of degradation. Correct PT implementation is vital for the SEL-735’s overall performance.

Configuration and Setup
Initial setup involves powering up the SEL-735 and establishing basic settings. This includes configuring communication protocols—Serial or Ethernet—and accurately setting the date and time.
Initial Power-Up and Basic Settings
Upon initial power-up of the SEL-735, a self-test sequence automatically begins, verifying core functionality. The display will illuminate, presenting the Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories logo and then transitioning to the main screen.
Before operational use, fundamental settings must be configured. This includes selecting the appropriate language, ensuring correct time synchronization, and establishing the desired units of measurement for voltage, current, and power.
Pay close attention to the meter’s configuration menu, accessible through the front panel interface. Carefully review and adjust settings related to data logging intervals, event reporting thresholds, and communication parameters. Proper configuration during this initial phase is crucial for accurate data acquisition and reliable performance throughout the meter’s lifespan. Refer to the comprehensive instruction manual (PM735-01-NB, dated 20190115) for detailed guidance on each setting.
Communication Protocols (Serial, Ethernet)
The SEL-735 supports multiple communication protocols, enabling seamless integration into existing systems. Serial communication, utilizing RS-232, provides a direct connection for local data retrieval and configuration. However, Ethernet connectivity is the preferred method for remote access and network integration.
Ethernet communication allows for Modbus TCP/IP, DNP3, and IEC 61850 protocols, facilitating data exchange with SCADA systems, energy management platforms, and other networked devices. Configuration of IP addresses, subnet masks, and gateway settings is essential for establishing a stable network connection. The SEL-735 manual (PM735-01-NB, 20190115) provides detailed instructions on configuring these parameters, ensuring secure and reliable data transmission. Proper protocol selection and configuration are vital for optimal system performance.
Setting the Date and Time
Accurate date and time settings are crucial for proper event logging, reporting, and data timestamping within the SEL-735. The meter relies on this information for accurate historical data analysis and correlation with other system events. The SEL-735 manual (PM735-01-NB, released January 15, 2019) details the procedure for setting the date and time, accessible through the meter’s user interface.

Users can manually input the date and time or configure the meter to automatically synchronize with a Network Time Protocol (NTP) server. NTP synchronization ensures continuous accuracy, compensating for drift and daylight saving time adjustments. Correct date and time configuration is fundamental for reliable revenue metering and power quality analysis, ensuring data integrity and compliance with industry standards.
Network Configuration
Establishing network connectivity is essential for remote access, data retrieval, and firmware updates of the SEL-735. The SEL-735 supports both Serial and Ethernet communication protocols, as outlined in the instruction manual (PM735-01-NB, dated 20190115). Ethernet configuration involves assigning an IP address, subnet mask, and gateway, enabling communication with other devices on the network;
The manual details the steps for configuring these parameters through the meter’s user interface. Proper network setup allows for seamless integration with SCADA systems and remote monitoring platforms. Secure communication protocols should be implemented to protect sensitive data transmitted over the network. Successful network configuration is vital for efficient operation and data management of the SEL-735.

Operation and Monitoring
The SEL-735 provides comprehensive data access via its display, enabling users to navigate and understand power quality and revenue metering functions effectively.
Display Navigation and Understanding
The SEL-735 meter features a user-friendly display designed for intuitive operation and efficient data monitoring. Understanding the display’s layout is crucial for accessing vital power quality information and revenue metering details. The interface allows for seamless navigation through various menus and data screens, providing real-time insights into system performance.
Users can readily access parameters such as voltage, current, power, frequency, and harmonic content. The display’s structure facilitates quick identification of potential issues or anomalies within the electrical system. Furthermore, the SEL-735’s display supports event reporting and logging, enabling users to review historical data and analyze trends over time. Mastering display navigation is key to maximizing the meter’s capabilities and ensuring optimal system reliability.
Reading Power Quality Data
The SEL-735 excels in providing comprehensive power quality data, essential for maintaining a stable and efficient electrical system. Accessing this data involves navigating the meter’s display to specific menus dedicated to power quality analysis. Key parameters include Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), individual harmonic measurements, voltage sags and swells, and transient events.
Understanding these metrics allows for proactive identification of power quality issues that can impact sensitive equipment or overall system performance. The SEL-735’s data presentation is designed for clarity, enabling users to quickly assess the health of the electrical network. Analyzing this information facilitates informed decisions regarding mitigation strategies and preventative maintenance, ultimately enhancing system reliability and longevity.

Revenue Metering Functions
The SEL-735 is a highly accurate revenue metering solution, designed for billing and energy accounting applications. It precisely measures active and reactive energy, along with various demand intervals, crucial for accurate cost allocation. The meter supports multiple rate structures and tariff configurations, accommodating diverse utility requirements.
Data logging capabilities ensure a detailed record of energy consumption, facilitating dispute resolution and audit trails. The SEL-735’s compliance with industry standards, including California ISO certification, guarantees reliable and verifiable metering data. Its robust security features protect against tampering and ensure the integrity of revenue information, providing peace of mind for both utilities and consumers.
Event Reporting and Logging
The SEL-735 provides comprehensive event reporting and logging capabilities, crucial for power quality analysis and system diagnostics. It meticulously records disturbances, including voltage sags, swells, and transients, with precise timestamps. This detailed logging allows for accurate identification of root causes and proactive mitigation of power system issues.
Users can configure event triggers based on specific thresholds and parameters, ensuring that only relevant events are captured. The SEL-735’s event logs are easily accessible for review and analysis, aiding in performance monitoring and system optimization. This robust event reporting system enhances grid reliability and supports informed decision-making for utilities and industrial facilities.

Advanced Features
The SEL-735 boasts advanced features like harmonic analysis, voltage sag/swell detection, transient recording, and is certified by California ISO.
Harmonic Analysis
The SEL-735 provides comprehensive harmonic analysis capabilities, crucial for assessing power quality and identifying potential issues within electrical systems. This feature allows users to measure and monitor harmonic distortion, offering insights into the presence of non-linear loads that generate harmonic currents. Analyzing these harmonics is vital for preventing equipment overheating, reducing system efficiency, and mitigating resonance conditions.
The meter calculates Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) for both voltage and current, providing a single value representing the overall harmonic content. Furthermore, it measures individual harmonic components up to a specified order, enabling detailed investigation of specific harmonic frequencies. This granular data assists in pinpointing the source of harmonic distortion and implementing appropriate mitigation strategies, such as harmonic filters. The SEL-735’s harmonic analysis tools empower engineers and technicians to maintain optimal power system performance and reliability.
Voltage Sag/Swell Detection
The SEL-735 incorporates advanced voltage sag and swell detection, a critical function for identifying power quality disturbances that can impact sensitive equipment. Voltage sags, or temporary reductions in voltage magnitude, and swells, or temporary increases, can cause malfunctions, data loss, and even equipment damage. The meter continuously monitors voltage levels and identifies deviations from nominal values, triggering events when pre-defined thresholds are breached.
Configurable settings allow users to customize sag/swell detection parameters, including duration, magnitude, and phase angle, tailoring the system to specific application requirements. Detailed event reports capture the characteristics of each disturbance, including timestamps, voltage magnitudes, and durations, facilitating root cause analysis. This capability is essential for maintaining system stability, protecting critical loads, and improving overall power system reliability. The SEL-735’s detection features provide valuable insights into voltage events.
Transient Recording
The SEL-735’s transient recording functionality captures high-frequency voltage and current disturbances, providing detailed insights into short-duration events often missed by conventional monitoring systems. These transients, such as impulses and oscillations, can originate from switching operations, lightning strikes, or other sources, potentially causing stress on equipment and leading to premature failure. The meter’s high sampling rates ensure accurate representation of transient waveforms.
Users can configure trigger settings to initiate recording based on specific event criteria, optimizing data capture for relevant disturbances. Recorded waveforms can be analyzed using specialized software, revealing the characteristics of transients and aiding in identifying their sources. This feature is invaluable for diagnosing power quality issues, assessing equipment vulnerability, and implementing mitigation strategies. The SEL-735’s transient recording enhances diagnostic capabilities.
California ISO Certification Details
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. (SEL) has successfully obtained California ISO (CAISO) certification for the SEL-735 Power Quality and Revenue Meter. This certification confirms the meter’s compliance with stringent CAISO requirements for accuracy, reliability, and security in revenue metering applications within the California Independent System Operator’s control area;

The SEL-735 underwent rigorous testing by CAISO to validate its performance across a range of operating conditions and data reporting protocols. This certification assures utilities and grid operators that the meter provides precise and trustworthy measurements for billing and settlement purposes.
It demonstrates SEL’s commitment to delivering high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of the modern power grid, ensuring seamless integration and dependable operation within the CAISO environment.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Routine maintenance, firmware updates, and troubleshooting steps are crucial for optimal SEL-735 performance.
Contacting SEL support provides expert assistance when needed, ensuring reliable operation.
Routine Maintenance Procedures
Regular inspection of wiring connections is paramount, ensuring they remain secure and free from corrosion. Periodically check the Current Transformer (CT) and Potential Transformer (PT) connections for tightness and proper insulation. Dust accumulation on the meter’s exterior should be removed using a soft, dry cloth – avoid liquids.
Verify the integrity of the enclosure seals to maintain environmental protection. Software logs should be reviewed routinely for any unusual events or error messages, providing early detection of potential issues. It’s advisable to document all maintenance activities, including dates and actions taken, for a comprehensive maintenance history.
Furthermore, confirm the accuracy of the time synchronization settings, as precise timekeeping is vital for event reporting and data analysis. Finally, always refer to the SEL-735 instruction manual (735_IM_20190115.pdf) for detailed guidance and specific recommendations tailored to your installation.
Common Troubleshooting Steps
If the SEL-735 display is blank, first verify the power supply is functioning correctly. Check all wiring connections, ensuring they are secure and undamaged. For communication issues, confirm network settings (serial or Ethernet) are properly configured and that the correct communication protocol is selected.
If data appears inaccurate, review the CT and PT ratios programmed into the meter, comparing them to the actual transformer specifications. Examine event logs for any error messages that might indicate the source of the problem. If encountering software glitches, attempt a meter reset, referencing the manual (735_IM_20190115.pdf) for the correct procedure.
Should issues persist, consult the SEL support resources or contact Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories directly for assistance. Remember to document all troubleshooting steps taken for efficient support interaction.
Firmware Updates
Maintaining up-to-date firmware on your SEL-735 is crucial for optimal performance and access to the latest features. Firmware updates, provided by Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, address bug fixes, enhance security, and introduce new functionalities; Before initiating an update, carefully review the release notes accompanying the new firmware version (referencing documentation like 735_IM_20190115.pdf).
The update process typically involves downloading the firmware file from SEL’s website and transferring it to the meter via a serial or Ethernet connection. Always follow the instructions detailed in the SEL-735 manual precisely. Interrupting the update process can render the meter inoperable.
Ensure a stable power supply during the update. Post-update, verify the new firmware version is correctly installed and that all meter functions operate as expected.
Contacting SEL Support
For any issues not addressed by this manual (735_IM_20190115.pdf) or through troubleshooting, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) offers comprehensive support. SEL’s dedicated support team can assist with technical questions, configuration challenges, and potential hardware concerns.
You can reach SEL Support through various channels, including a dedicated phone line, email, and their online support portal. The SEL website provides access to a wealth of resources, including FAQs, application notes, and software downloads. When contacting support, be prepared to provide your SEL-735’s serial number and a detailed description of the problem.
Clearly outlining the steps you’ve already taken to resolve the issue will expedite the support process. SEL is committed to ensuring your successful operation of the SEL-735.