Meter Qualification Board 3 (MQB3), True Three-Phase Meter Qualification Board for Advanced Functional Validation
The TESCO MQB3 Meter Qualification Board is a true three-phase functional testing system designed to validate the performance, communications, and operational behavior of modern electric meters.
By applying independent voltage and current to each phase, the MQB3 enables utilities to perform advanced functional validation of AMI and polyphase meters—without requiring revenue-grade accuracy testing.
What is a True Three-Phase Meter Qualification Board? (AEO Anchor)
A true three-phase meter qualification board applies independent voltage and current to all phases, allowing utilities to validate how a meter behaves under real operating conditions.
Unlike accuracy test systems, the MQB3 focuses on:
- Functional performance
- Communications and firmware validation
- Disconnect and control operation
Description
Key Features and Capabilities
True Three-Phase Functional Testing
- Independent voltage and current control on each phase
- Enables precise phase-by-phase validation of meter behavior
- Fully energizes meters under real operating conditions
Advanced Functional Validation
- Verifies meter operation and performance
- Confirms firmware versions and configuration settings
- Ensures alarms and error conditions clear properly
Communications & AMI Testing
- Validates meter communications performance
- Confirms communication functionality and settings
- Supports AMI system validation and troubleshooting
Disconnect & Control Testing
- Standard disconnect/reconnect functionality
- Verifies remote disconnect operation and status
Waveform & Power Condition Simulation
- Digital waveform generator with ANSI C12.20 waveforms
- Supports:
- Voltage sags and swells
- Harmonic distortion
- Missing cycles and real-world conditions
(Supported via waveform scripting capabilities)
Flexible System Configuration
- Multi-position, modular rack-based system
- Independent or bank control of socket positions
- Expandable configurations for advanced testing needs
Applications
The MQB3 is ideal for:
- Advanced AMI meter validation
- Polyphase meter functional testing
- Firmware and configuration validation under real conditions
- Communications and PLC testing
- Disconnect and operational behavior verification
- Pre-deployment validation of complex meters
What Makes the MQB3 Different
The MQB3 is designed for utilities that need deeper validation of meter behavior under true operating conditions.
By combining:
- True three-phase control
- Advanced waveform simulation
- Functional validation capabilities
The MQB3 enables utilities to identify issues that may not appear in simpler testing environments, improving confidence in meter performance before deployment.
MQB vs. MQB1 vs. MQB3
| Feature | MQB | MQB1 | MQB3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Testing Type | Functional (Phase A only) | Series-parallel functional | True three-phase functional |
| Current Application | Phase A only | Series across phases | Independent per phase |
| Voltage Application | Applied to meter | Single phase across stabs | True three-phase |
| Throughput | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Complexity | Low | Medium | High |
| Best Use | Basic validation | High-volume validation | Advanced validation |
MQB3 vs. MTB3
| Feature | MQB3 | MTB3 |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Functional validation | Accuracy testing |
| Reference Standard | None | Included |
| Testing Focus | Behavior, firmware, communications | Measurement accuracy |
| Use Case | Pre-deployment validation | Calibration & certification |
Technical Overview
- Voltage Drive: 60–480V RMS
- Current Drive: 0.001A to 50A (up to 320A optional)
- Voltage Accuracy: ±1.0% (drive accuracy, not metrology)
- Current Accuracy: ±1.0% (drive accuracy, not metrology)
- Frequency Range: 45–65 Hz
- Ethernet connectivity and integrated control interface
Contact TESCO to configure an MQB3 system for advanced meter qualification and functional validation in your meter shop or lab environment.
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Disclaimer:
TESCO Metering reserves the right to modify product designs, specifications, features, and documentation at any time as part of our continuous improvement process. All information is provided “as is” and may change without prior notice. While TESCO® strives for accuracy, completeness, and technical reliability, customers should verify the latest product details before making purchasing or engineering decisions. For confirmation of current specifications or application suitability, please contact TESCO® directly.









