The Sibille Fameca FC3000 lets a single operator identify the phase (L1, L2 or L3) and feeder connection at any point on a live low voltage distribution network in around five seconds, without disconnecting supply. That makes it a practical, reliable tool for mapping customer connections, balancing loads across phases, and confirming cable identity before maintenance or switching operations.
The device works on energised LV networks with nominal voltages from 115 to 230 Vrms phase to neutral and 200 to 400 Vrms phase to phase, with a maximum rated voltage of 440 Vrms, so there is no need to de‑energise the network or interrupt supply to carry out identification. Available in 6‑, 9‑ and 12‑channel configurations (with 6‑ and 12‑channel kits most commonly supplied), the FC3000 is manufactured by Sibille Fameca Electric (France), part of the PENTA Electrical Safety Products group.
We are authorised Sibille Fameca distributors in Ireland. Call our technical team on 057 866 2162 for pricing and availability, or send us an enquiry.
Technical specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Function | Live LV cable phase and feeder identification |
| Identification time | Around 5 seconds |
| Nominal voltage (phase to neutral) | 115 to 230 Vrms |
| Nominal voltage (phase to phase) | 200 to 400 Vrms |
| Maximum rated voltage | 440 Vrms (phase to phase and phase to neutral) |
| Phase identification | L1, L2, L3 |
| Feeder/circuit channels | 6, 9 or 12 (6 and 12 most common) |
| Substation codes | Up to 8 |
| Central Units per Line Unit | Up to 8 Central Units coded for a single Line Unit |
| Operation | Single operator |
How the FC3000 works
The system consists of two units. The Central Unit (CU) connects to all outgoing lines at the supply substation, coding each feeder with an identifiable signal. The Line Unit (LU) is portable. The operator takes it to any point on the network (a customer meter, a connection box, a distribution pillar) and plugs in. The LU automatically reads the coded signal and displays the phase (L1, L2 or L3), the feeder number, and the substation code.
The device also provides a local voltage measurement at the test point, which is useful for confirming supply conditions on site. A didactic operating mode on the Central Unit supports training and verification, so new users can familiarise themselves with the equipment before live network operations.
Because the FC3000 works on energised cables, it removes the need for planned outages during network surveys. That matters in distribution environments where even brief supply interruptions affect customers.
Applications
The FC3000 is designed for utility companies and distribution network operators who need to map LV cable infrastructure efficiently. Typical applications include mapping customer phase and feeder connections across the low voltage network, balancing loads across phases to reduce losses and improve power quality, confirming cable identity before maintenance or switching to reduce the risk of error, and network documentation and auditing.
The device is well suited to M&E contractors working on LV distribution infrastructure, facility management teams responsible for large campus distribution boards, and electrical engineers carrying out network surveys. Its single-operator design and rapid identification time make it practical for large-scale mapping campaigns across multiple substations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Sibille Fameca FC3000 and FC5300?
Different tools for different jobs. The FC3000 identifies the phase and feeder connection at any point on a live LV network by reading coded signals from a Central Unit at the substation. The FC5300 is a cable pre-identifier that distinguishes a specific live LV cable among other cables in an excavation or cable gallery, without risk of error. We supply both. Not sure which one you need? Call us on 057 866 2162 and we can advise based on your specific application.
Can the FC3000 be used on de-energised cables?
No. The FC3000 is designed for live LV networks with a maximum rated voltage of 440 Vrms. For identification of de-energised cables, Sibille Fameca offers the FC2100 and FC2300 series, which use a different identification method on insulated conductors that have been disconnected and earthed. We supply those as well.
How many feeders can the FC3000 identify?
The standard configuration identifies up to six feeders, and optional versions are available for 9 or 12 feeders for larger substations. Up to eight Central Units can work with a single Line Unit, so you can map multiple substations efficiently during large network surveys.
Is the FC3000 suitable for three-phase and single-phase networks?
Yes. The FC3000 identifies all three phases (L1, L2, L3) on three-phase LV networks. It operates across nominal voltages from 115 to 230 Vrms phase to neutral (200 to 400 Vrms between phases), covering standard European and international low voltage distribution configurations.
Not exactly what you are looking for? Contact us with your exact requirements, we’re happy to help.
