A new method using distribution transformer to measure traveling waves is proposed to solve the problem of difficulty of catching traveling wave signals in feeders’ terminal. The requirements of fault location signals to measurement transformers are analyzed. Equivalent circuit of transformer for analyzing transfer characteristic of traveling waves is built

and the transfer characteristic is studied using parameters of practical transformers. The results show that

distribution transformers can transfer traveling waves surge effectively and meet the needs of fault location based on traveling waves. The transfer characteristics and rules of three-phase distribution transformers are further investigated. The results show that although line-to-line voltage of stable state after single-phase to-earth fault in the neutral non-effective grounding system keeps invariable

transient process of the fault produces aerial mode component of traveling waves that can be transferred effectively to transformers’ low-voltage side. Based on this

the idea is proposed that traveling waves generated by different type of faults can be measured effectively with only two line-to-line-voltage signals in transformers’ low-voltage side. Experimental tests verify the feasibility and correctness of the proposed method.