The Eight Most Common Electrical Testers
Professional electricians use a wide range of testers to monitor a variety of electrical functions in residential and commercial electrical systems. Identifying these testers, understanding how they work, and learning how to use them will help make an expert out of any DIY electrician. This blog will explain the eight most common electrical testers and their functions.
Non-Contact Voltage Testers
Non-contact voltage testers, also known as inductance testers, are both the safest and easiest to use type of sensor. It allows you to check for voltage in wires or devices without having to touch any wires or parts. This device resembles a wand with a small tip on the end that senses the voltage. The reading is taken by sticking the tip of the tester into an outlet slot or touching the outside of a wire or cable. These testers are powered by a battery.
Neon Voltage Testers
These testers, also known as neon circuit testers, feature a small body with a neon light inside it and two short wire leads with a metal probe on either end. Neon voltage testers can only tell you whether a voltage is present or not, they cannot identify how much voltage is in the circuit. To use this device, simply touch one probe to a wire, terminal, or slot, and touch the other probe to a neutral or ground contact. If a current is present, the bulb in the tip of the tool will illuminate.
Plug-In Circuit Analyzers
These are inexpensive, easy-to-use testers designed to test grounded electrical outlets that have three slots. Plug-in circuit analyzers feature three neon lights that illuminate in different patterns to indicate a specific test result. Different light combinations can signify a correctly wired outlet, a reverse-wired outlet, an open circuit, or the presence or lack of a ground connection. These testers have no batteries, instead plugging into an outlet to perform the test.
Continuity Testers
A continuity tester is a battery-powered device that features a probe on one end and a cord with an alligator clip or a second probe at the opposite end. If you touch the two ends together, and a light illuminates on the tester’s body, it indicates there is a complete circuit that is operating properly. Unlike other testers, continuity testers are used when a circuit is turned off or disconnected.
Multimeter
Multimeters are the most versatile type of electrical tester. As their name suggests, they are able to carry out multiple testing functions. They can provide accurate readings of resistance, AC and DC voltage, continuity, capacitance, and frequency. They feature a box-like body with a digital or analog readout, a dial for changing the test function, and two long leads with metal probes on their ends.
Solenoid Voltage Tester
A solenoid voltage tester is another multi-function tester available in both digital and analog models. These testers are capable of testing voltage and polarity, and are also frequently used by electricians to test AC and DC voltage. Testers of this type feature two probed wires that extend from the bottom of the tester. They do not use batteries, so they are always ready to use.
Digital Clamp Meter
A digital clamp meter combines the function of a multimeter and current sensor. The differences between a multimeter and clamp meter are subtle, the most obvious one being that clamp meters feature clamping jaws that can grip the wire conductors. This makes them safer and easier to use in most applications. This is a highly-specialized tool that will mostly be used by professional electricians.
Wand Voltage Meter
Finally, the wand voltage meter is another highly-specialized tester. It is a numerical tester that works in one of two ways. For one, the tool includes wire leads similar to other testers that can be used to measure voltage or continuity by touching the leads to exposed wires or metal contacts. Additionally, the tool features electrostatic wands that can detect and measure voltage simply by holding them in proximity to wires or metal contacts.
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