How to Select the Right Electrical Tester for the Task?
When working with electrical devices or systems, testing becomes an essential function to verify and monitor their performance and diagnose any electrical problems. Therefore, to assess common system parameters such as current, voltage, and resistance, professional electricians employ a variety of industrial measuring instruments in Singapore.
Some are multifunctional devices capable of handling most if not all, common electrical testing tasks. Others are single-purpose equipment that can test only one variable. Learning how to recognize different types of electrical testers and how each can help you will significantly improve your efficiency in wiring.
These are some of the most common types of electrical measuring equipment used by professional electricians on a regular basis:
Non-Contact Voltage Tester
Non-contact voltage testers, also known as inductance testers, are simple and easy-to-use instruments that allow you to check for voltage in wires and devices without touching any electrical components. The device resembles a mini wand with a small tip that detects voltage in electrical wiring, lamp cables, outlets, light sockets, and switches. Most device models indicate the presence of voltage with a red light at the tip of the tester and a buzzing sound. Placing the tester’s tip into an outlet slot or contacting the outside of an electric cable or wire will produce a reading.
While the basic model of the device displays the presence of voltage, the more advanced variants provide a measurement of how much voltage is present. This measurement, however, may not be as precise as the readings offered by other electrical testers. As these devices run on batteries, it is critical to make sure the battery is fully charged before using a non-contact voltage tester.
Neon Voltage Tester
Neon voltage testers, or neon circuit testers, are industrial measuring instruments in Singapore that can indicate the presence of voltage in a circuit but not the quantity of voltage present. Their design is small and contains a neon light and two short wire leads, each with a metal probe at the end. It is a highly dependable tool as it does not require a battery to work.
To use a neon voltage tester, you can simply touch one tester probe to an outlet slot, screw terminal, or hot wire and attach the opposite probe to a neutral or ground contact. The small neon bulb in the tool’s tip will light up if an electric current is present. This tester can also indicate when an outlet is properly grounded. While it is a convenient tool to use, it is important to handle it with caution.
Plug-In Circuit Analyzer
When plugged into an electrical outlet, a plug-in circuit analyzer can reveal a lot about a circuit’s functions. These devices are incompatible with two-slot outlets and are only intended for testing grounded outlets with three slots.
The three neon lights on these instruments light up in different patterns to indicate specific test results, and the tester has a chart sticker on it to help users understand these light patterns. There are specific patterns to represent an open circuit, a reverse wired outlet, a correctly connected outlet, and the presence or absence of a ground connection. These testers do not require batteries, but the outlet must have power for them to work. The latest plug-in circuit analyzers are relatively advanced and display the voltage and circuit information on an LCD screen.
Continuity Tester
A continuity tester is a battery-operated industrial measuring instrument in Singapore that has a probe on one end and a cord with a probe or alligator clip on the other. If you touch the ends at two points of an electrical path, a light will illuminate the tester’s body or make a sound to indicate a complete circuit.
In contrast to voltage testers, continuity testers are used when a circuit is turned off or when wire cords and devices are disconnected. They examine if an electrical path in a device or appliance is intact. When using this tester on a device linked to a circuit wire, switch off the power to the circuit or disconnect the device from the circuit, as using a continuity tester on voltage-carrying wiring can be dangerous.
Solenoid Voltage Tester
Solenoid voltage testers, sometimes known as ‘wiggies,’ are multifunction testers used to evaluate voltage and polarity. Professionals often choose this equipment as it is highly durable and does not require batteries. These devices have two wires extending from the bottom, each with a probe of its own. They click or vibrate to indicate the presence of voltage.
Invest in the Right Tester for the Right Task with CETM eStore
When selecting the type of industrial measuring instruments in Singapore that would work the best for you, consider the projects you intend to work on. It is also critical to be honest with yourself about your skills and confidence when handling electrical work. Therefore, as a rule of thumb, it is best to purchase testers from renowned or trustworthy vendors.
With over 30 years of expertise, CE-Test & Measurement (S) Pte Ltd is a well-known provider of electrical measuring instruments in Singapore. We not only offer measuring equipment from world-renowned brands but also provide pre-sales demonstrations, equipment calibration, product training, and more. We have gained a firm foothold as a one-stop solution provider for all our clients’ needs. Get in touch with us to discuss your industrial test instrument requirements today!