The Most Commonly Used Types of Electrical Testers & Their Importance

Test instruments used to detect faults in the operation of electronic devices are called electronic testers. These testers are necessary to find and analyze circuit conditions, checking electronic test equipment and maintenance in various industries. Different industries utilize different types of testers. Some of them are multi-function devices that can perform most, if not all, of the basic electrical testing duties, while others are single-function devices that test for a single function. Learning to identify these testers, understanding their functions, and learning how to use them is essential when working on electrical wiring.

When shopping for electric test instruments, Kyoritsu is a brand to keep in mind. The company specializes in high-quality electrical measurement instruments. Its diverse, user-friendly line of testers is well-known worldwide and has significantly contributed to technological developments in different industries. The Kyoritsu tester range is based on the high-quality control that is carried out from its different production centres. Since it's establishment in 1940, the brand effort has been to create a system that ensures traceability to the national standards in order to produce reliable instruments as well as instruments that can assure the reliability of other equipment and installations.

Non-Contact Voltage Testers

These testers are considered the safest and easiest to use. This is because non-contact voltage testers allow you to check for voltage in wires or devices without having to touch any wires or parts. The device looks like a mini wand with a small tip on the end that senses voltage in such things as electrical outlets, wiring, circuit breakers, light sockets, lamp cords, and switches. Reading can be completed simply by sticking the tip of the tester into an outlet slot or even touching the outside of wire or electrical cable. Battery operated, most of these testers inform the user of the voltage present with a red light at the tip of the tester as well as a buzzing sound. Thanks to its handy pocket clip, users can carry it around and always have it ready for safety purposes.

Plug-In Circuit Analyzers

Inexpensive and easy-to-use, plug-in circuit analyzers can tell users a great deal about the functions of an electrical circuit when plugged into an outlet. These testers have three neon lights that light up in different patterns to indicate specific test results. The chart sticker found on the tester can help you understand the light patterns. The different light combinations indicate a correct wired outlet, an open circuit, a reverse-wired outlet, and the presence or lack of a ground connection. Because these testers have no batteries, they have to be plugged into the outlet to perform the test.

Continuity Tester

This device is powered by batteries and feature a probe at one end and a cord with either an alligator clip or another probe at the other end. The circuit is completed by touching the clip and the probe together. A light will then illuminate on the body of the tester, indicating a complete circuit. These testers are a great tool for checking to see if something like a single-pole switch is working properly. What differs this tester from others, is that it is always used when a circuit is turned off or on wiring or devices that are disconnected from the circuit. Some electricians use these testers to test devices that are entirely disconnected from circuit wiring. If a circuit has been turned off, the continuity tester also provides a method for checking wire runs to make sure that a circuit is complete.

Multimeter

Of the electrical testers, multimeters are the most versatile of them. As its name implies, this meter is capable of many different testing functions. Virtually, all professional electricians own one of this tool. High-quality multimeters can provide precise readings of resistance, AC and DC voltage, capacitance, continuity, and frequency. Once the user learns how to use all its functions, a multimeter can provide virtually all the information offered by all other testers. Multimeters consist of a boxy body with a digital or analog readout, a dial for setting the test function, and two leads with metal probes at their ends. Because these testers range widely in quality and accuracy, it makes sense investing in a quality one - like a Kyoritsu tester.

Solenoid Voltage Testers

Solenoid voltage testers can be used for testing both voltage and polarity. Professional electricians use them frequently due to their ability to test both AC and DC voltage in a range from 100 to 600 volts. They prefer this tester over the multimeter for many applications because it is very rugged and has no batteries to monitor. However, solenoid voltage testers are not quite as accurate as a multimeter for providing a numerical measurement of how much voltage is present. 

Digital Camp Meter

Combining the function of a multimeter with a current sensor, a digital camp meter is generally used only by professional electricians. When it comes to function between a multimeter and a clamp meter there are subtle differences, being the most obvious one that this tester features clamping jaws that grip wire conductors. This makes this tester somewhat safer and easier to use in some applications, such as when working inside an open circuit breaker panel to test individual circuits.

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