Fluke Voltage and Continuity Testers

Fluke Voltage and Continuity Testers

Voltage and Continuity Testers can be as simple as a small light or buzzer connected to plastic housing, with a battery and the two test leads completing the circuit. If the circuit you are testing has a path for electricity to flow, then the light/buzzer will activate, letting you know that the circuit is good. Otherwise one can assume that there is a break or fault within the circuit you are testing.

These devices can also specify what voltage you are in, not an exact measurement, like a multimeter but a common range, either 120, or 220 for example. These testers are much more prevalent in industrial applications where there are multiple voltage ranges in any area.

A continuity tester determines if an electrical circuit can be made between two points. There are two main types: solenoid testers and full-featured testers. Solenoid testers are the traditional model. Full-featured testers perform multiple functions and come with features that make the user’s job easier.

Continuity testers are used in residential, industrial and commercial environments. They are used in a variety of applications, including electricians, cable TV and audio, alarm technicians, HVAC installers, auto repair technicians, and DIY homeowners.  They come in various styles and sizes to meet a range of needs.

Continuity Testers Applications

• Measure volts ac and volts dc
• Troubleshoot low-voltage lighting
• Detect live voltage even when the batteries are dead
• Test GFCI circuits
• Resistance measurement
• Check the rotation of electrical motors
• Check the proper set up of 3-phase systems
• New home wiring
• Multiple cable and wire identification
• Local and remote continuity
• Home theatre installation

Types of Continuity Testers

• Traditional solenoid tester, also called Wiggy tester. Solenoid testers are extremely durable and easy to use. However, they have their limitations. For instance, they don’t work on low-voltage circuits. Solenoid testers get their name not because they are used to test solenoids but because they use a solenoid principle to operate.
• Full-featured tester. These testers are capable of testing and measuring multiple parameters and come with features, such as a built in flashlight, that make the user’s job easier.

Five reasons to give up your old solenoid tester

1. In the US, a useful solenoid tester can measure up to 480 V or more. Having the ability to measure higher voltages limits the tool’s ability to detect voltages below 100V, due to the poor dynamic range of its magnetics.
2. Solenoid-based testers can appear on the circuit under test as a load and interfere with its operation. The T+ Series electrical voltage testers have higher input impedance than traditional solenoid-type testers, but not so high that they have problems with ghost voltages.
3. The relatively high current draw of solenoid-based testers means significantly more heat, enough that the testers can quickly overheat and even become damaged if you measure voltage too long. If you use a solenoid-based tester, allow for half-minute cool-downs.
4. Solenoid-based testers generally don’t comply with the IEC 61010 electrical safety standard due to excessive current draw, poor dielectric withstand performance, and impulse destruction from transients. When they fail, it can be catastrophic. Without IEC 61010 compliance, these testers also miss compliance with NFPA 70E (article 110.9) and other standards that require environmental ratings.
5. Applying Ohm’s Law to the low-impedance solenoid-based tester shows that you can easily carry a lethal current through the tester. Wearing insulated gloves can reduce the shock hazard, but you’ll also be risking an arc hazard each time. Solid-state testers, on the other hand, provide additional protection against this type of occurrence.

Compare Solenoid Testers and Electronic Voltage Testers in this Fluke article:
Solenoid Testers vs. Electronic Voltage Testers


Key Features of Continuity Testers to Consider

• Easy and accurate OpenJaw™ current measurement
• Continuity beeper
• 3 forms of ac/dc voltage indication: light, sound, and vibration for added user protection and convenience
• Detachable SlimReach™ probe tips are customized for national electrical standards
• CAT IV 600 V, CAT III 1000 V rated for added user protection
• Compliant with latest NFPA 70E recommendations
• Replaceable test probes for added flexibility and convenience
• Hazardous voltage warning light for added user protection
• Built-in flashlight