Question by PF: Electrical testers look like screwdrivers but have no instructions/precautions. How are they used safely?
Some types have pictures showing a finger being used to complete the circuit e,g, when testing fuses.
But how can you test whether there is a current going through a live socket with just a single screwdriver-shaped tester & how is the result shown if it doesn’t have an LED or digital display?
Best answer:
Answer by tempest
it should hav a led.. i havent seen one without the led.. juz hold the plastic handle n touch the tip on the surface u r testing.. best if u go to the hardware store to clarify it..
Add your own answer in the comments!
if your not sure..do a google search and type in the name of the one you have and hope you can find something on how it is used
If you are trying to see if a 3 prong (110 volt) receptacle is working or properly wired, you need to buy one of these.
Amprobe Model PY-2
http://www.contractor-books.com/AM/AM-Mini_Testers.htm
They run about $ 10 at any good hardware store.
If you are wanting to know the exact power in a circuit, buy a proper test unit. The screwdriver type should light up, but lack any critical information.
This type of tester should be banned from the market. I would never bet my life on one of them. They will light up if there is voltage present if the lamp inside the tester is good. It would be a lot be a lot safer to buy a good test meter and learn how to us it.
seriously don’t mess with anything with live power on it. you clearly don’t know enough to be safe.
Sounds like you have a “sniffer tester”. Im an electrician and I will never depend my life on one of those cheapies. If this is the tester you touch up to a insulated wire and it lights up and beeps, then this will never be a safe tester.
Always work something as if it were hot!!!
one way to get instructions for that tester is to look for the brand then google in online.
Be Safe!