Multifunction electrical testers
Multifunction Installation Testers (MFTs) are the go-to tool for any electrical contractor testing installations to the 18th edition of the wiring regulations. Combining all the various test requirements in a single piece of equipment makes it easy to perform different tests in a timely and efficient way without the need to switch between equipment or carry multiple items from job to job. All MFTs should cover the basic tests to ensure compliance with wiring regulations; however, there are many variants available from a plethora of manufacturers.
Choosing the best unit is key, MFTs can vary in many ways so when choosing one it is important to make sure it suits your needs now and into the future, meeting all the requirements for the varied work undertaken by a company or an individual. There are many products on the market, ranging widely in price. High-end MFTs have many extra functions, so there are a number of things to consider before actually purchasing one. The purchasing decision should always be considered as an investment as you should expect many years of service from it.
Firstly, MFTs will always be used on-site and in addition to basic tests, the next choice needs to focus on ruggedness, reliability, speed of test and accuracy. Most leading manufacturers offer this, for example, the Martindale ET6000 series is born from a long series of proven, rugged and accurate multifunction testers.
One area which should always be kept in mind is the expanded testing need due to the installation of electrical vehicle charge points in both domestic and commercial premises. Though, at this time the need is relatively low, it will grow. When selecting a new multifunction tester, many of the manufacturer ranges incorporate EV testing functions and accessories only in their top-of-the-range products. The Martindale ET6000 range has two options, while the top of the range ET6500 is suitable for installers working with EV now, the ET6300 mid-range model is EV ready and can easily be upgraded by the addition of the TL305-EV EV adapter.
It is important to remember that when it comes to electrical testing, safety is of paramount importance. There are a number of precautions that need to be taken into consideration in order to assure the safety of everyone involved. The first and most important part is to ensure that if performing tests on a dead circuit, the circuit is dead, and it stays dead for the whole of the time the work is in progress. When working with live circuits, all work should be done in accordance with the Electrical Safety-First Best Practice Guide and within the HSE’s guidance using suitable protective equipment.
In areas where there are many people working, in order to ensure that the circuit stays dead during the test, the use of multiple lock-off tag-off systems is recommended, with one lock-off device for each worker. While a very simple and quick procedure, it will warn anyone that work is underway and may save a life or prevent serious injury.
It is important that MFTs are calibrated in order to ensure that readings are accurate and potential mistakes are avoided. There are a number of calibration checkboxes, or electrical checkboxes, that are used for routine verification of test equipment and allow users to maintain accuracy between regular calibrations. The Martindale proving unit PD440SRDX, in addition to being a 440V voltage source to prove the operation of voltage measurement, includes a CALCHECK calibration check function for MFTs.
These interim tests do not remove the need for a proper calibration at regular intervals. Although the interval should be based on a risk assessment, the vast majority of testers are recalibrated annually.
Most importantly, whatever type of electrical testing equipment you decide on, quality and accuracy are the key factors. As you’d expect with most tools, you tend to get what you pay for. Most high-quality test equipment is available through your usual electrical supply wholesaler and almost everything can be purchased online. Just beware of ‘too-good-to-be-true’ prices. To obtain accurate and reliable measurements with excellent durability and after-sales services, choose a manufacturer you know of and ensure it’s the genuine article.
