How to use the indicator screwdriver: actions and safety

How to use the indicator screwdriver: basic actions and safety

My home is my fortress, hearth, haven… And if this place is so important for everyone, then it is necessary to maintain certain conditions in it. Trying to depend less on others, you will be able to create the most comfortable life. It is worth understanding and mastering how to use an indicator screwdriver, and then electrical appliances and lighting that have serviceable contacts and are provided with uninterrupted power will work normally.

If you understand how to use an indicator screwdriver, then electrical appliances and lighting will work without interruptions

Indicator: This is a device for detecting the presence of voltage

An indicator is a device that monitors the state of a physical process and visually reflects its changes. Quite often this tool is called an “electrician’s screwdriver”. You can’t argue with this: every specialist engaged in laying electrical cables or repairing electrical equipment has such a device.

The indicator screwdriver is quite often called an “electrician’s screwdriver”

Users of electrical appliances can also monitor the state of power or equipment, determine the places of breakdowns and circuit breaks. And in these situations, such opportunities will be provided by the same publicly available indicator device in terms of use. Today it is in almost every home. The absence of an indicator complicates making the right decision in case of voltage loss, since it is almost impossible to find out whether only the house (apartment) is de-energized or whether it is a consequence of a larger breakdown without the presence of a tool.

The principle of operation of the indicator screwdriver is quite simple and consists in the following:

• the sting of the device touches the energized electrical wiring;
• the passing current illuminates the light bulb;
• the resistor reduces the voltage by creating a significant resistance;
• through sensory contact with the human body, the current goes into the ground.

It is worth paying special attention to the fact that the tension passing through the human body is imperceptible and completely safe for life and health. The device does not require any special skills when using it.

The diagram of the indicator screwdriver: the main elements of the device

The tool has a small size, shape, convenient to grasp with the palm of your hand. The main elements that make up the constructive device of the indicator screwdriver include:

Elements of the indicator screwdriver: plastic housing, stinger, resistor, light bulb

• a plastic case consisting of a handle and a tip, in the latter a stinger is placed;
• resistor;
• indicator light (lights up at a voltage exceeding 50 volts);
• metal spring for extension of the stinger;
• a metal plate to ensure contact with the human body.

The main details that are typical for the simplest devices are listed above. To understand how to use a screwdriver tester, you should study the device of the tool, which may differ depending on the type of product. For example, the industry produces devices with LED lamps, sound indication, with an additional board that provides switching of different modes.

There may be no spring in the design. In such a device, the sting is not withdrawn into the housing and does not extend, but has a constant position and is closed with a cap during storage of the device. If the indicator is powered by batteries, there is an additional compartment in the case. Some models are equipped with a holder similar to the one on the writing pens. This detail greatly simplifies the transfer of the device.

Useful advice! When choosing a screwdriver, it is worth considering that the indication will be more noticeable for a device with a light or translucent body, especially if the device is used in a well-lit room.

The standard scheme used in most indicator screwdrivers

Types of voltage indicators: single-pole and two-pole devices

Modern industry produces a large number of different indicators. There is no definite standard classification of them. According to the features of the technical device, the devices can be divided into single-pole and two-pole, and also distinguish passive and active products. In the section we will talk about classification by the first attribute.

Single-pole indicators. This type includes the simplest devices, the design scheme of which is described above: based on a stinger and a neon lamp for indication. More advanced single–pole devices have an LED lamp, battery power, a sound signal – in addition to the glow of the lamp. According to the principle of operation, such indicators are identical to the simplest devices, but there is a possibility of ringing wires.

The most advanced single-pole models have a complex device, although the principle of operation remains. In addition to the functions already listed, they have the ability to detect the breakage of hidden wires located under a layer of plaster.

The two-pole type of indicator screwdrivers differs in that it has not one, but two housings. Each is made of dielectric material, has a backlight – neon or LED lamp. Some devices are equipped with an audio signal. The two cases are connected by a wire, the length of which usually does not exceed 1 m, both have a sting. Such devices are considered professional, used to check the presence of current between two contacts. Among the two-pole models there are models that determine not only the presence of voltage, but also its magnitude.

The two-pole type of indicator screwdrivers is characterized by the presence of two housings

Passive voltage and current indicators: features of operation

The second feature of the classification of indicators is their division into active and passive devices. It is based on the functional features of the tools. Passive devices should include devices that differ in the following characteristics:

The advantage of these indicators is that when determining the presence of voltage, zero is not needed, its role is performed by a person who has an indicator screwdriver in his hands. The peculiarity of its device also lies in the fact that the resistor, due to its significant resistance, does not determine the presence of a voltage below 50 volts.

It is not difficult to understand how to find the phase with an indicator screwdriver of this type. The sting should touch the conductor, and press the plate on the device body with your hand. If there is a voltage, the neon light will light up.

Passive indicators determine only the presence of voltage at a certain point of the electrical circuit

Characteristics of active screwdrivers-voltage indicators

Active indicators have a more complex device. Inside the case there is a circuit that functions somewhat differently than that of passive devices. Such a device is more sensitive. The LED voltage indicator reacts not only to the presence of current, but also to the electromagnetic field that is necessarily formed around the conductor.

Active indicators have the following technical characteristics:

How to use an indicator screwdriver with an LED? If you hold the sting with one hand and touch the plate on the body with the other, the LED lamp will react – it will light up. This functionality is actively used when ringing wires.

Useful advice! When working with an active indicator, it is necessary to take into account its following feature: increased sensitivity, in addition to providing additional functions, often becomes a problem, since the indicator sometimes indicates the presence of voltage where it does not exist and cannot be.

Active indicators have their own power supply

Digital Multimeter Tester: how to use the device

This device is an improved version of the active indicator. This is a voltage measuring tester. You can use it as a regular device, too. Professionals call this tool a “multimeter” because it can perform several functions:

• indicate the presence or absence of voltage;
• determine the current strength and the amount of resistance.

Similar testers have switches that adjust the sensitivity level. The device can be used for contact and contactless methods of detecting the presence of voltage and voltage.

The device, in addition to the light, is also equipped with an audio signal. The design has a digital scoreboard, which reflects the measurement indicators.

Important! It is not difficult to purchase additional pliers for the multifunctional tester, which can determine the current strength without removing the insulation layer.

The digital multimeter tester is equipped with an electronic scoreboard

To confidently imagine how to find the phase and zero with an indicator screwdriver of this type, you need to carefully study the description of the device and the instructions. Some models, in addition to the above functions, can check the temperature of equipment under the influence of current. Such opportunities are important for those who control the operation of electric switchboards, electric motors, etc.

Cabinets, where the wiring of electric cables comes from, are equipped with almost all modern houses. And relatively powerful engines in the economy are not uncommon. Therefore, a multifunctional tester is often needed in everyday life, and not a simple indicator screwdriver.

How to determine the phase and zero with an indicator screwdriver

The need to determine the phase and zero occurs quite often. Basically, such a need appears when replacing an outlet or switch. Before posting information on how to check zero and phase with an indicator screwdriver, it is worth saying a few words about what these two concepts mean. The line voltage, that is, the voltage between the two phases, is 380 volts, but in houses it has an indicator of 220 volts. Connection to the phase of the zero wire and provides the required voltage level.

The determination of phase and zero in the presence of two wires can be performed in the following way:

Using an indicator screwdriver to determine the phase and zero is quite simple

• de-energize the wires by disconnecting from the power supply;
• clean the ends by 1.5 cm, dilute them so that there is no short circuit when electricity arrives;
• apply voltage;
• touch the end of the wire with the indicator screwdriver, pressing the metal plate on the handle of the screwdriver with your hand.

If the light bulb on the device lights up, this is the phase, if not– zero.

In conditions where there are three wires (phase, zero and ground), a simple device and even an indicator screwdriver with a battery can not do. You will need a multimeter. It will not be difficult to find the phase with its help. But you can determine the other two wires as follows: touch the first probe to the phase, and the second to one of the remaining conductors. If the voltage is about 220 volts, then it is zero. Then repeat the steps: attach one of the probes to the remaining wire. The voltage will be significantly less than 220 volts. Therefore, it is grounding.

Indicator screwdriver with hidden wiring detection function

The term “ringer” has already been used in the article. This is one of the functions that the tool can have. Such devices are LED, a battery is used for power supply. Precisely because a battery is needed for an indicator screwdriver with a ring, many prefer simple options that, in fact, are eternal.

With the help of an indicator screwdriver, you can find hidden wiring

The device with a ringing may be based on circuits:

• with a field-effect transistor;
• with a bipolar composite transistor.

The control coefficient of both types of element is quite high. Even the circuits with high resistance enclosed between the contacts of the screwdriver unlock the transistor, and the LED is triggered – lights up. A similar thing happens when the sting hits the electromagnetic field.

Related article:

How to connect copper and aluminum wire: tips and detailed guide

Installation options and features of outdoor work. Common mistakes and possible problems, important rules and useful tips.

If the broken wire is connected to the phase, then when the stinger is held along the place of its placement and when the upper part of the screwdriver is held by the hand, the light bulb will glow. After the break, the glow will disappear.

Important! When using the voltage indicator as a bell, it is necessary that there is zero parallel to the phase, and the end of the wire being tested has a load.

Such a device as a detector will determine the location of the hidden wiring more accurately

When the indicator is led along the cable under the plaster, the LED will also glow. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure contact with the upper point. If the screwdriver is moved 2-3 cm relative to the wire, it will go out.

The function of detecting a circuit break, including under plaster, is inherent only in indicator screwdrivers – such operations cannot be performed with a multimeter.

The price of indicator screwdrivers from well-known manufacturers

As for the cost of voltage indicators, the devices should be divided into three categories.

Simple options. These are screwdrivers that have a stinger, a housing, a neon lamp and a resistor. The price of such products ranges from 20 to 40 rubles. Despite the durability of operation, manufacturers give a guarantee for such devices for a year. Probably, the probability of mechanical damage to the plastic case plays a role.

Multimeters are distinguished by the highest cost

Screwdrivers with additional functions. The possibility of ringing and determining the breakage under the plaster provides for the complexity of the design. Consequently, the price of indicator screwdrivers of this type will be higher. The minimum cost is 45-50 rubles, the maximum reaches 200 rubles. The high price among this type of devices are those models where it is possible to adjust the sensitivity level.

Multimeters. They differ in the highest cost, since they are a combination of three devices in one device at once: an ammeter (current measurement), a voltmeter (voltage measurement) and an ohmmeter (resistance measurement). The price of such testers varies from 2500 to 5000 rubles.

Many domestic and foreign companies are engaged in the production of indicator screwdrivers. According to users, the most reliable and durable products are considered to be JTC, EXPERT, JONNESWAY. The above price range is focused on the devices of these manufacturers.

“Control”: a simple homemade electrician’s probe

If there is an indicator screwdriver in the arsenal, the actions for its use are clear. And if there isn’t one at hand and for some reason it can’t be in the near future? In such situations, knowledge and ingenuity will come to the rescue. There is no need to invent a bicycle, since the simplest homemade device for determining the presence of voltage already exists – this is a control. That’s what professional electricians called him.

The “control” consists of a light bulb and two wires

The device consists of a light bulb screwed into the cartridge and two wires that perform the function of probes. How does the indicator screwdriver-bulb work? Simple and quite effective. The wires must touch the elements in which the presence of voltage should be checked. By the degree of brightness of the lamp, it is possible to determine not only the presence of voltage, but also its compliance with the norm.

Such a homemade device allows you to check three phases at once. To do this, two series–connected controls are used: if two wires have the same phase, the bulbs will not light up.

This self-made device will not function if there is no zero, but such a situation is practically impossible both at home and at work.

Important! All regulatory documents concerning the use in everyday life and in the production of electrical appliances and power tools recommend using only factory-made devices.

In the “Control”, an LED can be used instead of a light bulb

How to check the phase without an indicator screwdriver

How to determine the phase without an indicator? There are several ways. They are sometimes the only way to properly install a switch or replace a burnt outlet.

The first of them is the fastest, simplest and most reliable. It is based on a visual inspection of the wires. The fact is that the multicolored braid is not accidental. It is the color that indicates neutrality or being under the phase of the vein. It is difficult to remember the correspondence, and it is not necessary. If necessary, you should just look at the marking table.

The second option allows you to establish the presence of voltage using the same control. One wire should be attached to the metal of the heating system cleaned to a shine, and the other should touch the cores where the phase needs to be determined. If you touch a live wire, the light bulb will light up. In the absence of an incandescent lamp at hand, you can use neon.

The third method, which suggests how to find the phase without an indicator screwdriver, can cause a smile, since the scheme includes … potatoes. In addition, you will need two wires about 50 cm long and a 1 mOhm resistor. One cable needs to be connected to the heating metal, the second to probe the vein of interest. The ends of the wires must be inserted into the potato incision. If after a few minutes there were traces of darkening, it means that the phase lived. If not, then zero has been determined. It is worth noting that the holding period should be 5, maximum – 10 minutes. Before the expiration of the time limit, conclusions should not be drawn.

You can determine the phase without an indicator screwdriver by the color of the wire

How to use the indicator screwdriver: safety precautions

Electricity is a source of increased danger. In accordance with the norms, a room in which there is at least one switch or outlet cannot be considered safe. It follows that when using electrical appliances or tools used for the repair or maintenance of conductive elements, certain requirements must be strictly observed.

The first thing you need to know when detecting the presence of current in the veins is how to check the indicator screwdriver. In order to make sure that the device is working properly, you will need to simultaneously touch the plate on the handle and the stinger. The LED lamp should light up. This is a test for models with batteries. You can check the simplest screwdriver by touching the live parts with a sting and touching the metal plate on the handle with your hand.

In order to avoid the effects of current during the use of the indicator, it is strictly forbidden to take your hand below the handle.

To avoid exposure to current, it is forbidden to take a hand below the handle of the screwdriver

Do not use the tool as a screwdriver. The plastic part may be damaged, as a result of which the device will become unusable.

When performing such actions as checking the socket with an indicator screwdriver, setting zero and phase, determining the presence of voltage in the network up to 1 kW, there are no restrictions for using the device. If this indicator exceeds this level (more than 1 kW), it is necessary to use dielectric gloves when working with the indicator.

Electricity is a source that provides a comfortable life through the operation of various household mechanisms. Food, light, hot water, massagers, hair dryers, etc. will not be able to function without power supply. You can eliminate many defects and breakdowns using the indicator. Which device option to choose is an individual decision, depending on the needs and the availability of certain experience.