Difference Between electricat test pen and Voltage tester pen

Electricity is all around us in daily life, whether at home, at work, or during general repairs. Knowing "Is there power here?" might seem like a minor detail, but it's crucial for safety when using and maintaining electrical systems. Touching the wrong spot with bare hands can lead to serious accidents.

Fortunately, there's a simple yet powerful tool called a non-contact voltage tester pen (also known as a non-contact AC voltage detector) that quickly tells you where electricity is flowing, without needing to touch any wires or metal.

However, many people still wonder: "Is a voltage test pen the same as a power test pen?" And which type should you use for safety and value? We'll answer these questions and recommend popular models that every toolbox should have!

What is a Voltage Tester Pen?
A voltage tester pen is a tool used to check whether a wire, outlet, or any point has electrical voltage flowing through it. It's designed to look like a pen, making it portable and easy to use for both electricians and general users.

Traditionally, many people might have used an older type of voltage tester pen that required direct contact with the electrical conductor. These older pens would also require your finger to touch the metal cap at the end of the pen, allowing a tiny current to flow through your body to complete the circuit and light up. This method poses a risk, especially for beginners or those without proper training, due to the direct contact with electricity.

What is a Non-Contact Voltage Tester?
This is a significant leap forward in safety!
A Non-Contact Voltage Tester (NCVT), in Thai, is a device that can detect the electric field generated by voltage without needing to directly touch any metal or wire. You simply bring the tip of the pen close to a wire or an outlet, within a few millimeters, and the sensor system inside the device will immediately emit a warning signal (typically a light and/or a beep) if it detects voltage in that area. This makes it an incredibly safe and easy-to-use tool, and it should be the primary choice for anyone working with or checking for electricity today.

Are "Voltage Pens" and "Voltage Testers" the Same?
In everyday language, especially in Thai, these two terms are often used interchangeably. However, from a technical and marketing standpoint, there's a distinction:
"Voltage Pen" originally referred to a type that required direct contact with metal to detect voltage.
"Voltage Tester" or "Non-Contact Voltage Tester" refers to the newer type that can detect voltage without direct physical contact.
In summary: The term "voltage tester" in most contexts today refers to the "non-contact voltage tester" that detects voltage without needing to touch the live wire itself.

Advantages of "Non-Contact Voltage Testers"

• High Safety: You don't need to directly touch live wires.
• Fast Detection: Just get close, and you'll know if there's power.
• Portable and Convenient: Easy to carry and use, even in tight spaces.
• Suitable for Everyone: From homeowners and electricians to industrial technicians.
• Additional Features: May include a flashlight, audible/flashing light alerts, and multi-colored voltage level indicators.

How to Choose the Right Non-Contact Voltage Tester for You

• Check the Voltage Range Supported: Most models cover 701000V AC, but some advanced versions can detect voltage very quickly, even below 90V.
• Consider the Alert Method: Models with sound, LED lights, or vibration alerts enhance accuracy and safety.
• Look for Extra Features: Such as a built-in flashlight, water/dust resistance, or automatic shut-off for battery saving.
• Choose a Reputable Brand: Select brands that meet safety standards like CAT III, IP67, etc.

Here are 3 recommended non-contact voltage testers:

1.SUMO AC-90 Non-Contact Voltage Tester Affordable Price, Real Quality, Easy for Everyone

Key Features: The SUMO AC-90 is a non-contact voltage tester designed for users ranging from general homeowners to professional technicians. It's compact, portable, and simple to use, making it ideal for basic maintenance, checking power in outlets, electrical panels, circuit breakers, or exposed wires.

Main Specifications:

• Detects AC voltage from 90V 1000V.
• Features a red LED light to alert when voltage is detected.
• Provides an audible "beep" along with the light signal for added assurance.
• The tip is made of translucent plastic, offering clear visibility of the status.
• Requires 2 AAA batteries.

How to Use:

• Turn on the switch at the end of the pen to put it in detection mode.
• Bring the tip of the pen close to the power outlet or wire, within a distance of no more than 1 cm.
• If voltage is present: The red LED light will illuminate, accompanied by an audible alert.
• If no voltage is present: There will be no signal.
• Turn off the switch when not in use to conserve battery life.

Ideal For:

• General users who need to check outlets, wires, or light fixtures.
• Beginner electricians or homeowners who need to perform basic repairs.
• Anyone looking for an affordable yet practical tool.

• Detects AC voltage from 90V 600V.
• Dual Sensitivity System: Low voltage/Far proximity: Blue light  High voltage/Near proximity: Red light
• The tip features a bright LED flashlight.
• Small and compact, easily fits in a shirt pocket.
• Requires 2 AAA batteries.

• Turn on the device by pressing the flashlight/sensing system switch.
• Observe if the indicator light shows it's ready for use.
• Bring the tip of the pen close to the wire, outlet, or equipment terminal.
• If voltage is present: Distant/Lower voltage: Blue light  Close/Higher voltage: Red light
• Turn off the device when done to conserve power.

Ideal For:

• Professional electricians who need to work in tight or dark spaces.
• Electrical engineers and electrical system inspectors.
• Individuals seeking a high-quality, precise measurement tool.

3.BOSCH GVD 1000-17 Non-Contact Voltage Tester For the Toughest Jobs Durable, Water-resistant, Dust-resistant, High German Standards

Key Features: This model is specifically designed for heavy-duty work and fieldwork. BOSCH engineered the GVD 1000-17 for high durability, meeting IP67 standards for water, dust, and drop resistance, ensuring reliability in all working conditions.

Main Specifications:

• Detects AC voltage from 70V 1000V.
• Red LED light alerts when voltage is detected. In addition to the red light, there are also yellow and green lights for additional indication.
• Clear audible alarm.
• IP67 standard: Water-resistant, dust-resistant, drop-resistant.
• Features a pocket clip for easy portability and convenient use.
• Requires 2 AAA batteries.

How to Use:

• Turn on the device using the power button on the handle.
• Check if the indicator light shows it's ready for use.
• Bring the tip of the pen close to wires, outlets, or circuit breakers.
• If voltage is detected: A red LED light will illuminate, accompanied by an audible alarm.
• Turn off the device when finished to extend its lifespan.

Ideal For:

• Field technicians who need rugged, reliable equipment.
• Those working in wet or harsh environments.
• Electricians installing electrical systems in buildings or factories.

 

Key Features: If you're looking for a simple, safe, and accurate electrical testing device, the INGCO VD10003 offers great value in terms of both price and performance. It's particularly useful for those who need to check electrical systems in homes, offices, or for general repair work.

Main Specifications:

• Detectable AC voltage range: 100V1000V AC
• Mode: Non-contact (no need to touch wires)
• Alerts: Red LED light + Buzzer sound
• Uses 2 AAA batteries (included in the set)
• Durable and lightweight material, with INGCO's signature yellow and black body
• Comes with a carrying clip

How to Use:

• Insert the AAA batteries correctly by opening the battery compartment and ensuring correct polarity.
• Press the power button to turn the device on. The LED light will flash, indicating it's ready for operation.
• Bring the tip of the pen close to the wire or outlet. If electricity is present, the pen will beep and show a red light.

Note: This device is for AC electrical systems only (typical household electricity).

Ideal For:

• Electricians and maintenance technicians
• Home repair enthusiasts and DIYers
• Homeowners or condo owners who want to perform basic electrical checks themselves
• Appliance repair shops
• Anyone seeking a safe and easy-to-use electrical testing tool

Summary
"Voltage tester" is a general term that can refer to either contact or non-contact voltage detection tools. However, a "non-contact voltage tester" (ปากกาวัดไฟแบบไม่สัมผัสแรงดัน) is a specific device that can detect electricity without needing to touch the wire, making it safer and easier to use.

Contact-type testers require touching metal or live points, which can pose risks if not used correctly. Non-contact testers work by detecting the electrical field; simply holding them near a wire will tell you if power is present. This makes them ideal for general household electrical checks, such as testing outlets, circuit breakers, or for detecting live wires.

If your priority is safety and ease of use, especially for general users, a non-contact voltage tester is the best choice.

Where to Purchase or Inquire About Products

For more information or to order products, visit Hardman, your comprehensive tool center, at Rama 3. Alternatively, you can send a message to their Facebook page inbox. Their team is ready to respond quickly and offers nationwide delivery!