Non Contact Voltage & Magnetic Field Indicators

Non-contact voltage detectors are a highly reliable and safe way to detect live wires and conductors without coming into contact with them.

Crucial for enhancing safety and ensuring reliability and accuracy in electrical work, non-contact voltage testers & magnetic field indicators feature a wide range of features to make it easier to identify live currents and magnetic fields.

These electrical pen testers can be used in a wide range of environments due to their compact and portable design.

LED lights are often included to indicate when the device is in contact with a live voltage, in some cases this is also accompanied with a beeping noise. As user-friendly devices, they allow for quick and efficient testing of voltage and magnetic fields and can be used by anyone from a homeowner carrying out renovations to an electrical engineer.

How Do Non-Contact Voltage Detectors Work?

Also known as a voltage detector, voltage tester pens, sensors or test pens, non-contact testers are the safest and easiest way to detect electric fields or voltage.

Capacitive Coupling

The technology behind non-contact voltage testers is called capacitive coupling. When the user holds the instrument, their body provides a ground reference for the detection circuit. This creates a small capacitance between the live conductor, the tester, and the user's body.

The tester then detects changes in this electric field around objects carrying an AC (Alternating Current). Simply put, when the tester and your body are near an electrical conductor, a small, safe current flows through the tester from the source, indicating AC voltage.

Why are Non-Contact Voltage Testers Preferred

Non-contact testers are considered the safest and easiest way to detect electric fields or voltage because they eliminate the need for direct contact with live circuits, reducing the risk of electric shock. This makes them a preferred choice for initial safety checks and preliminary diagnostics in various electrical testing scenarios.

Uses of Non-Contact Voltage Detectors

Non-contact voltage indicators are indispensable tools across various settings for quick and safe electrical checks:

• Detecting live AC voltage in wires and outlets.
• Troubleshooting electrical faults safely.
• Performing routine maintenance checks in industrial environments.
• Ensuring safety before beginning any electrical work.

Uses of Magnetic Field Indicators

Magnetic field indicators provide critical insights into the presence and strength of magnetic fields. They are used for:

• Measuring magnetic fields generated by electrical currents.
• Identifying magnetic interference or faults in equipment.
• Testing motors, transformers, and coils in industrial applications.
• Ensuring proper magnetic field strength in manufacturing and maintenance processes.

Most non-contact voltage detectors are designed solely to detect the presence of an alternating current (AC) voltage. In contrast, magnetic field indicators, or magnetic field tester pens, are distinct tools that measure the magnetic fields generated by electrical currents or permanent magnets.

While indirectly related to current flow, their primary function is to identify and assess the strength of these magnetic fields.

This differentiation is crucial: a non-contact voltage sensor confirms if something is "live," while a magnetic field indicator helps diagnose components like relays, solenoids, and motors by checking if their magnetic circuits are active or faulty.

Key Benefits

Precision & Safety in Voltage Testing

Non-contact voltage indicators offer highly accurate voltage detection, crucial for preventing electrical hazards and ensuring user safety during electrical work. Features like adjustable sensitivity, fast response times, and reliable readings minimise risk.

Optimal for Indoor and Outdoor Use

Both non-contact voltage and magnetic field indicators are built with robust and durable designs, making them highly suitable for reliable performance in both challenging outdoor construction sites and controlled indoor facilities.

User-Friendly for Quick Diagnostics

Designed with ergonomic features and intuitive operation, such as convenient pen-style testers, both non-contact voltage indicators and magnetic field detectors enable quick and efficient diagnostics.

Types of Non-Contact Voltage Detector and Indicators

AC/DC Non-Contact Voltage Detectors

Some specialised non-contact voltage detectors are designed to detect both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) voltages without physical contact. These advanced models offer broader detection capabilities, making them suitable for complex systems where both AC and DC sources may be present.

Magnetic Field Testers & Detector Pens

Tools in this category are specifically designed to measure magnetic fields with precision. This includes compact, pen-style detectors for pinpoint testing.

Non-Contact Voltage Indicator Sensors & Tester Pens

These are compact, user-friendly indicators primarily used for quick voltage presence checks without physical contact. Their main function is to provide a rapid "go/no-go" indication of live AC voltage.

How to Choose the Right Non-Contact Voltage Detector for Your Needs

To ensure your chosen tester aligns perfectly with your requirements, consider these factors.

• Voltage Type: Determine if you only need to detect AC voltage, or if you also need to detect DC voltage with your non-contact voltage detector.
• Size and Form Factor: Pen-style testers are highly portable and convenient for quick checks, while larger handheld devices may offer more features and ruggedness.
• Sensitivity: Some testers offer adjustable sensitivity, allowing them to detect voltage from a greater distance or to differentiate between live and induced voltages more accurately.
• Safety Certifications and Compliance: For professional and industrial applications, it is critical to select a non-contact voltage detector with appropriate safety certifications and compliance with industry standards.
• Battery Life and Durability: For professionals who frequently work in the field or demanding industrial environments, robust construction and long battery life are essential.

Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Non-Contact Voltage Detector

Avoiding these common pitfalls will help ensure you select the most effective and safest non-contact voltage detector for your needs:

• Choosing the Wrong Voltage Range or Type: A common mistake is selecting a detector designed only for AC when DC detection is also required, or one that cannot handle the voltage levels of your applications.
• Overlooking Magnetic Field Detection: Relying solely on voltage detection when the application also requires identifying magnetic fields is an oversight. Consider a device that offers both capabilities if your work involves such components.
• Ignoring Quality and Certification Standards: Prioritising price over safety certifications and quality can be a critical error.

Perfect for Diverse Applications

Non-contact voltage detectors are invaluable tools across a wide array of industries, providing essential safety and diagnostic capabilities.

• Manufacturing Equipment Safety: Used for quick safety checks on machinery, control panels, and assembly lines before maintenance.
• Process Control Diagnostics: In continuous production environments, they help identify live conductors in intricate wiring systems.
• Utility Line Verification: Utility workers and technicians employ them for preliminary checks on power lines, substations, and distribution equipment to verify voltage presence.
• Building Electrical Maintenance: Facility managers and maintenance teams use them to safely troubleshoot lighting, power outlets, and material handling systems in warehouses and commercial buildings.

Your Trusted Non-Contact Voltage Detectors Supplier & Manufacturer in Australia

RS Australia is your trusted supplier and distributor of a comprehensive range of high-quality non-contact voltage detectors and magnetic field indicators from leading brands such as RS PRO, Martindale, and CK.

Explore our extensive online catalog to find the perfect voltage tester pens, magnetic field indicators, proximitysensors and photosensors for your needs.

To place an order, simply browse our selection, add the desired product to your cart, and proceed through our secure checkout. We offer various payment options for your convenience.

For detailed information on delivery timelines and costs within Australia, please visit our dedicated Delivery Information page.