For tradies working with wires, accurate readings, detecting faults and efficient voltage testing are non-negotiables.
Bosch’s latest range of electrical measurement tools has something for just about every occasion.
There’s no shortage of varied work sparkies and other electrical trades can be asked to test on a site.
There’s so much that can go wrong with a switchboard or outlet, and detection is key.
Depending on what reading you’re after, Bosch has delivered with five of its latest testing tools: the GDM 600-15 Digital Multimeter, GMC 600-15 Dual Power Clamp Meter, GVT 1000-15 Voltage Tester, GFM 1000-15 Fork Meter and GVD 1000-17 Non-Contact Voltage Tester.
Electrical subcontractor/solar installer Ferdinand Joseph needs just about every tool on this roster, so we enlisted his help across a few sites across Melbourne.
Test #1: Meter made
Whether it was the Digital Multimeter, Clamp Meter or Fork Meter, Ferdinand was a fan of the different features all three had.
Each tool can conduct fundamental tests including AC or DC voltage, continuity and amperage.
“The Clamp Meter came in great (handy),” Ferdinand said.
“As a sparky, you can notice some meter models the clamps are too thick. When you’re in a switchboard trying to get an amperage reading – if you’re thinking about ICBO testing to get a meter between the active conductor, it’s hard to do in a tight space.”
“Having these clamps be a lot more slimmer than most models makes for working in tight spaces really easy.”
Ferdinand loved the Fork Meter’s non-contact voltage tester, which made it even easier to manoeuvre through tight spaces.
“It’s also got a flashlight and low-impedance input testing,” he said.
“That’ll come in real handy for sparkies.”
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That ease-of-use trickles into the Digital Multimeter, which features a clear screen, dual battery system and simple interface which made Ferdinand’s job a breeze.
“The leads are really long. If you have the neutral bar at the bottom and you’re testing the top of an RCBO you’ve got that range,” he said.
“It’s an all-round great product.”
Test #2: Tried and tester-ed
Both Voltage Testers have their own specialties which Ferdinand appreciated.
The larger GVT 1000-15 can test up to 1000V AD/DC and features LED feedback, a buzzer for audio alerts and vibration feedback. Think OPERATION! But replace the boardgame with a switchboard.
“Being a voltage tester that’s portable is particularly handy,” Ferdinand said.
“There’d be scenarios where you might not have the leads to go to and from outlets.
“When you’re using a metre like this, you need two hands to work each fork.
“These forks work independently off each other; you could be testing the active conductor and neutral bar completely independently.
“This would have major applications for sure in a spot where you don’t have a spare hand.”
The GVD 1000-17 Non-Contact Voltage Tester is a great little tool to carry around and test dual voltage ranges between 24V-1000V AC (with high 24V sensitivity) or 90V-1000V AC.
This simple-point and test tool has plenty going for it, including an automative self-test.
Tough for the trade
It’s worth mentioning all five of these tools are designed tough for the Aussie worksite.
Whether you’re in need of portability, or heavy-duty testing, Bosch has something in this range for you.
“The Digital Multimeter and Clamp Meter in particular came in clutch when I was using them,” Ferdinand said.
“They’re all easy-to-use, lightweight and comfortable to hold, the leads are high-quality … it’s just been all-round great using them.”
Check it out
Find out more by searching the Bosch Professional electrical meters and testers online