Circuit Detective

[TonyL]

Without this turning into an electrical theory dissertation, are things things any good. I am familiar with the vacuum and other ways, just want to know if this works. Thank you.

http://www.leevalley.com/us/newsletters/WS/3223/newsletter.htm

 

[monophoto]

FYI - Harbor Freight sells a similar gadget for around $20. The reviews are generally good.

As an electrical engineer, I understand the theory of how it works. I also understand there are circumstances that could cause it to not work that have more to do with the wiring of the electrical system where it is being used than with the design of the gadget.

If I were a commercial electrician who wired houses for a living, I could see how this might save a few steps, and perhaps a little time. But as a homeowner, there are equally good alternatives that don't cost anything, and I have better uses for the $25 (or $20 for the HF version).

 

[gtriever]

I have one that I picked up at Lowes. It's OK, but it can give false readings on large panels (read that as multiple side-by-side panels) .

 

[Shock me]

Ditto. got mine at Home Depot and couldnt really get clean enough readings to be helpful most of the time.

 

[TonyL]

Thank you both very much. I am not going to buy it. I very much appreciate and respect your feedback. Just saved me $25..I will go and buy more blanks that I don't need instead

 

[Charlie_W]

Yup, I bought one many years ago.....not accurate enough to warrant the cost.

 

[jttheclockman]

We had ones that were much more accurate and used those in computer rooms where shutting breakers off is a no-no. Those are a waste of money. The best way to mark a panel is to use the radio system where you plug a radio in an outlet and also using a two person system saves steps.