ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Opinions on circuit tracers.

I looking to invest in a circuit tracer. Any advice on which one to purchase? I want a unit that is rated for 600v and will find conductors in walls concrete, conduid and URD,. I have looked at the greenlee and amprobe however i would like you opinion on what has worked for you. I have used tracers many times as a distribution lineman however that equipments cost is more than i wish to spend right now. will spend a C note on one though.

Thanks for your time.
Mims

[This message has been edited by mims (edited 07-01-2002).]

mims,

What do you intend to use it for? Telecom/data, residential power (120/240V), commercial/industrial power (480/600V), finding conduits or wires underground or in walls?

I use a couple of Progressive Electronics products; one is a telecomm toner/tracer for tele/data and deenergized power wiring. Cost about $100. The other is a live line tracer set that also will find a line up to two feet underground. Cost about $300.

With any tracer, it takes experience to get good results. And fresh batteries. The signal drops off gradually as the signal generator battery gets weak, and you often don't notice it.

Cliff

The Greenlee "PowerFinder" is a nice unit that has some accessories that the lower end units don't have, but the cost is higher.

I have a Greenlee "POWER FINDER" and it is a life saver. It is expensive but the time it will save you is immearsurable. If you do alot of fire alarm installs as well this thing is great. You will hear the toner through the speakers to help you know you are somewhat on track. Great for detecting shorts to ground as well. It is expensive but that will disappear once you learn what it can do.

[This message has been edited by elektrikguy (edited 07-01-2002).]