If you follow our test and tag news you will know that we have covered this question many times in the past. Today’s information is more of a rehash and summary of what’s most important for you to know.Â
To answer this quickly here is a summary to the question. Â
How often electrical appliances should be inspected depends mainly on the type of environment where they are used or located.Â
The general guidelines are as follows:
New appliances – before initial use
Building sites –every three months
Factories – every six months
Commercial workplaces, offices and most other applications – yearly or up to 5 years in some situations.
The AS/NZ 3760:2010 (Table 4) sets the minimum required standard interval for test and tag frequency in New Zealand. The frequencies may vary according to each workplace’s specific risk management practices and OHS planning.
The Following Table 4 from AS/NZ 3760 Test and Tag Intervals gives you a deeper insight of test and tag requirements and is shown as follows:
Test and Tag Table
Metrotest have been test and tagging for nearly 30 years in New Zealand. Not only have we helped many professionals over the years but most importantly we pride ourselves as the leaders in the Test and Tag industry by maintaining high standards of safety to the public, providing Test and Tag Training to professionals and helping manufacturers with test and tag appliance design and testing.
Our website contains a wealth of knowledge which we are confident you can benefit from. Should you need assistance or have questions you cannot find answers to, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
Multi-functional testers being an essential tool in the field of electrical testing and safety have made their way into a technician’s tool kit. In regard to electrical testing and safety currently there cannot be anything that would be more popular as multifunction testers which are utilized by practitioners. This paper has identified that PDF testing is a major necessity for professionals in New Zealand and once again the need for a multifunction tester which is Metrotest. The needs mentioned above can be easily fulfilled to avail a variety of high quality testers that metrotest provides.
What Are Multifunction Testers?
The multifunction testers also known as MFTs are handheld equipment employed by electricians and engineers for various tests on circuits and systems. All these testing devices have multiple testing capabilities incorporated into one unit and can therefore are very efficient when used on site. Some of the commonly performed functions of an MFT include insulation resistance testing, continuity testing, earth loop impedance testing, RCD testing among others.Some of the modern models are equipped with such bonuses as voltage measurement, frequency measurement, phase sequence testing, etc.
What Is The Significance of Multifunction Testers?
These facilities have to follow certain electrical standards so as to reduce cases of accidents, fires and electrical related failures.Multifunction testers are required to confirm that such installations meet the necessary standards such as the AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules in New Zealand. MFT allows a professional to assess whether electrical systems are safe, efficient and to standard in serving the intended functions.
It is with these testers that several tests can be served with efficiency and precision, all in one device. Besides saving time, it will also minimize the number of occasions one has to carry one or several pieces of the equipment to the job site.
Key Features of Multifunction Testers
When selecting a multifunction tester, it’s important to consider the key features that will best meet your needs.Â
Ease of Use: Since the users are unquestionably going to be even more diverse and complex, one of the most basic needs for the functioning of this system is its usability. Therefore, the first aspect that you will probe when testing is how clear the text on the display is, how easy the controls are to operate and how well arranged the menus are.
Accuracy and Reliability: As such, measurement reliability is very important as it assists in preventing compromizes particularly on the aspect of safety of structures. Choose a tester so that you receive a high accuracy and which depends not on external factors.
Versatility: Hence the degree of flexibility is the more functions that a tester is able to carryout. In other words great if there was a model of how to do all the tests that are appropriate for the given applications that one has in mind.
Durability: Electrical testing can be a call for tough situation, thus, the selection of a tester should be made to operate in such circumstances. Some measurable attributes of models are desirable in terms of their build quality, durability, waterproofing and shock proof.
Data Storage and Connectivity: Multifunction testers also come with models that have data logger and storage in order for you to record your tests. Besides, the models with Bluetooth or USB port enable the user to transfer the data to other devices for further processing and/or analysis.
Safety Features: For now there can be no doubt – the top concern is safety. Choose the tester with other features like auto-ranging, has an overload protection and auto shut-off just in case of an accident.
Applications of Multifunction Testers
Multifunction testers are used in a wide range of applications, including:Multi-function testers are highly applicable in different fields, for instance:
Domestic and Commercial Electrical Installations: These circuits are particularly beneficial in checking electrical circuits in homes, offices and industrial regions. They help in the upkeep of the installations in order to eliminate risks and adhere to the norms of the country’s industry.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting: MFTs are then used by electricians in order to review some problems which require fix and also to assess some equipments that needs regular check-up by the electricians.Â
Compliance Testing: In New Zealand electrical works need to be checked and passed under the regulation of AS/NZS 3000:2018. Multi functional testers are employed in order to perform the series of tests which are necessary to receive compliance certification.
Construction and Renovation Projects: During construction or in case of change of structures or rewiring, the multifunction testers are used in checking whether new connection made to the structure is correct/ safe or not.
How to Choose the Right Multifunction Tester
The difficulty in deciding which multifunction tester to purchase take into consideration since there are lots of them. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:To help you make the right choice here are some tips of what to consider when choosing an online Forex trading company:
Identify Your Testing Needs:Â It is necessary to determine what tests have to be made and if there are some functions in the tester which has been chosen.
Consider the Testing Environment: However, If the job can expose the physical environment tester then it is advisable that it should be tough. Outdoor as well as industrial versions are normally water-proof or shock-proof.
Evaluate the User Interface: As a result, you have a tester with an inherent interface and the number of opportunities will be increased. Do not use the interface that are cluttered with too much textual information, many choices or excessive use of colours that hinders the visibility of often required options or buttons that are flashy, numerous and take up too much space.
Check the Calibration and Certification: Always ensure that the tester has been standardized as well as accredited to the standards that are usually prevailed within the industry. This is even more so in regard to compliance testing, an explanation that will be more apparent as the book unfolds.
Compare Models and Brands:As it is also recommended that one should take sometime in comparing the various models on the market and the various brands. It is, therefore, imperative that not only read the recommendations of other users and the difference in parameters, which shall go further and checked on the manufacturer.
Consult with Experts: If you have some or the other issue in deciding which model you must purchase then you can then approach the Metrotest specialists for suggestions. co. nz. They can provide recommendations and also help you decide on what and who the best tester to hire in your establishment.
Metrotest.co.nz is a leading provider of electrical testing equipment in New Zealand.is one of the most sought after company that deals in electrical testing equipment in New Zealand. They provide a large variety of multifunction testers of the highest quality to guarantee that every professional will have proper tools for the job. Regardless if you are an electrician, engineer or a contractor, Metrotest. co. nz is the appropriate place if you need help with testing services and products since we have the experience and tools required for the job.
The team at Metrotest realizes what kind of testing equipment is required for successful tests. This is why they are proud to deliver Only The Finest Multifunction Testers, with top notch customer care and service to complement their product. It also helps with calibration services thus helping your testers retain their accuracy and furnishing with legal requirements.
Conclusion
Multi-function testers are indispensable by anyone dealing with electrical installation, maintenance and conformity tests. Main benefits for using an MFT include compliance with requirements for multiple testing functions, the ease of use, integration, and accuracy. Some features which should not be ignored while selecting a multifunction tester include usability, accuracy, adaptability, and sturdiness. For New Zealand’s professionals, there is metrotest.Co.nz, This is the best place where you will find good quality multifunction testers. You will be glad to know that they have a wide array of testers to offer, and their advisors are knowledgeable enough to guide you to what tester you could use. Purchase a high-quality multifunction tester now; do not take chances with electrical installations, protect yourself, family or employees!.
Metrotest’s long-awaited EasiPAT 10’s 3-phase kit has finally arrived giving a unique and seriously easy way to carry out 3-phase testing. The EasiPAT 10 was an awesome upgradable tester to begin with but now we’ve taken it to the next level. So, what can you expect with Metrotest’s new 3-phase kit?
Our 3-phase EasiPAT setup comes with some unique features only designed and produced by Metrotest. As you may already know, Metrotest doesn’t just sell testers, we actually use them day in and day out as well as lead the field in innovation in the testing industry. We have put a lot of thought and trial and error into creating this kit, designing the case with an additional leakage function built into the case itself.
What’s also great about this is the detail put within the case itself to really be portable with several specifically designed placements for accessories within the case itself on top of the additional leakage function.
So how does it work? It’s really simple actually. Simply plug your 3-phase appliance into the pro kit via a 5-pin test supply lead and perform your leakage test as you would for a single-phase appliance. Of course, for your earth continuity, you will find built into the case your earth connection which means you can easily connect it without any issues to perform your earth continuity test.
Once you have completed your 3-phase test of your appliance you can store your results via the Sonel App and print your desired label. It’s simple and intuitive and we have really tried to make usability for testing 3-phase equipment as easy and simple as possible.
And here’s what just takes this to the next level; because of the way Metrotest has designed the 3-phase kit you don’t have to use or purchase a 3-phase clamp! That’s right, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on an extra piece of kit that you just have to lug around which we really think is an added perk and cost saver for you, the user.
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You’ll also be surprised how small this system is – it would have to be the smallest single-phase complete kit available AND the 3-phase version takes up no extra space!
If you are interested in 3-phase testing and after something created by a company with decades of hands-on experience we really recommend you take a further look at the video below to see it in operation.
If you have any questions regarding this unit, be sure to give us a call at 0800 638 768 or 1800 789 973.
Often you will see companies reviewing portable appliance testers (PATs) especially the big players (you can find Metrotests 2024 tester reviews here). But it isn’t often that you see reviews and comparisons of one of the most important addons or accessories associated with testers; Printers.
Metrotest has been testing tagging and using different testers and printer setups for over two decades so we have seen the good, the bad and the ugly. When it comes to printers’ usability and functionality Metrotest has got you covered.
It should be stated first that printers aren’t just a one size fits all and many printers are designed for specific testers in mind but some printers do in fact work across different testers and platforms. It’s also worth noting that some printers have been specifically set up to work with different testers when companies have collaborated with different manufacturers. So just because it appears that only one printing option works with a tester, doesn’t mean it is the case. With our vast experience be sure to give us a call if you are wondering what options for printers are available for your tester.
  Intermec C4/PC4 Printer
This printer is an old robust printer that some users are still using to this day with companies still supplying ribbons and labels which Metrotest offers here. This printer is no longer produced but you can still pick up a fairly good second-hand model with still a lot of life in it. That Metrotest still gets these printers in for maintenance and refurbishment is a testament to their longevity and how popular they were.
This thermal transfer printer was designed to work with a range of different PATs including brands like Seaward and Metrel, particularly the Metrel Alpha and Beta PATs. They are of course showing their age as there isn’t any wireless or Bluetooth capability, purely your pesky cables.
As we said this is a thermal transfer printer so you will be using a ribbon and thermal tags which can print off all your necessary details including your detailed user information. While in 2024 we wouldn’t really recommend using this printer, if you are looking for a cheap workaround on a budget and you can find a decent second-hand model it may be worth looking into as a temporary solution.
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  SATO CG2 Printer
This printer was designed and manufactured by the well-known brand SATO and has been heavily used by Metrotest in the past and we still offer continuous support and backup for this printer. You can still purchase ribbons and tags for this particular printer which is handy, especially if you are doing a lot of testing and wanting that efficiency.
As a thermal transfer printer, it works very similar to our previously mentioned PC4 printer but with a more modern design with even wireless capabilities as well as a USB connection. It’s worth noting that there are actually two variations available; the Direct thermal type (CG208DT and CG212DT) and the thermal transfer type (CG208TT and CG212TT), both having similar functionality. This printer has been used not only by Metrotest but many customers because of its reliability and the accessories that are available with it. It will function with a scanner for those who want that functionality and offers a cutter that can be attached to the front of the printer for those after serious printing capabilities!
Across the board, the SATO CG2 works well with many modern testers including Metrel and Sonel PAT and has been used heavily with the Metrel Alpha and Beta PAT models as well as the Sonel iPAT. In regards to servicing, this printer can be a little bit tricky to change its ribbon, but once you’ve done it a few times it won’t be a problem. Be sure if you do install a cutter accessory that you also regularly clean it as the glue residue from the tags can build up over time.
All around this is a good fit for beginners and advanced users alike with plenty of support still available for it.
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  Godex RT200 Label Printer
Metrotest only has good things to say about this printer and is a good example of how Metrotest is a leading innovator in the electrical safety test and tag industry, being the first to work with the Taiwanese manufacturer to bring this printer to the market for PATs with other companies now following suit.
This direct thermal transfer printer is an excellent solution for any advanced user performing testing and needing a sleek setup, with Metrotest using them currently nationwide in our test and tag division. It would be considered one of the most advanced printers on the market with wireless capability for easy use and accessibility; none of those pesky cables are required. This printer again has a range of available accessories including scanner functionality and cutter capabilities for those wanting those upgrade options in the future.
Those who love Metrel and using the Metrel DeltaPAT MI3309 will be happy to know that you won’t have any issues using this printer. It also works with older models like the Metrel AphlaPAT MI2142 and all versions of the Sonel Metro iPATs. We don’t see this printer going anywhere anytime soon and is a really good option for those looking for reliability and wanting to future-proof their needs. A solid must-have for any advanced user.
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  Godex MX20 Label/Tag Printer
We would be hard-pressed if we didn’t mention this amazing little Printer. Unlike the others on our list, it isn’t as large and is also battery-operated, great for the on-the-go user. We often steer clear of smaller printers as they normally struggle with reliability issues and are often more of a gimmick than an actual real practical solution, especially if you are carrying out even a medium number of tests. It’s not the case with the Godex MX20 though, an awesome little wireless direct thermal printer that will in fact make the user testing process more of a breeze than a headache. An added perk is that this printer works well with Sonel’s free reporting software, Sonel PAT Analysis Mobile.
The labels printed provide all the necessary user details, including detailed test results and an optional QR code. The downside with this well-thought-out printer is currently it only works with several models of PAT testers but Metrotest is working on getting it usable with more testers in the future so keep an eye out for that.
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So that’s a few printer options available for 2024. It is by no means exhaustive and you should be sure to check out whatever PAT tester you are thinking about buying, and what printing options are available with it (if any at all). When considering a printer make sure to consider a few things:
  Does the printer offer wireless capabilities?
What type of labels does it/can it use as well as the cost per label?
The usability of the printer (how easy is it to set up with a PAT and does it allow for easy mobility)?
  What support is available for the printer (not every company is equal when it comes to this)?
 If you ask these questions before getting a printer, you’re less likely to get stuck with a dud and get something that will be usable for years to come. Still have questions regarding printers, or perhaps you would like to know more about a printer we didn’t mention, be sure to give us a call today at 0800 638 768 or 1800 789 973 and we will be happy to discuss any printing-related questions with you further.
You may not know this but Metrotest’s online courses are continuing to improve and expand and we want to be the best in the industry. With that being said, most people don’t know that we now offer the AS/NZS3551 Online Medical Refresher training, which we launched several months ago. Metrotest is currently the only provider of Online Refresher training in regards to testing and tagging of medical equipment in accordance of the AS/NZS3551 in New Zealand and Australia.
What is the AS/NZS3551?
To put it simply, the AS/NZS3551: 2012 deals with compliance and outlines procedures required to develop equipment management for medical equipment and includes the electrical safety testing of medical equipment. Particularly, Metrotest’s AS/NZS3551: 2012 Refresher training deals with Appendix B of the standard. The main Standard that deals with in-service medical portable appliance testing is AS/NZS3551:2012.
What is in Metrotest’s AS/NZS3551 Online Refresher Course?
It’s important to note that Metrotest is the only provider to offer Online Refresher training for the AS/NZS3551 Standard and it is only for those who have previous attended and passed Metrotest’s initial AS/NZS3551 training. This course isn’t mandatory to test medical equipment but it is highly recommended for those who are carrying out medical testing, especially as medical equipment tested incorrectly can lead to very serious consequences. During the course trainees review Class I and Class II testing, Applied Parts, how electricity causes harm in relation to medical equipment, specific electrical tests in relation to the AS/NZS3551 and legislation requirements and so much more.
Who should be trained to perform medical testing in accordance to the AS/NZS3551:2012?
AS/NZ 3551: 2012 should be used for those who work in medical environments but isn’t necessarily just those working in medical centres or hospitals. It can also be for those who are around any medical equipment like medical beds or hoists used in medical/rehab environments or even medical hire events.
I’m interested in testing medical equipment; how do I sign up for initial training?
That’s easy, Metrotest periodically runs medical AS/NZS3551 training throughout the year. Just give us a call and we can book you on our next available course.
If you have already done your initial training and are after Refresher training then get in touch with us. We do have it on our website but because of the nature of the course not just anyone can access it so be sure to let us know if you are interested.
What about the course itself, how does it work?
Well, like other Metrotest online courses, simply sign into your account and add the AS/NZS3551 training to your cart for purchase. Once you have done this our team will review your order and if you have done your initial AS/NZS3551 training you will be granted access to our online refresher course. The course can take several hours to complete with an optional practical one-on-one Zoom assessment at the end of the course. Once you have worked through each lesson and completed your final exam you will be awarded a certificate and issued a special AS/NZS3551 photo ID card.
Then your set is ready to continue to test medical equipment according to the AS/NZS3551 standard in accordance with Appendix B. If you would like more information regarding our 3551 Refresher training be sure to get in contact with us today at 0800 638768 or 1800789973.
It’s a new year and it’s time for a new review. You may have read our best testers for 2024. So we were thinking, what about the worst ones, which testers should you avoid buying in 2024?
One reason why we thought of this list is because of the updated standard; the AS/NZS3760:2022 which has made several changes that your workplace should be aware of which you can also find a link to here (link). We also want to make sure you don’t end up spending thousands of dollars buying a lemon.
So we have broken it down into several areas, which we think are important to look at when it comes to what not to buy in 2024.
Keep in mind every person’s needs are different so one of these testers may still be suitable to your individual needs and at the end of the day you should make an informed decision before deciding on what tester to use. This likely includes:
Data and reporting features
Safety features
Future-proofing/upgradability
Testing functions
These areas revolve around the updated Standard and the updated requirements, which put a stronger focus on detailed results being recorded and kept.
1. Kyoritsu 6201A
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This little tester we must say would have caused some users a few headaches. It has one usability problem where the mains power supply cord and IEC cord can accidentally be plugged into the wrong socket during testing which can result in some smoke if you know what I mean.
Not surprisingly this tester has a simple pass or fails function during test and tag, no numeral values that can be used for tags, even written tough test tags. Sad to say this tester doesn’t have much going for it and even as a resell we would say steer clear of it. We can say it’s no sad loss that it is no longer produced as it has no real upgradability options either. While you may be tempted by the price of one for sale as a second hand we would recommend the much newer and more well-designed Kyoritsu 6205 which will give you all those basic features for still a really reasonable price from the same manufacturer.Â
2. Seaward PAC3760 DL
This one may be a little controversial for those Seaward lovers out there but we have to mention this little battery-powered tester because of the areas we are reviewing testers on. Firstly, we have to say as an entry-level tester for those not wanting to spend too much, it could be a good option with simple upgradable features like a printer. However, we are in 2024 and this tester shows its age when you realize you can’t have the option of a wireless printer, which several other entry-level testers do and you can forget about any wireless or Bluetooth options.
In regards to other features, it’s great that it does give you numerical test values but it doesn’t give you the option of a 10A earthbond continuity test function, a true safety test over a compliance test. Adding to test functions, you can use it to do 3-phase testing but from what experience we have had, and customer’s experiences, its usability isn’t great and you could find better options even in the same price bracket that are more user-friendly for the average Joe.
Lastly, while it’s great that this little tester can allow you to download your test results you are limited in options of creating reports. Don’t expect an app for this tester so a phone or tablet is out for usability, instead, you have the CD shipped with the tester, which, in 2024 how many computers are made with a CD drive – we could be wrong though.
All around we do love the durability and size of this tester and when it was first released it had some advanced features for the entry-level user but now it’s showing its age and you would be better off getting something that has more future-proofed features.
3. Aegis Patrol Pro CZ5001
Currently, no longer in production, the Aegis Patrol Pro is a tester that in 2024 we would highly recommend stays on the shelf. It may be tempting to pick up one of these testers cheap second hand on eBay but you could end up paying more in the long run. The Aegis Patrol Pro doesn’t meet the updated AS/NZS3760: 2022 Standard.Â
Let’s begin with its useability, yes, it is simple to use with push button features but while this can be a benefit, in the Aegis Patrol Pros case, it becomes its Achilles heel as it doesn’t give you numerical test results, rather just a pass or fail indication. This is compounded by the fact that you won’t know why exactly it has failed and by how much. Pass or fail indications aren’t suitable for the updated standard.
Of course, being in the lower tier of PAT testers, you aren’t going to have any data capture or recording features and you can forget about upgradable options like a printer.
In the way of testing, you also aren’t given any option for testing PRCD which is a must-have and bare minimum for a tester and if you are a builder or plumber needing to get your PRCD’s tested, it isn’t going to cut it.
In 2024, we really would say resist the temptation of getting this cheap tester and look for something else that gives you data capture, essential test options and upgradable solutions.
4. Wavecom TNT -el
The brand that prides itself on being Australian-made, and we don’t have anything against Australian testers, it is just not all are created equal. To start off this tester is small, great for the average tradie needing to keep it in the back of the van.
We also have to say there are options here for this tester, having other models; the TNT RCD and the TNT Titan. The base model here isn’t going to give you some important functionality; RCDs are a no-go as you will need the TNT RCD or above so think carefully before purchasing this tester model. You may not need to test RCDs now but what about a year from now? It’s better to have this feature and not need it than to need it and not have it, an expensive mistake for $700.
While we do appreciate that we get numerical values of test results with this tester, it has to be said you aren’t going to be doing any printing or downloading of data with this particular tester, you’ll at least need the TNT Titan for that. Your options on software are pretty limited too, being limited to their WinPATs reporting software.
We have to say that while we love the aesthetic design of the tester and its futuristic look it isn’t very forward thinking but as we have already stated it does have other versions more suitable but we have to wonder, is it really good value for money? Yes, it’s cheaper but in the long run, it could cost you more money as its base model isn’t upgradable so you will have to buy another tester on top of it once your needs change. A big fat no from Metrotest, check out their TNT Titan instead from the same manufacturer.
Conclusion:
And that’s our, most probably, controversial list of what testers not to buy in 2024. However, that’s just our opinion and maybe you disagree. Whatever your opinion is, we highly encourage you to do your own research first. If you get stuck Metrotest is always here to help, so why not give us a call today or check out our other article on the best testers for 2024?
