Identifying Breakers And Fuses (Energized And De-Energized) - Amprobe AT-6010 Mode D'emploi

3. MAIN APPLICATIONS - TRACING ENERGIZED AND DE-ENERGIZED WIRES

3.2 Identifying Breakers and Fuses (Energized and De-energized)

Note: For breaker locating, a simplified direct connection to hot and neutral wires can be used
because these wires are separated at the breaker panel. There is no risk of signal cancellation
effect if wires are at least a few inches away from each other. However, the separate ground
connection (section 3.1) should be used for superior results specifically if wires need to be
traced in addition to breaker identification.
The simplified direct connection to hot and neutral wire will NOT trip the GFCI circuit.
Figure 3.2a: Simplified direct connection
Connecting the test leads
1. Connect the Transmitter using either simplified direct connection or separate ground connection.
2. If the simplified direct connection method is used, connect the test leads directly to the hot and
neutral wires. While locating a breaker, wires will not be traceable as the signals will cancel each
other out.
3. For separate ground connection, connect the red lead to the line (hot) wire on the load side of the
system. The wire can be energized or de-energized. Connect the green lead to a separate ground,
such as a metal building structure, metal water pipe, or ground wire on a separate circuit.
TIP: The Transmitter, with the red test lead, can be directly connected to the live wire of the
working electrical equipment under load (motor, electronics, etc). Tracing can be performed
without needing to turn off the equipment or switching power off.
Figure 3.2b: Separate ground connection
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(Preferred)