Hi-Tech HTP-6 Digital Circuit Breaker Identifier

I havent used it extensively, but so far the Hi-Tech HTP-6 Circuit Detective Circuit Breaker Finder seems to work pretty well. It has two components, a signal transmitter and a receiver. The two pronged transmitter is designed to be plugged into a standard 120 outlet. The receiver is designed to scan the circuit breakers in an electrical panel or loadcenter, and indicate by an shrill audible signal and flashing green light, which circuit breaker is feeding the load. Following the correct procedures, the system seems to produce fairly accurate though not flawless results. For these types of tracers, electronic interference can make reading the signal difficult. Certain types of power strips, adapters, and other add-on electrical attachments, can also mess up the transmission of the imparted signal. So for various reason, the Hi-Tech tracer occasionally has some problems nailing down which circuit is the source. I first used a similar tracing device by Pasar, perhaps twenty years ago, and the reliability issues that existed then, still seem to exist today. The main thing that bothers me about this device is the power switch on receiver. It is located on the side of the unit, and it just takes is a slight touch to turn the receiver on, and begin running the 9 volt battery down. To turn the unit off, you hold down the switch for a few seconds, but a little tap and the receiver turns back on again. Not too smart, as just sticking it in your pocket can easily turn it back on again. A more thoughtful design would have made it more difficult to accidentally switch the device on, like providing a power switch that is out of the way, and locks in the on or off position. Its very inconvenient, but I remove the battery when Im not using this device, so that I will have a live battery when I need it. Although the performance is acceptable, because of this basic design flaw, this product just rates 3 stars. For me, the size (1.8 x 6) and shape of the receiver is such that it is easy for me to drop, so I added a small nylon strap so that I can hang it around my neck, which also helps with accidentally turning on issue. Hi-Tech has an address in Illinois, by there is a Made in China sticker on the receiver. It appears that several companies are selling this same unit, and are just changing the color and slapping their company label on it. For example, the

It didnt work for me, but Ill give it two stars, as my breaker panel is old and may not be standard. I followed the directions, yet the device lit up on some of the wrong breakers and wouldnt light up on the right ones.

This tool melted in my tool boxes. I dont understand contractor tools that are not designed to be stored in hot-in-the-sun tool boxes. I never got to use it.

It works good, I still have problems but is not because of these equipment

I purchased one of these in 2003. Only difference is the casing is a charcoal/black color rather than blue as the pic shows. It will sometimes sit for 6-12 months before I reach for it again (I take the battery out for storage) but it has always helped me identify the circuit breaker Im looking for. The worst results I ever had was that, once, it seemed to ID two side-by-side breakers at the same time. Rather than fret about why, I just turned both breakers off and the item I was working on was then electrically dead. To be safe, I ALWAYS use a live circuit checker (I call them tickers) to confirm the circuit is off before I proceed. Once when I couldnt find my ticker, I used my voltmeter to make sure the power was off. I certainly recommend this item, but I always treat the circuit as if it were live until Im absolutely certain it isnt.

easy to use

You cannot depend on it. It will say 3 or 4 breakers and sometime none of which are the right one

This little device allows you to trace electrical circuits from the box to the plug, simply turn it on, plug one end it, its pretty clear which end then aim the other unit at the circuit board and you can tell which breaker is used for the plugin.

Read the use guide and it works fine. Have not tried from our 2nd floor yet but so far it is a great product.

The item works as advertised.