Can this tester work?

[JohnD]

I saw this thing on Fleabay, it looks handy, but I can't see how it would work. the ad says:

"An innovative pocket device for determining the presence of an AC or DC voltage.


• No need for current to be flowing or contact to be made with the circuit to activate the unit
• Find breaks in power cables
• Measure the presence of AC and DC voltage from 12V to 220V
• Safe to use
• Accurate
• Tests voltage continuity and polarity
• Convenient screwdriver tip
• Extremely compact styled
• Pocket clip
• CE approved

"

 

[breezer]

its similar to a "volt stick" they work, but best save your money as they are not that reliable

 

[JohnD]

I have a steiner with two probes and row of LEDs, but thought this thing might have been handy as more pocket-sized

 

[Spark123]

I don't think I'd like to rely on one of those, I wonder how they can measure 12vDC without contact? I think I'll stick with my T2 for now.

 

[salem2000]

I saw this thing on Fleabay, it looks handy, but I can't see how it would work. the ad says:

"An innovative pocket device for determining the presence of an AC or DC voltage.


• No need for current to be flowing or contact to be made with the circuit to activate the unit
• Find breaks in power cables
• Measure the presence of AC and DC voltage from 12V to 220V
• Safe to use
• Accurate
• Tests voltage continuity and polarity
• Convenient screwdriver tip
• Extremely compact styled
• Pocket clip
• CE approved

"

Got one as a free gift on a diy mag, it is prob at the landfill site by now. Also seen them at local market for a £1.

 

[plugwash]

in principle its possible to detect an electric field without drawing current, in practice its very hard to do reliablly.