Customer Reviews

Hi-Tech Electronics Products #HTP-6 Circular Detecti Identifier

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

I haven't 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. It's very inconvenient, but I remove the battery when I'm 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 Reliance Controls THP110 Digital Circuit Breaker Finder, appears to be the same as the HTP-6 Circuit Detective Circuit Breaker Finder.

This device is not really suitable for a working electrician, but is probably fine for the homeowner doing some occasional electrical work. For $20 you get a UL listed tracer that produces fairly decent results, and could save you some time. Just don't expect perfection, and be sure to read the instructions and become familiar with the correct testing procedures.

I purchased this model circuit detective in Nov.'05. I have yet to see it find a correct circuit after following the directions to the letter. I recently returned it to the company (Hi-Tech), asking for a replacment under the "lifetime warranty" only to have them return the same unit to me stating that there was nothing wrong with it. I guess I believed the hype about the different technology and it cost me $30+. My recommendation is to save your money and find a helper to hollar when the power goes off for a particular circuit as you flip the breakers in the basement.

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