Martindale Electric has launched the HPAT425 handheld PAT/EET tester, which can be used for testing all types of portable appliances and is specifically built for ease of use with one-button automatic testing.

The new HPAT425 is designed for clear, simple and automatic pass/fail testing of Class 1 & Class 2 appliances and IEC power leads. The unit is compact and lightweight for maximum portability and features a USB-C charging port for fast on-the-go charging.

The large, high-contrast greyscale display is ideal for testing in varying light conditions. Plus, the HPAT425 features both 500V and 250V insulation test options – ideal for surge-protected devices – as well as an IT-safe 200mA earth bond test.

Replacing the popular Martindale HPAT400 model, the improved HPAT425 offers everything needed to begin testing straight out of the box. This includes a TL67 earth bond probe, EX322 IEC adaptor lead, TC57 carry case, and a USB-C charging cable, alongside a verification certificate and instruction manual.

A comprehensive range of optional accessories is also available, including adaptors for testing appliances and equipment fitted with 3-phase plugs.

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Martindale Electric has extended its industrial socket testing offering with a brand new version of the popular CP201 16 Amp and 32 Amp single phase socket testers.

The new enhanced CP201 features a much simplified user interface allowing easy interpretation of results. Wiring faults are now instantly indicated by the three bright LEDs which mirror the layout of the pins in the plug. Plus, there is a look-up chart on the tester to aid quick diagnosis of common faults. In addition, the CP201 now checks the mains voltage level, indicating a high or low supply voltage at the outlet.

Designed for quick and easy testing of single-phase industrial socket wiring, the CP201 includes both 16A and 32A industrial versions of the Martindale classic check plug, fitted with a 230V 16A or 32A plug to BS EN IEC 60309-1.

The robust ABS moulded housing of the new CP201 also gives lasting durability and is maintenance free.

Socket testers are not an alternative to the full verification of wiring installations. However, as a first-line indicator, they are an essential tool for all maintenance teams.

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Socket testers are not an alternative to the formal verification of wiring installations, but as a first line indicator they are an essential tool, explains Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric.

When properly specified, socket testers provide a fast and effective solution to identifying potentially unsafe installation and wiring faults, particularly prior to installing new plant and equipment.

All socket testers should check that the earth, live and neutral are the right way round but with such a large number of proprietary plugin devices available,  additional test functions can vary considerably. So, when selecting a socket tester, it’s important to understand the different types available and their capabilities and limitations.

Socket testers are categorised as either simple, advanced or professional  with the key differentiator being the ability to measure and display either ranges or numerical values for earth fault loop impedance.

It is also worth bearing in mind that although many of these devices will indicate some of the basic electrical faults that may be found in socket-outlet circuits, some of the simpler versions cannot be relied on to indicate more advanced faults, which can be potentially dangerous.

These 10 pointers will help you help your customer select the right one for the job.

1. There are so many socket testers available, what do I recommend?

Socket testers can be split into categories: simple, advanced and professional. All socket testers will check that basic connections have been made correctly; however, advanced/professional socket testers will have more functionality with respect to earth testing.

2. So, which tests will a simple socket tester perform?

All testers check that a socket is functioning; this includes checking for live and earth reverse, live and neutral reverse and that there is earth connected. However, they do not check if the socket is adequately earthed for safety. Some offer added features. This may include a buzzer in addition to LEDs to indicate a good socket, or they may show a combination of indicators to identify which particular fault type is present.

3. What is the difference between an advanced and professional socket tester?

The key differentiator is related to checking the effectiveness of the protective earth. More advanced testers indicate the value of loop impedance via LEDs (examples are the Martindale EZ165 and EZ365) or show numerical values. A reliable earth loop impedance measurement is essential to ensure that over-current protection devices achieve a fast enough disconnection time to avoid electrocution.

4. I’ve heard there’s a test that no socket tester can perform. What is it, and why?

There is one fault that a socket tester and indeed no other piece of equipment can easily find, the swapping of the earth and neutral wires. This is because the earth and neutral are common at the substation (if not closer), so electrically, they are indistinguishable.

5. What is the ‘supply reversed’ test on some socket testers?

This is a cross-polarity test. Although all socket testers are capable of identifying wiring faults at the socket, including live-neutral errors, they will not detect when the incoming supply polarity has been reversed. This serious fault condition where L-NE connections have been reversed at the supply and require a special additional test. The Martindale BZ701 has this feature.

6. Will my socket tester test an RCD?

A socket tester will only check the functionality of an RCD in a circuit i.e. the ability to trip. RCD testing requires the use of a tester or multifunction installation tester with RCD test capability which can measure time to trip.

7. Does a socket tester help with 18th Edition installation testing?

It’s important to appreciate that socket testers are not an alternative to the full verification of wiring installations. For testing installations, professional loop testers and multifunction testers suitable for carrying out all the tests needed to verify the safety of domestic, commercial and industrial wiring installations (according to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations) are required.

8. In summary, what can I use a socket tester for?

A socket tester is a first-line indicator to identify potentially unsafe installations and wiring faults. Socket testers offer a fast and effective solution when properly specified. They can also be particularly useful as a service tool in identifying potentially unsafe conditions prior to carrying out work on existing electrical systems and equipment or before installing new appliances.

9. I also need to check industrial outlets – can a socket tester help?

Manufacturers such as Martindale offer a full range of industrial socket testers, specifically for this application. These perform some of the basic tests similar to standard 13A socket devices but offer different pin configurations, different voltage levels and three-phase checks.

10. Can socket testers help with EV chargers?

There is a new classification of socket tester capable of first line checking of EV charge points. The Martindale BZ820-EV is an example, being able to connect directly to a Type-2 EV charger to perform tests similar to a basic socket tester. It can also simulate connection to a vehicle for additional tests.

Conclusion

When it comes to the design of a socket tester, quality and durability should be key considerations. Testers should ideally feature a tough sculpted design for easy removal and be durable enough to withstand the roughest of handling, thus providing many years of performance.

Socket testers offer a fast and effective solution to identify potentially unsafe installations and wiring faults when correctly specified as a first-line indicator. They can also be helpful as a service tool in identifying potentially dangerous conditions before carrying out work on existing electrical systems and equipment. Selecting the right tester for the job is key.

The Electrical Safety-First Best Practice Guide 8 (version 2) Selection and Use of Plug In Socket Testing Devices is an excellent source of information.

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A lot can change with the test and measurement landscape in a short period of time, as Metrel’s Mark Johnson can testify. Here he shares his thoughts after returning to the industry following a near two year break.

Returning to the test and measurement sector after a break of 18 months has been a most illuminating experience.

In that time it would appear that most/all of the major manufacturers have introduced the ability to update their premium instrument’s firmware in the field rather than by specialists at calibration time, having told everyone it was impossible for many years. To its continued credit, Metrel remains one of the only companies to offer updating for all testers – not just the most expensive.

Another shift has seen more manufacturers including help screens, which are now being built into top-end testers. It’s the same story with an SPD test, which Metrel machines have incorporated for 20 years.

Field firmware updating allows manufacturers to respond to changes in the Regulations or introduce new tests should the need arise, giving the customer better value from the investment in a test machine.

Adapter and overcome

A perfect example was the introduction of EVSE testing. Metrel updated its tester firmware free of charge to include an EVSE test protocol for those testers that had the hardware capability.

At the same time an adapter was introduced which could test the functionality of the charger and gave access to the electrical supply system for testing at a cost in the region. The adapter’s cost-effectiveness was ground-breaking at a time when some other companies were expecting end users to pay premium sums for a new tester with the same functionality.

At Metrel we see these types of adapters as the future. At the end of the day, if your tester is working well why spend more for another screen, processor, plastics etc. when you can use it as the interface and save your results to the memory?

The latest update to the MI3152 multi-function tester allows the unit, with the addition of an adapter, to transform itself into a precision high current earth loop impedance tester, operating up to 300 A.

Earth resistivity testing is not an everyday activity for most contractors, so it makes sense that they might not want to pay for the functionality. But if you need to measure specific earth resistance for the design of a grounding system, it is reassuring to know you just need to buy a Ro-adapter rather than purchase another complete test set.

More commonly, ring final circuit testing can be made quicker and transformed into a one-man job using Metrel’s unique ring continuity adapter (A2214). Firmware upgrades are available for the MI 3100, MI 3125 adding to their longevity, as well as the touch-screen MI 3152 and MI 3155.

Common themes 

Another change is that domestic 3-phase supplies have become more common. To facilitate their testing, the 3-phase active switch (A1507) is an adapter that automates testing, making it faster and keeping you safe.

You make the connections to the installation under test once. The switch is then controlled by either of our touch-screen testers, making and breaking connections as required and running through a suite of measurements – all under your expert supervision from a safe distance.

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Electricians rely on test equipment every day to keep installations safe, compliant and problem-free. Getting to know the key test products and how they are used can help you serve your customer better, says Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale.

Electrical testing isn’t just a regulatory requirement – it’s a vital part of keeping people and structures safe. Whether it’s verifying that a socket is wired correctly or proving a circuit is dead before work begins, the right testing equipment gives electricians confidence on the job.

Top five

When you stock the testing tools that your customers trust, you’re not only supporting safer working practices but building long-term customer loyalty. Here are five of the most in-demand pieces of electrical test equipment.

1. Multi-Function Testers (MFTs)

Multi-function testers are indispensable. They can perform a range of tests including continuity tests, insulation resistance tests, earth fault low impedance tests and wiring polarity, among others.

Combining so many tests into one easy-to-use device means less equipment to carry around and fewer cables to connect. As these devices walk the user through each step and flag any issues, they are far less likely to make errors or have to perform tests for a second time. By cutting out the need to swap between different devices, MFTs are also real time savers and can make a significant difference on larger projects or jobs where deadlines are tight.

For wholesalers who want to stock efficient MFTs, the Martindale ET6000 Series covers a wide variety of essential testing tasks, including high-current and non-trip earth loop impedance testing, voltage measurement, phase sequence indication and Auto RCD testing. The ET6300 and ET6500 are also EV ready.

2. Voltage Indicators

Voltage indicators (VIs) are critical for verifying the presence or absence of voltage in a circuit, providing a quick visual or auditory indication that helps determine whether it’s safe to proceed with work. VIs should function without a battery. This is because if the battery in the device is flat, a false ‘dead’ reading could be made on a live circuit.

We are often asked why multimeters or non-contact voltage detectors can’t be used instead. The reason a Multimeter is not suitable is because it is too easy to select the wrong range and, as previously highlighted, they use batteries. Non-contact voltage detectors also require a battery and a standard proving unit cannot prove the device is working correctly – a specialist proving device is needed for this.

3. Proving Units

Incorporating voltage indicators and voltage testers into your electrical safety strategy makes for a strong and reliable safe isolation procedure. But to truly ensure a circuit is not live, it’s crucial users check their voltage indicator (VI) with a known source, such as a proving unit, both before and after they test the circuit. This double-check confirms the VI is working correctly.

Martindale offers several proving units for a variety of voltage levels – 240V, 440V and 690V – from the entry level PD230SRD to the PD690SRD, which supplies the full test voltage for both high and low impedance voltage indicators, test lamps and meters.

4. Portable Appliance Testers (PAT Testers)

PAT testing is an important part of electrical safety in the workplace and for good reason – the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reports that a quarter of all reportable electrical accidents involve portable appliances. The Electricity at Work Regulations (1989) states employers are required to ensure that any electrical equipment that could cause injury is kept in a safe condition.

A good PAT tester should be light, compact and easily portable as most tests will be performed on site rather than in a workshop. The tester should have a clear pass/fail indication, ideal for quick on-the-go testing, while straightforward menus and inbuilt auto-test sequences are also very useful, especially for those new to PAT testing.

When advising on testers, it’s worth knowing the purpose; someone carrying out occasional tests on low-risk equipment might only need a basic pass/fail tester, while a contractor working across multiple client sites might benefit from a tester with onboard data storage.

5. Socket Testers

A socket tester is a first-line indicator to identify potentially unsafe installations and wiring faults. While all socket testers will confirm that fundamental connections like earth, live and neutral are correctly established, those classified as advanced or professional also help verify the quality of the earth. The results from these tests are typically shown through LEDs that light up in different patterns to alert the user to the current state of the socket in terms of presence of voltage. In some models, an audible buzzer might also be used to indicate the status.

There are a wide variety of socket testers on the market to choose from which can make it challenging to select the most appropriate one. Martindale has a wealth of information on its website outlining the different types available and their capabilities. The Electrical Safety First guidance note Best Practice Guide 8 (version 2) “Selection and Use of Plug In Socket Testing Devices” is also an excellent source of information.

Meeting demands

Stocking these five essential pieces of test equipment ensures that your customers have access to the essential tools required for electrical safety and compliance. By offering reliable, user-friendly products from reputable manufacturers, you can meet the demands of professionals in the field and support safe electrical practices across various industries.

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Martindale Electric has announced the launch of the ET6000 Series Multifunction Installation Testers, a state-of-the-art range designed to meet the needs of modern electricians.

This new series, which includes the ET6000, ET6300 and ET6500 models, represents the latest advancement in installation testing technology, delivering accuracy, reliability and user-friendly features that comply with the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations.

The ET6000 Series is built on the success of Martindale’s previous ET4000 series but takes functionality and ease of use to new heights. Each model in the series is designed to perform all the critical measurements required for verifying the electrical safety of installations, including high-current and non-trip earth loop impedance testing, voltage measurement, phase sequence indication and Auto RCD testing.

All models in the series boast a high level of input protection with a CAT IV safety rating, ensuring that users are protected when working in challenging environments. This range of testers is engineered for durability and precision, making them indispensable tools for both routine and complex testing scenarios.

Each model in the ET6000 Series is designed for ease of use, with a ‘Test and Go’ carry case that allows the tester to remain in the case during operation.

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Martindale Electric has launched the EZ664 socket tester. This innovative device offers flexibility and precision, meeting the demands of both professional electricians and safety inspectors across the UK.

The EZ664 socket tester is designed to simplify the process of verifying socket safety and wiring integrity in both domestic and commercial environments. Its dual connection capability – through either a standard 13A plug or flying leads – makes it an exceptionally versatile tool, ideal for testing at light fittings, fused spurs and terminals where traditional socket testers fall short. The EZ664’s ability to connect via either a 13A plug or flying leads provides the flexibility needed to test various electrical installations, including locations where a socket tester cannot be directly plugged in, such as at light fittings or within electrical enclosures.

Equipped with two groups of tricolour LEDs, the EZ664 offers clear visual indications of wiring conditions, mains voltage levels and earth loop impedance. This comprehensive indication system ensures that users can quickly and accurately diagnose potential issues. A standout feature of the EZ664 is its capability to measure earth loop impedance without tripping a 30mA or higher RCD, a common safety device in many installations.

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Multi-function testers (MFTs) save electricians time by combining essential tests into one device. Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale, explains how the latest models can simplify tasks, reduce errors and ensure compliance.

For electricians, having the right tools at your fingertips can make a big difference. Multi-function testers (MFTs), handheld devices that can perform a variety of electrical tests, are a good and necessary addition to a toolbox; they reduce time spent on-site and cut the chance of costly errors without sacrificing accuracy or compliance with the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations.

MFTs are used to test low voltage circuits and ensure that electrical installations are safe and meet regulations. They can perform a range of tests, including continuity tests, insulation resistance tests, earth fault low impedance tests and wiring polarity, among others. Because they combine so many tests into one easy to use device, it means less equipment to carry around, fewer cables to connect and, most importantly, less chance of making a mistake during testing.

MFTs are real time-savers and can make a big difference, especially on larger projects or jobs where deadlines are tight. By cutting out the need to swap between different devices, electricians can significantly speed up their work rate. Instead of recalibrating or setting up new testers for each different test, an MFT allows you to jump straight into the next task. For electricians working on multiple jobs or large-scale projects, this can make a huge difference to productivity.

Cutting out the errors

MFTs are designed to be simple; many have intuitive user interfaces with on-screen guides, which simplify even complex tests. As these devices walk the user through each step and flag any issues, electricians are far less likely to make errors or have to perform tests for a second time. It might seem like a small advantage, but these time-saving moments quickly add up.

But MFTs aren’t just about speeding up testing – they are incredibly precise too. Performing critical tests such as voltage measurements, earth resistance and insulation checks requires accuracy, and MFTs are designed to deliver reliable results. Some MFT models also come with onboard memory, so electricians can store test results directly on the device. This is a massive help when preparing reports or needing to verify compliance. Instead of manually recording every reading (and risking transcription errors), electricians can save the data digitally and generate professional, accurate reports later.

There is no doubt that clients notice when a job is done quickly and professionally. A reliable MFT not only helps electricians complete work to a high standard but also gives them the tools to back it up with solid test results. Clients appreciate detailed reports and MFTs that store and download results make creating them much easier. Being able to present clear, thorough data from tests helps build trust and makes the tradesman who does this look very professional.

For wholesalers who want to stock efficient MFTs to meet the demands of electricians looking to increase productivity, the new ET6000 Series from Martindale Electric is a practical and reliable solution. The range includes the ET6000, ET6300 and ET6500, which cover a wide variety of essential testing tasks and can be used on anything from simple installations to complex jobs. Each model is designed to perform all the critical measurements required for verifying the electrical safety of installations, including high-current and non-trip earth loop impedance testing, voltage measurement, phase sequence indication, and Auto RCD testing.

No confusion

Each model has a full-colour TFT display that clearly shows connection information and test results so there is never any confusion during testing and electricians can focus on the task without second-guessing themselves. The testers all come with a ‘Test and Go’ carry case and there’s no need to take them out – the unit can stay in its case even while it’s being used, protecting it on-site and cutting down on set-up time.

The ET6000 is the entry-level model, ideal for electricians who want a reliable installation tester that covers all essential functions required by the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. As electric vehicles become more common, the demand for EV charger testing is growing so the ET6300 and ET6500 models are designed to help electricians stay prepared for the evolving requirements of electrical installations. The ET6300 model is EV-ready, making it a solid choice for those wanting to test electric vehicle charger points. Its accessory set includes stackable leads, the TL180 slimline test probe and a mains charger with rechargeable batteries. This model can also be upgraded at any time with the Martindale TL305EV adapter to enable EV testing capability. The flagship ET6500 model includes all the accessories of the ET6300 including the TL305EV adapter and has advanced features including an onboard memory for storing and downloading test results, great for electricians who need to generate compliance reports or manage large amounts of test data​.

For anyone serious about saving time and boosting productivity, investing in an MFT is an obvious choice. These all-in-one devices remove the hassle of juggling multiple tools, reduce on-site hours and deliver spot-on accuracy. It doesn’t matter whether the task is a complex installation or a routine check, an MFT makes the job easier, faster and more professional. With the right MFT to hand, electricians will be ready to handle whatever is thrown their way.

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