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View Full Version : Researching AMPS and circuits from electrical outlets


peptalks
Apr 20, 2008, 07:31 PM
Is there a way, i.e. a tool or instrument, that allows you to check plugs for their amperage and to identify which plug is on which circuit without the usual two person method of one at the box flipping breakers and someone at the plugs with a light yelling "on/off"? Thanks.

KISS
Apr 20, 2008, 07:47 PM
I don't understand the "check plugs for there amperage".

I little outlet tester can determine if a 120 V circuit is live.

This Amprobe BT-250 Circuit Breaker Tracer, BT250 Amprobe - at the Test Equipment Depot (http://testequipmentdepot.com/amprobe/wire&cabletracers/bt-250.htm?source=google_ppc_New_Equipment_NBS_Circui t_Breaker_Tracers&kw=breaker_tracer&gclid=CMbkq9-Q65ICFQEqHgodpWVbcg)

Or similar can be used to track live circuits to breakers. You plug transmitter in outlet and look for strongest signal at panel. I've seen cheaper ones at the hardware store.

To identify which breaker tripped, try to move the breaker to the on position. The one that's tripped will act a little springy.

I tried to cover the bases, hopefully I understood what you wanted.

Stratmando
Apr 21, 2008, 08:51 AM
Good info from above, Hey KISS, I thought about building a little circuits that pulses a 5 Amp load. You could plug into receptacle and look for circuit with an Amprobe in the Main Panel?

KISS
Apr 21, 2008, 09:34 AM
It's easily done with one of these from ssac: http://www.ssac.com/catalog/TRU01A01.pdf

A solid state output would be nicer for the application.