A multi-function tester (MFT) is a versatile tool used to perform various important electrical tests which can confirm the safety and compliance of an electrical installation. As a result, the MFT is an essential tool for any professional electrician, as it replaces the need for a number of individual test instruments and therefore improves speed and consistency.
The MFT is a handheld instrument used to identify potential electrical faults, to measure the performance of an electrical circuit or installation and to verify that installed safety mechanism are working effectively. It has a large central display screen and various dials and switches used to select, set-up and perform these tests, which include tests for insulation resistance, earth loop impedance, RCDs, continuity, voltage and phase sequence.
Different types of multi-function tester
There are different models of MFT available, such as those supplied by Test Instrument Solutions, These vary in terms of size and capability, with a higher spec of model offering a greater range of test specifications. Some models are suitable to be used for testing basic domestic properties, which have relatively standard installations requiring only basic test requirements, while other models are more suitable for larger commercial and industrial environments. These models of MFT have more advanced features and testing capabilities which cover a wider range of more demanding environments.
Advanced MFTs are likely to be used in industrial environments where there are much different power demands, such as in construction, manufacturing and processing plants. In these situations a tester will face more complex electrical systems and will need to use their skills and knowledge to interpret results, identify potential problems and recommend solutions.
How basic and advanced multi-function testers differ
So basic and advanced MFTs will differ in terms of the environments in which they are used, but also in their testing capability and various other features which we have summarised here.
- Environment – A basic MFT can be used for testing in residential properties and commercial office, hospitality or retail environments where the electrical installation is simple and test requirements are basic. An advanced MFT would be used in much larger commercial or public sector buildings (schools and hospitals) and industrial buildings where an electrical installation is much more complex and involves longer sequences of testing and much higher power demands.
- Testing capabilities – A basic MFT will usually just cover standard single-phase testing, while advanced MFTs will have the capability to cover three-phase testing, phase rotation and possibly specialist testing such as for EV charging stations.
- Accuracy – Advanced MFTs will offer a greater degree of accuracy, such as no-trip loop testing, which allows for harsher environments, such as when exposed to noise and dust hazards.
- Data recording – A basic MFT will allow the user to store results manually in an internal memory, which can be printed out and stored at a later date. Advanced MFTs will have automatic data logging and Bluetooth/WIFI connectivity, which means data can be shared instantly to smartphones and other devices and downloaded to USB storage. This enables reports to be produced in a professional and compliant format.
- Efficiency – While basic MFTs will have user-friendly menus and set-up features, advanced MFTs will have automatic features which speed up the testing process and minimise repeat actions where there is a large sequence of identical tests.
- Durability – The outer structure of a basic MFT will offer suitable protection for the environment it is used in, but an advanced MFT will offer better physical protection for use in harsh industrial environments.
So if you are choosing a type of multi-function tester you should consider whether a basic or advanced model is appropriate. Choose a basic MFT if you are working on domestic installations with single-phase wiring and can manually log your results. Or choose an advanced MFT, such as the TIS MFT-Pro supplied by Test Instrument Solutions, if you are testing larger commercial and industrial installations which involve three-phase wiring with higher power demands, and you need to store and share data quickly.
Product Demonstration Video
Below you can see a product overview video of the TIS MFTPRO+:
Please note that this section is for information purposes only. Anyone using equipment referred to in this section must be suitably qualified and/or experienced within the respective field. If in doubt before use, please consult a qualified electrician or engineer & thoroughly read all instruction booklets.