How does a wire detector work and which model should you choose?

Added: Monday, 5/29/2023


The electrical installation is invisible. In everyday life, this is a great advantage, improving the aesthetics of the apartment. However, the problem occurs during renovations or repairs. How do you know where the cables run so that you can avoid them while drilling? Or how to locate a damaged wire? Fortunately, you can use a wire detector, which will accurately and accurately indicate the location of the electrical circuit. How does such a device work? More on this below.

Cable detector

How does a wire detector work?

An advanced and professional wire detector consists of at least one transmitter and a locator. The first of these devices is connected to the wire that is to be found. The transmitter sends a high-frequency electrical signal. The current flow creates a variable magnetic field with specific characteristics. This, in turn, can be read by the locator.

The high accuracy of the measurement is due to the fact that the magnetic field radiates from the source (cable) and weakens with distance. This means that the strongest reading will be in a straight line. In turn, knowing the strength of the signal sent by the transmitter, it is possible to determine the depth of the cable.

Check out the cable and wire detectors at the Onninen wholesaler

Using a cable detector

Who needs a professional cable detector?

  • Any renovation crew, even if they are not electrical, must determine the course of electrical circuits. Screwing any bracket or element to the wall requires verification that no wire runs in that place.
  • Electricians who need to determine the course of a damaged circuit in a wall. A wire detector will also be useful when expanding the installation with additional sockets.
  • Construction work in the field also requires verification of the course of underground cables to avoid damaging them during digging.

The detector's great versatility and very precise location support the work of many specialists. To further improve their work, it is possible to use several transmitters at the same time. Even small differences in the frequency of the transmitted signal are enough to determine which circuit has just been detected by the locator.

Which cable detector should I choose?

We have some interesting suggestions for specialists. Each of the models available from us is characterized by high precision and ergonomic shape. However, each of them has additional functions that may interest you.

Simplicity is key - Sonel LKZ-720 cable detector

For basic tasks, an accurate but simple device without too many functions is enough. Such a model can be   Sonel LKZ 720 cable detector . It works in manual or automatic mode, and its operation is extremely intuitive and easy. For people who simply want to locate the cable without damaging it.

If you need more, go for the Amprobe AT 6020 EUR Cable Locator

Amprobe AT-6020-EUR Cable Locator If you are an electrician or the precise location of wires is an important part of your job, it is worth taking advantage of the more advanced options.   Amprobe AT-6020-EUR Cable Locator   has up to 4 operating modes:

  • Quickly detect wires from a distance.
  • Precise location of the cable route.
  • Identification of fuses and circuit breakers.
  • Non-contact voltage detection.

In this way, the cable detector opens up much greater possibilities for you. Additionally, the whole thing fits into an aesthetic and convenient bag that you can take with you everywhere.

The versatile, expandable model - Fluke 2042 Cable Locator

FLUKE 2042 Cable Locator Universal cable detectors work great, but one transmitter requires frequent switching to detect other circuits. This can be tiring for longer jobs. That's why the FLUKE 2042 cable detector can be expanded with additional signal transmitters . Finally, you have full control over the cable detection system. You can easily expand your set as the need arises.

Set for professionals: Sonel LKZ 720 KIT Cable and Wire Locator

Instead of laboriously building your own system of several transmitters with one locator, you can buy a ready-made set right away   cable detector with four LKZ 720 KIT transmitters . The whole thing is immediately ready for use.

Sonel wire and cable locator

Cable locator for professionals by professionals

At Onninen we sell high-quality electrical devices. We have extensive knowledge and experience in this area, thanks to which we can advise our customers on the best solutions for their companies.   Cable detector   from our side will meet all your expectations and will also prove to be an irreplaceable support during work. Check it out yourself and write to us. We will be happy to point you to the best model for you.

Check out the cable and wire detectors at the Onninen wholesaler