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

Added: Monday, 5/29/2023


The electrical installation is invisible. On a daily basis, this is a great advantage, improving the aesthetics of the apartment. However, the problem appears during renovations or repairs. How to know where the cables run so as to avoid them when drilling? Or how to locate a damaged cable? Fortunately, you can use a wire detector that 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 cable detector consists of at least one transmitter and a locator. The first of these devices is connected to the wire to be found. The transmitter sends a high-frequency electrical signal. The flow of current creates an alternating magnetic field with specific characteristics. This, in turn, can be read by the locator.

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

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Application of the cable detector

Who will benefit from a professional cable detector?

  • Any renovation team, even if it does not deal with electricity, must determine the route of electrical circuits. Screwing any handle or element to the wall requires verification whether there is any cable running there.
  • Electricians who need to determine the route of a damaged circuit in the wall. The cable detector will also be useful when expanding the installation with additional sockets.
  • Construction work in the field also requires verification of the route of underground cables to avoid damaging them during digging.

The detector's great versatility and very accurate location support the work of many specialists. To further improve their work, it is possible to use several transmitters at the same time. Even slight 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 propositions 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 the most important thing - the Sonel LKZ-720 cable detector

For basic tasks, an accurate but simple device without too many functions is enough. It may be such a model   Sonel LKZ 720 cable detector . It works in manual or automatic mode, and its operation is extremely intuitive and easy. For people who just want to locate the wire so as not to damage it.

Do you demand much more? Choose the Amprobe AT 6020 EUR cable locator

Amprobe AT-6020-EUR cable locator If you are an electrician or the exact location of wires is an important part of your work, it is worth using more advanced options.   Amprobe AT-6020-EUR cable locator   has as many as 4 operating modes:

  • Quick detection of cables from a long distance.
  • Precise location of the cable route.
  • Identification of fuses and circuit breakers.
  • Non-contact voltage detection.

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

A universal, expandable model - the Fluke 2042 cable detector

FLUKE 2042 cable locator Universal wire detectors work great, but one transmitter requires frequent switching to detect other circuits. This can be tiring when working for longer periods of time. Therefore, the FLUKE 2042 cable detector can be expanded with additional signal transmitting devices . You finally have full control over your wire detection system. You can also easily expand your set whenever the need arises.

Set for professionals: Sonel LKZ 720 KIT wire and cable locator

Instead of painstakingly building your own system of several transmitters with one locator, you can purchase a ready-made set right away   cable detector with four LKZ 720 KIT transmitters . Everything is ready for immediate use.

Sonel wire and cable locator

Cable detector for professionals from professionals

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

Check cable and wire detectors at the Onninen wholesaler