Multifunction testers or MFTs are handheld versatile devices used to verify the safety of electrical installations in domestic, commercial, and industrial settings. These installation testers are designed to streamline and simplify electrical testing processes and ensure that fixed wiring is safe and correctly installed to meet relevant local standards and safety requirements

Multifunction Testers are integral to compliance with the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations (BS 7671). They enable electricians to meet the stringent testing requirements outlined in the 18th Edition, ensuring that electrical installations are safe, reliable, and in line with the latest industry standards. Additionally, MFTs often conform to other international standards, enhancing their credibility and usability in diverse global contexts.

MFTs are ideal for testing a range of electrical parameters such as voltage, earth resistance, loop impedance and more. Many multifunction testers offer additional features such as Bluetooth, allowing you to store and transfer data from the device to a computer or mobile device. Here at RS, we have sourced multifunction test meters from leading brands such as Fluke, Megger, Gossen Metrawatt, RS PRO, and many more. You can learn more in our multifunction testers guide.

What are Multifunction testers also known as?

MFTs are also commonly called Electrical Testers and Multifunction Installation Testers. However, even though they use slightly different names they all essentially do very similar things and due to their nature can be used in a range of different situations. It is important to check which tests the MFT can perform before you purchase one.

Uses of Multifunction Testers

Multifunction testers perform a variety of tests, including:

• Insulation-continuity tests: Diagnose breakdown of the insulation in various parts of the electrical system such as wires, transformers, and motors. The quality of insulation is critical in ensuring uninterrupted and safe functioning of electrical circuits.
• Checking RCD devices: RCDs are designed to disconnect quickly to mitigate the harm caused by electric shock and to avoid current leaks that may lead to fire and other dangerous situations.
• Loop testing: A quick, convenient, and specific method of evaluating an electrical circuit's ability to engage protective devices (circuit breakers, fuses, RCDs).
• Resistance measurement of grounding systems: Verification tests to ensure that a system's resistance is low enough to provide protection to people, equipment and structures.
• Earth continuity tests

Application

Multifunction testers are used by electrical engineers for electrical installation work to verify and maintain electrical installations and that the required safety regulations have been reached in both commercial and industrial applications.

What is the difference between multimeters (multi testers) and multifunction testers?

They are both electronic measuring instruments. The multimeter measures basic electrical parameters such as voltage, current and resistance. A multifunction tester is tailored for comprehensive testing of electrical installations ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards such as the Wiring Regulations (BS7671).