
HIOKI 3481-20 Voltage Detector
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A. Product Overview
The HIOKI 3481-20 Voltage Detector is a pen type non contact voltage detection instrument used to check whether AC voltage is present in electrical wires, cables, sockets, control panels and other electrical systems.
It allows users to detect live AC voltage without making direct electrical contact with the conductor, making preliminary electrical inspection faster and safer.
Key features include:
- AC voltage detection range from 40 V to 600 V
- Non contact voltage detection
- CAT IV 600 V safety rating
- Adjustable detection sensitivity
- Red LED voltage indication
- Audible buzzer indication
- Built-in LED work light
- Battery check function
- Automatic power off
- Compact pen type design
- Suitable for electrical maintenance and troubleshooting
B. Working Principle
The HIOKI 3481-20 works by sensing the electric field generated around an energized AC conductor.
When the detector is brought close to a live wire or cable, its sensing circuit detects the alternating electric field surrounding the conductor.
The operating process is:
- Switch on the voltage detector.
- Bring the sensing tip close to the electrical wire, cable or terminal.
- The detector senses the electric field produced by AC voltage.
- When voltage is detected, the instrument provides visual and audible indications.
- The sensitivity can be adjusted depending on the application and surrounding electrical conditions.
Because the measurement is non contact, the detector does not normally need direct metal contact with the live conductor.
C. Why HIOKI 3481-20 Is Used
The HIOKI 3481-20 is used for quick identification of live AC electrical circuits before inspection, maintenance or troubleshooting.
Common applications include:
- Checking whether an electrical wire is live
- Identifying energized cables
- Checking sockets and electrical outlets
- Inspecting electrical control panels
- Troubleshooting electrical circuits
- Checking wiring before maintenance
- Detecting voltage through insulated cable coverings
- Electrical installation inspection
- Industrial maintenance
- Building electrical maintenance
- Preliminary safety checks before electrical work
- Locating energized conductors
It helps technicians quickly determine whether AC voltage is present before proceeding with further testing.
D. Suitable Buyers
The HIOKI 3481-20 Voltage Detector is suitable for:
- Electricians
- Electrical contractors
- Maintenance engineers
- Industrial maintenance teams
- Electrical technicians
- Control panel technicians
- Facility maintenance teams
- HVAC technicians
- Building maintenance professionals
- Electrical installation companies
- Factory maintenance departments
- Service engineers
- Electrical testing professionals
- Electrical safety inspectors
- Automation technicians
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the HIOKI 3481-20 Voltage Detector used for?
It is used for non contact detection of AC voltage in electrical wires, cables, sockets, panels and other energized electrical systems.
2. What voltage range can the HIOKI 3481-20 detect?
The HIOKI 3481-20 is designed to detect AC voltage from approximately 40 V to 600 V.
3. Is HIOKI 3481-20 a non contact voltage tester?
Yes. It can detect the presence of AC voltage without direct contact with the conductor.
4. Can HIOKI 3481-20 detect voltage through insulated wires?
Yes. It is designed to detect AC voltage through insulated cable coverings under suitable operating conditions.
5. What happens when voltage is detected?
When AC voltage is detected, the HIOKI 3481-20 provides visual LED indication and an audible buzzer indication.
6. Does the HIOKI 3481-20 have adjustable sensitivity?
Yes. The detector includes adjustable sensitivity for different voltage detection conditions.
7. What is the safety rating of HIOKI 3481-20?
The HIOKI 3481-20 has a CAT IV 600 V safety rating.
8. Does it have a built-in light?
Yes. The detector includes an LED work light that can help when inspecting electrical equipment in poorly lit areas.
9. Does the HIOKI 3481-20 have automatic power off?
Yes. It includes an automatic power off function to help conserve battery life.
10. Can the HIOKI 3481-20 be used for control panels?
Yes. It is suitable for preliminary voltage checks in control panels, distribution systems and electrical cabinets.
11. Can electricians use it for live wire detection?
Yes. The HIOKI 3481-20 is designed for quick identification of live AC conductors.
12. Is it suitable for industrial maintenance?
Yes. It is suitable for industrial electrical maintenance, troubleshooting and inspection applications.
13. Is the HIOKI 3481-20 suitable for home electrical inspection?
It can be used for checking electrical outlets, wiring and AC circuits, provided it is operated according to the manufacturer's safety instructions.
14. Can it replace a multimeter?
No. A voltage detector is primarily used to identify the presence of AC voltage. A multimeter is required when an exact voltage value or other electrical parameters need to be measured.
15. Who should use the HIOKI 3481-20?
It is suitable for electricians, maintenance engineers, facility technicians, panel builders, contractors and other professionals who need quick AC voltage detection.

