Test Leads

TPI offers four main types of test leads:

• Push-on tip test leads, made of PVC insulation, have limited adaptability. They accept only push-on alligator clips.
• Screw-on tip test leads allow you to attach screw-on accessories like alligator clips and adapters, ensuring a more secure attachment than straight-tipped test leads. Using the A052 modular adapters, screw-on tip test leads can be converted to modular test leads. Depending on the lead, these are made of either PVC or silicone insulation.
• Modular test leads allow you to select different ends or tips for varying applications. One modular lead can be used as a grabber, back probe, standard lead, etc. Lead ends and tips are easily interchanged.
• Fused test leads offer increased safety over standard, non-fused test leads. Fuses in a tester protect the tester, whereas fused test leads protect the user. This type of test lead is used for additional safety when making voltage measurements.

The type of test lead you need is dependent on the applications you encounter:

• If your applications require a standard lead and occasionally an alligator clip, the push-on series of leads would work.
• If you require a more secure connection to the alligator clip or would like the ability to use modular lead accessories in the future, the screw-on tip is right for you.
• If your applications are varying and require several types of leads, modular leads are the correct choice.
• If you have applications that require the utmost safety, fused leads are the best choice.

• Strands of wire: The more strands of wire in a test lead, the more flexible it typically is. TPI's silicone-insulated test leads offer higher strand counts than PVC-insulated leads, and higher strand count increases test lead life.
• PVC-insulated test leads: These durable, low-cost test leads are useful for general test and measurement applications.
• Silicone-insulated test leads: These test leads are more durable, flexible, and flame-retardant than PVC-insulated test leads, which often burn or melt when exposed to heat. Silicone-insulated test leads are double-insulated for safety. When half the insulation is worn away or when a lead is nicked or cut, you will see a white strip. This strip indicates half the insulation is gone and the lead should be replaced.