HDE has been the trusted provider of electrical testing equipment in the utility industry. Now it’s your turn to get your hands on technology that can alert and protect you from electrical hazards.
Can I test the products? How do I know if this is right for my department and that these tools work?
You are welcome to test our products out, just click the Request a Demo link found on the product pages.
I was testing my V-Detect and V-Watch at the station and it alerted me when I was on top of a power cord that there was voltage. Do I always have to be that close in order for it to go off?
No, the V-Detect and V-Watch identify electric fields. The stronger the voltage, the larger the electric field. While power cords inside your home or fire station may emit a small electric field, it is not dangerous to the everyday user. When you take our tools directly on a 120/240V power cord, it will pick up the electric field when very close because the field emitted is much smaller.
How close does the V-Detect pick up electric fields?
3 in. from the top of the V-Detect unit on the low setting and 10 in. from the top on the high setting.
Isn’t that too close though? I want to be as far away as possible.
It does sound close, however, you have to remember the tool is picking up electric fields. If the voltage detected is emitting a larger electric field it will detect it further away. You will also have a 2-6’ extension stick attached to the unit, so you will be much further away.
What does the V-Watch detect?
The V-Watch detects electric fields that surround power lines. Each voltage emits an electric field. Imagine this like a circle surrounds each power line.
Does the V-Watch detect electric fields behind you?
No, your body blocks the V-Watch from detecting electric fields behind you. The V-Watch will scan at about 170 degrees vertical and horizontal in front of the tool. It does not scan the area behind you. It is important that the V-Watch is placed on the front of your body.
Does the V-Watch detect electricity inside homes?
No, the V-Watch only detects high voltage.
How do I know the V-Watch is working?
The Next Generation V-Watch performs a self-test every time it is powered on. If it fails the self-test, it will alert the user.
How do I know the V-Detect is working?
The V-Detect performs a self-test every time it is powered on. If it fails the self-test, it will alert the user. It can also be tested using the HDE Proof Tester. We recommend this Proof Tester with every V-Detect purchase, to provide a stronger sense of trust and confidence in the tool.
How close can I get to a power line before I am alerted by the V-Watch?
It is dependent on the voltage of the power line. Each voltage emits an electric field. The higher the voltage, the stronger the electric field and the further away your V-Watch will alert you. The V-Watch will alert you 7 feet away from a typical distribution 4kV line.