Recommended Tools and Instruments Every Electrical Engineer, Student, Electrician and Hobbyist Needs in Their Toolbox
Multimeters
A multimeter is an instrument that combines several electronic measuring functions into one device. A typical multimeter measures, at the least, voltage, current and resistance. However, there are multimeters available that provide much more functionality.
Multimeters are probably the most important device anyone performing electrical work can own. Multimeters are available in a wide range of prices and functionality. Cheap, hand-held devices can cost as little as $10 while calibration-grade devices can cost up to $5,000. Click below for a list of different multimeter models readily available. Whether you are an experienced electrician performing field service work, or a hobbyist attemping to wire a home for the first time, there is a multimeter in this list for you.
1. Fluke 6700 - $700
The top name in multimeters is Fluke....
Wire Strippers
Wire strippers are used to strip the insulation off of a wire in order to expose the conductor. If you are wiring a three-phase motor in the field, or you are replacing a circuit breaker in your home, it can save a great deal of time and hassle if you invest in a quality pair of wire strippers.
Wire strippers typically come in two classifications: manual and automatic. Manual wire strippers consist of two blades that cut insulation from wire in a similar fashion to scissors or wire cutters. Automatic wire strippers grip the wire from one end while using a blade to cut the insulation from the other. Automatic wire strippers allow anyone to strip most wires very quickly, but have limitations based on wire size. Click below for a full list of recommended wire strippers that every engineer, electrician and home owner needs to have in their toolbox.
1. Klein Tools 11063W - $30.77
This wire stripper by Klein Tools is....
Precision Screwdrivers
Precision screwdrivers allow precise control over small screws typically found in terminal blocks, low-voltage circuit breakers and other low-power applications. A good precision screwdriver set can be very beneficial in making sure your wiring and panels are up to code.
Precision screwdriver sets typically range anywhere from a few dollars to over $50. This depends on quality, number of pieces in a set and different types of drivers (slotted, Phillips, hex, etc.). Click below for a full list of recommended precision screwdriver sets.
1. Craftsman 100 pc. - $24.50
This toolset by Craftsman is guaranteed...
Cable and Wire Crimping Tools
In order to crimp connectors onto a wire, a special tool is required. Pliers, hammers, vises, and needle nose pliers simply will not get the job done! What you need is a solid wire crimping tool.
Cable and wire crimping tools provide an easy and affective way of crimping connectors to wires. Crimping tools vary widely in quality and ease of use. A pair of wire crimpers should be on everyone's electrical toolbox punchlist. There are hundreds of types of electrical connectors our there, and you need a tool that will allow you to work with all of them. Click below for a list of recommended wire crimpers that you need in your toolbox.
1. Titan 11477 - $20.79
This wire stripper by Klein Tools is....
Circuit Testers
Circuit testers are devices that quickly analyze a circuit. These instruments can quickly and accurately help you troubleshoot circuit faults, find connectivity problems, and provide a measure of safety when working on electrical circuits.
Circuit testers range widely in functionality, quality, and therefore, also price. There are cheap circuit testers that simply detect if an AC voltage is present, and there are circuit testers that test for connectivity in fiber optic and Ethernet network cables. No matter your need, the list below has a recommended circuit tester that will work for you.
1. Circuit Tester - $30
This Circuit tester...
Starter Electrical Toolkits
If you are starting your electrical toolbox from scratch, it may be wise to start with a complete electrical toolkit. There are several electrical toolkits out there that provide all the basic tools and instruments you need to get started working on your next project.
Most complete electrical toolkits out there either lack in tool quality, or they are missing some essential items that are required for your project. However, the list below of electrical toolkits showcases some of the best out there. Click below for a list of toolkits that is sure to get you going in the right direction for your next electrical project.
1. Craftsman 100 pc. - $24.50
This toolset by Craftsman is guaranteed...
