Test Pen Queries

Hi,

I am new here and this is my first post. I need some clarifications regarding how electric test pen basically works. I've done googling on the web but can't find the informations on how it works. Hence, I come up with my own theory and I hope to see some feedbacks. What I have in mind is that, is it true that the current flows through the human body towards the ground when you touch the tip of your test pen with the bare live/hot wire. If it is so, why is the person not getting electrocution because I heard that a few miliamps can be fatal. That's just my thought and hopefully someone can clarify this for me. Apart from that, how safe is a test pen? what precaution steps need to be taken as I can see many technicians and engineers in the factory use it a lot rather than using a multimeter.

Regards, M. Zhafran

Typical current is in the range of a few microamps; not enough to feel, let alone electrocute anyone.

The only precaution I can think of is to ensure that it doesn't get covered in anything conductive; i.e. if it gets wet, dry it before use (just in case that wasn't blindingly obvious).

The current runs through the circuit in the tester, not your body. If you grab both wires with your bare hands then you'll get zapped. The best precautions are just common sense, keep one hand in your pocket, etc.