The name high pot tester, alternatively called hipot, is based on an abbreviation for high potential. This includes a class of instruments used to
verify electrical insulation in devices that could produce an electric shock if it failed. High post testers are important electrical safety tools
used on finished appliances, cables or other wired assemblies, printed circuit boards, electric motors, and transformers.
Normally, all electrical devices leak some amount of current due to the voltages and internal capacitance present within the item. Sometimes, because
of design flaws or simple wear and tear, the insulation in the product breaks down which can result in excessive leakage current flow. This can cause
an electrical shock severe enough to injure or kill.
A high pot test verifies that the insulation of a product or component is sufficient to protect the operator from electrical shock. Typically, the high
pot test involves applying high voltage between an item’s conductor and its metallic shielding. Any current that leaks through is monitored and measured
by the tester. The results of this test imply that if a deliberate application of too much voltage doesn’t cause the insulation to break down then normal
operating voltages will be safe. High pot testers can also help find material and quality defects such as small gap spacings between current-carrying
conductors and earth ground which can cause electrical shocks.
Various models of high pot testers use slightly different variations of testing. The various tests differ in the amount of voltage applied and the amount
of acceptable current flow.
If you have any questions regarding high pot testers please don't hesitate to speak with one of our engineers by e-mailing us at sales@instrumart.com or
calling 1-800-884-4967.
