Republic of the Philippines

Laguna State Polytechnic University

Sta. Cruz Campus

College of Engineering
1st Semester A.Y. 2023-2024

EE 13 Instrumentation and Control

Activity

Submitted by:
Encontro, Inee-kriezl S.
Lumbera, Angelo Lex R.
Martin, Espencer Winslet C.
Raturat, Angelo P.
Rosales, Brian L.
BSEE 4B

October 17, 2023

Title: Continuity Tester

Background

Switches, fuses, electrical connections, and individual conductors are often tested

using the continuity test method. When the route is complete, the test equipment provides an

auditory response (beeps). A full route indication may be utilized to detect whether a

component is open or closed. A good fuse, for example, should have continuity, whereas a

faulty fuse does not. Electrical continuity testing is a fundamental and indispensable aspect

of electrical engineering, serving as a linchpin in the construction, maintenance, and

operation of electrical circuits and systems. Its roots trace back to the earliest days of

electrical science when luminaries like Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla pioneered the

development of electrical systems. Today, the significance of continuity testing is as profound

as ever, ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of electrical installations in diverse

applications, from household appliances to complex industrial machinery. Continuity testing

methods range from the simplest hand-held continuity testers to sophisticated automated

systems, reflecting the evolution of electrical engineering and the growing complexity of

electrical systems in our modern world. In the face of emerging technologies and increasing

demands for efficiency and safety, the importance of continuity testing continues to expand,

underlining its role as a cornerstone of electrical engineering and an invaluable safeguard for

individuals, industries, and society as a whole.

Working Principle

A multimeter will be used to measure the resistance created by the circuit as part of

the continuity test. If you find low resistance, it signifies the circuit is closed and you have

found electrical continuity. High resistance, on the other hand, indicates that the circuit is

open and there is little or no continuity. a continuity tester operates on the fundamental

principle of completing an electrical circuit to test for continuity. By utilizing test probes, an

indicator, and a power source, this device offers a quick and reliable means to verify the
integrity of electrical pathways. Whether used in electrical installations, electronics,

automotive repairs, or manufacturing processes, continuity testers play a pivotal role in

ensuring the safety, reliability, and functionality of electrical systems. Their simplicity and

effectiveness make them an essential tool for professionals and hobbyists in the field of

electrical engineering.

Uses/Application

Continuity testers are used to test for a complete flow path in any de-energized low-

resistance device. A continuity tester is a common test tool to use when testing single-pole,

3-way, and 4-way switches. Continuity testers, with their straightforward design and

functionality, offer an array of applications that extend far beyond their fundamental role of

verifying circuit continuity. They are indispensable tools in fault detection, quality control,

safety assurance, maintenance, and regulatory compliance across various industries. As

technology advances, continuity testers continue to adapt and evolve, making them an

integral part of modern electrical engineering and a key component in safeguarding electrical

systems and equipment.

Warning

A continuity tester must only be used on de-energized circuits or components. Any

voltage applied to a continuity tester causes damage to the test instrument and/or harm to

the electrician. Always test a circuit for voltage before taking a continuity test.

Advantages

Advantage of the continuity test mode of a test instrument is its audible response,

which is sometimes more desirable than reading the measurement of resistance. An audible

response allows the electrician to concentrate on the testing procedures without looking at

the display. Continuity testers offer a wide range of advantages that make them an

indispensable tool in the field of electrical testing. Their simplicity, efficiency, versatility, and

cost-effectiveness, along with their role in safety assurance, quality control, and compliance
with industry standards, underscore their importance. Whether you're a professional

electrician or a DIY enthusiast, a continuity tester is a valuable asset for verifying the

integrity of electrical circuits and ensuring safe and reliable electrical systems. A continuity

tester is a fundamental tool in the realm of electrical testing and troubleshooting, serving as

a versatile instrument for various applications. It is primarily used to determine whether an

electrical circuit is complete, verifying the presence of a continuous path for electrical current

to flow. This simple yet invaluable tool offers a range of advantages that make it a staple in

the toolkit of electricians, engineers, technicians, and DIY enthusiasts. In this essay, we will

explore the key advantages of continuity testers.

Disadvantages

The main disadvantage of using a continuity tester is that continuity testers only

indicate continuity by sound on a circuit or component. Continuity testers only operate with

circuits that have very low resistance (typically 40 Ω or lower) and will not indicate the actual

resistance measurement of the circuit or component being tested. Continuity testers are

widely used in electrical engineering and various industries to check the integrity of electrical

connections and circuits. While these devices are valuable tools for identifying open circuits

and broken connections, they do come with some disadvantages that should be considered.

This essay outlines the disadvantages of continuity testers, shedding light on their limitations

in certain applications. Continuity testers serve as valuable tools for quickly identifying open

circuits and gross faults in simple electrical systems, they do come with several limitations

that must be recognized. Their inability to provide quantitative data, diagnose complex faults,

or handle live circuits can make them inadequate for certain applications. As technology and

the demands of electrical engineering continue to evolve, it is essential for professionals to

be aware of these limitations and to use more advanced testing equipment when necessary

to ensure the safety and reliability of electrical systems.

Schematic Diagram

How to use (Detailed)

1. Set the continuity tester function switch to continuity test mode as required. Most test

instruments have the continuity test mode and resistance mode sharing the same

function switch position.

2. Connect the test leads across the component to be tested after the circuit has been

de-energized. The test leads are positioned arbitrarily.

3. When there is a complete path (continuity), the continuity tester beeps. When there is

no continuity (open circuit), the continuity tester does not beep.

4. After completing all continuity tests, remove the continuity tester from the circuit or

component being tested and turn the instrument OFF to prevent battery drain.
Breakdown of Expenses

Components Price
Probe ₱ 140
150Ω Resistor ₱2
4.7kΩ Resistor ₱2
LED ₱5
Buzzer ₱ 28
Transistor Q1 2N3904 ₱8
Switch ₱ 10
5v Battery ₱ 90
PCB ₱ 18

Total: ₱ 303

Illustration/Picture