Measuring Instruments/
Test Equipment

Cable detectors
With certain models of cable detectors you can locate open power cables, either live or without current, up to 300V. Cable detectors can locate cables, circuits, short circuits and ground.  They can test protective tubing and coaxial cables. To perform these functions, it is not necessary to disconnect electrically sensitive devices or to disconnect the power to the cable being tested. Can be used on concrete, walls and ground (CableCop). Cable detectors can also locate ferrous and non-ferrous metals, wood and plastic with a level of accuracy. These cable detectors provide a safe way to test wall sockets for which no plans or information is available about the cables and their output; they are also very viable in that they allow for quick and safe when holes are required to be made in walls, ceilings and floors. If you don't find the vibration meters you are looking for, please contact us and we will help you find the best solution to suit your needs by calling our German offices: +49 (0)29 03 976 99-52; our Italian offices: +39 0583 975 114; or our Spanish offices: +34 967 543 548 and our technical staff will advise you regarding our measuring instruments.

Technical specifications for cable detectors can be found at the following links:

- PCE-191 CB series Cable detectors
  (locates live cables in walls, ducting and mains wiring and also interruptions in cables)

- PCE-180CB series Cable detectors / trackers
  (finds network cables in ducting and walls)

The advanced cable detection system allows for safe detection of wires with or without current including live electrical circuits up to 300V. It isn't necessary to cut the power or disconnect devices that are electrically sensitive. These are the different applications for cable detectors:



          • Detection of cables in walls, ceilings and floors
          • Detection of interruptions in cables, switches and fuses
          • Detection of short circuits
          • Detection of ground connection in triple phase mains power
          • Locate stopages in installation tubing
          • Follow a ground cable up to 3m below the surface
          • Follow protective tubing in water and heating


Cable detection systems are composed of a signal generator for active lines and a transmitter for cables without current such as a receiver. The signal generator and transmitter feed high frequency electro-magnetic signals through the lines being tested. These signals are converted at the end of the cable, into acoustic or optical signals by the receiver. The intensity of the signal is the standard used for locating the line. Two fundamental modes of operation are used to differenciate between: closed circuits and open circuits.

If you wish to view or print a selection of cable detectors from our catalogue, click the PDF symbol.