Review on 🔋 Klein Tools NCVT-4IR: Non-Contact Volt Tester & IR Thermometer - Accurate Pen for 12-1000V AC, -22 to 482°F, LED & Audible Alerts, Pocket Clip by Kenny Davey

TWO USEFUL FEATURES BUT AT LOW COST features namely a non-contact electrical tester and an IR thermometer. Multi-tools usually come with compromises, and this one is no exception. At $50, this tester isn't in the best position. It should be cheaper for what it is. or more expensive for what it could be. Let me explain: DEAD AS IN NO POWER DEADA As other reviewers have mentioned, my module failed more than once. Dead like dead without power. As a former service manager for an electronics company, I was able to reproduce the problem with no power. The negative terminal of the battery is connected between the metal body of the battery compartment and the end cap of the battery compartment cover (which contributes to IP-54 dust protection). If the batteries are installed incorrectly or the cover is not tightened enough, the metal contact in the end cap will not complete the circuit and the result will be the same as it was: no power. So far the device has worked when it's been able to get power, so I'm guessing it's just contacts. However, a device advertised for a 2m drop onto concrete should not be as sensitive to tightening the battery end cap. Another reviewer described a broken plug that might have been caused by trying to make the power connection. (Just a guess.) USEFULITY OF THE IR THERMOMETER The ratio of d to s on this device is 4:1, which means that the measurement circle is 1" diameter at 4" and 10" diameter at 40". This means that you have to be fairly close to the target to get a good idea of its temperature. The laser dot is useful, but it can also be misleading if you think you are measuring temperature accurately. Instead, measure a 4:1 wide circle. I would prefer an 8:1 ratio but I suspect it will be more expensive to manufacture. IR THERMOMETER ACCURACY Accuracy could be better. All but the most expensive infrared thermometers are accurate to about ±5ºF over their entire operating range. This one is no exception. My block always shows low. This is normal and worth the price, but note that this device will give you an estimate and not an exact IR temperature. (The emissivity is fixed at 0.95, which is also standard practice.) NON-CONTACT AC VOLTAGE TEST The non-contact voltage tester works as expected as long as the device is battery powered. A blue indicator light confirms operation, while a beep and flashing red light indicate AC power is present. Always test on a known live circuit, but I've never had a problem with an NC tester when the indicator light was on. NOT AT A GOOD PRICE Eventually cost or better value. I don't want to be a quality controller for Klein Tools. I would prefer the device to be cheaper and of current design, or more expensive and reliable. If Fluke made a comparable instrument (and they don't), I estimate it would cost between $100 and $150 and would be an ideal price. Klein (and Fluke) - are you listening?