What makes a good engineer are his tools. Explore a sample of electrical and electronic engineering tools glossary, including the definitions, and explanations for key concepts in the electrical field. Enhance your understanding on how and when to use these tools.
circuit breaker finder
noun
Circuit breaker finders are used to map an electrical current and identify which circuit breaker is connected to an outlet or light fixture.
Example: When purchasing a circuit breaker finder, you will want to avoid those that adjust automatically.
en: recherche de disjoncteur
electric belt
noun
Electrician tool belts are specifically tailored to your needs in the field and contain pockets for all the tools you need on the job, such as wire-strippers, needle-nose pliers and screwdrivers.
Example: A tool belt allows you to have many of the tools you need on a given job right at hand, even when working in tight spaces where a toolbox or bag might not fit.
en: courroie électrique
electrical work boots
noun
Work boots protect your toes from injuries due to impact, compression and puncture.
Example: Investing in Electrical Hazard (EH) footwear will also safeguard you from electrical burns and shocks.
en: bottes de travail électriques
electrician scissors
noun
This multifunctional tool is used to strip insulation safely, cut copper sheets and crimp terminals.
Example: As a professional electrician, you will often use scissors, and it is advisable to invest in a quality pair.
en: ciseaux d'électricien
fish tape
noun
Fish tape helps you route and guide wires through walls and conduits that can’t be accessed in any other way.
Example: When buying fish tape, you will want to consider length and tensile strength.
en: ruban de pêche
gassing
noun
The evolution of gas from one or more of the electrodes in a cell.
Example: Gassing commonly results from local action.
en: gazage (batterie)
ground
noun
The common reference point for the voltage of a home’s electrical system.
Example: Unintended connectedness to the earth.
en: sol
hammers
noun
An electrician’s hammer is more than just a hammer; it has several features that are specific to an electrician’s work. Conductivity is always a factor for electrical work, so the electrician hammer has a fiberglass handle coated with rubber to protect from accidental electric shock.
Example: In addition, the nose of the striker is longer, as are the hammer’s claws for reaching into tight locations.
en: marteaux
hard hats
noun
Hard hats for anyone who works in areas where there is a risk of injury from falling or flying objects, electrical shock or burns.
Example: Be sure you are familiar with the requirements for hard hats before purchasing one.
en: casques de sécurité
impact driver
noun
An impact driver is designed to drive screws, tighten nuts and bore large holes quickly. These compact tools are easier to carry and use in small spaces, making them a good fit for electricians.
Example: When buying an impact driver, you will want to consider volts versus weight and ease of use.
en: Visseuse à chocs
light
adjective
Information about the chosen lamp and its lumen depreciation and mortality are available from lamp manufacturers’ literature.
Example: It should be known when burnouts occur in the lamp lift.
en: éclairage
multimeter
noun
A multimeter, also known as a volt/ohm meter (VOM), is vital to any electrician’s tool kit. A standard multimeter will measure voltage, current and resistance.
Example: When choosing a multimeter, you will want to consider its range and measurement abilities.
en: multimètre
pliers
noun
Pliers are multifunctional and are able to cut, grip and crimp wire.
Example: Electricians will want to choose pliers with insulated handles for safety.
en: pinces
resistor
noun
A wire or carbon device that has a resistance to the flow of current.
Example: Obtaining the resistance of a given resistor.
en: résistance
tool bag
noun
A tool bag saves you time by allowing you to have your gear close by while you work. In addition, a tool bag is a great way to keep your tools organized and, when used properly, ensure your tools don’t get lost when moving from job to job.
Example: A tool bag is also an essential accessory for an electrician.
en: sac à outils
utility knife
phrase
A good utility knife is a must for your electrician’s toolkit. Electricians use it often on the job to cut and strip wires and cables.
Example: The blade of an electrician’s knife is specifically designed to cut through the wire’s insulation without harming the core wire.
en: couteau utilitaire
voltage tester
adverb
Voltage testers work by inserting metal probes into an outlet to test for voltage.
Example: Although you can measure voltage with a multimeter, a voltage tester is another handy tool to keep close by on the job.
en: testeur de tension
wire strippers
noun
Wire strippers are a well-known tool used to strip the insulation from wires.
Example: Wire stripping needs to be done cleanly because damage to the wire is a safety hazard that can create hotspots or arcing.
en: dénudeurs de fils
work gloves
phrase
Rubber insulated gloves will protect you from electrical shocks, while leather gloves will protect you from cuts and burns.
Example: Typically, the leather gloves are worn over the rubber insulated gloves for an extra layer of protection.
en: gants de travail
work pants
noun
Electricians look for pants with multiple pockets for storing tools and equipment.
Example: Need pants to keep you warm or cool during your work shift.
