Triplett 3388 Fox & Hound HotWire Live Wire Tone and Probe Wire Tracing Kit

1. Introdución

The Triplett Fox & Hound HotWire (Model 3388) is a comprehensive kit designed for tracing live and unpowered circuits. This kit includes the Fox HotWire Tone Generator and the Hound HotWire Inductive Amplifier, providing a versatile solution for identifying and tracing various types of wiring.

It is suitable for tracing 120VAC and 220VAC circuits, as well as common wires such as telephone, cable TV, LAN cables, and security system wires. The kit offers features like multiple tone generation, visual and audible continuity tests, and advanced tracing capabilities through various materials.

Figure 1.1: The Fox HotWire Tone Generator and Hound HotWire Inductive Ampmáis vivo.

Figure 1.2: Complete Triplett Fox & Hound HotWire kit with accessories.

2. Información de seguridade

AVISO: este produto pode expoñelo a produtos químicos, incluído o chumbo, que o Estado de California sabe que causa cancro e defectos de nacemento ou outros danos reprodutivos. Para máis información visite www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

• Always ensure the circuit is de-energized before connecting the Fox HotWire for unpowered tracing, unless specifically using the live circuit tracing feature.
• Non exceda o volume máximotage rating of 250 VAC.
• Use caution when working with live circuits. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Never use the HotWire Fox with the battery cover removed when tracing live circuits. Dangerous voltages poden estar presentes.
• Keep the device dry and clean. Do not expose to moisture.

3. Que hai na caixa

The Triplett 3388 Fox & Hound HotWire Live Wire Tone and Probe Wire Tracing Kit includes the following items:

• Fox HotWire Tone Generator
• Hound HotWire Inductive Ampmáis vivo
• Test Leads (24" and 60")
• Flat Blades
• Pointed Probes
• Clips de caimán
• Estuche de transporte duro
• Two (2) 9V Batteries (included)

Figure 3.1: The Triplett Fox & Hound HotWire kit in its hard carrying case.

4. Compoñentes Overview

4.1 Fox HotWire Tone Generator

The Fox HotWire is the transmitter unit. It generates a signal (tone) that is injected into the wire to be traced. Key features include:

• Varios tons: Generates Pulse or Warble tones.
• Proba de continuidade: Visual and audible indication.
• TrueTrace & TripLatch Tests: Proprietary tracing and latching functions.
• Protección contra sobrecarga: Up to 250 VAC.
• Opcións de enerxía: Can be powered by a 9-volt battery or the high voltage line it is toning.
• Parte traseira magnética: Allows for hands-free operation by attaching to metal surfaces.

Figure 4.1: Front panel of the Fox HotWire Tone Generator.

Figura 4.2: Traseira view of the Fox HotWire, showing battery access and quick instructions.

4.2 Hound HotWire Inductive Ampmáis vivo

The Hound HotWire is the receiver unit, used to detect the tone generated by the Fox HotWire. Key features include:

• Sensibilidade axustable: Thumbwheel control for precise signal detection.
• Indicador de intensidade do sinal: LED provides visual feedback.
• Built-in LED Headlight: Illuminates dark work areas and helps reduce fluorescent light noise.
• Filtro de paso de banda: Suppresses unwanted frequencies for clearer signal detection.
• Conector para auriculares: For use in noisy or quiet environments.
• Easy Access Battery Cover: For convenient battery replacement.

Figura 4.3: Fronte view of the Hound HotWire Inductive Ampmáis vivo.

Figura 4.4: Lateral view of the Hound HotWire, highlighting the sensitivity control and earphone jack.

Figure 4.5: The built-in LED headlight on the Hound HotWire.

5. Configuración

5.1 Instalación da batería

Both the Fox HotWire and Hound HotWire require one 9V battery each. To install:

1. Localice o compartimento da batería na parte traseira de cada unidade.
2. Abra a tapa da batería.
3. Connect a 9V battery to the battery clip, observing correct polarity.
4. Coloque a batería no compartimento e peche a tapa con seguridade.

Nota: The Fox HotWire can also be powered by the live circuit it is tracing, but a 9V battery is required for low voltage tracing and continuity tests.

5.2 Comprobación inicial

Before use, perform a quick check:

1. Ensure batteries are installed in both units.
2. On the Fox HotWire, press the UNLOCK button and set the switch to 'TRACER TONE'.
3. Set the RF LEVEL knob to midrange.
4. On the Hound HotWire, set the sensitivity thumbwheel to midrange and press the 'PUSH ON' button.
5. Bring the tip of the Hound near the test leads of the Fox. You should hear an audible tone and see the signal strength LED illuminate.

6. Instrucións de funcionamento

6.1 Tracing Live Circuits (120VAC/220VAC)

The HotWire kit is designed to safely trace live AC circuits up to 250VAC.

1. Connect the Fox HotWire to the live circuit. For an outlet, use the provided test leads with flat blades or pointed probes. Ensure a secure connection. The 'VOLTAGE PRESENT' LED on the Fox will illuminate.
2. Set the Fox HotWire switch to 'TRACER TONE' and select either 'PULSE' or 'WARBLE' tone.
3. Adjust the RF LEVEL knob on the Fox to an appropriate setting.
4. Activate the Hound HotWire by setting its sensitivity to midrange and pressing 'PUSH ON'.
5. Move the tip of the Hound along the suspected path of the wire. The signal strength LED and audible tone will indicate the wire's location.
6. Adjust the Hound's sensitivity as needed to pinpoint the wire. A lower sensitivity setting helps in isolating a specific wire in a bundle.

Figure 6.1: Fox HotWire connected to a live outlet.

Figure 6.2: Hound HotWire tracing a circuit breaker.

6.2 Tracing Unpowered Wires

For unpowered wires (e.g., telephone, LAN, security, or de-energized electrical circuits):

1. Ensure the circuit is completely de-energized.
2. Connect the Fox HotWire test leads to the wire pair or single wire to be traced. For a single wire, connect one lead to the wire and the other to a good ground.
3. Set the Fox HotWire switch to 'TRACER TONE' and select a tone.
4. Use the Hound HotWire as described in Section 6.1 to trace the wire.

6.3 Tracing Through Building Materials

The HotWire's RF signal can penetrate various building materials.

• Drywall, Plaster, Wood, Cement: The Hound can detect signals through these materials. Move the Hound slowly and adjust sensitivity to find the strongest signal.
• Metal Conduit: The TrueTrace feature on the Fox HotWire allows the RF signal to be sensed through most metal conduits.

Figure 6.3: Hound HotWire tracing a wire through drywall.

Figure 6.4: Hound HotWire tracing a wire within a conduit.

6.4 Tracing Underground Wires

The HotWire can trace shallow underground wires up to 6 inches deep, such as those for 'Invisible Fences', cable television, telephone, or low voltage iluminación da paisaxe.

1. Connect the Fox HotWire to the underground wire. Ensure the other end of the wire is either open or grounded, depending on the tracing method.
2. Set the Fox HotWire to 'TRACER TONE'.
3. Walk along the suspected path of the underground wire with the Hound HotWire held close to the ground.
4. Adjust sensitivity to locate the strongest signal, indicating the wire's path.

Figure 6.5: Hound HotWire tracing an underground wire.

6.5 Proba de continuidade

The Fox HotWire can perform a visual and audible continuity test.

1. Set the Fox HotWire switch to 'CONTINUITY'.
2. Connect the test leads across the circuit or wire to be tested.
3. An audible tone and visual indicator will confirm continuity.

7. Mantemento

7.1 Substitución da batería

Replace the 9V batteries in both the Fox and Hound units when the battery test indicator shows low power or when the units do not function correctly.

1. Abra a tapa do compartimento da batería.
2. Disconnect the old battery and replace it with a new 9V alkaline battery.
3. Pecha a tapa da batería de forma segura.

7.2 Limpeza

Limpar as unidades cun pano suave eamp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Ensure the units are dry before storage or use.

8 Solución de problemas

9. Especificacións

10. Demostración en vídeo

Watch this official video for a visual guide on using the Triplett 3388 Fox & Hound HotWire kit.

11. Garantía e soporte

The Triplett 3388 Fox & Hound HotWire kit comes with a 3 ano de garantía. For technical support, service, or warranty claims, please contact Triplett customer service. You can find more information and contact details on the official Triplett websitio.

Oficial Websitio: www.triplett.com