Wavecom TNT RCD Review
The Pros – A tester that is easy to navigate and comes with a long-lasting Lithium-Ion Battery. It can conduct 3000 tests on a single charge.
The Cons – It is a standalone machine that does not come with the feature of PC connectivity or printing upgradability.
The Bottom Line – A great entry-level tester that is much like the TNT – el model, but a step above in that it can test all 240V electrical appliances, including fixed and portable RCD’s and is battery operated.
Features
The Generation 5 TNT RCD tester was released during the middle of 2021 and is much like TNT -el, but certainly has more to offer given the higher price tag. Unlike the TNT - el, this test and tag machine can test fixed and portable RCD's with the in-built isolation transformer and has battery operation which offers greater portability.
One of the huge positives with this appliance tester is that it’s powered by a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery that can conduct 3000 tests on a single charge. This does indeed make a huge difference if you have a lot of appliances to test.
Another great feature of the TNT RCD tester is its ease of use in performing tests and navigating through multiple tests. The unit displays the actual test reading and has a pass/fail indicator which makes interpreting the tests quick and simple.
Performing tests is effortless with only a single button press. For Class I tests, hit the 'F1' button, and for Class II tests, press the 'F2' button. Because this PAT Tester is ideally suited to someone new to testing and tagging, it won’t take you very long to use the tester straight from the box and start performing tests at a quick speed.
Like all the other Wavecom Generation 5 series, the TNT RCD features a brand-new ergonomic design that makes it very easy to carry in your hand when running tests and transporting it around. Although there are other appliance testers which are lighter, it’s still quite comfortable to carry. In saying this, it comes supplied with a carry bag to keep your tester secure, along with all the test leads and manuals.
The main drawback of this tester is that it is a standalone machine. It does not come with PC connectivity and does not record any data. So, for those of you looking for a tester that can store data you can consider Metrel DeltaPAT 3309 BT or Kyoristu 6205.
Testing Capabilities
The TNT RCD can perform all tests according to Australia Standards, from extension leads, mains supply test, 250V and 500V insulation, power measurement and leakage current testing. As previously mentioned, the main difference between this model and Wavecom’s cheaper alternatives is that this PAT Tester can do that little bit more when it comes to testing. It’s able to perform RCD testing without the need of an Isolation Transformer as it’s already built in. This inevitably will save you money as a lot of test and taggers with the cheaper models will actually purchase an Isolation Transformer which adds to the costs.
It’s worth pointing out, the other Gen 4 and 5 models, TNT RCD comes built with Wavecom’s new ‘Meter Mode Function’, which is a relatively new feature introduced by Wavecom. It essentially provides a quick way to display the connected power point's volts, amps, real power, and reactive power. All you need to do is on the menu press ‘Meter Mode’ and there you have it.
The test is performed with a simple push of a button and the results are listed in basic terminology such as FAIL/PASS. During the actual test, the results are displayed on the wide LCD as meaningful test icons and in easy-to-read fonts to show you the progress.
Conclusion
As a whole, we were pleasantly surprised with the TNT RCD when compared to the other cheaper Wavecom models. This tester is from our point of view perfect for people that are looking for a machine that is easy to navigate, reliable, and needs the ability to perform all tests. However, due to its main drawback of lacking data entry and PC connectivity, which for some people is a huge factor - it might be worthwhile looking at some other brands that offer greater value for a similar price point. In saying this, the TNT RCD is generally for people new to the industry and aren’t looking for extra advanced features as seen in the more expensive models.
View the Wavecom TNT RCD