Electricians require some of the most specialized equipment out of all of the trades. One such tool is a circuit tracer, we got our hands on what Ideal claims is their most accurate model to date. I’ll walk you through the Ideal SureTrace Pro Circuit Tracer to help you see the benefits it offers over other models and how it can help you in the field.
Ideal SureTrace Pro Circuit Tracer Performance
- Model: 61-950
- Power source: AA batteries
- Amperage measurement: up to 600A
- Voltage measurement: 24 to 600V AC and 12 to 600V DC
- Compatible with 3-phase systems
- CertainCircuit alerts for energized status at panel/end of circuit
- Auto-continuity test function
- ETL Certified CAT III
The Ideal SureTrace Pro Circuit Tracer is the third entry into the SureTrace lineup. As a Cat III tracer, it can measure voltages of up to 600V AC/DC and amperages up to 600A AC. It’s also compatible with 3-phase systems, making it a legitimate option for electrical work in complex industrial and commercial environments where you often find those systems.
So, what duties does this machine perform that other circuit tracers can’t?
For starters, unlike the other SureTrace generations, the Pro includes a patent-pending Inductive Sensing Clamp that measures amperage and induces a tracing signal on conductors when you can’t access the termination points.
The dual-function clamp offers real-time AC current readings and enables the tracing of live or de-energized circuits by simply clamping over a single conductor, which comes in handy for hard-to-reach connections.
Another patent-pending function in the SureTrace Pro is the auto-continuity test function. This eliminates the need for a separate tester when diagnosing wiring faults, while also instantly flagging whether your circuit is continuous or broken.
Batteries and Charging
Like many circuit tracers (including the previous-generation SureTrace devices), the transmitter and receiver operate using AA batteries. This is convenient for quick battery replacements when you’re low on juice, so long as you have extra batteries on hand.
The kit includes 10 AA batteries to get you started—four for the receiver and six for the transmitter. Considering how many batteries they take, it might be worth investing in rechargeable AA’s.
The clamp, on the other hand, features a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that charges via the included USB-C cord. There’s a rubber overmold on the side of the clamp, and the USB-C port is protected under a cover about halfway down.
Ideal SureTrace Pro Circuit Tracer Design
- 6.6-foot drop protection
- Overmold industrial grip
- OLED displays
- 90° rotating main displays
- TightSight secondary bottom displays
- Adjustable volume and mute control
Each component in the SureTrace Pro has a sturdy rubber overmold and large buttons that are easy to control while wearing gloves. Ideal tells us they’re also fitted with a 6.6-foot drop protection rating.
The receiver and transmitter both display the data and readings on integrated OLED displays. Like the previous generation (SureTrace Plus), the Pro employs a patented TightSight bottom display. This design is a secondary screen on the bottom of the clamp and receiver that enables you to monitor the data at any angle.
However, unique to the Pro model, the TightSight displays rotate every 90° for easy reading, no matter the orientation.
Other convenience details include an adjustable volume control, a mute button, and an onboard LED work light.
Ideal SureTrace Pro Circuit Tracer Price
This kit retails for $700, and you can find it on Amazon or your favorite Ideal retailer. It includes a TR-950 Transmitter, an RC-950 Receiver, an ISC-950 Inductive Clamp, a lead and adapter set, a charging cord, and 10 AA batteries. Ideal backs your purchase with a 2-year limited warranty.
Should You Buy It?
The SureTrace Pro circuit tracer features some interesting and innovative patent-pending details that make it easier for electricians to locate problems. I appreciate the improved variable display that lets you view readings clearly in any lighting. The kit is also all-encompassing, with all of the equipment and batteries you need to get started, and it can speed up your workflow.
However, this is a tool aimed at electrical Pros, and the $700 price tag reflects that. If you’re a homeowner looking to DIY your home’s electrical repairs (which we only recommend for those who have electrical experience), there are other budget-friendly circuit tracers on the market that will provide the necessary performance without the Pro-grade bells and whistles. Ideal’s first-gen SureTrace Circuit Tracer, for example, is $500 less, at $199, but offers plenty of intermediate-friendly tracing capabilities for residential use.
