Voltage testers are essential tools for professionals and hobbyists working with electrical systems, allowing users to verify the presence or absence of voltage in circuits to ensure safety and efficiency. Comtest explains how to use a voltage tester effectively and which Fluke models are best suited to different settings.
Voltage testers come in various forms, including non-contact voltage testers, contact voltage testers, and multifunction testers. Fluke, a leading manufacturer of electronic test tools, offers a range of reliable and user-friendly voltage testers designed to meet different needs.
Elsewhere in the issue, we look at Solar and Energy Efficiency; DBs, Switches, Sockets & Protection; and Lighting
Solar installers cutting costs with cheaper cables
The solar industry is seeing a sharp rise in unsafe and non-compliant wiring practices, as some installers and suppliers continue to use standard AC power cables in photovoltaic solar installations. South Ocean Electric Wire, a cable original equipment manufacturer, warns that the use of standard cabling in solar installations can lead to serious risks, including overheating, insulation failure, fires, and costly system breakdowns.
Understanding 3CCT lighting: concept, functionality, and energy-saving benefits
Lighting has evolved well beyond a simple choice between “warm” and “cool”. One of the most practical recent developments is 3CCT lighting, which adds flexibility without unnecessary complexity or cost. It reflects how spaces are actually used and how lighting requirements often change over time. MCE Electric explores this topic further.
Happy Holidays competition: who won?
New year, new winners! Sparks Electrical News kicked off 2026 on a high note by partnering with eight leading electrical and lighting companies for another exciting giveaway event. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, we had an impressive selection of prizes up for grabs, from tools and equipment to hampers and more.
Engineering confidence in DC protection for South Africa: introducing the FMB DC breaker range from ACDC Dynamics
South Africa’s rapid adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, battery energy storage, and hybrid power solutions has fundamentally changed the way electrical protection is specified. From residential rooftop PV to large commercial and agricultural installations, DC systems now operate at higher voltages and currents than ever before, often in harsh environmental conditions.
New appliances, old wiring: the safety risk in SA homes
After the year-end shopping period, many South Africans are starting the year with new appliances and gadgets, from gaming consoles and upgraded TVs to air fryers, fridges, and more. As these go into daily use, the added demand can expose weaknesses in older home wiring and electrical systems.
A breakthrough anti-vandal copper-aluminium busbar solution
South African original equipment manufacturer Power Process Systems, with more than three decades of innovation in electrical infrastructure protection, has introduced AV-CAB, a purpose-engineered, anti-vandal copper–aluminium busbar designed to combat copper theft while maintaining high electrical
Powering the present, protecting the future
Solar energy and energy efficiency are no longer fringe conversations reserved for early adopters. They are now central to how homes, businesses, and municipalities plan for resilience, affordability, and sustainability, says Voltex. In today’s climate of rising energy costs, grid constraints, and environmental accountability, the way we generate and use power matters more than ever.
Total cost of ownership: the real economics of LED lighting
When LED lighting first entered the African market, the conversation was dominated by one question: How much does it cost? Today, that question has evolved. As businesses, municipalities, and developers become more experienced lighting buyers, the smarter question is no longer about upfront price, but about total cost of ownership, the true measure of long-term value, according to Aurora Lighting Africa.
Solar highmast lighting for Tshepiso residents
BEKA Schréder has supplied the locally designed and manufactured LED solar lighting highmast solution at Tshepiso Ext 1 and 2 in Sharpeville, Gauteng. Twenty 20 m high SOLARFLOOD PREMIUM highmasts, funded by the Department of Infrastructure and Development, including Human Settlements, were installed throughout Tshepiso Extensions 1 and 2.
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