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GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The V-Watch Personal Voltage Detectors detect the strong electric fields surrounding
high voltage conductors and power distribution equipment. It is a small pocket size
device worn on the outside of the clothing or other protective gear by users operating
near power lines or high voltage equipment. The V-Watch provides an extra level of
safety for personnel trained in the use and application of V-Watch working on or near
high voltage systems.
The V-Watch Personal Voltage Detector detects electric fields.
Make sure you understand these points before proceeding:
• Electric fields surround every energized AC conductor.
• The closer you are to a conductor, the stronger the field will be.
• Higher voltage means a stronger electric field and a greater V-Watch warning distance.
Lower voltage means a reduced warning distance.
• Electric fields are NOT blocked by plastics, dry wood or clothing.
• Electric fields ARE blocked by ANY conductor such as a metal cabinet or door, wet wood,
metal fences, green trees, a growing shrub or hedge and tall wet grass.
• The V-Watch will not find cables buried under the ground. The ground is a conductor
and will block electric fields.
• Insulation on a wire does not block the electric field and does not affect V-Watch
warning distances.
• Underground primary cables are both insulated AND shielded. The shield is a conductor,
is grounded, and will block the electric field.
• Molded cable terminators such as elbows are, like the cables they are installed on,
both insulated and shielded and will block electric fields.
• Your body will block electric fields. Wear the V-Watch front and center and do not
walk backwards.
• Do not use the V-Watch while holding it in your hand. Wrapping your fingers around
the V-Watch will block electric fields, preventing the V-Watch from working.
