1. Introduction
The TASI TA881A is an intelligent non-contact AC voltage detector designed for safe and efficient electrical testing. It provides a convenient way to detect AC voltage without direct contact, featuring sound and light alarms, adjustable sensitivity, and a built-in flashlight for enhanced usability in various environments. This manual provides essential information for the safe and proper operation and maintenance of your device.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Always exercise extreme caution when working with electricity. Failure to follow safety guidelines can result in serious injury or death.
- Do not attempt to use the device if it appears damaged or is not functioning correctly.
- Ensure the battery compartment is securely closed before use.
- This device is designed for non-contact detection. Do not attempt to make direct contact with live circuits using the probe.
- Always verify the absence of voltage using a known live source before assuming a circuit is dead.
- Adhere to all local electrical safety codes and regulations.
- Keep the device away from children.
3. Package Contents
Upon opening the package, please verify that all items listed below are present and in good condition:
- 1 x Packing color box
- 1 x TASI TA881A Voltage Detector
- 1 x Instruction Manual
4. Product Overview
The TASI TA881A is a compact and portable non-contact voltage detector. Familiarize yourself with its components:
- Battery Cover: Located at the top, protects the battery compartment.
- Pen Clip: For easy carrying and securing the device.
- Sensitivity / Flashlight Lighting Button (Blue): Short press to adjust sensitivity (Hi/Lo); long press to activate/deactivate the flashlight.
- Power Button (Red): Press to turn the device on or off.
- Signal Strength Indicator: LED bar display indicating the intensity of the detected voltage signal.
- Red Alarm Light: Illuminates when live voltage is detected.
- Flashlight Lighting: Integrated LED light at the probe tip.
- Probe: The non-contact sensing tip.
5. Specifications
| Parameter | TA881A | TA11B+ | TA13A |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC voltage | 12V~1000V AC | 12V~1000V AC | 12V~1000V AC |
| Phase sequence judgment | - | - | 90~400V |
| Frequency | 50Hz/60Hz | 50Hz/60Hz | 50Hz/60Hz |
| Alarm mode | Sound and light/analog bar | Sound and light/analog bar | Sound and light/analog bar |
| Display | LCD display | LCD display | LCD display |
| Flashlight lighting | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Probe shape | Flat | Flat | Flat |
| Low battery prompt | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Null/Wire line measurement | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sensitivity adjustment | Yes (adjustable) | Yes (adjustable) | Yes (adjustable) |
| Auto off | About 3 minutes without induction signal or without any operation automatically shut down | About 3 minutes without induction signal or without any operation automatically shut down | About 3 minutes without induction signal or without any operation automatically shut down |
| Altitude | ≤2000 Meter | ≤2000 Meter | ≤2000 Meter |
| Safety level | CAT.III 1000V / CAT.IV 600V;CE | CAT.III 1000V / CAT.IV 600V;CE | CAT.III 1000V / CAT.IV 600V;CE |
| Power | 2 x 1.5V AAA battery | 2 x 1.5V AAA battery | 2 x 1.5V AAA battery |
| Size | 159 x 21 x 20mm | 159 x 21 x 20mm | 159 x 21 x 20mm |
| Weight | Approx. 53g | Approx. 53g | Approx. 53g |
6. Setup
6.1 Battery Installation
- Unscrew the battery cover at the top of the device.
- Insert two (2) AAA 1.5V batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Securely screw the battery cover back into place.
Note: Batteries are not included with the device.
Video 6.1: Demonstration of battery installation and basic power-on sequence.
7. Operating Instructions
7.1 Power On/Off
Press the red Power button to turn the device on. Press it again to turn it off. The device will emit a beep and the display will light up upon powering on.
7.2 Non-Contact AC Voltage Detection
- Turn on the device.
- Place the probe tip near the wire, outlet, or electrical component you wish to test.
Live Wire Detection: If a live AC voltage is detected, the device will emit rapid beeps, the red alarm light will flash, and the signal strength indicator (analog bar) will show a high level (e.g., red segments). The display will show "Live wire".
Figure 7.1: Illustration of live wire detection, showing red light and full signal strength. 
Figure 7.2: Demonstrates detection of live wire (red light) and neutral wire (no light/green light). Neutral Wire Detection: If a neutral wire or no voltage is detected, the device will typically show a green light on the signal strength indicator and emit slower beeps or no alarm, indicating a "Null" state.
- The analog bar on the display screen will become higher or lower with the intensity of the sensed voltage signal. The beeping sound will also become faster or slower with the signal strength.
7.3 Sensitivity Adjustment
The device features adjustable sensitivity for different detection scenarios:
- Short press the blue Sensitivity / Flashlight Lighting button to switch between high (Hi) and low (Lo) sensitivity modes.
- Low Sensitivity (Lo): Default mode, typically for detecting 48V~1000V AC. Suitable for general detection.
- High Sensitivity (Hi): For detecting lower voltages, typically 12V~1000V AC. Useful for detecting voltage in thinner wires or at a greater distance.
7.4 Flashlight Operation
Long press the blue Sensitivity / Flashlight Lighting button to turn the flashlight on or off. This is useful for working in dimly lit areas.
7.5 Breakpoint Detection
The device can assist in identifying breakpoints in a live wire. Move the probe along the wire; the alarm and light will cease at the point where the circuit is interrupted.
7.6 Automatic Shutdown
To conserve battery life, the device will automatically shut down after approximately 3 minutes if no induction signal is detected or no operation is performed.
8. Maintenance
- Keep the device clean and dry. Wipe with a soft, damp cloth if necessary. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Replace batteries promptly when the low battery indicator appears to ensure accurate readings.
- Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- If the device will not be used for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.
9. Troubleshooting
- Device does not power on: Check battery installation and ensure batteries are fresh.
- Inconsistent readings: Ensure the probe is close enough to the conductor. Check for strong electromagnetic interference in the area.
- No detection on a live circuit: Verify the device is powered on and in the correct sensitivity mode (try "Hi" mode). Ensure the probe tip is clean.
- False positives: This can occur due to static electricity or strong electromagnetic fields. Try moving to a different location or reducing sensitivity.
10. User Tips
- Always test the detector on a known live circuit (e.g., a working outlet) before using it on an unknown circuit to confirm it's functioning correctly.
- Use the flashlight feature in dark environments to improve visibility and safety.
- Experiment with both "Hi" and "Lo" sensitivity settings to find the most appropriate mode for your specific task.
- The compact design with a pen clip makes it easy to carry in a pocket for quick access.
11. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the contact details provided by your retailer or the manufacturer's official website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
