V200 AUTOMOTIVE CIRCUIT PROBE TESTER USER MANUAL

Safety Information

To ensure your safety and prevent damage to the device or vehicle, please carefully read and follow all instructions in this manual before use.

When operating the device, always verify proper testing procedures and strictly adhere to the instructions provided. As automotive electrical systems may vary, you must assess potential risks and ensure a safe testing environment.

Always observe all safety warnings, use appropriate tools, and disconnect power sources when necessary. Improper operation may result in personal injury, equipment damage, or voided warranty.

Safety Messages

Safety messages use standardized signal words to indicate hazard levels and prevent injuries or equipment damage:

⚠️ DANGER
Will result in death or serious injury if ignored
Indicates an immediately life-threatening hazard.

⚠️ WARNING
Could result in death or serious injury if ignored
Indicates a potentially dangerous situation.

Safety Instructions

This manual covers known safety hazards, but cannot anticipate all possible risks. You are responsible for ensuring safe operating conditions and procedures.

⚠️ DANGER

• Always ventilate the service area when engine is running or use building exhaust removal system if available
• Carbon monoxide is odorless and deadly - can cause loss of consciousness or death

WARNINGS

• Always keep a fire extinguisher suitable for gasoline, chemical, and electrical fires nearby.
• Never operate or observe the tool while driving--distraction can lead to fatal accidents.
• Keep clothing, hair, hands, tools, and test equipment away from moving or hot engine parts.
• Perform automotive testing only in a safe, controlled environment.
• Ensure proper ventilation--exhaust gases are poisonous.
• Never connect or disconnect test equipment while the ignition is ON or the engine is running.
• Place wheel chocks in front of drive wheels and never leave the vehicle unattended during testing.
• Wear ANSI-approved safety eye protection at all times.
• Exercise extreme caution around ignition coils, distributor caps, spark plugs, and wires--high voltage is present when the engine is running.
• Before testing, ensure the transmission is in P (A/T) or Neutral (M/T) and the parking brake is engaged.
• Keep the scan tool clean and dry; avoid contact with oil, water, or grease. Clean only with a mild detergent and soft cloth.
• Do not modify, disassemble, or expose the tool to extreme temperatures or moisture.
• This tool is not a substitute for professional diagnostic equipment--use with caution.
• The manufacturer is not liable for damages caused by misuse, negligence, or unauthorized modifications.

Legal Information

Trademarks

VDIAGTOOL is a registered trademark of Shenzhen VDIAGTOOL Technology Co., Ltd in the United States and other jurisdictions. All other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Copyright Information

© 2017 Shenzhen VDIAGTOOL Technology Co., Ltd. All rights reserved.

No reproduction, distribution, or transmission of this manual is permitted without express written authorization from VDIAGTOOL. This prohibition applies to all forms of copying including electronic, mechanical, photocopying, and recording.

Disclaimer & Liability Statement

Product Documentation Notice

All illustrations, specifications, and technical data in this manual are for reference only and subject to change without notice. For the latest documentation, visit: https://www.vdiagtool.com/support/downloads

Limitation of Liability

VDIAGTOOL expressly disclaims all liability for:

• Any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages
• Loss of profits or business interruption
• Product modifications or unauthorized use

This manual does not:

• Modify existing purchase/lease agreements
• Create additional liabilities for VDIAGTOOL
• Constitute additional product warranties

❗ IMPORTANT: Always consult this manual before operation, with special attention to all safety warnings. VDIAGTOOL reserves the right to modify product specifications at any time.

Product Support & Training Resources

Technical Support

• Official Website: www.vdiagtool.com
• Support Email: support@vdiagtool.com
• US Hotline: +1-213-355-7171
• Online Form: https://www.vdiagtool.com/support/tech-support

Training Videos

Free product operation videos:

1. Visit Training Center: https://www.vdiagtool.com/support/training-center
2. Select Circuit Testers category
3. Watch model-specific tutorials

Product Overview

1.1 Specifications

1.2 Tool Description

Diagram showing the V200 Circuit Probe Tester with numbered components:

• ① Probe Tip: Contacts the circuit or component to be tested.
• ② LED Work Light: Illuminates dark work environments.
• ③ LCD Display: Real-time measurement readout.
• ④ Polarity Indicator (Red/Green): Circuit polarity detection. Red indicates positive voltage detected; Green indicates negative voltage detected.
• ⑤ Power Switch: Allows conduction of positive or negative battery current to the tip for activating and testing electrical components.
• ⑥ Mode Button: Toggles between AC Voltage, DC Voltage, Resistance, and Diode Test modes.
• ⑦ Ground Clip: Provides auxiliary grounding for stable measurements.
• ⑧ Adapter: Connects to the battery.
• ⑨ Loudspeaker: Provides alert prompts.

1.3 Included Parts List

General Description

The V200 is an electrical tester designed to reduce diagnostic time in 6 to 30-volt vehicle electrical systems. After connecting to the vehicle's battery, it allows users to:

• Quickly determine if a circuit is positive, negative, or open without switching battery clips.
• Test for continuity using its built-in auxiliary ground lead.
• Depress the power switch to send positive or negative battery current to the probe tip for testing component function without jumper wires.
• Instantly test for poor ground contacts without voltage drop tests. The tool has short-circuit protection with an internal circuit breaker that trips on overload.
• Follow and locate short circuits efficiently, avoiding blown fuses. The long cable facilitates testing along the entire vehicle length without searching for grounds.

2.1 Power

The tool is powered by the vehicle battery. Connect the RED battery clamp to the POSITIVE terminal and the BLACK clamp to the NEGATIVE terminal. Upon initial connection to a power source, the tool will beep, and the Head Lights will illuminate the probe tip area.

2.2 Quick Self-Test

Before testing, perform a quick self-test to ensure the tool is functioning correctly. With the tool connected, use the momentary rocker power switch on the tool's body. The switch has positive and negative markings.

• Press the power switch forward: The tip is activated with positive voltage. The Red LED illuminates, the LCD displays battery voltage, and a beep sounds. Releasing the switch turns off the LED and stops the beep.
• Press the power switch backward: The tip is activated with negative voltage. The green LED illuminates, the LCD displays 0.0V (ground), and a beep sounds. Releasing the switch turns off the LED and stops the beep.

A successful self-test indicates the tool is ready for use.

Circuit Breaker

The tool features built-in short-circuit protection with an auto-reset circuit breaker. This breaker trips during overloads, acting as both a safety mechanism and a diagnostic aid.

When tripped, the breaker cuts power output but maintains other functions, allowing circuit testing and voltage reading. Battery current will not flow to the probe tip even if the power switch is pressed. This design protects the tool from overloads and provides a failsafe for sensitive electronics.

Technicians can intentionally trip the breaker as a precaution on delicate circuits, disabling power output while preserving measurement capabilities. The auto-reset function ensures continuous protection; releasing the power switch restores normal operation after troubleshooting. This system allows safe testing and prevents accidental damage to vehicle electronics.

❗ IMPORTANT: To extend switch lifespan, always press the power switch before contacting the probe tip to components. This ensures any arcing occurs at the tip rather than the switch contacts.

Work Mode

The tool offers four diagnostic modes, selectable by pressing the Mode button:

DC Voltage

In this mode, touch the probe tip to a circuit. The LCD will display the DC voltage with 0.1V resolution.

[Diagram showing LCD displaying "12.1V" with voltage, frequency, resistance, and continuity icons]

AC Voltage

In this mode, touch the probe tip to a circuit. The LCD will display the maximum voltage, minimum voltage, and frequency.

[Diagram showing LCD displaying Max 17.9, Min 0.3, Freq 50 Hz]

Resistance

In this mode, touch the probe tip to a circuit. The LCD will show the resistance between the probe tip and the auxiliary ground lead.

[Diagram showing LCD displaying "11.7Ω"]

Diode

In this mode:

• Connect the probe tip to the positive terminal of the diode.
• Connect the auxiliary ground lead to the negative terminal.
• The screen will display the forward voltage drop, indicating correct forward bias.
• If connections are reversed (tip to negative, ground lead to positive), the screen will not display a voltage, indicating correct reverse bias.

[Diagram showing LCD displaying "Forward Bias (+)-(-)" and "73.3Ω"]

Operating Instructions

5.1 Voltage Test

In DC Voltage mode, the probe tip detects circuit status with 0.1V resolution:

• Contact with a positive circuit activates the red LED, displays voltage (e.g., 12.3V), and sounds a confirmation beep.
• Contact with a negative circuit activates the green LED, displays voltage (e.g., -12.3V), and sounds a confirmation beep.
• An open circuit shows no LED activation while maintaining 0.1V measurement precision.

[Diagram showing the V200 probe connected to a vehicle battery and a circuit, illustrating positive and negative voltage testing.]

5.2 Continuity Testing

In Resistance mode, the probe tip and auxiliary ground lead enable continuity testing of both connected and disconnected circuits.

Test Interpretation:

• Good continuity (≤1Ω): Displays "0.0Ω" + green LED + continuous beep.
• Measurable resistance (1Ω-100kΩ): Shows actual resistance value.
• Open circuit (>100kΩ): Displays "OL" (Over Limit).

[Diagram showing the V200 probe connected to a circuit and battery for continuity testing.]

Alternative Ground Verification:

Briefly activate the power switch. Circuit breaker tripping confirms a low-resistance (<1Ω) ground/battery connection.

Important: The insulated probe tip safely pierces wires (up to 18AWG) for in-circuit testing without disassembly.

5.3 Signal Circuit Testing

When a DTC related to a sensor circuit (like a MAP sensor) is retrieved, you can quickly test the circuit as follows:

1. Set your diagnostic tool to AC Voltage mode. Connect the probe tip to the sensor's positive terminal and attach the ground lead.
2. Connect a vacuum pump to the MAP sensor.
3. With the probe touching the sensor's positive terminal, observe the LCD display; it should show a sine wave under normal conditions.
4. Apply vacuum to the sensor.
5. Release the vacuum and monitor the LCD readings.

[Diagram showing LCD displaying Max 12.4, Min 0.2, Freq 43.0K Hz, indicating a signal test.]

If the readings are abnormal, there is likely an issue with the sensor.

? NOTE: Always refer to your specific diagnostic tool's manual for exact procedures.

5.4 Activating Components in Your Hand

The tool allows testing and activation of handheld components like bulbs, motors, or relays directly. This function verifies component functionality before installation or during troubleshooting.

To perform the test, follow these steps:

1. Connect the auxiliary ground lead to the negative terminal or ground side of the component.
2. Touch the probe tip to the positive terminal of the component. The display will show green, confirming continuity.
3. Briefly press and release the power switch forward. If the display changes from green to red, the component is ready for activation.
4. Hold the power switch forward to deliver power to the component. Current flows from the tool's probe through the component and back via the ground connection.

For example, when testing a bulb:

1. Connect the ground clip to the bulb's base (negative side).
2. Touch the probe tip to the bulb's center contact (positive side).
3. Hold the power switch forward to illuminate the bulb.

[Diagram showing the V200 probe connected to a bulb for activation testing.]

If the display turns off or the circuit breaker trips, the tool has detected an overload. This could happen if:

• The contact being probed is direct ground or negative voltage.
• The component being tested is short-circuited.
• It's a high-current component (e.g., starter motor).

To reset, wait about 15 seconds for the breaker to cool down before continuing testing.

5.5 Activating Components in The Vehicle

To safely activate components while installed in the vehicle, set the tool to DC Voltage mode and touch the probe tip to the component's positive terminal. The display will show green if proper ground continuity exists. Briefly press and release the power switch; if the display changes from green to red, it is safe to proceed with activation. If the display turns off or protection activates immediately, it indicates an overload condition.

This could happen for the following reasons:

• The contact being probed is a direct ground.
• The component being tested is short-circuited.
• The component is a very high current component (e.g., starter motor).

If the circuit breaker trips, wait 15 seconds for it to reset automatically.

⚠️ WARNING: Improper voltage application may damage sensitive vehicle electronics. Always consult the manufacturer's wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures before testing.

? NOTE: To prolong switch life, press and hold the power switch before contacting the component. This directs any electrical arcing to the probe tip rather than the switch contacts.

5.6 Activating Components w/Ground

To activate components using a ground connection, set the tool to DC Voltage mode and touch the probe tip to the component's negative terminal. The display will show red when a valid ground connection is detected. Briefly press and release the power switch backward; if the display changes from red to green, proceed with activation. If the display turns off or protection activates, it indicates an overload condition.

This could happen for the following reasons:

• The contact being probed is a direct positive voltage source.
• The component being tested is short-circuited.
• The component is a very high current component (e.g., starter motor).

If the circuit breaker trips, wait 15 seconds for it to reset automatically.

[Diagram showing the V200 probe connected to a circuit for ground activation testing.]

⚠️ WARNING: When using this function, applying ground to a protected circuit may blow or trip the vehicle's fuse.

5.7 Testing Trailer Lights and Connections

In DC Voltage mode, clip the auxiliary ground lead to the trailer ground, probe the contacts at the jack, and then apply voltage to the probe tip. This allows checking the function and orientation of the connector and trailer lights.

If the circuit breaker tripped, that contact is likely a ground. Reset the circuit breaker by letting it cool down for 15 seconds.

[Diagram showing the V200 probe connected to a trailer connector for testing.]

5.8 Red/Green Polarity LED

The Red/Green Polarity LED lights up when the probe tip voltage matches the battery within ±0.4 volts. This provides additional information for the technician.

If the circuit being tested is not within 0.4 volts (plus or minus) of the supply voltage, the LCD will show the voltage reading, but no tone will sound, and no red or green LED will illuminate.

This indicates either a voltage drop exceeding 0.8 volt from battery voltage or a circuit with an increase of 0.8 volt or more over battery voltage. To determine battery voltage, remove the tip from the circuit and press the power switch forward; battery voltage will then be displayed on the LCD. The difference between the battery voltage and the circuit reading indicates voltage drop or increase, allowing determination of voltage drop without rechecking the battery.

[Diagram showing the V200 probe connected to a vehicle's electrical system, illustrating polarity indication.]

This is another time-saving feature of the circuit probe.

5.9 Following & Locating Short Circuits

A short circuit typically causes a fuse to blow or a circuit breaker to trip. This is the best starting point for troubleshooting.

1. Remove the blown fuse from the fuse box.
2. Use the probe tip to energize each fuse terminal. The terminal that trips the tool's circuit breaker indicates the shorted circuit. Note the wire's color or identification code.
3. Follow the wire along the harness as far as possible. Pierce the insulation with the probe tip and press the power switch forward.
4. If the circuit breaker trips, the short is in that direction.
5. Cut the wire and energize both ends. The end that trips the breaker again leads to the short. Repeat this process until the fault is located.

Example: If there's a short in the brake light circuit, start at the fuse box. Identify the brake light circuit wire by its color. Probe along the harness, such as through the door sill area, where wires often run. Energize the wire step-by-step. When the circuit breaker trips, you've confirmed the short is in that direction. Cut the wire if necessary and continue probing both sides until the fault is located.

5.10 Checking for Bad Ground Contacts

The tool helps quickly verify whether a ground contact is good or faulty.

1. Use the probe tip to contact the suspected ground point (e.g., a ground wire, chassis, or connector).
2. Check the screen display: If the screen turns green and a beep sounds, the point likely has a ground connection.
3. To confirm, press the power switch forward briefly, then release it:
   • If the screen turns red and a beep sounds, the point is not a true ground—it has voltage or a bad connection.
   • If the circuit breaker trips, it confirms that the point is a solid ground, because the tool delivered battery voltage to ground, caus-

ing the protection to activate.

? NOTE: The circuit breaker may also trip if the point is connected to a high-current component (e.g., starter motor), which is normal in that case.

Circuit Breaker Finder Safety Information

Is the Tool Computer and Airbag Safe?

The circuit tester's LED and LCD pull no more than 1 milliamp of current, making it computer and airbag safe when used as a test light or multimeter. However, pressing the power switch is different. When pressed forward, it conducts full battery current to the probe tip. The tool has a safety feature: connect the extra ground lead to the circuit breaker finder and press the power switch forward until it trips the circuit breaker. This prevents power from going to the tip but allows multimeter use. When away from computer components, press the reset button to power up again.

Warranty and Service

Limited Three Years Warranty

VDIAGTOOL warrants the V200 product against defects in materials and workmanship for thirty-six (36) months from the date of delivery to the original purchaser for commercial or business use. This warranty does not cover damage resulting from misuse, unauthorized modification, improper maintenance, or operation outside specified conditions. VDIAGTOOL's sole liability shall be limited to repair or replacement of defective components at its discretion. Consequential, incidental, or other damages are expressly excluded. Some jurisdictions may not permit certain limitations of liability.

Contact Us

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• Email: support@vdiagtool.com
• Website: www.vdiagtool.com

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Email: sales@vdiagtool.com

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