A recent video went viral demonstrating how to test a fuse using your mobile phone’s capacitive screen, offering a quick and easy way to check if a fuse is functioning properly. This simple method can save time and effort when troubleshooting electrical issues.  To use this technique, place the fuse on your phone’s screen and open the calculator app. This will allow you to determine in seconds whether the fuse is good or blown, without needing a traditional tester.Â
The process works by utilizing the capacitive touchscreen technology found in modern smartphones. When a good fuse is placed on the screen, it conducts an electrical charge and triggers a response in the calculator app. Conversely, a blown fuse will not conduct the charge, resulting in no response on the screen. This technique is particularly useful for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone facing household electrical problems. It eliminates the need for specialized tools like multimeters, making fuse testing accessible to anyone with a smartphone.
Testing a Fuse with Your Mobile Phone
It might sound surprising, but you can actually test a fuse using your mobile phone! This handy trick relies on the capacitive touchscreen of your phone. Here’s how it works:
How Capacitive Touchscreens Work
Most smartphones use capacitive touchscreens. These screens have a layer of electrically conductive material that responds to the touch of a conductor, like your finger. When you touch the screen, it creates a change in the electrical field, which the phone registers as a touch input.
Using Your Phone to Test a Fuse
A fuse acts as an electrical conductor when it’s working correctly. This means you can use it to complete the circuit on your phone’s touchscreen. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Safety First: Before you begin, always disconnect the power supply to the device with the fuse you’re testing. Safety is crucial when working with electricity.
- Access the Fuse: Locate and carefully remove the fuse from its holder.
- Prepare Your Phone: Open any app on your phone that registers touch input. A notes app or a drawing app works well.
- Touch the Fuse to the Screen: Gently touch one end of the fuse to your phone’s touchscreen.
- Touch the Other End: With your other hand, touch the other end of the fuse. If the fuse is good, your phone will register this as a touch, and you’ll see the input on the screen (like drawing a line or typing a character).
Why This Works
If the fuse is blown, it creates an open circuit, meaning the electrical current can’t flow through it. This means your touch won’t register on the screen. If the fuse is good, it acts as a closed circuit, allowing the current to flow from your finger, through the fuse, and to the screen.
Important Notes
- This method is not a substitute for a multimeter. A multimeter provides a more accurate and reliable test of a fuse’s continuity.
- This method works best with small fuses. Larger fuses may not make good contact with the screen.
- Cleanliness matters. Ensure both the fuse and your phone screen are clean and dry for the best results.
| Fuse Status | Result on Phone Screen | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Good Fuse | Touch registered | The fuse completes the circuit, allowing the electrical current to flow from your finger to the screen. |
| Blown Fuse | No touch registered | The blown fuse creates an open circuit, preventing the flow of electrical current, so your phone doesn’t register the touch. |
This simple trick can be a quick and easy way to check a fuse in a pinch, especially if you don’t have a multimeter handy. However, always prioritize safety and consider using a multimeter for a more definitive test.
Key Takeaways
- Mobile phones can test fuses using the calculator app and touchscreen technology
- The method is quick, easy, and doesn’t require special tools
- This technique works for automotive and household fuses
Understanding Fuses and Their Function
Fuses play a crucial role in electrical safety. These small devices protect circuits from damage caused by excessive current flow.
Types of Fuses
Fuses come in various forms to suit different applications. Glass fuses are common in household appliances. They have a thin wire inside a glass tube that melts when overloaded. Automotive fuses use a plastic housing with metal strips. These are color-coded for easy identification.
Blade fuses are widely used in modern vehicles. They have a flat plastic body with two prongs. Cartridge fuses are cylindrical and found in industrial settings. They can handle higher voltages and currents.
Some fuses are resettable. These circuit breakers automatically restore power once the fault is cleared. They’re often used in sensitive electronic equipment.
How Fuses Protect Circuits
Fuses act as weak links in electrical circuits. They’re designed to fail safely when current exceeds safe levels. This protects more valuable components from damage.
When too much current flows, the fuse element heats up and melts. This breaks the circuit and stops electricity flow. The interruption prevents fires, equipment damage, and electrical shocks.
Fuses are rated for specific currents and voltages. Choosing the correct rating is crucial for proper protection. A blown fuse indicates a problem in the circuit. It should be investigated before replacement.
Tools Needed for Testing Fuses
Testing fuses requires specific tools to ensure accurate and safe results. The right equipment helps identify faulty fuses quickly and efficiently.
Using a Multimeter
A multimeter is a versatile tool for testing fuses. It measures voltage, current, and resistance. Digital multimeters offer easy-to-read displays and precise measurements.
To test a fuse with a multimeter:
- Set the multimeter to continuity mode
- Touch the probes to each end of the fuse
- Listen for a beep or check for a low resistance reading
A working fuse shows continuity. No beep or high resistance indicates a blown fuse.
Multimeters also offer voltage testing capabilities. This feature helps verify if power is reaching the fuse box.
Testing With a Test Light
An automotive test light provides a simple way to check fuses. It’s a basic tool that lights up when current flows through it.
Steps to use a test light:
- Connect the clip to a grounded metal part of the vehicle
- Touch the probe to each end of the fuse
- Look for the light to illuminate
If the light doesn’t turn on, the fuse may be blown. Test lights are affordable and easy to use. They’re ideal for quick checks in automotive settings.
Other Essential Tools
Additional tools can make fuse testing easier and safer:
- Fuse puller: Helps remove fuses without damaging them
- Safety glasses: Protect eyes from potential sparks
- Insulated gloves: Provide protection against electrical shock
- Flashlight: Improves visibility in dark fuse boxes
A continuity tester is another handy tool. It’s similar to a test light but designed specifically for checking continuity.
Keeping these tools in a dedicated kit ensures they’re always ready for fuse testing. Regular maintenance of testing equipment helps ensure accurate results.
Steps to Test Fuses With Your Mobile Phone
Testing fuses with a mobile phone is a quick and easy method for diagnosing electrical issues. This approach requires no special tools and can be done in minutes.
Preparing Your Mobile Phone
Start by opening the calculator app on your phone. Set the display to show large numbers for easy visibility. Ensure your phone’s screen is clean and dry. Remove any case or cover that might interfere with the touchscreen’s sensitivity.
Turn up the screen brightness to maximum. This improves the visibility of the display, especially in low-light conditions. If your phone has a “touch sensitivity” setting, turn it on for better responsiveness during the test.
Locating the Fuse Box
Find the fuse box in your vehicle or appliance. Consult the owner’s manual if you’re unsure of its location. Car fuse boxes are often under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. In homes, check near the electrical panel.
Open the fuse box carefully. Look for a diagram inside the cover showing fuse positions and ratings. Identify the fuse you need to test. Use gloves if working with automotive fuses to protect your hands.
Testing for Continuity
Remove the suspect fuse from its socket. Hold it between your thumb and index finger. Touch one end of the fuse to a number on your phone’s calculator screen. Touch the other end to a different number.
If the fuse is good, the numbers will change on the screen. This indicates continuity – the fuse is allowing electrical current to flow. If the display doesn’t change, the fuse is likely blown and needs replacement.
Repeat this test with known good fuses to compare results. Always double-check important fuses with a multimeter for safety-critical systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Testing fuses with a mobile phone involves simple steps and precautions. Smartphone apps and built-in features can diagnose faulty fuses in various devices.
What steps are involved in using a smartphone to check if a fuse is blown?
To check a fuse with a smartphone, remove the fuse from its holder. Open the phone’s flashlight feature. Place the fuse on the phone’s camera flash. Turn on the flashlight. Look through the fuse. A working fuse will allow light to pass through. A blown fuse will block the light.
Is it possible to use a mobile phone to determine the continuity of a car fuse?
Yes, a mobile phone can test car fuse continuity. Download a continuity tester app. Connect the fuse to the phone’s audio jack using alligator clips. The app will emit a tone if the fuse is good. No sound means the fuse is blown.
Can an iPhone be utilized for testing the functionality of electrical fuses?
iPhones can test fuses with the right app. Many apps use the phone’s camera and flash to check fuse integrity. Some advanced apps use the iPhone’s lightning port for more precise measurements. These apps often provide visual and audio feedback on fuse condition.
What safety precautions should be taken when using a smartphone for fuse testing?
Always disconnect power before removing fuses. Wear insulated gloves when handling electrical components. Avoid touching exposed metal parts of the fuse or device. Keep the phone dry and away from water sources. Do not test fuses in wet or damp conditions.
How does one configure an Android mobile device to diagnose a faulty fuse?
Android devices need specific apps for fuse testing. Install a reputable fuse tester app from the Google Play Store. Open the app and follow its setup instructions. Some apps may require calibration using a known good fuse. Enable necessary permissions for the app to access the phone’s hardware.
Are there any specific apps required to test fuses with a mobile phone?
Several apps are designed for fuse testing on smartphones. Popular options include “Fuse Checker” and “Electrical Tester.” These apps often use the phone’s flash and camera. Some advanced apps may require additional hardware attachments for more accurate readings. Check app reviews and ratings before installing.
