Gary Fisher gets in touch with the MI 3152 EurotestXC Multifunction Tester from Metrel.
When it comes to getting to know a new piece of test equipment simplicity is key. I could instantly tell this was a priority for Metrel when I first booted up the MI 3152.
In-touch
The MI 3152 is a very good looking device; stylish, ergonomic and colourful. This is a very easy tester to get started with and I put this down to my favourite thing about the product, the interface.
The buttons are large, spaced out and clearly marked so there’s less chance of selecting the wrong function. They surround a large, colour touch screen that boasts bold and clear icons to help you
navigate through the different options and displays.
Pros
● Colourful, clear interface
● Help Buttons
● Simple to use
● All the tests you will need are covered
Cons
● Feels like you need to be extra careful on site with the touch screen
● Initial cost may put some people off, but it is a professional piece of kit
I first tried the tester out on a replacement consumer unit. I knew I was going to be doing the familiar sequence of tests required for my certificate, so this was an ideal place to start. When covering the basic tests you can probably rely on your intuition with this instrument and I could find my way through the clearly marked functions easily enough just off the cuff. However, I would still recommend reading through the instructions to understand the full range of tests the device is capable of. Even, if you do get stuck the device offers help buttons to guide you through the different functions when required; a nice added touch.
This tester is ideal for the everyday sparks, allowing you to 
carry out installation safety testing and the testing of TN, TT and IT earthing systems. It also allows you to carry out phase sequence testing, earth resistance measurements, illuminance measurements and RCD tests.
The device also allows you to communicate with your PC or Android tablet/smartphone via built in Bluetooth. Great for keeping track of the tests you have carried out when looking back over a series of jobs.
You might not see the Metrel name as often as other testing manufacturers on-site but I suspect we are going to see a lot more of them in the future. This is definitely one of the better looking multifunction testers I have come across and it was a joy to use.
What the manufacturer says…
“MI 3152 EurotestXC features the already well known functions like complete installation safety testing according to IEC/EN 61557 and AUTO SEQUENCE testing of TN, TT and IT earthing systems. All are managed by a completely new user interface based on large colour touch screen display. A wide range of functions is included: from on-line voltage monitoring, phase sequence testing, earth resistance measurement, illuminance measurement and TRMS current measurement up to RCD tests, line and loop impedance tests, earth resistance measurements as well as ISFL measurements and the IMD tests.”
